For anyone looking for a feel-good movie to help take their mind off of things, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of great films that are sure to please seniors. From heartwarming comedies to touching dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So grab some friends, have a movie night, or just go it alone and enjoy some quality time with any one of these classics.
11 Comedies For Older Adults
Here is a list of some of the best (in my opinion) comedies that older adults can enjoy.
The Bucket List (2008)
The Bucket List stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman as two elderly men with terminal illnesses who decide to go on an adventure of a lifetime. This movie is full of heart, humor, and thoughtful moments that will move you.
It’s perfect for older adults who want to take a trip down memory lane while having some laughs along the way.
The Pink Panther (1963)
Oh, I love this movie! It follows the blunders of Inspector Jacques Clouseau, played by the hilarious Peter Sellers. When a diamond called The Pink Panther is stolen from Lugash, a fictional European country, Clouseau is put in charge of finding the thief.
As expected from an incompetent inspector, he leads us on a goofy and wacky journey filled with slapstick comedy sequences, all while trying to get the jewel back.
The film is really a classic. It has such an iconic score written by Henry Mancini, plus unforgettable characters like Herbert Lom’s Chief Inspector Dreyfus and Burt Kwouk’s Cato Fong.
Lost In America (1985)
Every time I watch this movie I laugh out loud! It stars Albert Brooks and Julie Hagerty. The movie follows the couple as they leave their high-powered lives in Los Angeles to drive across America in a Winnebago, in search of the American dream.
Along the way, they encounter wild characters and quirky adventures that bring out both the best and worst parts of life on the road. With its irreverent humor, witty dialogue and classic performances, Lost In America is a must-see for any fan of comedy.
It’s A Mad Mad Mad Mad World (1963)
This classic comedy about a group of strangers competing for a treasure. After hearing of the death of an old man who hid $350,000 in cash somewhere, they set off on their own wild goose chases to find it first.
The movie features several iconic stars such as Spencer Tracy and Milton Berle, and follows them around hilarious adventures as they race to be the first ones to find the money. It has come to be known as an all-time classic comedy and continues to make people laugh even after over fifty years since its release.
Crocodile Dundee (1986)
This funny movie stars Paul Hogan as the titular hero, Mick Dundee. The film follows Mick’s adventures in the Australian outback and in New York City. It centers on his culture shock while in the US, his unique way of dealing with dangerous situations, and his attempts to woo American reporter Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski).
The film was a massive box office hit and spawned two sequels. It is widely credited with popularizing the Australian outback in the US, and its lead actor, Paul Hogan, became an international celebrity. Crocodile Dundee has become one of Australia’s most iconic films, beloved by audiences all over the world.
How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying (1967)
This truly is one of the classic musicals of the 20th century. It follows the story of J. Pierrepont Finch, a young window washer who dreams to be the head of a business, and his journey to success by using a handbook that provides instructions on how to climb the corporate ladder quickly – without really trying!
As Finch navigates his way through the corporate world, he experiences a number of funny and heart-warming moments that touch on ambition, friendship, and romance.
Boynton Beach Club (2007)
This is a romantic comedy starring Ellen Burstyn, Linda Lavin, and Joseph Bologna. The film follows the journey of a group of seniors living in a South Florida retirement community.
They find that life has been anything but dull: from learning new skills and pursuing relationships to confronting their pasts and embracing their futures, these characters have found that life can still be full of adventure.
The movie is filled with laughs, heartwarming moments, and a message that it’s never too late to start living life to its fullest. With a talented ensemble cast and delightful humor, Boynton Beach Club is a must-see for anyone looking for an enjoyable night at the movies.
The Odd Couple (1970)
Another great movie that I just can’t stop watching. Two of comedy’s greatest stars, Jack Lemon and Walter Matthau, star as two divorced men living together in a New York apartment.
The Odd Couple is full of hilarious moments as these two characters with very different personalities clash. From their constant bickering to Oscar’s slovenly ways and Felix’s neatness, it’s no surprise why this movie is a true classic.
Whether you’re watching this movie for the first time or revisiting it with an appreciation of its timeless comedy, it’s definitely worth a watch!
