Documentaries and Biopics That Left Me Feeling Happy and Grateful

Happiness after watching a documentary or a biopic can offer a unique and profound personal experience. These films often delve into the lives of incredible individuals and provide a window into their struggles, triumphs, and the human spirit in all its complexity.

Lifetime: A Diverse Journey

Life Itself Directed by Steve James. This film "Life Itself" is a profound and humbling journey through the life of novelist and playwright Roger Ebert. It deconstructs his life down to his most human elements, revealing the deeply personal and often difficult struggles that shaped his art and his life. The beautiful resolution of his commitment to art and to life left me smiling in the end, a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Humor and Heart in Short Films

Pub Fosterhjem is a short, heartwarming film that reminds us of the profound impact of friendship and community. It was discovered on Facebook and tells the story of a young student who has no lunch on his school lunch break. In a moment of kindness, his friends secretly fill his lunch box, making him smile and feel connected to his classmates. The message is powerful, and its impact resonates even within a short, one-minute film.

Insights into the Human Experience

India Untouched is a stark documentary that exposes the harsh realities of life in certain parts of India. However, it also highlights the resilience and sorrows of the people who live in these conditions. The filmmakers clearly chose to focus on the nuances that reflect the dark side of our culture, providing a sobering yet enriching view of society.

The Power of Art and Unreality

In The Realms of The Unreal is a fascinating and magical documentary that chronicles the life and work of Henry Darger, a self-taught artist. Directed by Jessica Yu in 2004, the film delves into the life of a janitor who lived in a foster home until his late 70s, yet he had created a series of novels and watercolor illustrations that are about intergalactic battles and the fate of the universe. Darger's work is a testament to the power of the human imagination and the remarkable journey of an ordinary man who reached extraordinary heights.

Each of these documentaries and biopics offers a unique perspective on the human experience. Whether it's the transformative power of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, or the incredible journey of an artistic genius, they all leave a lasting impression and a sense of happiness and gratitude.

Explore these films to witness the magic of human storytelling and the myriad ways in which we can find beauty, hope, and happiness in this complex world.