10 Biopics That Celebrate the Pursuit of Happiness

Description: Set during World War II, this Italian film showcases a father's extraordinary efforts to shield his son from the horrors of a concentration camp by turning their ordeal into a game. It's a poignant reminder of how love and imagination can create happiness even in the darkest times.

Fact: Roberto Benigni, who wrote, directed, and starred in the film, won the Academy Award for Best Actor, the first for a non-English performance. The film also won Best Foreign Language Film.

Description: This biopic of mathematician John Nash explores his battle with schizophrenia and his eventual recognition with the Nobel Prize. Despite his struggles, Nash's love for his wife and his work brings him moments of profound happiness.

Fact: Russell Crowe was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film was based on Sylvia Nasar's biography of Nash.

Description: While not a traditional biopic, this film captures the essence of finding happiness through adventure and self-discovery. Walter Mitty, a daydreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure that transforms his life, showing that happiness often lies in stepping out of one's comfort zone.

Fact: The film's director, Ben Stiller, also stars as Walter Mitty. It was inspired by James Thurber's short story of the same name.

Description: Based on the memoir by Jean-Dominique Bauby, this film explores his life after a stroke leaves him with locked-in syndrome. His journey to communicate through blinking one eye and his inner world of imagination and memory is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for happiness.

Fact: The film was shot from Bauby's point of view, with the camera often representing his limited field of vision. It was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: This film tells the story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who, despite facing homelessness and poverty, never gives up on his dream of becoming a stockbroker. His relentless pursuit of happiness, even in the face of adversity, makes this an inspiring tale of resilience and hope.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title misspells "Happiness" to reflect the misspelling on a mural that inspired Chris Gardner.

Description: Based on the true story of Michael Oher, this film shows how a family's love and support can change a life, leading to happiness and success. It's a heartwarming tale of how kindness and opportunity can lead to personal fulfillment.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The film was adapted from Michael Lewis's book "The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game."

Description: This film delves into King George VI's struggle with a stammer and his journey to overcome it with the help of an unconventional speech therapist. His path to self-acceptance and public confidence is a story of personal triumph and happiness.

Fact: Colin Firth won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI. The film also won Best Picture.

Description: This film tells the true story of Bethany Hamilton, a young surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack but returned to the sport she loved, finding happiness in her faith, family, and the ocean. Her resilience and positive outlook are truly inspiring.

Fact: Bethany Hamilton herself served as a stunt double for AnnaSophia Robb, who played her in the film. The movie was shot in Hawaii, where the real events took place.

Description: This French film, which has an English dubbed version, follows the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic aristocrat and his ex-convict caregiver. Their journey together is filled with laughter, tears, and a profound appreciation for life's simple joys, making it a beautiful exploration of happiness.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caregiver Abdel Sellou. It became the second highest-grossing non-English language film in the U.S.

Description: This biopic focuses on the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, particularly his relationship with his first wife, Jane. Despite his debilitating illness, Hawking's intellectual pursuits and his family's love bring him a profound sense of happiness and purpose.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking. The film was adapted from Jane Hawking's memoir "Travelling to Infinity."