If you loved the adventurous and inspiring journey of 'The Buried Life' (2010), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same spirit of chasing dreams, overcoming obstacles, and living life to the fullest. Whether you're a fan of heartfelt documentaries or uplifting reality series, these picks will keep you motivated and entertained.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: A daydreamer embarks on a global journey to track down a missing photograph, discovering courage and a renewed sense of purpose along the way. The film celebrates adventure, self-discovery, and the beauty of stepping out of one's routine.
Fact: Ben Stiller performed many of his own stunts, including skating down a mountain road in Iceland. The film's soundtrack features original music by José González.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: A biographical drama about a struggling salesman who overcomes homelessness to achieve success and provide for his son. The film highlights perseverance, hope, and the belief in one's dreams despite overwhelming odds.
Fact: Will Smith's real-life son, Jaden Smith, played his on-screen son. The film's title misspells 'happiness' as a nod to a sign Chris Gardner saw in real life.


Into the Wild (2007)
Description: A biographical adventure drama that follows a young man's journey into the wilderness in search of meaning and freedom. The film delves into themes of self-discovery, the rejection of materialism, and the quest for a purer existence.
Fact: The movie was shot in the actual locations where Christopher McCandless traveled. Emile Hirsch lost 40 pounds to accurately portray McCandless's physical decline.


The Bucket List (2007)
Description: This film explores the theme of fulfilling lifelong dreams and personal growth, as two terminally ill men embark on a journey to complete a list of things they want to do before they die. The narrative emphasizes adventure, self-discovery, and the importance of living life to the fullest.
Fact: The movie was inspired by a real-life bucket list written by the screenwriter's friend. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman improvised many of their scenes together.


Eat Pray Love (2010)
Description: A woman's journey across Italy, India, and Bali in search of pleasure, spirituality, and balance. The story emphasizes personal growth, cultural exploration, and the pursuit of happiness through new experiences.
Fact: Julia Roberts spent time in each of the countries featured in the film to immerse herself in the local cultures. The real-life Elizabeth Gilbert made a cameo in the movie.


Yes Man (2008)
Description: A comedy about a man who challenges himself to say 'yes' to every opportunity that comes his way, leading to unexpected adventures and personal transformation. The story highlights the power of openness to new experiences and the joy of stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Fact: Jim Carrey reportedly stayed in character as Carl Allen even when the cameras weren't rolling. The film is loosely based on a memoir by British humorist Danny Wallace.


Up in the Air (2009)
Description: A corporate downsizer who thrives on constant travel reevaluates his life and priorities after forming unexpected connections. The film explores themes of isolation, human connection, and the search for meaning in a transient lifestyle.
Fact: Many of the people shown being fired in the film were real people who had recently lost their jobs. George Clooney did most of his own driving scenes in the movie.


The Way (2010)
Description: A father travels to France to retrieve the body of his estranged son who died while walking the Camino de Santiago, and decides to complete the pilgrimage himself. The story focuses on personal healing, camaraderie among travelers, and spiritual discovery.
Fact: Emilio Estevez wrote the script specifically for his father, Martin Sheen, to star in. Many of the extras in the film were real pilgrims walking the Camino.


Hector and the Search for Happiness (2014)
Description: A psychiatrist embarks on a global quest to uncover the secret to happiness, encountering diverse cultures and perspectives along the way. The film blends humor and introspection while exploring universal themes of fulfillment and human connection.
Fact: Simon Pegg kept a diary in character as Hector throughout filming. The movie was shot in multiple countries including South Africa, China, and the United States.


Wild (2014)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a woman's solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail as she reflects on her past and seeks redemption. It explores themes of healing, resilience, and the transformative power of nature.
Fact: Reese Witherspoon carried a real backpack weighing up to 65 pounds during filming. The author of the memoir, Cheryl Strayed, made a cameo appearance in the film.
