1. Paddington 2
Paddington literally radiates good vibes. He faces off against a theatrical villain, gets framed, and even ends up in prison, but his belief in the good of others never wavers. It's a masterclass in treating people with respect and seeing the best in situations, proving that genuine kindness isn't just effective, it's revolutionary. A true wholesome icon.
2. Amélie
Amélie doesn't go for grand gestures; she's all about the small, weird, wonderful acts that nudge people towards happiness. Her world is a little surreal, sure, but her mission to secretly improve lives proves that even the most introverted among us can be powerful forces for good. It's a sweet, charming reminder that sometimes, being nice means being a little bit sneaky.
3. Forrest Gump
Forrest is living proof that you don't need a high IQ to have a high EQ. His simple, earnest kindness and unwavering loyalty accidentally put him at the center of history's biggest moments. He just keeps showing up, being himself, and treating everyone fairly, even when they don't deserve it. It’s a whole vibe that being genuinely decent can take you places and change things.
4. The Shawshank Redemption
Okay, so this one isn't about being overtly 'nice' in the typical sense, but Andy Dufresne's quiet dignity, his unwavering hope, and his subtle acts of generosity within a brutal system absolutely scream 'niceness as strength.' He shares knowledge, brings music, and maintains his humanity, showing that keeping your moral compass intact, even in hell, is the ultimate power move.
5. Spirited Away
Chihiro starts off a scared kid, but her journey through the spirit world is all about empathy and resilience. She helps everyone she encounters, from the Stink Spirit to Haku, not because she has to, but because it's who she is. Her kindness and courage are her superpowers, navigating a wild, sometimes terrifying, world and ultimately saving those she cares about. Straight up wholesome.
6. Little Miss Sunshine
This movie is a chaotic road trip of a family that's a mess, but underneath all the dysfunction, there's a deep current of love and acceptance. They might argue and fail spectacularly, but when it comes down to it, they show up for each other, especially for Olive. It’s a beautiful, messy reminder that true kindness means supporting your people, even when they're totally weird.
7. CODA
Ruby is navigating high school drama and a killer singing voice while also being the only hearing member of her deaf family. Her kindness isn't just a trait; it's her entire life, as she acts as their interpreter and lifeline. The sacrifices she makes, driven by love and a deep sense of responsibility, show that genuine care for your fam is a monumental strength, not a burden.
8. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Mr. Rogers wasn't just nice; he was radically, intentionally kind in a way that felt revolutionary. This movie shows how his unwavering empathy and ability to truly see people, even when they were cynical or hurting, could genuinely transform lives. He proved that quiet understanding and gentle persistence are way more powerful than any loud argument. A true legend.
9. Soul
Joe and 22's wild adventure through the Great Before and the real world is all about finding joy in the small stuff and connecting with others. 22 learns that life's 'spark' isn't one grand purpose, but a collection of simple pleasures and shared moments. It’s a vibrant, animated reminder that being open, kind, and present is where the real magic happens, making life worth living.
10. Everything Everywhere All at Once
This movie is a chaotic, multiverse-hopping masterpiece, but at its heart, it's about Evelyn learning to embrace kindness, especially towards her own family. Her journey from being overwhelmed and critical to choosing empathy and understanding, even when facing multiversal threats, proves that love and acceptance are the ultimate superpowers. It's truly wild, and deeply, deeply kind.
11. Wonka
Young Wonka is all about sharing his magical chocolate, not for profit, but for the sheer joy it brings. He faces down greedy villains with his optimistic spirit and unwavering belief in his dreams. His kindness, generosity, and ability to inspire others, even when things look bleak, are the true magic. It's a sweet, whimsical reminder that a good heart can conquer anything.
