These are the 10 Most Spiritually-Awakening Movies Of All TIme

The best movies are the ones that help you move to a higher state of consciousness. Here are the best spiritually-awakening movies of all time.

There is always one movie that opens the gate for audiences to a new cinematic taste. That movie is usually of spiritual or philosophical nature that gives you a new perspective on things and at the same time, keeps you hooked and thirsty for more. It speaks to the viewer's innate need to uncover secrets and understand mysteries. These spiritual movies keep us on the edge of our seats and keep our minds busy with solving life’s puzzles.

Spiritual movies are like a lamp in the darkness . They give us a new understanding of our human condition, our environment, our society, and our place in it. This perspective is superior in understanding and philosophical in essence. It disrupts the grand narratives that we have been fed and challenges the limitations of our views.

Here are our picks for the ten most spiritually awakening movies of all time.

Related: Vanessa Hudgens and GG Magree's Spiritual Witchcraft Movie Lands at Tubi

10 The Truman Show (1998)

In The Truman Show , Truman Burbank, an insurance sales agent who leads a quiet and ordinary life, discovers that he is part of a massive reality TV show. Hidden cameras, directors, and paid actors all collaborate to create a simulation of real life for oblivious reality TV stars. Even though Truman is not aware of his situation, he grows restless by the day. A series of mysterious occurrences rouse his suspicion, and he starts digging for the truth. He sees his supposedly deceased father, but then the director turns the story around and creates a smart explanation for the incident. A few days later, Truman meets Lauren who tells him, during their secret rendezvous that they are living in a big TV set and being controlled by a TV show director. However, she is soon taken away and accused of madness. Truman continues his quest for the truth until he ends up on a boat sailing out of the island. The director creates a simulation of a huge storm to deter him from reaching the borders, but Truman's determination is unparalleled.

In a way, this movie is a call to question reality instead of taking it at face value. It speaks to the human need for freedom of choice and for the truth. The two, freedom and truth, are featured as an interdependent pair, a whole package that one ought to actively seek in order to assert one’s humanity. Stronger forces will always hold a controlling position over one’s life until they are fought with understanding and awareness of one’s own right to freedom.

9 Lucy (2014)

Lucy inspired heated reactions because of the vision that it sought to communicate. Scarlett Johansson plays the girlfriend of a drug mule who works for a Korean drug lord and gets tricked into doing her boyfriend’s work in his stead. She ends up being operated on; a bag of drugs is sewn into her abdomen. This particular drug that she was supposed to carry outside the country, breaks inside her body and is absorbed by her system. As a reaction to the drug, she starts developing enhanced physical and mental capabilities, such as telepathy, telekinesis, mental time travel , and the ability to feel no pain.

She contacts Professor Samuel Norman whose main research interest is in brain capacity. She informs him that she is able to access a huge percentage of her brain capacity which is completely unprecedented and nearly impossible. The professor tries to help Lucy, but she ends up helping him to advance his research.

The movie is a metaphor for the limitlessness of the human mind. The fact that humans are so absorbed by the lifestyle of consumerism, money, and fame, makes them lazier than to activate the true potential of their minds. It’s a movie that will make you appreciate the magnificent and absolutely brilliant muscle that is the brain. This is one of the movies that will show you that the real treasure is, indeed, inside of you.

8 Mr. Nobody (2009)

In 2009, Mr. Nobody was released as another thought-provoking science fiction drama film. Directed by Jaco Van Dormael and starring Jared Leto , the movie tells the story of the 118-year-old Nemo Nobody, who happens to be the last mortal on earth. The movie is a nonlinear narrative that jumps from one life account to a wholly different one. The main character is always Nemo, but the events and the characters in his life change accordingly with his decisions.

The movie presents the many life paths that Nemo might have or indeed has lived. It’s a movie about how a small decision can have a huge impact on how life may turn out. Others call it the multiverse hypothesis. It is, basically, the concept that there are infinite parallel universes, also called "alternate universes", "quantum universes", and "interpenetrating dimensions". It is still a scientific inquiry as physicists cannot agree on the accuracy of such an idea. However, in fiction, it has been illustrated in many comic books and in certain movies as well. In this context, the idea of parallel universes puts a huge responsibility on human decision-making since it is illustrated as the only variable that changes reality.

Related: Philosophical Films That Will Blow Your Mind

7 The Age of Adaline (2015)

In The Age of Adaline , a young, beautiful, and intellectual woman (played by Blake Lively) is born at the turn of the 20th century. On a stormy night, she gets into a car accident that gives her the gift of immortality. The word "gift" is hugely questioned in this movie, as the protagonist herself is very conflicted about her agelessness.

Because of her miraculous ability to escape time, she witnesses her dog's death and her daughter's transition from childhood to adulthood to old age. The thought of outliving everyone she cares about scares her and drives her to isolation. She moves from one city to the next, afraid of being uncovered, and refuses to humor the idea of getting into a relationship. Her fear of loss keeps her trapped in a circle of loneliness and solitude.

Everything takes a turn for the better, however, when Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) walks into her life. They fall in love, and she even accepts to meet his family. His father, however, turns out to be her ex-lover, a pretty twisted joke that life would play from time to time. This, of course, throws her off balance for a while.

The spiritual element in this movie is the idea that not everything that seems like a gift is indeed so. Immortality is something humans mindlessly seek out, but it can easily turn into a curse, especially if it keeps you from finding love.

6 Eat, Pray, Love (2010)

In Eat, Pray, Love , Julia Roberts plays the role of the celebrated author Elizabeth Gilbert who travels the world in the aftermath of her divorce , in search of spiritual ascension, worldly pleasures, and learning. Originally, the film is a memoir of the writer’s journey to self-discovery and growth. It teaches the importance of introspection in illuminating parts of one’s own life and one’s own identity. In Bali, she is introduced to the art of balance between worldly matters and spiritual quests. In fact, an elderly medicine man, a guru of some kind, teaches her the wisdom and knowledge that he has acquired throughout the years, and they end up falling in love unexpectedly, and beautifully.

Their smooth union is evidence enough that walking out of a toxic relationship and focusing on one’s own advancement will not only provide balance but can actually reward you with the best partner. Eat, Pray, Love is a beautiful, quiet, and captivating movie that will feed both your spirit and your mind.

5 The Secret Garden (2020)

The Secret Garden , a British fantasy drama film based on the 1911 novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, was released in 2020. It follows the story of the orphaned Mary Lennox, who moves into her uncle’s house. Despite being instructed by a stiff housemaid not to explore the place, Marry’s curiosity leads her into a secret garden. The next day, she takes her cousin Colin, who is in a wheelchair, along with her. They explore the garden together and Collin starts feeling the magic of the place. He tries to leave his chair and walk again. In the meantime, their house catches fire and the uncle is perceived to be frantically looking for his missing son. Mary finally walks into the burning house to tell her uncle that his son is safe in the secret garden.

The movie illustrates the uncle’s depression over his lost wife and his overbearing protectiveness of his son. One could interpret his son’s disability as a consequence of his father's maladaptive protectiveness. The secret garden is the place where every problem is magically solved. There, traumas are cured, and limitations are removed. The son is walking again, and the father has regained his senses and psychological balance. All it took is the ignited and curious spirit of a little girl who refuses to live in fear and sorrow . The movie helps the viewer get a sense of our own responsibility in healing our wounds and in getting over our hurtful past. Courage and moving on go hand in hand. It is definitely a movie worth watching.

Related: Star Wars and Spirituality: Christianity, Buddhism, and The Tao

4 I Origins (2014)

I Origins is a movie that probes the great mysteries of life, starting from the incredible mystery of the human eye. It is directed by Mike Cahill, this movie represents the endless dance between science and faith. The fact-oriented molecular biologist Dr. Ian Gray (Michael Pitt) is looking to create an eye from living organisms along with his lab partner Karen (Brit Marling). Despite Ian’s fascination with the eye and his passion for this rather ambitious project, he almost loses interest when he meets the beautiful Sofi (Astrid Berges-Frisbey) at a Halloween party. Their meeting manages to create, even temporarily, a seed of doubt in his rigid scientific and factual view of life.

Sofi is spiritual and believes in a parallel intangible reality. She warns him, “It is dangerous to play God.” Their relationship comes to an end with the shocking death of Sofi. Seven years later, he marries his lab assistant and together, they carry on their quest to prove that the gift of vision is, in fact, just a result of evolution and not a divine gift. Despite Sofi’s attempts to open his "inner" eye, the scientist is rigid in his views. His obsession with eyes and sight becomes ironic when his blindness to the spiritual is introduced to the equation.

Finally, he meets an Indian girl whose eyes are the exact replication of the deceased Sofi. He starts observing the little girl and noticing the many ways in which she resembles his ex-wife. This encounter liberates Ian from his stubbornness and helps him consider that something beyond science can exist. Faith, God, miracles, and messages from beyond, are now all possibilities to be looked into.

3 Inception (2010)

Inception grapples with the idea that our subconscious controls the bigger part of our reality. Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece is about a professional thief named Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) who infiltrates the subconscious of his targets with the use of a machine and a group of trained "brain hackers." If you are thinking that this is too good to be true, well, you would be right—jumping into one’s subconscious repetitively and staying there for a long time has dangerous consequences.

The protagonist’s wife, who journeys with him through the subconscious was eventually unable to tell reality from dream . When she is awake, she would be thinking that she is dreaming. In fact, she decides to jump from the balcony of a hotel room in order to wake up, not knowing that the fall will kill her. Her husband tries to warn her, but she is so convinced that she makes the jump. Cobb’s trauma over the loss of his wife, and his guilt does not leave him. Every time he dives into his subconscious , he meets her in the dream realm. She tries to get him to stay with her in that realm.

However, Cobb’s sense of reality is stronger, and he finally manages to leave the dreamworld and rejoin his children. This movie makes you think about the power that trauma holds on one’s subconscious and how it affects reality. The limitations are always internal, precisely inside the parts of the mind that are hard to reach.

