10 Films That Will Make You Smile

Description: Amélie is a whimsical French film about a young woman who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better while grappling with her own isolation. The movie's vibrant visuals and enchanting narrative make it a perfect ode to finding joy in the little things.

Fact: The film was shot in Montmartre, Paris, and many of the locations are now tourist attractions. The soundtrack by Yann Tiersen has become iconic, often associated with happiness and whimsy.

Description: Walter Mitty, a daydreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure to find a missing negative, leading him to discover the beauty of the world and the joy of living in the moment. This film is a celebration of stepping out of one's comfort zone to find true happiness.

Fact: The film was shot in various stunning locations around the world, including Iceland, Greenland, and New York City. Ben Stiller, who directed and starred in the movie, also did most of his own stunts.

Description: This comedy-drama follows a dysfunctional family on a road trip to a beauty pageant. Despite their quirks and conflicts, they find unity and happiness in their shared journey, highlighting that happiness can be found in the most unexpected places.

Fact: The film was shot in just 33 days. The yellow VW bus became a symbol of the movie, representing the family's journey towards happiness.

Description: This film follows the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son, yet never gives up on his dream of becoming a stockbroker. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the pursuit of happiness against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in real life as well as in the movie. The title is intentionally misspelled, reflecting a scene where Chris's son misspells "happiness."

Description: Two terminally ill men escape from their hospital to live out their dreams from a "bucket list." Their journey is filled with laughter, tears, and profound lessons about what truly makes life worth living and how to find happiness in the time we have.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life bucket list written by screenwriter Justin Zackham. The term "bucket list" became popular after the movie's release.

Description: This British film follows Poppy, an eternally optimistic primary school teacher, whose positive outlook on life influences those around her. It's a refreshing look at how happiness can be a choice, even in the face of adversity.

Fact: Sally Hawkins, who played Poppy, learned to drive for the film, which includes a memorable driving lesson scene. The film was critically acclaimed for its portrayal of an unapologetically happy character.

Description: A group of British retirees move to a retirement hotel in India, expecting luxury but finding adventure, friendship, and a new lease on life instead. The film explores themes of aging, cultural immersion, and finding happiness in unexpected places.

Fact: The film was shot in Jaipur, India, and features a cast of veteran British actors. It was so popular that it spawned a sequel.

Description: Based on a true story, this French film tells the story of an aristocrat who becomes a quadriplegic from a paragliding accident and hires a young man from the projects to be his caregiver. Their unlikely friendship brings laughter, adventure, and a new perspective on life and happiness.

Fact: The film was a massive hit in France, becoming the second highest-grossing French film of all time. It was also remade in English as "The Upside" in

Description: A 70-year-old widower becomes a senior intern at an online fashion site, where he forms an unlikely friendship with the company's workaholic CEO. The film celebrates the wisdom of age, the joy of new beginnings, and the importance of human connection.

Fact: Robert De Niro, who plays the intern, had to learn how to use modern technology for his role, reflecting his character's journey. The film was inspired by a real-life program at a tech company.

Description: After losing his job at a prestigious restaurant, a chef starts a food truck with his son, rediscovering his passion for cooking and the joy of family. This film is about finding happiness through creativity, family, and following one's dreams.

Fact: Jon Favreau, who wrote, directed, and starred in the film, learned to cook for his role. The film's food truck, El Jefe, became a real food truck in Los Angeles after the movie's release.