10 Movies & Shows Similar to The Upside (2019)

Description: Like The Upside, The Notebook explores themes of love transcending social differences and the power of human connection. Both films show how relationships can transform lives, though The Notebook is a more traditional romance.

Fact: Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams reportedly didn't get along during filming. The film's iconic rain kiss scene was filmed in a downpour so heavy it ruined the camera. This was the first Nicholas Sparks adaptation to become a major box office success.

Description: This French film shares with The Upside the theme of a wealthy man adapting to life with severe physical limitations. Both show the transformative power of human connection, though The Diving Bell takes a more artistic and introspective approach.

Fact: The film is based on Jean-Dominique Bauby's memoir written entirely by blinking his left eyelid. Director Julian Schnabel won Best Director at Cannes for this film. The first 30 minutes are shot almost entirely from the protagonist's perspective.

Description: While not about disability, this film shares with The Upside themes of overcoming adversity and the transformative power of human connection. Both are based on true stories of people overcoming incredible odds.

Fact: Will Smith's real-life son Jaden plays his on-screen son. The misspelling of 'happiness' in the title is intentional, taken from the daycare center in the true story. Chris Gardner, the real-life inspiration, has a cameo at the end of the film.

Description: Like The Upside, The Bucket List features an unlikely friendship between men from different backgrounds facing life's challenges. Both films blend humor with poignant moments about making the most of life.

Fact: The film was inspired by screenwriter Justin Zackham's actual bucket list. This was the third and final film pairing of Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. The hospital scenes were filmed in the same hospital where John Wayne died.

Description: The Intouchables is very similar to The Upside as both films are based on the true story of a wealthy quadriplegic who forms an unlikely friendship with his caregiver from a completely different background. Both movies explore themes of friendship, personal growth, and overcoming physical limitations with humor and heart.

Fact: The Intouchables became the most-watched non-English language film worldwide in 201The film was so successful it inspired an American remake - which became The Upside. Omar Sy won the César Award for Best Actor for his role, beating Jean Dujardin who had just won the Oscar for The Artist.

Description: Both The Sessions and The Upside deal with individuals overcoming physical disabilities with the help of caregivers. The Sessions focuses more on sexual awakening and intimacy, but shares the theme of finding joy and human connection despite physical limitations.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of poet Mark O'Brien. Helen Hunt received an Oscar nomination for her supporting role. The film was shot in just 20 days.

Description: While primarily a romance, this film shares with The Upside themes of second chances and the transformative power of love. Both feature characters from different backgrounds finding connection.

Fact: Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same name. This was James Marsden's second Nicholas Sparks adaptation after The Notebook. The film features one of Sparks' trademark tragic twists.

Description: This film shares with The Upside themes of finding joy and meaning despite physical limitations. Both explore deep human connections formed in difficult circumstances, though Fault focuses on young love.

Fact: The novel's author John Green cameos as a man clapping in the support group scene. Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort would later play siblings in the Divergent series. The film's Amsterdam scenes were actually shot in Pittsburgh.

Description: Like The Upside, Me Before You deals with the relationship between a caregiver and a wealthy quadriplegic man. Both films explore themes of finding joy in difficult circumstances and the transformative power of human connection, though Me Before You takes a more romantic approach.

Fact: The film is based on Jojo Moyes' bestselling novel of the same name. Emilia Clarke (of Game of Thrones fame) had to audition multiple times for the lead role. The film sparked controversy regarding its portrayal of disability rights.

Description: This biographical drama shares with The Upside a focus on living with physical disability and the caregiver relationship. While more scientifically oriented, it similarly shows how love and determination can overcome physical limitations.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne spent months studying ALS and meeting with Stephen Hawking to prepare for the role. Redmayne won the Academy Award for Best Actor for this performance. The film is based on Jane Hawking's memoir 'Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen'.