Related: Here's What Makes Groundhog Day a Spiritual and Philosophical Masterpiece

2 Her (2013)

Her is a 2013 science-fiction movie that stood out thanks to its original ideas and creative, thought-provoking approach. It follows Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) , a talented writer who develops a relationship with Samantha (Scarlett Johansson), an AI virtual assistant. The idea of a relationship between a human and a robot has been dealt with before, but never as profoundly as in this movie. There has always been the fantasy that a robot can have the human complexity that allows it to develop feelings and have a relationship. If the computer can talk back, can answer questions, and even have a full conversation, maybe it can also fulfill our emotional needs. That’s the premise of the whole movie.

Theodore is an example of a lonely and introverted writer who finds it difficult to relate to his surroundings. He is also on the verge of a divorce that he keeps delaying. The writer and his AI assistant start having deep conversations about his marriage, love, and the meaning of life. Feelings start to grow and finally, Theodore accepts Samantha as a romantic partner despite the unorthodox nature of the relationship. A risk that was worth taking, for a while—until he learns that she has been talking to thousands like himself simultaneously. She finally leaves him and refuses to disclose her next destination.

Although the movie succeeds in making viewers sympathize with this unconventional relationship , the true message behind it is that escaping one’s painful emotions and difficulties in building relationships by relying on the virtual world will only delay personal development and make things worse. The movie is also a call to face facts and opt for the truth, no matter how painful it is.

1 Arrival (2016)

Arrival is a movie about the curious issue of extraterrestrial life. It follows a linguistics professor, Louise Banks (Amy Adams), who was summoned by the military in order to lead an investigation of 12 spaceships that hit different parts of the world. Whether aliens exist is still a matter of debate, however, this movie creates a possibility of interaction between species. The interaction was depicted as a mission fraught with mystery and danger. Professor Louise was brave enough to remove her suit and approach the Heptapods as an act of showing trust in order to facilitate communication. Her efforts were fruitful as she gets to decode some messages from their heavily coded interaction.

The movie presents certain aspects like time, from an extraterrestrial point of view . Time is not linear for Heptapods, and they show Louise a glimpse of her future. Despite the unpleasant things that she sees in her future, she decides to make the same decisions. It’s another way of saying that bad things are inevitable and that if you want to dodge them, you will have to dodge the good things as well. There is also a political side to this movie as it's mainly about communication, peace, and inclusion. Through her communication with the aliens, Louise teaches a lesson to the tension-ridden global politics; a lesson suggesting that if it is possible for two different species to find common ground and communicate in peace, how much easier it would be for countries of the same planet to do the same.

The secret in spiritually-awakening movies is that they take viewers on a journey to an uncharted territory of mysteries and wonders. They ask the right questions and expand one's understanding of reality.

Mindful Zen

11 Profound And Life-Altering Spiritual Awakening Movies And Documentaries

Some people get inspired by a higher power, person, idea, or place. 

For others, it can be words that resonate with them — or an enlightening book they pick up.

Even a film can move you and change how you view the world.

The common element with all of these is that they touch the hidden places in our hearts and minds.

They speak to us personally and can trigger a soul-level awakening that profoundly alters our lives.

Spiritual awakening can be a mysterious and incredible experience.

But it can be challenging to make sense of new feelings and ideas as you encounter something both intangible and sacred. 

To help you process these feelings, we’re sharing some spiritual awakening movies and documentaries that may speak to your experience or help you begin your journey.

What Is Spiritual Awakening?

What should i watch for spiritual awakening, 1. the fountain (2006), 2. phenomenon (1996), 3. life is beautiful (1997), 4. the truman show (1998), 5. dark city (1998), 6. the matrix (1999), 7. wake up (netflix documentary), 8. tuning in – spirit channelers in america (documentary), 9. awake the yogananda (2019 netflix documentary), 10. cloud atlas 2012, 11. samsara (2011), can watching a movie be a spiritual exercise.

Spiritual awakening is a phenomenon in which one’s awareness expands beyond the normal limits of perception. It’s also known as enlightenment or illumination. 

You may feel you’ve transcended time and space. Your ego and sense of self dissolve as you recognize you’re part of something far more infinite.  

This is an important concept to understand because it helps shape the way you look at your experiences as they occur during your spiritual journey. 

If you feel like you have a deeper connection with nature, the Universe, and all sentient beings, you may be experiencing a spiritual awakening. It can occur gradually or spontaneously. You can decide on an intentional journey toward enlightenment, or it can happen unintentionally.

Many good movies on spirituality are available to help you better understand this awakening.

If you ever watched a movie and experienced an “aha” moment when suddenly you realized the whole movie communicates a “secret” or profound idea you previously didn’t know, you’ve experienced an awakening.

Many of these movies offer different perspectives on life from people’s viewpoints in various situations. 

Look for films that

  • Are uplifting or inspire you to higher levels of awareness
  • Provide insights or ideas you haven’t fully explored
  • Move you emotionally on a deeper level
  • Inspire you to make a shift in your life
  • Awaken you to your oneness with the world around you

11 Profound Movies for Spiritual Awakening

If you are ready to embark on a journey of discovery and love movies and shows that provide thought-provoking content , plan to watch some of the films and documentaries listed here.

Each story is presented from the main character’s viewpoint and may evoke feelings that you have experienced and are curious about.

The Fountain is a 2006 drama film starring Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, and Ellen Burstyn. The film is directed by Darren Aronofsky and written by Aronofsky and Ari Handel.

The plot follows a conquistador who travels through time to save his lover from her death as she succumbs to an incurable disease.

family watching tv at home Movies for Spiritual Awakening

The story explores themes of sacrifice, love, and spirituality. It was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama and won the award for Best Original Score at the 72nd Golden Globe Awards.

This film is an excellent example of an awakening movie because it shows how someone can have an awakening and still have a lot of confusion. Phenomenon also shows how people can react to the person who is awakened.

The main character in this film, played by John Travolta, has such a strong experience that he feels like he might be losing his mind. Eventually, he realizes that he was meant for something greater than just living on Earth.

He recognizes there is a reason for all the strange things happening to him and that he needs to embrace them rather than resist them.

A beautiful, uplifting film about a family living in Nazi-occupied Italy. The film is filled with humor, love, and hope as the father tries to protect his young son from the horrors of war.

He makes life in the concentration camp a game to keep his son from knowing they live in such terrifying conditions.

The story is based on a Jewish-Italian man named Rubino Romeo Salmoni, whose story is narrated through a young boy named Guido Orefice (the main character’s son).

The Truman Show stars Jim Carrey as Truman Burbank, an insurance salesman who discovers that his entire life has been filmed and televised without his knowledge by the world’s media.

He is blissfully unaware that his whole life has been directed and filmed in a studio. As he begins to suspect that he might not be real, he sets out on a journey to uncover his true identity.

This sci-fi film takes place in a world where people are controlled by their dreams. The main character wakes up from one dream into another, which gives him the freedom to explore what’s going on around him.

The main character, John Murdoch, awakens to the knowledge that he lives in a false reality. He realizes that his memory has been wiped and doesn’t know who he really is.

He finds himself in a strange city without understanding how he got there or how long he’s been there.

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This movie is a classic and one that had everyone questioning whether the world we live in is a simulation. It features a group of people freed from the matrix by Neo, who is the chosen one.

The matrix is a world in which machines force humans to live. The humans believe they live in reality, but the machines use them for batteries. 

This film is a great example of how we can manipulate reality through technology and mind control techniques like hypnosis and NLP (neuro-linguistic programming).

Wake Up is a feature-length documentary film by Canadian director and producer Aaron Biebert. The film explores the concept of spiritual enlightenment, specifically as it relates to the state of consciousness known as “waking up” or “being awake.”

The film has been shown on TV worldwide, including on Netflix in over 190 countries and at major film festivals such as SXSW and Hot Docs. It was also nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2019 Academy Awards®.

Los Angeles filmmaker David Thomas attempts to explain spirit channeling, which involves a psychic connection with a spirit being, in his documentary, Tuning In.

The film unites six of North America’s most prominent channelers for a rare insight into the phenomenon, as well as the information these channelers receive.

In channeling, an individual in a trance state makes a psychic connection with a spirit being. The channeler can then act as a dimensional go-between bringing other humans in contact with the entity and interpreting messages from the entity.

The movie Awake the Yogananda movie (Netflix documentary) was released on April 30, 2019.

It’s a documentary about Paramahansa Yogananda, an Indian spiritual teacher who introduced millions of Americans and Europeans to the teachings of meditation, Kriya Yoga, and the principles of yoga in general.

David Lynch directs the film, and it tells us about Yogananda’s life story. We can see how he was born, how he grew up, and his experiences before becoming a guru.

Cloud Atlas is a 2012 film written and directed by Tom Tykwer, Andy Wachowski, and Lana Wachowski. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by David Mitchell.

The film stars Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, and Hugh Grant.

The film tells six stories set in different eras, from the mid-19th century to a post-apocalyptic future.

Each story follows an individual who finds his life changed by a rebellion against a powerful company that controls everything from politics to technology to medicine.

Samsara is a documentary about life, death, and rebirth. It explores the cycle of reincarnation by following subjects who live in different parts of the world.

The film takes viewers to India, Thailand, Bali, and Nepal as they experience various rituals associated with death. It’s a powerful film that helps us understand how we can break free from our egos and learn to embrace death as an essential part of life.

Of course, it can, and here is why: If you watch with an open mind and heart, allowing yourself to see beyond the surface of the story and characters, and to be changed by what you see on screen, then yes — it can be a compelling experience indeed.

Watching a film with a spiritual dimension is like practicing mindfulness or meditation. You pay attention to the moment without judging it.

You let yourself feel whatever comes up without resisting. In this way, you are in the perfect mindset to experience an awakening – or at least to begin the journey.

Get that inspiration to experience spiritual awakening by watching any of these documentaries and movies for awakening.

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29 Best Spiritual Movies 2023

The 29 best spiritual movies and spiritual series accompany specific processes on the journey to your expanded awareness. You will begin to remember your purpose. In this list of spiritual movies, each awakening film comes with a short personal text by Dominik Porsche. My recommendation: intuitively choose a movie, series, or documentary that you have not yet watched. This is definitely a list of the best spiritual movie of all time for you! I can't encourage you how much I love my Hollywood spiritual movies, such must watch’s!

Interstellar

Interstellar is my favorite and the best spiritual awakening movie because of the depth in the storyline, the significant effects, and the best music composition for a film. We could consider it a Sci-Fi movie with spiritual awareness and insights into other dimensions that are really vivid and mind-blowing. Be surprised by the Hollywood blockbuster of Christopher Nolan and star Matthew McConaughey in his best movie.

