Family Films About the Search for Happiness

Description: Walter Mitty, a day-dreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure to find a missing negative, leading him to discover the beauty of life and the happiness that comes from living in the moment.

Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by James Thurber. Ben Stiller, who plays Walter, also directed the movie.

Description: A quirky family embarks on a road trip to support their daughter in a beauty pageant. Along the way, they learn about each other, themselves, and what truly makes them happy, making this film a delightful exploration of family dynamics and the pursuit of joy.

Fact: The film was shot in sequence to capture the genuine development of the characters' relationships. It won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film captures the real-life story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who embarks on an unpaid internship to become a stockbroker, all while raising his son. It's a powerful tale of perseverance, love, and the pursuit of a better life, making it a perfect fit for our theme.

Fact: Will Smith and his real-life son Jaden Smith star as father and son, adding a layer of authenticity to their relationship on screen. The title of the film is intentionally misspelled, reflecting a sign in the daycare center where Chris's son stays.

Description: Carl Fredricksen, a retired balloon salesman, ties thousands of balloons to his house to fulfill his dream of adventure. Along with an unexpected young stowaway, he finds happiness in the most unexpected places.

Fact: The opening montage of Carl and Ellie's life together is considered one of the most emotionally powerful sequences in animation history. The film was the first animated film to open the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: A group of British retirees move to a retirement hotel in India, expecting luxury but finding adventure and a new lease on life. Their journey is a testament to finding happiness in new beginnings.

Fact: The film features an ensemble cast of veteran British actors, including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Bill Nighy. It was a surprise hit, grossing over $136 million worldwide.

Description: A wealthy aristocrat with a spinal injury hires a young man from the projects to be his caregiver. Their unlikely friendship leads them on a journey of self-discovery and joy, proving that happiness can be found in the most unexpected relationships.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caregiver, Abdel Sellou. It became the highest-grossing French film of all time.

Description: A shy 14-year-old boy finds an unexpected friend in the manager of a water park, leading him to a summer of self-discovery and the realization that happiness often comes from the people around us.

Fact: The film was co-written and directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, who also won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for "The Descendants."

Description: This heartwarming tale follows a dog who believes he has a purpose in life, reincarnating through several lives to find it. Each life brings him closer to understanding happiness and the bond between humans and their pets.

Fact: The film was based on the best-selling novel by W. Bruce Cameron. It sparked controversy due to concerns about animal treatment during filming, leading to a reevaluation of animal welfare in film production.

Description: This animated masterpiece delves into the emotions inside the mind of a young girl named Riley. As she navigates life changes, her emotions work together to help her find happiness, showcasing the complexity and beauty of human feelings.

Fact: The film was developed with the help of psychologists to ensure the portrayal of emotions was accurate. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: A 70-year-old widower becomes an intern at a fashion website, where he forms an unlikely bond with the company's CEO. Together, they navigate the modern world, finding joy in their evolving friendship.

Fact: Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway star, with De Niro's character providing a fresh perspective on aging and happiness. The film was inspired by a real-life senior internship program at a tech company.