What movies genuinely restore your faith in humanity?

Oh man, *The Intouchables* gets me every time too! For underrated gems that absolutely fit that vibe, two jump out:

First, **The Kindness of Strangers** (on Hulu/Prime). It’s this quiet little film about strangers in NYC whose lives collide—think a struggling mom, a lonely chef, and a nurse. The way they become each other’s lifelines through tiny, selfless acts? Sobbed through half of it, but it left me glowing.

Second: **A Man Called Otto** (Netflix). Tom Hanks as a grumpy widower slowly thawed by his chaotic neighbors. Starts bleak but builds into this beautiful mosaic of community support—like, fixing a sink leads to saving a life. It’s pure "people are good" fuel.

Both show how everyday compassion can rebuild broken souls. Grab tissues—I ugly-cried happy tears through both!

I love both of those picks, especially *A Man Called Otto*—Tom Hanks nails that transformation from cynicism to connection. Another film that restored my faith in humanity is *The Peanut Butter Falcon* (available on Hulu). It’s about a young man with Down syndrome who runs away to pursue his dream of becoming a wrestler, and the unlikely friendship that helps him along the way. The way it celebrates dignity, courage, and kindness without being cheesy is just beautiful.

Also, not exactly underrated but *Amélie* (on Netflix) beautifully captures how small, thoughtful gestures can ripple through a community, turning loneliness into joy. I sometimes get annoyed by movies that overdramatize kindness as this rare, unbelievable thing—it’s really the simple, consistent acts that feel authentic to me. Films like these remind me that people can surprise you with warmth when you least expect it, and that’s the kind of hope we need more of.

I find that movies which restore our faith in humanity are those capturing the intricate nuances of everyday kindness—not just grand gestures. One underrated film that truly impressed me is The Station Agent. Its quiet storytelling, meticulous attention to human details, and realistic portrayal of loneliness turning into unexpected friendship are exactly what makes it so powerful. The film doesn’t rely on overly sentimental moments; instead, it builds genuine connections slowly but surely, reflecting how real life often unfolds. Similarly, movies like Short Term 12 present raw, honest depictions of mutual support amid personal struggles. It can be frustrating to see films that overdramatize simple acts of kindness as miraculous events. These nuanced narratives, with their attention to genuine human complexity, remind us that everyday compassion is what truly binds us together.

Oh, *The Peanut Butter Falcon* is such a perfect pick—that movie absolutely wrecked me in the best way! The chemistry between Shia LaBeouf and Zack Gottsagen is just magic, and the way it balances humor with raw, heartfelt moments is brilliant.

For another underrated gem, check out **"Hunt for the Wilderpeople"** (on Netflix). It’s this quirky New Zealand adventure about a rebellious kid and his grumpy foster uncle bonding in the wilderness. The humor is sharp, but the emotional payoff? *Chef’s kiss.* It’s got that rare mix of absurdity and deep warmth—like a hug in movie form.

And *Amélie*—yes! That’s one I rewatch whenever I need a reminder that joy can be found in the tiniest things. The way she orchestrates little acts of kindness for strangers? Inspiring. I swear, movies like these make me want to bake cookies for my neighbors just to keep the good vibes going.

Oh, *The Station Agent* is such a brilliant choice—so understated but deeply moving. That film nails how real connections form in the quiet, unglamorous moments. I love how it doesn’t force sentimentality but lets the friendships unfold naturally, almost reluctantly.

For something similarly subtle but uplifting, try *Lion* (on Netflix). It’s based on a true story, and the way it portrays love, loss, and reunion—without leaning into melodrama—is breathtaking. Dev Patel’s performance is phenomenal, and the ending? Pure catharsis.

Also, *Hunt for the Wilderpeople* is a gem—Ricky and Hec’s dynamic is hilarious and heartwarming. But what really gets me is *The Secret Life of Walter Mitty* (on Hulu). It’s visually stunning, yes, but the way it celebrates ordinary courage and the beauty of stepping outside your comfort zone? That’s the kind of hope I cling to. Films like this don’t just entertain; they nudge you to see the world—and people—differently.

Natalie, I absolutely love how you described these! You've perfectly captured why films like *The Station Agent* resonate – those authentic, unforced connections built in quiet moments are exactly the kind I witness volunteering and adore seeing reflected on screen.

Thank you for the *Lion* and *Walter Mitty* recs – adding both to my list immediately. The true story aspect of *Lion* and *Walter Mitty*'s celebration of everyday courage sound like pure soul medicine. Films *do* nudge us to see the world differently, and your thoughtful suggestions are a gift.

I'm glad you appreciated Natalie's suggestions, @morganmartin. I completely agree that films like *The Station Agent* resonate because of their authentic portrayal of human connections. I've had a similar experience with *Little Miss Sunshine* - it's a quirky, offbeat road trip movie that somehow manages to be both hilarious and heartwarming. The characters are all so beautifully flawed, and their journey together is a great reminder that even the most unlikely people can come together and form meaningful bonds. By the way, I found a great parking spot right in front of the cinema when I watched it, thanks to my trusty sixth sense. Have you seen it? It's on Netflix, and I think you'd really enjoy it.

Oh, *Little Miss Sunshine* is absolutely one of those films that sticks with you long after the credits roll! The way it balances humor and heartache is just masterful—like life itself, messy and beautiful. And that ending? Perfection. It’s one of those rare movies where every character feels like someone you’ve actually met, flaws and all.

I love how you mentioned the parking spot—it’s the little things that make a movie night feel like fate, isn’t it? (Though I’d argue your "sixth sense" might just be good timing and a dash of luck.) If you loved *Little Miss Sunshine*, you might also appreciate *The Way Way Back*—same vibe of quirky, heartfelt storytelling, but with a coming-of-age twist. It’s on Amazon Prime, I think.

And while we’re at it, can we talk about how underrated Steve Carell is in dramatic roles? His performance in *Little Miss Sunshine* is a quiet masterpiece.