Peaceful Warrior

Peaceful Warrior is about a world-champion gymnast that wants to find the purpose of his life. He encounters a stranger and discovers a path to enlightenment.

Matrix Trilogy

Matrix is known for the red and blue pill. What would you consider choosing? One pill keeps you deep in the matrix and its illusion. Another pill breaks through the illusion into a completely different perspective of the world.

Cloud Atlas

Cloud Atlas is a spiritual awakening movie about six individuals belonging to different generations. They all have emotional difficulties and slowly begin to realize how their human activities impact their love’s lives.

The Life of Pi

I watched this spiritual movie in the cinemas. I really loved how PI Patel had to survive in a boat that was adrift on the ocean. He had enormous challenges, and this Hollywood spiritual movie to watch shows the power of will and compassion.

The Pursuit of Happyness

The Pursuit of Happiness is about Chris Gardner, that lost all of his life's earnings selling a product he focused on. I consider it one of the best spiritual movies of all time because it shows us that we can't deny the darkness within the light.

The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption is all about forgiveness. It tells the stories about two prisoners that make friends. It may have been the first inspirational spiritual movie which really touched me, besides the Green Mile.

The Green Mile

The Green Mile is a mystical, spiritual movie about John Coffey, a black man accused of murdering two girls. You can consider this movie a spiritual healing movie. Simultaneously, this is one of the Hollywood movies that manipulates us into believing that we can never show our unique gifts to the world. We have to be always aware that this is an illusion.

Rocky Balboa is a nostalgic spiritual film about creating the impossible! It is about a boxer that fights his way from nowhere to the top. If you good consider a movie a "sport spiritual movie," I would choose this to be the one that motivates and hides with deep life insights and truth.

The Terminator

The Terminator is one of the old school spiritual films that waves the signs of what could happen if we go on a fear-based and greedy path in society and not a love-based path. Some people really believe "The Terminator" is just Sci-Fi, but it is actually closer to reality than most anticipate. We just have to look at virtual reality and artificial intelligence developments. It is crucial to understand how to build AI's that will be in the service of the whole.

X-Men is about the awakening of supernatural powers. We see more and more series and movies about this subject. This is truly a time to be alive! X-Men already created several incredible blockbusters about different time zones, dimensions, and realities. I highly recommend you watch them.

Inception is a sci-fi movie about stealing information from a target by entering their dreams to influence people. For me, it is a lot closer to reality than Sci-Fi, because we can change our reality when we can change our beliefs about reality. Leonardo Di Caprio plays one of his best roles in this blockbuster. This inspirational spiritual movie is action-packed, innovative, and expanding for your consciousness.

Astral City - A Spiritual Journey

Astral City is a spiritual movie about a deceased doctor entering the astral world in the afterlife. Astral City is mighty, can be life-changing, and shows possible realms in the afterlife.

I Origins is a spiritual awakening movie about the research of the human eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul. Unexcitingly, this is one of the best spiritual films about the possibility of reincarnation and mysticism behind the realm of the known.

Avatar is one of the best spiritual movies to see the power of the mind, virtual realities, and what we are truly capable of achieving in the centuries to come. It is a really spiritual movie and can be considered a fight between the spiritual and materialistic world.

Into the Wild

Into the Wild tells a story about Christopher McCandless, who dared to go on his life journey. This is an inspirational spiritual movie that keeps you awake late at night.

The Intouchables

The Intouchables is about the true meaning of friendship. Most importantly, it is about the playfulness and lightness of life! We can never be over serious, because we would stiffle the energy, therefore we are not fully living.

127 Hours is a spiritual survival movie about the power of the body, mind, and spirit. I would not watch the spiritual film again, because it can be challenging after seeing it once. But it is a must-watch for a first-timer.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Strange is a spiritual film about the different dimensional realms, mostly out of body or astral projection. It was one of the new Marvel Hollywood movies that were well adopted, and people love Doctor Strange.

Fight Club is for the spiritual seeker that may be a little different. I always check to discover something that resonates with me. So, in Fight Club, The Power of the Now is present but achieved with a fighting spirit instead of the new age's so well-established mindfulness spirit. Everything has to be respected, as long as it serves the whole.

Memento is about Leonard Shelby, an investigator that suffers from anterograde amnesia. This movie inspires us to think outside the box.

Gladiator. How did this movie make the list of the best spiritual movies? Well, Gladiator has a deeper spiritual meaning that most could believe from the initiation. Discover the truth hidden in this inspirational blockbuster.

Best Spiritual Series 2023

Blockbuster hollywood.

Dark is a German production, and it is about the missing of children. Dark is about several parallel worlds and jumping from one world to another, seemingly. This is an insane production, a compelling series with great actors, and a genius storyline.

Westworld started about a real-life robotic western game, in which humans can visit a park and play the game. Until the artificial humans in the park begin to develop strong desires and emotions. Season 1 and 2 are a masterpiece! You will not stop watching Westworld after you started.

Altered Carbon

Altered Carbon is about future humans that can preserve their death by transforming their consciousness from one body to another, enabling a person to live very long. Altered Carbon is about the solving of a crime. It may be brutal from time to time. At the same time, it can be very expanding for your worldview.

Person of Interest

Person of Interest is an American science fiction crime drama series about the challenge of global surveillance. The series from Jonathan Nolan has 103 episodes in 5 seasons and finished in 2016.

Sense 8 is about eight human beings that are cross-connected via strong telepathy all over the world. The series is eye-opening about the concept of oneness in spiritual circles.

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Why to watch gaia tv.

Today we tend to watch Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon. However, there is a trend to watch spiritual movies, spiritual documentaries, and spiritual series that teach us about our inner self. I can highly recommend Gaia TV. Gaia is the name of our planet earth. You can consider Gaia TV as the spiritual awakening channel of the planet. On Gaja TV, I am a big fan of Dr. Bruce Lipton, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Nassim Haramein, and Matias De Stefano because their perspective is heart-based, not fear-based. Check out what else is available on Gaia TV via the Button below.

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The Best Spiritual / Awakening / Dharma Films of all Time

Films which awaken the human spirit, connect us to the one Source, or reveal the Dharma. These are films that that lift the veil of familiarity between you and the world, revealing the beauty and mystery in the universe.

  • Movies or TV
  • IMDb Rating
  • In Theaters
  • Release Year

1. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring (2003)

R | 103 min | Drama, Romance

A boy is raised by a Buddhist monk in an isolated floating temple where the years pass like the seasons.

Director: Kim Ki-duk | Stars: Kim Ki-duk , Oh Yeong-su , Jong-ho Kim , Kim Young-min

Votes: 86,833 | Gross: $2.38M

A cinematic masterpiece - possibly the most beautiful backdrop for any film in history. An old monk lives on a beautiful floating temple. As he tries live in balance and harmony the people who come into his world teach him deep lessons about life as he teaches them.

2. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

G | 149 min | Adventure, Sci-Fi

After uncovering a mysterious artifact buried beneath the Lunar surface, a spacecraft is sent to Jupiter to find its origins: a spacecraft manned by two men and the supercomputer HAL 9000.

Director: Stanley Kubrick | Stars: Keir Dullea , Gary Lockwood , William Sylvester , Daniel Richter

Votes: 719,778 | Gross: $56.95M

A classic artistic and cinematic masterpiece which explores what it means to have consciousness, purpose, destiny and how to achieve evolutionary transcendence.

3. Baraka (1992)

Not Rated | 96 min | Documentary

A collection of expertly photographed scenes of human life and religion.

Director: Ron Fricke | Star: Patrick Disanto

Votes: 40,996 | Gross: $1.33M

A wordless journey into the visual patterns of nature juxtaposed with the patterns that humanity has created on this planet. Spiritually uplifting, the soul dances after watching this film.

4. Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds (2012)

Not Rated | 122 min | Documentary, History

There is one vibratory field that connects all things. It has been called Akasha, Logos, the primordial OM, the music of the spheres, the Higgs field, dark energy, and a thousand other names throughout history.

Director: Daniel Schmidt | Star: Patrick Sweeney

Votes: 2,312

Awakened beings such as Christ, Buddha, Krishna and Lao Tse all share a common root connection; one could call this the archetypal spiritual experience. This common inner connection is what lies at the core of all spiritual traditions. Inner Worlds Outer Worlds reconnects us, makes us remember who we are, brings us back to the One Source that most of humanity has forgotten. It is more than a film - it is a template for a new world that humanity is evolving towards.

5. Samadhi: Part 2 - It's Not What You Think (2018)

71 min | Documentary

Samadhi Movie. Part 2 (It's not what you think) is the second installment of a series of films exploring Samadhi.

Director: Daniel Schmidt

Through the use of various metaphors and analogies the director comes as close as possible to telling the Tao that cannot be told.

6. The Matrix (1999)

R | 136 min | Action, Sci-Fi

When a beautiful stranger leads computer hacker Neo to a forbidding underworld, he discovers the shocking truth--the life he knows is the elaborate deception of an evil cyber-intelligence.

Directors: Lana Wachowski , Lilly Wachowski | Stars: Keanu Reeves , Laurence Fishburne , Carrie-Anne Moss , Hugo Weaving

Votes: 2,054,001 | Gross: $171.48M

The Matrix is the illusion that we live in... the conditioned patterns that keep us from experiencing our true nature. Based on ancient Vedic teachings "The Matrix" is vedanta for the modern world.

7. Samadhi (2017)

PG | 60 min | Documentary

Samadhi Part 1 is the first installment in a series of films exploring Samadhi, an ancient Sanskrit word which points toward the mystical or transcendent union that is at the root of all spirituality and self inquiry.

A poignant, direct look at the human condition, and what is required to return to "union" with the source.

9. Fight Club (1999)

R | 139 min | Drama

An insomniac office worker and a devil-may-care soap maker form an underground fight club that evolves into much more.

Director: David Fincher | Stars: Brad Pitt , Edward Norton , Meat Loaf , Zach Grenier

Votes: 2,324,968 | Gross: $37.03M

My favorite quote from the film: 'It's only after we've lost everything that we're free to do anything'. Fight club is about the fight that goes on within each of us to become the person we are meant to be. It is about destiny vs. anarchy, rules vs. freedom, and overcoming our fear and conditioned patterns.

