10 inspirational TV shows and movies

This is one the rare articles that I have included inspirational TV shows. I think that is telling and a sign that more heartwarming, inspirational, and entertaining TV shows are being made these days. Probably about 5 years ago, I rarely watched TV. But, now with the rise of On-demand services, more TV shows are being made and easier to watch without commercials. Additionally, in my opinion, I think TV and movie writers are getting tired of writing sequels, prequels, remakes, and superhero movies as well as audiences getting tired of watching them. So, I believe some of those writers are now focused on creating moving, inspiring, and heartwarming TV shows. So, below is a list of 10 inspiring TV shows and movies. 7 are TV shows and only 3 are movies.

1. This Is Us

This is Us is a heartwarming and emotional story about a unique set of triplet, their struggles, and their parents. This show is truly heartwarming and moving as it shows family members trying to be there for each other as they struggle with serious challenges in life. It shows humanity at its best while the characters go through the ups and downs of life. It is available on NBC and HULU.

2. The Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. This movie inspired me to continue to follow my dreams and “come alive.” However, this film also points out the importance of balancing our dreams with maintaining close relationships with our family.

3. 9-1-1

9-1-1 explores the high-pressure experiences of the first responders who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking and heart-stopping situations. On the surface, this show looks like a big-budget, over-the-top action film. But, it demonstrates how people can grow, connect, and become resilient in the midst of life-or-death traumas. It also shows that people are truly capable of caring about other people, even to the point of risking their life to help save the life of another person in need.
It is available on Fox and Hulu

4. Act Social Documentary

From politics to medicine, Act Social is a documentary that explores the healing potential of applied improvisation. It features famed improv comedian Colin Mochrie of Whose Line is it, Anyway? The principles of improv lead to hilarious comedy onstage but can they also be used to solve problems like depression, social anxiety, or conflict? Applied improvisers believe the answer is “Yes!” In the documentary film they show what happens when different kinds of people try improv: refugees, tragedy survivors, couples in counseling, even politicians (we think they could use it). In Act Social, you will also meet improv teachers who work with communities in need, giving audiences a never-before-seen look at the possibilities improv can bring to real life. The film’s website is http://actsocialfilm.com/

5. The Good Doctor

In The Good Doctor, Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and Savant syndrome, is recruited into the surgical unit of a prestigious hospital. The Good Doctor demonstrates the power of love, acceptance, and genuine empathy for other people. The main character has autism and continues to encounter people in his personal and professional who don’t believe in him and question his abilities as a medical doctor and as a human being capable of having a meaningful connection with another human being. Yet, it also shows the best of humanity and how love, friendship, and compassion can truly make a difference in someone’s life. It is available on ABC and Hulu

6. Green Book

Green Book is a movie about a working-class Italian-American bouncer who becomes the driver of an African-American classical pianist on a tour of venues through the 1960s American South. This movie won an Oscar for Best Picture. That actually made me somewhat skeptical going into it because I believe that Hollywood is often out of touch with what most people want and enjoy in movies these days. However, this movie proved me wrong. It is about challenging stereotypes, inclusivity, acceptance, and the power of friendship.

7. A Million Little Things

This program is about a group of friend who become motivated to living fuller lives after the unexpected death of a close friend. This TV show is an excellent example of people trying to find hope, meaning and be a good friend after an unexplainable tragedy. It also highlights the realistic impact that depression can have on people (even those who have a good career, loving family, and solid group of friends). Without being overly dramatic or sugary sweet, it offers hope to people who are suffering from the psychological and material stresses of life. It is almost like the characters are using a disinfectant wand to get rid of negative energy in their lives. It is available on ABC and Hulu

8. Queer Eye

In the Queer Eye reboot, A new Fab Five set out to Atlanta to help the city’s straight men refine their wardrobes, grooming, diet, cultural pursuits, and home decor. This documentary series shows how people shine, practice self-acceptance, and have true personal transformations. On the surface, it focuses on grooming, diet, wardrobes, cultural pursuits, and home décor. At times, they even act as profession movers who bring in new furniture and home decorations. Additionally, in the reboot, they also work with women to give them tips on all areas of their life, even recommending items like a ladies loungewear set. However, beneath the surface, the Fab Five are helping individuals discover their most authentic self and how to shine. Also, one of the members, Karamo Brown, is a licensed therapist. And, even though, he is not providing professional therapy on the show, we get to watch him provide expert advice, support, and counseling to the people he is helping.

9. New Amsterdam

In New Amsterdam, a new medical director breaks the rules to heal the system at America’s oldest public hospital. This program reveals how one person can make a difference in the world and truly have a positive impact in other people’s lives by taking a stand for their values, even if that means upsetting their coworkers, boss, and medical system at larger. If you have ever worked or lived in an environment where rules, bureaucracy, or systemic norms challenge your ability to do good, this show will inspire you to fight for what you believe in and take action to help others, even if that means upsetting the status quo. It is available on NBC or Hulu

10 Crashing

In Crashing, A New York comic is forced to make a new start for himself after his wife leaves him. I was hesitant to include this TV show on this list because some parts are sexually crude and irreverent. However, on a deeper level, this TV show inspires us to follow our dreams and stay true to our most authentic self, even when society and other people have counted us out. The main character starts his journey trying to get any gig at any comedy club in New York and follows him as he pursues his dream to become a full time comedian. It is available on HBO.

Okay, so, what did I miss!? What are some of your favorite inspirational TV shows and movies