Inspiring Family Films About Achieving Goals

Description: Daniel, a teenager, learns karate from Mr. Miyagi to stand up to bullies and compete in a tournament. This classic film teaches about discipline, respect, and the importance of setting and achieving personal goals.

Fact: Pat Morita, who played Mr. Miyagi, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film spawned several sequels and a 2010 remake.

Description: A self-centered lawyer is sentenced to coach a youth hockey team, leading them from underdogs to champions. This film showcases how teamwork, dedication, and a little bit of magic can turn dreams into reality.

Fact: The film inspired the creation of the real-life Anaheim Ducks NHL team. Emilio Estevez reprised his role as Coach Gordon Bombay in two sequels.

Description: Based on the true story of the first Jamaican bobsled team, this film is about overcoming cultural and physical barriers to compete in the Winter Olympics. It's a heartwarming tale of determination and the spirit of sportsmanship.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life Jamaican bobsled team's participation in the 1988 Winter Olympics. The team members were actually track and field athletes.

Description: Rudy Ruettiger's dream to play football for Notre Dame is met with numerous obstacles, but his relentless spirit and the support of those around him make his story one of the most inspiring tales of achieving against all odds.

Fact: The film was shot at the University of Notre Dame, where the real Rudy played his one and only game. Sean Astin, who played Rudy, gained 30 pounds for the role.

Description: Homer Hickam, inspired by the Sputnik launch, pursues his dream of building rockets despite his father's disapproval. This film celebrates the power of curiosity, ambition, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Fact: The film is based on the memoir "Rocket Boys" by Homer Hickam. The real Homer Hickam was a NASA engineer.

Description: Jim Morris, a high school science teacher, pursues his dream of becoming a Major League Baseball pitcher after his students challenge him. It's a story of never giving up on your dreams, no matter how late in life they come.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Jim Morris. Dennis Quaid, who played Morris, actually threw a 91 mph fastball during the filming.

Description: Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles, finds her calling in spelling bees, overcoming her fears and community challenges to compete in the National Spelling Bee. It's a story of personal growth and the pursuit of excellence.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life spelling bee champions. The director, Doug Atchison, was a spelling bee champion himself.

Description: A quirky family embarks on a road trip to support their daughter's dream of competing in a beauty pageant. This film showcases how family unity and personal growth can lead to unexpected victories, teaching that success comes in many forms.

Fact: The film was shot in just 33 days. The VW bus used in the movie was actually pushed by the crew for most of the scenes to avoid the noise of the engine.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, as he takes on an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm while raising his young son. It's a powerful tale of perseverance, hope, and the American Dream, showing that with hard work, even the most daunting goals can be achieved.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, plays his real-life son in the movie. The film's title is intentionally misspelled, reflecting a sign Chris Gardner's son made.

Description: Based on a true story, this film tells of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who finds a family and a future in football. It's a testament to how kindness, support, and determination can change lives and achieve the seemingly impossible.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in this film. Michael Oher, the real person, was adopted by the Tuohy family, who are portrayed in the movie.