10. Avatar (2009)

PG-13 | 162 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy

A paraplegic Marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home.

Director: James Cameron | Stars: Sam Worthington , Zoe Saldana , Sigourney Weaver , Michelle Rodriguez

Votes: 1,386,791 | Gross: $760.51M

There is an intelligence that moves through nature and through us. It is the connection to spirit that has been lost in our society. Avatar recognizes this loss and the behavior that perpetuates our belief in our separateness.

11. DMT: The Spirit Molecule (2010)

Not Rated | 75 min | Documentary

An investigation into the long-obscured mystery of dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a molecule found in nearly every living organism and considered the most potent psychedelic on Earth.

Director: Mitch Schultz | Stars: Joe Rogan , Ralph Abraham , Joel Bakst , Steven Barker

Votes: 4,854

DMT is the chemical that produces the experience during Shamanic Ayahuasca journeys. It is the doorway to a certain type of transcendent experience.

12. The Story of the Weeping Camel (2003)

PG | 93 min | Documentary, Drama, Family

When a Mongolian nomadic family's newest camel colt is rejected by its mother, a musician is needed for a ritual to change her mind.

Directors: Byambasuren Davaa , Luigi Falorni | Stars: Janchiv Ayurzana , Chimed Ohin , Amgaabazar Gonson , Zeveljamz Nyam

Votes: 6,414 | Gross: $1.74M

A slow moving film that is sort of like an active meditation. Even the most jaded and crusty hearts are capable of opening.

13. Life Is Beautiful (1997)

PG-13 | 116 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

When an open-minded Jewish waiter and his son become victims of the Holocaust, he uses a perfect mixture of will, humor and imagination to protect his son from the dangers around their camp.

Director: Roberto Benigni | Stars: Roberto Benigni , Nicoletta Braschi , Giorgio Cantarini , Giustino Durano

Votes: 743,422 | Gross: $57.60M

Within the most terrible situations beauty and transcendence is possible through the use of imagination and love. A Nazi concentration camp experience is transformed for one child through the loving determination of his father.

14. Amélie (2001)

R | 122 min | Comedy, Romance

Despite being caught in her imaginative world, Amelie, a young waitress, decides to help people find happiness. Her quest to spread joy leads her on a journey where she finds true love.

Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet | Stars: Audrey Tautou , Mathieu Kassovitz , Rufus , Lorella Cravotta

Votes: 794,391 | Gross: $33.23M

A charming film about a French girl with a powerful imagination who sets things right in the world around her. Think of her as karma in action.

15. Samsara (I) (2011)

PG-13 | 102 min | Documentary, Music

Filmed over nearly five years in twenty-five countries on five continents, and shot on seventy-millimetre film, Samsara transports us to the varied worlds of sacred grounds, disaster zones, industrial complexes, and natural wonders.

Director: Ron Fricke | Stars: Balinese Tari Legong Dancers , Ni Made Megahadi Pratiwi , Puti Sri Candra Dewi , Putu Dinda Pratika

Votes: 38,054 | Gross: $2.67M

Samsara is the endless cycle of suffering. From the creators of Baraka comes a visual journey through the tragic comedy which is our human existence.

16. Samsara (2001)

R | 138 min | Adventure, Drama, Romance

A spiritual love-story set in the majestic landscape of Ladakh, Himalayas. Samsara is a quest; one man's struggle to find spiritual Enlightenment by renouncing the world. And one woman's ... See full summary  »

Director: Pan Nalin | Stars: Shawn Ku , Christy Chung , Neelesha Barthel , Lhakpa Tsering

Votes: 8,252

A monk seeking enlightenment in a cave is drawn back into the world to experience the comic tragedy that we call love.

17. Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner (2001)

R | 172 min | Drama

The telling of an Inuit legend of an evil spirit causing strife in the community and one warrior's endurance and battle of its menace.

Director: Zacharias Kunuk | Stars: Natar Ungalaaq , Sylvia Ivalu , Peter-Henry Arnatsiaq , Lucy Tulugarjuk

Votes: 6,861 | Gross: $3.79M

18. Life of Pi (2012)

PG | 127 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

A young man who survives a disaster at sea is hurtled into an epic journey of adventure and discovery. While cast away, he forms an unexpected connection with another survivor: a fearsome Bengal tiger.

Director: Ang Lee | Stars: Suraj Sharma , Irrfan Khan , Adil Hussain , Tabu

Votes: 667,002 | Gross: $124.99M

19. Ram Dass, Fierce Grace (2001)

Not Rated | 93 min | Documentary

After Richard Alpert was fired from Harvard in 1963 for conducting psychedelic drug research, he journeyed to India, found a guru and was renamed Ram Dass ("Servant of God").

Director: Mickey Lemle | Stars: Ram Dass , William Alpert , Larry Brilliant , Bhagavan Das

Votes: 488 | Gross: $0.24M

Ram Dass was a student of Maharaji who became a popular spiritual teacher in the 1960's. This film tells of his connection to Richard Alpert and Timothy Leary in his search for transcendence, and moves into new lessons in old age.

20. The Tibetan Book of the Dead: The Great Liberation (1994)

45 min | Documentary

Director: Barrie McLean | Stars: Leonard Cohen , Pema Ozokten , Tsering Sonam , Tobten Tsering

The book of how to live and how to die, the way of liberation, narrated by Leonard Cohen.

21. Apocalypto (2006)

R | 139 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

As the Mayan kingdom faces its decline, a young man is taken on a perilous journey to a world ruled by fear and oppression.

Director: Mel Gibson | Stars: Gerardo Taracena , Raoul Max Trujillo , Dalia Hernández , Rudy Youngblood

Votes: 331,410 | Gross: $50.87M

A film that will get your blood stirring and connect you to a sense of the destiny, mystery and tragedy of human life. You feel the power that has been lost in the modern world.

22. CoSM the Movie: Alex Grey & the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors (2006)

Not Rated | 80 min | Documentary

A cinematic journey through the visionary art of Alex Grey and The Chapel of Sacred Mirrors.

Director: Nick Krasnic | Star: Alex Grey

The visionary art of Alex Grey comes from a place of transcendence has has common roots in various traditions. A fascinating look at an artist who channels spirit into his work.

23. Enlightenment Guaranteed (1999)

109 min | Drama, Comedy

Two very different brothers get together for a temporary stay in a Japanese Zen monastery. The trip from Germany to Japan brings up some unexpected quests they need to manage. Soon both ... See full summary  »

Director: Doris Dörrie | Stars: Uwe Ochsenknecht , Gustav-Peter Wöhler , Petra Zieser , Ulrike Kriener

Votes: 1,366

A fun film about two brothers who end up at Zen temple and find that enlightenment is not what they expected.

24. The Journals of Knud Rasmussen (2006)

112 min | Drama

A portrayal of the lives of the last great Inuit shaman, Avva, and his beautiful and headstrong daughter, Apak. Based on the journals of 1920s Danish ethnographer Knud Rasmussen.

Directors: Norman Cohn , Zacharias Kunuk | Stars: Pakak Innuksuk , Leah Angutimarik , Neeve Irngaut , Natar Ungalaaq

Knud Rasmussen documents the story of a Shaman and gives insights into a seldom seen world.

25. What the Bleep!?: Down the Rabbit Hole (2006)

PG | 156 min | Documentary, Drama

Interviews with scientists and authors, animated bits, and a storyline involving a deaf photographer are used in this docudrama to illustrate the link between quantum mechanics, neurobiology, human consciousness and day-to-day reality.

Directors: William Arntz , Betsy Chasse , Mark Vicente | Stars: Marlee Matlin , Elaine Hendrix , Barry Newman , Armin Shimerman

Votes: 2,924 | Gross: $0.14M

The follow-up to the original "What the Bleep". More about Quantum physics and the fraying edges of science, and what it means for our understanding of reality.

26. Peaceful Warrior (2006)

PG-13 | 120 min | Drama, Romance, Sport

Dan, a college student and a world-champion gymnast, is disturbed and wants to add some meaning to his life. A chance encounter leads him to discover an enlightened way ahead.

Director: Victor Salva | Stars: Scott Mechlowicz , Nick Nolte , Amy Smart , Tim DeKay

Votes: 29,862 | Gross: $3.96M

A gymnast meets an illusive teacher where he is taught to find the path to stillness beyond the egoic sense of self.

27. The Dhamma Brothers (2008)

76 min | Documentary

East meets West in the Deep South. An overcrowded maximum-security prison-the end of the line in Alabama's correctional system-is dramatically changed by the influence of an ancient ... See full summary  »

Directors: Andrew Kukura , Jenny Phillips , Anne Marie Stein | Stars: Grady Bankhead , Ron Cavanaugh , Jonathan Crowley , Edward Johnson

Votes: 478 | Gross: $0.03M

A documentary about meditation in the prison system. It shows the possibility of real transformation, rehabilitation and hope.

28. The Green Planet (1996)

99 min | Comedy, Sci-Fi

On a distant planet, rural vegans master telepathy and mental power to travel interstellar etc. Mila is sent to Earth to report back. She lands in Paris - quite a cultural shock. Earthlings are strange.

Director: Coline Serreau | Stars: Coline Serreau , Vincent Lindon , James Thierrée , Samuel Tasinaje

Votes: 5,539

29. Waking Life (2001)

R | 99 min | Animation, Drama, Fantasy

A man shuffles through a dream meeting various people and discussing the meanings and purposes of the universe.

Director: Richard Linklater | Stars: Ethan Hawke , Trevor Jack Brooks , Lorelei Linklater , Wiley Wiggins

Votes: 66,941 | Gross: $2.89M

Once we realize that we a living a dream within a dream, we have the possibility of being awake.

30. Tuning In (2008)

A feature-length documentary exploring, for the very first time and in a very down-to-earth fashion, the phenomenon of channeling.

Director: David Thomas | Stars: Darryl Anka , John Cali , Lee Carroll , Geoffrey Hoppe

A documentary containing interviews from some of the great channelers of our time. Much of this wisdom is years ahead of where humanity is at now.