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
I love this quirky movie. It is an uplifting story about perseverance and family. It follows the struggles of the Hoover family as they attempt to get Olive, their youngest daughter, to a prestigious beauty pageant in California.
Along the way, they face numerous obstacles including a broken-down VW bus, an incident with Grandpa, and a series of unfortunate events. But despite all this, the family comes together and shows that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible.
It’s truly an inspiring tale of how love can overcome any obstacle! So grab some popcorn, put your feet up, and get ready to be inspired!
Calendar Girls (2003)
This is a hilarious British comedy about the members of a small-town Women’s Institute who decide to raise money for charity by producing a nude calendar.
Starring Helen Mirren and Julie Walters, Calendar Girls follows the women as they battle public opinion, moral indignation, and their own inhibitions in order to make their dream a reality. It’s heartwarming and full of laughter, proving that sometimes the most outrageous ideas and unconventional methods can lead to amazing results.
Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or an inspiring story, Calendar Girls is sure to deliver.
The Court Jester (1955)
I know it’s an older movie but it’s so much fun to watch! Starring Danny Kaye, Glynis Johns, Basil Rathbone, and Angela Lansbury, this comedy follows the adventures of a jester who gets caught up in an age-old conflict between two feuding families.
Along the way, he must use his wit and skill to save the day with an assortment of funny hijinks. With memorable songs, quotable lines, and plenty of laughs, this movie is sure to entertain audiences of all ages.
11 Feel Good Dramatic Movies
Dramas can make you feel sad or, like the list below, leave you feeling good!
Walk The Line (2005)
This is a great example of a classic feel-good dramatic movie. Following Johnny Cash’s story from his early beginnings to his rise in fame, this biopic does a great job of capturing all the emotions and struggles along the way.
Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon both deliver outstanding performances, portraying Cash and June Carter perfectly. The music throughout is also beautifully done and makes for an extremely entertaining experience.
No matter how many times you watch it, Walk The Line is sure to make you smile! If you are looking for a feel-good movie with plenty of drama, this one should definitely be at the top of your list.
My Fair Lady (1964)
A movie that made me a huge fan of Audrey Hepburn. It tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a poor flower girl who is taught proper English and etiquette by Henry Higgins in order to pass as a lady in high society.
The film stars Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison, with songs such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly.” With its colorful sets and costumes, witty dialogue, and memorable music, My Fair Lady is a timeless classic that is sure to delight every generation.
Whether you’re a fan of musicals or just looking for an enjoyable viewing experience, don’t miss out on this charming film!
The King’s Speech (2010)
This beautiful movie is an Academy Award-winning British historical drama film. Directed by Tom Hooper, it stars Colin Firth as King George VI of the United Kingdom who struggles to overcome a stammer and rallies his country during World War II.
The film also stars Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter as Lionel Logue, the King’s speech teacher, and Queen Elizabeth, respectively.
The movie was praised for its brilliant performances from the main cast and won multiple awards, including four Academy Awards at the 83rd ceremony: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Original Screenplay.
Watching Firth’s transformation from a nervous king to a powerful leader is inspirational, and Rush’s portrayal of Lionel Logue is delightful for its earnestness and warmth.
The film also makes an important point about the importance of friendship, even between two people with very different backgrounds.
The King And I (1956)
A classic musical based on the novel ‘Anna and the King of Siam’ by Margaret Landon. It tells the story of a British schoolteacher, Anna Leonowens, who is hired to teach English to the children of King Mongkut (of Siam).
The movie stars Yul Brynner as King Mongkut and Deborah Kerr as Anna.
The movie features several classic songs such as ‘Getting to Know You’, ‘Shall We Dance?’ and ‘Hello, Young Lovers’. It was nominated for nine Academy Awards (winning five) including Best Picture and two Golden Globes.
The King And I is a timeless classic and remains one of the most beloved musicals of all time. So go ahead and sing along to ‘Getting to Know You’; you know you want to!
Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner (1967)
I can’t imagine that there isn’t a person alive who hasn’t seen this beautiful movie. Directed by Stanley Kramer and starring Spencer Tracy, Sidney Poitier, Katharine Hepburn, and Katharine Houghton—this classic film is a must-watch.
