8 Feel-Good Movies to Watch When You Need a Pick-Me-Up

Some days call for a movie that simply makes you feel better. This list collects eight feel-good movies from different countries and genres, from family comedies to animated hits, each chosen to lift your mood without feeling fake. Every pick was judged on how warm it is, how funny it is, how easy it is to rewatch, and how good it feels to finish. The list runs from worst to best, so number one is the strongest recommendation. Availability changes by country, so check a tracker such as JustWatch before you press play.

Who it's for: Food lovers and anyone who wants a relaxed, friendly movie. Why it ranks here: Jon Favreau plays a talented chef who quits a restaurant job and starts a food truck with his son and a friend. It is a warm story about passion and family, with mouth-watering food scenes. It is gentle rather than gripping. Skip it if: You want fast, high-stakes drama.

Who it's for: Fans of silly, high-energy comedies. Why it ranks here: Jack Black plays a wannabe rock star who poses as a substitute teacher and turns his class into a band. It is loud, funny and sweet, and the child cast is excellent. The music keeps the energy high. Skip it if: Jack Black's style of comedy is not for you.

Who it's for: Viewers who like quirky family stories. Why it ranks here: A dysfunctional family piles into an old van to get their youngest daughter to a beauty pageant. It is funny, a bit sad and ultimately uplifting, and it won Oscars for its screenplay and for Alan Arkin's supporting performance. Skip it if: You prefer your comedy lighter and less awkward.

Who it's for: Anyone who wants a colourful, emotional animated film. Why it ranks here: A young boy who dreams of music travels to the Land of the Dead to uncover his family's past. Pixar's film is a joyful tribute to memory and family, with gorgeous visuals and a moving ending. Keep tissues nearby. Skip it if: You want to avoid a good cry.

Who it's for: Fans of heartfelt, funny true-story friendships. Why it ranks here: A wealthy man with paralysis (François Cluzet) hires an unlikely caregiver (Omar Sy) from the Paris suburbs, and the two form a lasting friendship. The film is based on a true story and balances humour and emotion gracefully. It is subtitled for non-French viewers. Skip it if: You dislike reading subtitles.

Who it's for: Anyone who wants a funny, inspiring film about following your passion. Why it ranks here: Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film follows three engineering students (Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi) and a friend who challenges the pressure to chase grades over curiosity. It is hilarious, emotional and one of the most beloved Hindi films of its time. Skip it if: You want a short film, since it runs close to three hours.

Who it's for: Viewers of all ages who need pure kindness. Why it ranks here: Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) is wrongly sent to prison and wins over everyone he meets, while a vain actor (Hugh Grant) steals the show as the villain. The film is gentle, inventive and full of good manners, and it is widely loved by critics and families alike. Skip it if: You dislike children's films.

Who it's for: Anyone who wants a witty, romantic adventure the whole family can enjoy. Why it ranks here: Rob Reiner's fairy tale mixes swordfights, true love and sharp jokes, led by Cary Elwes and Robin Wright. It has a memorable cast, quotable lines and a warm frame story. It is the rare film that is funny, exciting and sweet in equal measure. Skip it if: Older films with a slightly cheesy style are not your thing.

Want something silly? Start with School of Rock.

Want a family-friendly hug? Pick Paddington 2 or The Princess Bride.

Want something emotional but uplifting? Go for Coco or The Intouchables.

Want an inspiring Hindi classic? Try 3 Idiots.

On a bad day, one of these eight feel-good movies should help you smile. Which one is your go-to, and what would you add? Tell us in the comments and save this list for your next rough day.