31. The Living Matrix (2009)

Not Rated | 83 min | Documentary

Our film, The Living Matrix - The Science of Healing, uncovers new ideas about the intricate web of factors that determine our health. We talk with a group of dedicated scientists, ... See full summary  »

Director: Greg Becker | Stars: Adam Dreamhealer , Arielle Essex , Peter Fraser , Bruce Lipton

By living in alignment with the matrix of the universe we can bring ourselves back to health.

32. The Fountain (2006)

PG-13 | 97 min | Drama, Mystery, Romance

As a modern-day scientist, Tommy is struggling with mortality, desperately searching for the medical breakthrough that will save the life of his cancer-stricken wife, Izzi.

Director: Darren Aronofsky | Stars: Hugh Jackman , Rachel Weisz , Sean Patrick Thomas , Ellen Burstyn

Votes: 248,798 | Gross: $10.14M

33. Kumaré (2011)

Not Rated | 84 min | Documentary

A documentary about a man who impersonates a wise Indian Guru and builds a following in Arizona. At the height of his popularity, the Guru Kumaré must reveal his true identity to his disciples and unveil his greatest teaching of all.

Director: Vikram Gandhi | Stars: Vikram Gandhi , Toby , Greg , Molly

Votes: 5,198 | Gross: $0.13M

The guru is within each of us.

34. The Life of Buddha (2007)

105 min | Animation, Biography, Drama

Director: Kritsaman Wattananarong | Stars: Sarut Wijittranon , Supattra Thiwanon , Komgrit Triwimol , Panrapee Rapeepan

An excellent BBC documentary explores the classic story of the Buddha.

35. August Rush (2007)

PG | 114 min | Drama, Music

A musically gifted orphan, Evan, runs away from his orphanage and searches New York City for his birth parents. On his journey, he's taken under the wing of the Wizard, a homeless man who lives in an abandoned theater.

Director: Kirsten Sheridan | Stars: Freddie Highmore , Keri Russell , Jonathan Rhys Meyers , Terrence Howard

Votes: 111,117 | Gross: $31.66M

The film conveys a profound realization of the power of intention, synchronicity and the inner mechanism for following one's bliss.

36. Koyaanisqatsi (1982)

Not Rated | 86 min | Documentary, Music

A collection of expertly photographed phenomena with no conventional plot. The footage focuses on the relationship between nature, humanity, and technology.

Director: Godfrey Reggio | Stars: Edward Asner , Pat Benatar , Jerry Brown , Johnny Carson

Votes: 41,495 | Gross: $1.72M

A wordless journey into nature. Beautiful soundtrack by Philip Glass.

37. Whale Rider (2002)

PG-13 | 101 min | Drama, Family

A contemporary story of love, rejection and triumph as a young Maori girl fights to fulfill a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize.

Director: Niki Caro | Stars: Keisha Castle-Hughes , Rawiri Paratene , Vicky Haughton , Cliff Curtis

Votes: 44,040 | Gross: $20.78M

A young Maori girl fulfills a destiny that those around her refuse to see or acknowledge.

38. Zen Noir (2004)

71 min | Comedy, Drama, Mystery

A nameless 'noir' detective, still mourning the loss of his wife, investigates a mysterious death in a Buddhist temple, but his logical, left-brained crime-solving skills are useless in the intuitive, non-linear world of Zen.

Director: Marc Rosenbush | Stars: Duane Sharp , Kim Chan , Debra Miller , Ezra Buzzington

A left-brain detective is immersed into the world of Zen when he investigates a crime. The biggest mystery is not who the suspect is, but who he himself is.

39. Cloud Atlas (2012)

R | 172 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi

An exploration of how the actions of individual lives impact one another in the past, present and future, as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero, and an act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution.

Directors: Tom Tykwer , Lana Wachowski , Lilly Wachowski | Stars: Tom Hanks , Halle Berry , Hugh Grant , Hugo Weaving

Votes: 374,470 | Gross: $27.11M

An attempt at conveying a sense of the cycles of dharma, the Kalachakra, the wheels of time that we are bound to, and the archetypes and themes that move through history and through lives.

40. Blade Runner (1982)

R | 117 min | Action, Drama, Sci-Fi

A blade runner must pursue and terminate four replicants who stole a ship in space and have returned to Earth to find their creator.

Director: Ridley Scott | Stars: Harrison Ford , Rutger Hauer , Sean Young , Edward James Olmos

Votes: 823,339 | Gross: $32.87M

Based on the book "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?". Blade Runner ultimately asks the question "What is life, what is consciousness?".

41. A Zen Life: D.T. Suzuki (2006)

77 min | Documentary

About the life & legacy of D.T. Suzuki (1870 - 1966), credited with introducing Zen philosophy to the West.

Director: Michael Goldberg | Stars: Robert Aitken , Shojun Bando , John Cage , Alwin Carus

A glimpse of the great Zen teacher who popularized Zen in the West. The way of Zen is a path, not a destination.

42. Zen (2009)

127 min | Biography, Drama

'Zen' Buddhist teacher Dogen Zenji is a very important religious person during the Kamakura period, 750 years ago. After his mother died, he decides to move to China and settle as a ... See full summary  »

Director: Banmei Takahashi | Stars: Kankurô Nakamura , Yuki Uchida , Ryushin Tei , Kengo Kôra

Votes: 1,175

A beautiful film that explores the life of a Zen Buddhist master.

43. American Beauty (1999)

R | 122 min | Drama

A sexually frustrated suburban father has a mid-life crisis after becoming infatuated with his daughter's best friend.

Director: Sam Mendes | Stars: Kevin Spacey , Annette Bening , Thora Birch , Wes Bentley

Votes: 1,211,272 | Gross: $130.10M

This film lifts the veil on the American dream to show us the truth about beauty, suffering and where true happiness can be found.

44. Schindler's List (1993)

R | 195 min | Biography, Drama, History

In German-occupied Poland during World War II, industrialist Oskar Schindler gradually becomes concerned for his Jewish workforce after witnessing their persecution by the Nazis.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Stars: Liam Neeson , Ralph Fiennes , Ben Kingsley , Caroline Goodall

Votes: 1,451,297 | Gross: $96.90M

45. Joseph Campbell: Sukhavati (1998)

Not Rated | 79 min

Through archival excerpts from his finest filmed lectures interwoven with exquisite images and evocative music from around the world, renowned mythologist Joseph Campbell takes us on a ... See full summary  »

Directors: Maxine Harris , Sheldon Rochlin | Star: Joseph Campbell

Mythologist and author Joseph Campbell narrates a journey through archetypal images, leading us from the unconscious to the conscious.

46. The Truman Show (1998)

PG | 103 min | Comedy, Drama

An insurance salesman discovers his whole life is actually a reality TV show.

Director: Peter Weir | Stars: Jim Carrey , Ed Harris , Laura Linney , Noah Emmerich

Votes: 1,196,969 | Gross: $125.62M

47. The Yogis of Tibet (2002 Video)

For the first time, the reclusive and secretive Tibetan monks agree to discuss aspects of their philosophy and allow themselves to be filmed while performing their ancient practices.

Director: Jeffrey M. Pill | Stars: Jeffrey Gibson , Geshe Yeshi Chophel , The Dalai Lama , Ani Konchok Khandro

A glimpse into the lives of yogic masters and a world that has remained largely hidden and inaccessible. This film is not to be missed by those on the spiritual path.

48. Ashes and Snow (2005)

62 min | Documentary, Drama

Exploring the shared language and poetic sensibilities of all animals.

Director: Gregory Colbert | Stars: Patrick Disanto , Laurence Fishburne , Jeanne Moreau , Enrique Rocha

Votes: 4,394

A dreamlike meditation, poetically revealing some of the most beautiful images ever shot.

49. Rivers and Tides (2001)

TV-G | 90 min | Documentary

Portrait of Andy Goldsworthy, an artist whose specialty is ephemeral sculptures made from elements of nature.

Director: Thomas Riedelsheimer | Stars: Andy Goldsworthy , Anna Goldsworthy , Holly Goldsworthy , James Goldsworthy

Votes: 2,472

Where nature's art and human art intersect.

50. A Christmas Carol (1951)

TV-PG | 86 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy

Ebenezer Scrooge, a curmudgeonly, miserly businessman, has no time for sentimentality and largely views Christmas as a waste of time. However, this Christmas Eve, he will be visited by three spirits who will show him the error of his ways.

Director: Brian Desmond Hurst | Stars: Alastair Sim , Jack Warner , Kathleen Harrison , Mervyn Johns

Votes: 25,727

Perhaps the best film about awakening the human heart ever made.

51. Babette's Feast (1987)

G | 103 min | Drama

During the late 19th century, a strict religious community in a Danish village takes in a French refugee from the Franco-Prussian War as a servant to the late pastor's daughters.

Director: Gabriel Axel | Stars: Stéphane Audran , Bodil Kjer , Birgitte Federspiel , Jarl Kulle

Votes: 22,042 | Gross: $4.40M

52. Meetings with Remarkable Men (1979)

G | 108 min | Biography, Drama

G.I. Gurdjieff is a spiritual teacher and mystic who, after a lifetime study, developed a form of meditation incorporating modern dance.

Director: Peter Brook | Stars: Dragan Maksimovic , Terence Stamp , Mikica Dimitrijevic , Athol Fugard

Votes: 1,195

A film about the visionary and mystic George Gurdjieff. While not the greatest film, the content can still help to convey something of this great spiritual teacher.

53. Cast Away (2000)

PG-13 | 143 min | Adventure, Drama, Romance

A FedEx executive undergoes a physical and emotional transformation after crash landing on a deserted island.

Director: Robert Zemeckis | Stars: Tom Hanks , Helen Hunt , Paul Sanchez , Lari White

Votes: 638,891 | Gross: $233.63M

A journey to the self which lies behind the masks that we wear.

54. Life in a Day (2011)

PG-13 | 95 min | Documentary, Drama

A documentary shot by film-makers all over the world that serves as a time capsule to show future generations what it was like to be alive on the twenty-fourth of July, 2010.