The story follows Joanna Drayton (Houghton), the daughter of wealthy parents who brings a surprise to her parent’s home for dinner: her African-American fiancé John Prentice (Poitier). This move forces her parents—Matthew Drayton (Tracy) and Christina (Hepburn)—to confront their own prejudices and preconceptions of race, especially in the light of a potential interracial marriage.
This picture explores themes of racial equality and integration in an honest and impactful way. Led by a powerhouse performance from Poitier, this thought-provoking film asks us to confront our own views on race and its implications within society.
It’s an important viewing experience that will leave you with plenty to think about. Even after more than 50 years since its release, Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner remains as relevant and timely as ever.
The Big Fish (2003)
Oh this is a fun movie to watch! The story, the scenery, it’s all wonderful.
It follows the story of Edward Bloom, an imaginative and adventurous old man who has told tall tales throughout his life. The movie follows him as he struggles to separate reality from his own stories.
The Big Fish is filled with stunning visuals, great performances, and a thought-provoking story that everyone should experience at least once. It’s an entertaining and heartwarming movie that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.
Saving Mr. Banks (2013)
I did not think I would like this movie but truthfully, I loved it. It tells the story of Walt Disney’s negotiation to purchase the film rights of P.L. Travers’ novel Mary Poppins from her for use in an upcoming animated feature film.
The movie stars Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson as Disney and Travers respectively and follows their journey together over two weeks as they negotiate the terms of the deal.
Tom Hanks portrays Disney as a kind, gentle man who truly respects Travers and her work; while Emma Thompson portrays Travers as a determined woman with a strong sense of pride in her creation.
The two go through their own emotional journeys over the course of the movie, eventually learning to understand each other and finding common ground.
Forrest Gump (1994)
Forrest Gump will definitely be one of those feel-good movies that seniors can turn to if they need an uplifting story.
Tom Hanks gives a memorable performance as the titular character, an underdog with a heart full of hope and determination. While he may not be capable of some things, Forrest never lets life’s obstacles keep him down, demonstrating to everyone that no matter their age, anything is possible.
At its core, Forrest Gump is a film about optimism and loyalty, providing seniors with an inspiring message that will stay with them forever – to never give up in the face of adversity.
Julie and Julia (2009)
The story in this movie is based on the true story of Julie Powell’s culinary journey. The movie follows Julie as she embarks on her mission to cook all the recipes in Julia Child’s famous cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking while navigating personal and professional struggles.
Meryl Streep stars as Julia Child, whose passion for food, humor, and fearlessness serves as an inspiration to Julie. The movie highlights the importance of following your dreams, even in the face of adversity, and shows us that with hard work and dedication anything is possible.
Whether you’re an aspiring chef or just looking for a good life, this movie is sure to entertain!
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Definitely a classic movie that is beloved by so many. It tells the story of Baby and Johnny, who fall in love while spending their summer together at a resort.
You won’t want to miss out on all the classic songs like “Do You Love Me” and “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.” Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey deliver stunning performances that are sure to stay with you long after the movie has ended.
The iconic dance moves, heartfelt romance, and incredible soundtrack make Dirty Dancing one of the most memorable movies of all time. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the hundredth, it’s sure to leave you feeling nostalgic.
Good Will Hunting (1997)
A wonderful feel good movie starring Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck, and Stellan Skarsgård. The movie follows the story of Will Hunting, an orphan from South Boston who is a genius-level mathematician but works as a janitor at MIT.
When he solves a difficult mathematical equation for his professor, he is discovered and encouraged to apply his talents in a more productive way. With the help of his therapist, Sean Maguire (played by Robin Williams), Will is able to ultimately find his place in the world.
Good Will Hunting was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Matt Damon. It won two Oscars: Best Original Screenplay (Affleck and Damon) and Best Supporting Actor for Robin Williams.
If you’re looking for a feel-good movie to watch, any of these 22 films would be a great choice. They each have their own unique message that is perfect for seniors, whether it’s about hope, resilience, following your dreams, or the power of love.