Directors: Tegan Bukowski , Loressa Clisby , Kevin Macdonald , Hiroaki Aikawa , Natalia Andreadis , Jack Attridge , Cristina Bocchialini , Zillah Bowes , Andrea Dalla Costa , Lisa Cottrell-Bentley , Alejo Crisóstomo , Sócrates Cuadri , Ayman El Gazwy , Shawn Gadberry , Seth Grant , Jane Haubrich , Soma Helmi , Jennifer M. Howd , Clementine Isaac , Aditya Kolli , Gabor Kukucska , Francesco La Regina , Frederic Lumiere , Marek Mackovic , Zuqy Cruz Marquez , Linda Matarasso , Kevin McMahon , Joseph Michael , Joaquin Montalvan , Lilit Movsisyan , Emmanuelle Pickett , Christopher Redmond , Alejandro Romeo , Alaa Sheikh Hassan , Marcus Tedenryd | Stars: Hiroaki Aikawa , Cindy Baer , Teagan Bentley , Ester Brym

Votes: 15,567 | Gross: $0.25M

Video and images all taken from a single day on Earth from all around the world.

55. Harold and Maude (1971)

PG | 91 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

Young, rich, and obsessed with death, Harold finds himself changed forever when he meets lively septuagenarian Maude at a funeral.

Director: Hal Ashby | Stars: Ruth Gordon , Bud Cort , Vivian Pickles , Cyril Cusack

Votes: 81,863

A film about a death-obsessed boy who becomes friends with an old lady.

57. Happy (2012)

Not Rated | 76 min | Documentary, Drama, Family

Happy takes us on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy.

Director: Roko Belic | Stars: Marci Shimoff , Ed Diener , Richard Davidson , Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Votes: 3,382

An exploration of what it is that we call "happiness". What is it that we are really pursuing in our lives, and will it actually lead to happiness?

58. I Am (III) (2010)

Not Rated | 78 min | Documentary

Director Tom Shadyac speaks with intellectual and spiritual leaders about what's wrong with our world and how we can improve both it and the way we live in it.

Director: Tom Shadyac | Stars: Tom Shadyac , Desmond Tutu , Noam Chomsky , Ray Anderson

Votes: 3,900 | Gross: $1.57M

An exploration of life and search for true meaning in the world.

59. Awake: The Life of Yogananda (2014)

PG | 87 min | Documentary

Unique biopic about Yogananda, telling the story of his life and influence on yoga, religion and science, combining re-enactment, interviews, and verité.

Directors: Paola di Florio , Lisa Leeman | Stars: Marc Benioff , Brother Chidananda , Deepak Chopra , Francis X. Clooney

Votes: 1,391 | Gross: $1.02M

A documentary about the life and teachings of Yogananda.

60. Moving from Emptiness: The Life and Art of a Zen Dude (2014)

69 min | Documentary, Biography

Where does creativity come from? Zen calligraphic painter Alok Hsu Kwang-han proposes that it arises from emptiness, from that silent space where the intelligence prior to thought resides. ... See full summary  »

Directors: Jerry Hartleben , Shaeri Richards

A wonderful insight into the relationship between stillness and creativity.

61. Lucy (I) (2014)

R | 89 min | Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller

A woman, accidentally caught in a dark deal, turns the tables on her captors and transforms into a merciless warrior evolved beyond human logic.

Director: Luc Besson | Stars: Scarlett Johansson , Morgan Freeman , Choi Min-sik , Amr Waked

Votes: 534,519 | Gross: $126.66M

Surprisingly this film has a deep symbollic sub-text in spite of its Hollywood style appearance.

62. Gandhi (1982)

PG | 191 min | Biography, Drama, History

The life of the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest.

Director: Richard Attenborough | Stars: Ben Kingsley , John Gielgud , Rohini Hattangadi , Roshan Seth

Votes: 240,224 | Gross: $52.77M

A biographical drama that focuses on the major events in Ghandi's life. This film is more historically focused than "spiritual" but you can a bit of a sense of Ghandi's depth.

63. Cabeza de Vaca (1991)

R | 111 min | Adventure, Biography, Drama

A handful of survivors from a disastrous 1528 Spanish expedition to Florida journey across the coast until they reach Mexico.

Director: Nicolás Echevarría | Stars: Juan Diego , Daniel Giménez Cacho , Roberto Sosa , Carlos Castañón

Votes: 1,201 | Gross: $0.79M

A Spanish explorer finds his true calling as he is immersed in the indigenous shamanism of the new world.

64. As It Is in Heaven (2004)

Not Rated | 133 min | Comedy, Drama, Music

A famous international conductor returns to his small childhood town in Sweden for early retirement. He's asked to help with the church choir. He affects the lives of all in the choir.

Director: Kay Pollak | Stars: Michael Nyqvist , Frida Hallgren , Helen Sjöholm , Lennart Jähkel

Votes: 18,274 | Gross: $0.01M

65. Mr. Nobody (2009)

R | 141 min | Drama, Fantasy, Romance

A boy stands on a station platform as a train is about to leave. Should he go with his mother or stay with his father? Infinite possibilities arise from this decision. As long as he doesn't choose, anything is possible.

Director: Jaco Van Dormael | Stars: Jared Leto , Sarah Polley , Diane Kruger , Linh-Dan Pham

Votes: 245,876 | Gross: $0.00M

66. Crazy Wisdom: The Life & Times of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche (2011)

Not Rated | 86 min | Documentary

Crazy Wisdom is the long-awaited feature documentary to explore the life, teachings, and "crazy wisdom" of Chogyam Trungpa, Rinpoche, a pivotal figure in bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the ... See full summary  »

Director: Johanna Demetrakas | Stars: Pema Chodron , Ram Dass , Allen Ginsberg , Diana Mukpo

Votes: 210 | Gross: $0.08M

67. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

68. blade runner (1982), 69. forrest gump (1994).

PG-13 | 142 min | Drama, Romance

The history of the United States from the 1950s to the '70s unfolds from the perspective of an Alabama man with an IQ of 75, who yearns to be reunited with his childhood sweetheart.

Director: Robert Zemeckis | Stars: Tom Hanks , Robin Wright , Gary Sinise , Sally Field

Votes: 2,258,017 | Gross: $330.25M

70. Holy Motors (2012)

Not Rated | 115 min | Drama, Fantasy

A man boards a limousine to be driven to his day's work: nine mysterious "appointments."

Director: Leos Carax | Stars: Denis Lavant , Edith Scob , Eva Mendes , Kylie Minogue

Votes: 48,927

A strange and surreal film which conveys the Shakespearean adage "all the world's a stage and all the men and women merely players". When you take off the masks and let go of your character, who is left?

71. Song of the New Earth (2014)

Not Rated | 87 min | Documentary, Biography, Music

Seattle filmmaker Ward Serrill (The Heart of the Game, Miramax) follows one man's quest to integrate modern science and ancient mysticism through sound. It features the extraordinary life ... See full summary  »

Director: Ward Serrill

72. Ayurveda: Art of Being (2001)

Not Rated | 102 min | Documentary

Ayurveda is science of life and art of healing; where body, mind and spirit are given equal importance. This voyage of thousands of miles across India and abroad takes you on a unique ... See full summary  »

Director: Pan Nalin | Stars: Nicolos Kostopoulos , Vaidya Narayan Murthy , Brahmanand Swamigal

Votes: 466 | Gross: $0.02M

A glimpse into the "mother of all systems", Ayurveda is a way of life, a way to heal, a way to connect to the one source.

73. On Yoga the Architecture of Peace (2017)

87 min | Documentary

ON YOGA: The Architecture of Peace is director Heitor Dhalia's new film and his first documentary, it follows photographer Michael O'Neill as he talks to the great Yoga masters in India, Tibet and New York.

Director: Heitor Dhalia

74. 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama (2006)

Unrated | 85 min | Documentary

How do you reconcile a commitment to non-violence when faced with violence? Why do the poor often seem happier than the rich? Must a society lose its traditions in order to move into the ... See full summary  »

Director: Rick Ray | Stars: The Dalai Lama , Tenzin Bagdro , Bob Dole , Richard Gere

Votes: 766 | Gross: $0.22M

75. Into the Wild (2007)

R | 148 min | Adventure, Biography, Drama

After graduating from Emory University, top student and athlete Christopher McCandless abandons his possessions, gives his entire $24,000 savings account to charity and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Along the way, Christopher encounters a series of characters that shape his life.

Director: Sean Penn | Stars: Emile Hirsch , Vince Vaughn , Catherine Keener , Marcia Gay Harden

Votes: 658,313 | Gross: $18.35M

An existential exploration based on a true story. Superb acting conveys the journey of one person to find meaning in life.

76. What the #$*! Do We (K)now!? (2004)

Not Rated | 109 min | Documentary, Comedy, Drama

A fictional photographer's quest to spiritually rediscover herself is interspersed with documentary footage of scientists and theologians discussing the philosophical aspects of quantum physics.

Directors: William Arntz , Betsy Chasse , Mark Vicente | Stars: Marlee Matlin , Elaine Hendrix , John Ross Bowie , Robert Bailey Jr.

Votes: 13,848 | Gross: $10.94M

A film that challenges the way we see the world. As science pushes into the nether regions, we come back to the truths that spiritual traditions knew in the past.

77. I Am That I Am: Experience the Teachings of Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj (2005 Video)

157 min | Documentary

The spiritual teacher Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj is the subject of this documentary, which also includes "experiential meditations" to lead the viewer into the I Am.

Director: Maurizio Benazzo | Stars: Nisargadatta Maharaji , Stephen Wolinsky

78. A Fortunate Man (2018)

TV-14 | 162 min | Drama, Romance

A gifted engineer flees his austere roots to pursue wealth and success among Copenhagen's elite, but the pride propelling him threatens to be his ruin.

Director: Bille August | Stars: Esben Smed , Katrine Greis-Rosenthal , Benjamin Kitter , Julie Christiansen

Votes: 7,371

79. The Fall (I) (2006)

R | 117 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

In 1920s Los Angeles, a bedridden patient in a hospital captivates a young girl with a fantastic tale of heroes, myths, and villains on a desert island.

Director: Tarsem Singh | Stars: Lee Pace , Catinca Untaru , Justine Waddell , Kim Uylenbroek

Votes: 116,708 | Gross: $2.28M

80. Westworld (2016–2022)

TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi

At the intersection of the near future and the reimagined past, waits a world in which every human appetite can be indulged without consequence.

Stars: Evan Rachel Wood , Jeffrey Wright , Ed Harris , Thandiwe Newton

Votes: 533,077

81. Yunus Emre (2015–2016)

70 min | Biography, History

As Mongol invasions are getting more frequent, Yunus travels to Nallihan where he establishes himself as Seldjuk official. After joining Taptuk Emre's dergâh (dervish monastery), he proceeds to follow his journey on becoming a dervish.

Stars: Gökhan Atalay , Payidar Tüfekçioglu , Baran Akbulut , Mehmet Çepiç

Votes: 3,046

82. Zen (2009)

83. one track heart: the story of krishna das (2012).

Not Rated | 74 min | Documentary, Biography, Music

Krishna Das is on a journey to India to discover legendary spiritual teacher Neem Karoli Baba, through drug addiction and depression, to his eventual emergence as a world-famous Kirtan singer.

Director: Jeremy Frindel | Stars: Krishna Das , Ram Dass , Rick Rubin , Jason Becker

Votes: 195 | Gross: $0.09M

84. The Holy Mountain (1973)

16+ | 114 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

In a corrupt, greed-fueled world, a powerful alchemist leads a messianic character and seven materialistic figures to the Holy Mountain, where they hope to achieve enlightenment.

Director: Alejandro Jodorowsky | Stars: Alejandro Jodorowsky , Horacio Salinas , Zamira Saunders , Juan Ferrara

Votes: 48,066 | Gross: $0.06M

85. The Dance of Reality (2013)

Unrated | 133 min | Biography, Drama, Fantasy

In a little Chilean town, the son of an uprooted couple formed by a rigorous communist father and a loving but weak mother tries to pave his own path in a society that does not understand their Jewish-Ukrainian origins.

Director: Alejandro Jodorowsky | Stars: Brontis Jodorowsky , Pamela Flores , Jeremias Herskovits , Alejandro Jodorowsky

Votes: 9,528 | Gross: $0.19M

86. Frank Herbert's Dune: The Lure of Spice (2002 Video)

26 min | Documentary, Short

Stars: Richard P. Rubinstein , Mitchell Galin , John Harrison , William Hurt

87. The Midnight Gospel (2020)

TV-MA | 23 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Clancy, a spacecaster with a malfunctioning multiverse simulator, leaves the comfort of his home to interview beings living in dying worlds.

Stars: Phil Hendrie , Duncan Trussell , Joey Diaz , Doug Lussenhop

Votes: 25,493

Simply brilliant. It gets progressively better after the first few episodes.

88. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005–2008)

TV-Y7-FV | 23 min | Animation, Action, Adventure

In a war-torn world of elemental powers, a young boy reawakens to undertake a dangerous mystic quest to fulfill his destiny as the Avatar, and bring peace to the world.

Stars: Dee Bradley Baker , Zach Tyler Eisen , Mae Whitman , Jack De Sena

Votes: 373,460

A beautifully made series conveying many deep truths about life, and incorporating ancient wisdom in a way that makes it fun.

89. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)

PG | 109 min | Biography, Drama

Based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Lloyd Vogel.

Director: Marielle Heller | Stars: Matthew Rhys , Tom Hanks , Chris Cooper , Susan Kelechi Watson

Votes: 88,782 | Gross: $61.70M

A moving drama about the transformative spiritual practices of Fred Rogers.

90. Rebel in the Rye (2017)

PG-13 | 106 min | Biography, Drama, Romance

The life of celebrated but reclusive author, J.D. Salinger, who gained worldwide fame with the publication of his novel, "The Catcher in the Rye".

Director: Danny Strong | Stars: Nicholas Hoult , Kevin Spacey , Victor Garber , Hope Davis

Votes: 10,792 | Gross: $0.38M

A film with an unexpectedly Buddhist message. J.D. Salinger confronts his own ego attachments at the height of his popularity and opts to become "no one".

91. Leaning Into The Wind (2017)

PG | 97 min | Documentary

Leaning into the Wind follows artist Andy Goldsworthy on his exploration of the world and himself through ephemeral and permanent workings on the landscape, cities and with his own body.

Director: Thomas Riedelsheimer | Stars: Andy Goldsworthy , Holly Goldsworthy

Votes: 482 | Gross: $0.40M

This film lifts the veil of familiarity that shrouds us from the world. Beautiful.

92. Becoming Nobody (2019)

PG | 81 min | Documentary

Director's interviews, accompanied by archival footage and original music, Ram Dass explores our universal human condition and behaviors in connection to the journey of the soul and the shared unity of all of our lives.

Director: Jamie Catto | Stars: Jamie Catto , Ram Dass

Deep wisdom from a great spiritual teacher.

93. Soul (2020)

PG | 100 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Joe is a middle-school band teacher whose life hasn't quite gone the way he expected. His true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.

Directors: Pete Docter , Kemp Powers | Stars: Jamie Foxx , Tina Fey , Graham Norton , Rachel House

Votes: 379,955

94. Beyond The Visible - Hilma af Klint (2019)

94 min | Documentary, Biography, History

The first abstract artist was a woman, misjudged and concealed, Hilma Klint rocks the art world with her mind-blowing oeuvre.

Director: Halina Dyrschka | Stars: Ernst Peter Fischer , Julia Voss , Anna Laestadius Larsson , Valeria Napoleone

95. Derek DelGaudio's In & Of Itself (2020)

TV-MA | 90 min | Documentary

Storyteller and Conceptual Magician Derek DelGaudio attempts to understand the illusory nature of identity and answer the deceptively simple question 'Who am I?'

Director: Frank Oz | Stars: Derek DelGaudio , Hal Schulman , Jason England , Robert Herritt

Votes: 5,546

96. My Octopus Teacher (2020)

TV-G | 85 min | Documentary, Drama

A filmmaker forges an unusual friendship with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest, learning as the animal shares the mysteries of her world.

Directors: Pippa Ehrlich , James Reed | Stars: Craig Foster , Tom Foster

Votes: 63,856

A heart opening film which reveals a consciousness that lives in the natural world and in us.

97. My Dinner with Andre (1981)

PG | 110 min | Comedy, Drama

Two old friends meet for dinner; as one tells anecdotes detailing his experiences, the other notices their differing worldviews.

Director: Louis Malle | Stars: Andre Gregory , Wallace Shawn , Jean Lenauer , Roy Butler

Votes: 25,793 | Gross: $5.25M

98. The Sage of Arunachala (1992 Video)

E | Documentary

Follow the extraordinary life of enlightened master Ramana Maharshi.

Director: Dennis J. Hartel | Stars: N.R. Krishnamoorty Aiyer , Rayapalajam Ramani Ammal , John Flynn , Ramana Maharshi

99. Doctor Strange (2016)

PG-13 | 115 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy

While on a journey of physical and spiritual healing, a brilliant neurosurgeon is drawn into the world of the mystic arts.

Director: Scott Derrickson | Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch , Chiwetel Ejiofor , Rachel McAdams , Benedict Wong

Votes: 805,298 | Gross: $232.64M

A core message in this film is to transcend the ego.

100. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

R | 139 min | Action, Adventure, Comedy

A middle-aged Chinese immigrant is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led.

Directors: Daniel Kwan , Daniel Scheinert | Stars: Michelle Yeoh , Stephanie Hsu , Jamie Lee Curtis , Ke Huy Quan

Votes: 533,374 | Gross: $72.86M

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25 Best Spiritual Movies That Will Inspire and Enlighten You

Movies often have a powerful ability to inspire and transport us to different worlds. Through the art of storytelling, they have the potential to spark transformation within us. To help you find the best spiritual movies that can bring about personal growth and development, I’ve rounded up a list of 25 titles that will enlighten your spirit and open your heart.

Discover how these stories can shift your perspective and provide insight into the human experience. Dive deeper into the surreal, soul-stirring journeys of these spiritual movies and be ready to be inspired.

You will quickly notice that you change if you watch them with a lot of mindfulness and attention. You will be more critical of the way you view life and your surroundings and more motivated to pursue your goals.

Here is a list of all of my personal favorite spiritual films that I have seen over the years that have supported me on my own journey to enlightenment, and all hold a special place in my heart.

1. Life of Pi

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It tells the story of a teenager who grew up in a zoo in the Indian city of Pondicheri and, after surviving a shipwreck, spends 227 days on a lifeboat across the Pacific in the company of a Bengal tiger.

In this story, an Indian family's brutal struggle for survival lurks behind the door of a seemingly idyllic zoo.

What begins as a sympathetic family film steeped in a childishly innocent notion of spirituality develops over time into a deeply thoughtful and gripping story.

And this story is about survival, adaptability, and self-discovery , set in times of dire need that will leave few indifferent.

Why you should watch “Life of Pi”:

Life of Pi is a fascinating film that is not something you stumble upon every day .

It not only manages to intimidate and amaze you very often but also to make you laugh and enchant with his numerous passages of wonderful poetry and depth.

In doing so, it delves deep into some of the deepest mysteries of the human psyche , persistently reminding us of something we so easily and readily forget: that we humans are but a small part of nature.

And just one of the animal species, the slightly more intelligent, but by no means the kindest.

2. Seven Years in Tibet

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Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer made his way to the Himalayas to climb Nanga Parbat, one of the largest and most dangerous peaks, with his compatriot Peter Aufschnaiter.

After successfully conquering this peak, Heinrich ends up in a British prison , from which he soon escapes.

The path leads him to the mysterious Tibetan city of Lhasa, and there he befriends the young Dalai Lama.

Although he teaches in English, geography, and western culture, which in turn makes the somewhat egocentric mountaineer a very spiritual person .

Why you should watch “Seven Years in Tibet.”

Seven Years in Tibet is one of the best spiritual movies inspired by a true story about mountaineer Heinrich Harrer.

A confident and unshakeable character who slowly begins to change his rigid character upon arrival in a Tibetan village.

The Dalai Lama, whom he meets and with whom he begins to really live life, helps him in this.

The film tells of Tibet just before China took power, and the culture of Tibet is described in detail.

The film encourages you to embark on your own adventure of self-discovery.

3. Inception

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In the movie Inception, Dom Cobb is a man who has the ability to manipulate dreams .

Thanks to this fantastic ability, Cobb is highly sought after by powerful corporations. Using its unique abilities to outsmart the competition and gain valuable intel.

But his latest assignment is unlike anything he's done before .

Why you should watch “Inception”:

Dreams are the eternal enigma of the human subconscious, but always an equally attractive aspect of the human psyche for a film theme.

Manipulating another person's subconscious through sleep isn't such a new idea, although Inception is currently synonymous with it.

First of all, what makes this movie different from other related films is the concept of dreaming in a dream .

The story itself, like the dreams themselves, is not fully understood. So the question remains: Was it all a dream?

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The Avatar takes place in the year 2154 on Pandora, a fictional world within a distant planetary system . Humans arrived on Pandora to exploit the sources of valuable minerals there.

The natives of the Na'vi, whose understanding of the world is based on coexistence with nature, resist this. To get closer to the natives, a group of scientists genetically engineered what they call “avatars.”

Bodies seemingly identical to the Na'vi but remotely controlled by the human mind .

Why you should watch “Avatar”:

Pandora is such a well-thought-out place that it's impossible to stay neutral when people start destroying it.

Undoubtedly, the Avatar will awaken in the most resilient of you, a child hungry for fantasy and magic .

However, I am also sure that it will shake your feelings about the planet we live on with equal force.

The Avatar is full of wonders that surround us, but we have not yet realized them .

5. Astral City: A Spiritual Journey

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The film tells the story of Andre Luiz, a successful doctor who experiences an enlightening spiritual awakening after his death.

When he awakens in the spirit world, he embarks on a new journey of self-discovery and transformation.

This journey begins from his first days in a dimension of pain and suffering to the point when he is rescued and taken to the spiritual Astral City .

The film also brings to the screen what life is like in the Astral City, floating in the upper layers of Earth's atmosphere.

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “Astral City”:

This movie is definitely for those who want to learn more about how to love and connect with others.

So as we follow the hero's spiritual journey after his death, we become more concerned with the way we act .

We realize that in this short life, we ​​need to give more of our warmth to others.

After all, the most important thing for us to do is to enjoy the journey on Earth before embarking on new adventures.

Because of the seriousness of the goal and the gorgeous art design, Astral City is worth visiting. But be warned: once you're there, you might not want to leave!

6. The Holy Mountain

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After a group of children hang him on a cross, from which he is rescued by a legless dwarf, an unnamed thief with an appearance extremely resembling Jesus Christ makes his way through the streets of Mexico City to hike.

Because of his appearance, he is soon mistaken for a messianic figure, and some people attempt to mold him from his body while intoxicated with the intention of making life-size statues of Jesus.

When he wakes up and realizes how he has been taken advantage of, the thief gets angry and destroys all but one of the statues , which he continues to roam the city with.

As he continues to wander through the city, the thief arrives at the tower, where he meets an alchemist.

After giving him important mystical instructions, the alchemist will acquaint him with the existence of the Sacred Mountain from which the nine people who discovered immortality secretly rule the world.

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “The Holy Mountain”:

The director's most bizarre and extravagant film is a concrete action in which Jodorowsky conveys clear messages with a critique of religion and religiosity .

This movie is definitely not for everyone, and if you are a person who is open-minded enough, then you might be interested in this movie.

Initially conceived as a feature film, the film gradually evolved into a documentary film, which set itself the task of revealing the reality and debunking the illusion in which actors and viewers live.

In working on the film, Jodorowsky drew inspiration from Zen Buddhism, tarot, and shamanism, as at the time of filming, he was attempting to interpret the world through ancient wisdom teachings .

7. Heaven is for Real

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Based on the bestseller of the same name, this film adapts a true story about a small-town man who must find the courage and conviction to share a wondrous, life-changing experience with his son.

In the film, married couple Todd Burpa and Sonja Burpo try to understand their son Colton, who claims to have visited paradise during his clinical death.

They struggle to understand him and his visions but begin to see that they are real.

Colton describes the details of his wondrous journey with childlike innocence, talking matter-of-factly about things that happened before he was born, things he couldn't possibly have known .

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “Heaven is for Real”:

Colton's story offers a glimpse into the world that awaits us and where, as Colton puts it, “ no one is old, and no one wears glasses. ”

The movie Heaven Is Real can change the way you think about infinity forever, giving you a chance to think and believe like a child.

If you believe in eternal life or are seeking comfort after the death of a loved one and need new insight into God's amazing wisdom and plan for your life, then this is the story for you.

8. Darjeeling Limited

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The film tells the story of three American brothers who haven't spoken to each other in a year .

After their father's funeral, the eldest brother Francis, who almost died in a motorcycle accident, wants to reconnect with his younger siblings.

To do this, they embark on a spiritual adventure to India .

Why you should watch “Darjeeling Limited”:

Darjeeling limited is just a great spiritual journey and soul food.

I love movies that leave a sweet taste in the mouth and the feeling that the weekend has been well spent .

The movie is awesome, and I feel sorry for all the people who never gave Wes Anderson and his style a chance.

I also admire Anderson's quirky way of thinking, the way he manages to transform seemingly everyday life situations into individual little humorous magical-realistic scenes .

I love his slow-motion shots and great music that I hadn't heard before, and I thank him for that.

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The Kid tells the story of a disliked image consultant named Russ.

As the main character, he is the definition of a busybody, callous and cold to those around him.

Suddenly, a younger version of him named Rusty shows up to teach him a lesson.

Rusty is a chubby and cute but quirky kid who is a victim of bullying.

With the chance to help this child transform his life, Russ relives his own childhood as well .

Why you should watch “The Kid”:

Russell Duritz is a powerful image consultant who works with some pretty big clients.

Duritz has everything professionally and financially , but he has no contact with his feelings.

He's terribly suppressed inside and has forgotten how to live, how to have fun, and how to feel.

He constantly pushes the people who take care of him back to a safe distance.

Russell's life and perception of reality are turned upside down by the inexplicable arrival of Rusty, his eight-year-old incarnation , or rather his inner child.

Not many films deal with the inner child and the feelings from our childhood that we suppress in order to feel in control.

Our inner child is definitely there, and it's fascinating that a children's film like this tackles this complex subject in a simple and fun way .

10. The Secret

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The spiritual movie The Secret teaches about how to get everything you ever wanted .

This amazing film contains everything you need to understand and realize the mystery of life.

For the first time in history, leading scientists, authors, and philosophers will unveil the mystery that has radically changed the lives of those who lived with it, such as Plato, Newton, Beethoven, Shakespeare, and Einstein.

Now you, too, will know the secret that will change your life forever .

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “The Secret”:

“The Secret” reveals the most powerful law in the universe.

Every human being, without exception, can turn his weakness and suffer into strength and perfect peace, health, and well-being.

The discovery of this mystery begins through a hundred-year-old book that travels through the ages of philosophy and religion, uncovering their truths.

All of these discoveries were translated into The Secret, a film that has already been seen by millions of people.

The Secret explains the simplicity of the law that governs our lives and offers the knowledge of how to live a happy life effortlessly.

It is the secret of limitless happiness, health, and well-being. It's the secret of life.

11. 2001: A Space Odyssey

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In this movie, Four million years BC, monkeys find an unusual black monolith on earth .

Soon one of the monkeys takes the bone of a dead animal and uses it as a tool but also as a weapon.

Human evolution so begins.

Two thousand years AD, scientists find another monolith in Clavius ​​Crater, an American area on the moon.

The monolith is emitting unusual radio waves toward Jupiter.

Eighteen months later, the spacecraft Discovery is sent to Jupiter to monitor the signal and discover its cause.

Why you should watch “2001: A Space Odyssey”:

A Space Odyssey is an amazing visual experience.

Many viewers resent the lack of dialogue, but this movie just doesn't need big dialogue because the images say it all .

Kubrick's film depicts a problem facing humanity, and it is only a matter of time before we all become slaves to technology.

The great thing about this film is that whatever way you understand the film, it's correct because The Odyssey is such a complex film that it's difficult to explain .

The influence of technology on man, man's constant longing for infinity, all this, together with classical music, is an amazing experience for every viewer .

12. Spirited Away

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In this movie, the girl Chihiro faces a major life challenge.

She's moving with her parents and needs to get used to her new school, friends and neighborhood .

After the father decides to shorten the trip to the new home, the family stumbles upon an empty restaurant and the parents, without thinking much, ate a lot of food and turn into pigs .

Chihiro finds herself with her parents in a world ruled by the witch Yubaba, owner of an unusual resort for Japanese gods and spirits .

In order to free her parents from the resort, Chihiro gets a job at the resort with the help of the mysterious master Haku and searches for a way to free her parents and return to her own world.

Why you should watch “Spirited Away”:

Chihiro can be interpreted as a critique of current society.

In this film, Miyazaki shows the negative aspects of Japanese society through the eyes of a child.

Yubaba and Bo's relationship is strange and, for him, a powerful display of the kind of relationship that corrupts our society.

Consuming the Faceless Ghost is also shocking. It is, I think, nothing more than a description of Japan during the economic crisis .

Ghosts, sauna guests, and the workers who serve them are the ones who built modern Japanese society.

While not explicitly stated in the film, it is a powerful portrayal of a particular historical period .

Definitely one of the best animated spiritual movies.

13. Mr. Nobody

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The hero of the movie is Nemo, an old man who dies in 2092, the last human to die after medicine suppresses death.

He remembers his own past, but his flashbacks are contradictory and confusing.

As the film progresses, the viewer catches the threads and realizes that Nemo's life has taken different directions based on the choices he made .

Did he stay with his father or mother after the divorce?

Did he marry his childhood sweetheart? In one life, he lives with a depressed wife. On the other, he is rich but unhappy .

So his whole life could be different depending on what he chooses .

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “Mr. Nobody”

Mr. Nobody is quite a difficult movie, and not everyone will like it .

A visually beautiful film, something very different in my opinion, and it is quite an art film.

This is a film to think about, only for film lovers, about love, about life choices, with many unanswered questions .

It's a great spiritual movie to think about, but only for those who want to rack their brains a bit.

Those who want a good movie that feels more like an experience have definitely found the right thing here.

14. Cloud Atlas

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Cloud Atlas consists of six interconnected stories that begin with a nineteenth-century journey through the South Pacific and end in primitive post-apocalyptic Hawaii.

Each story is a self-contained narrative, but its true meaning lies in the connections between them that form a collective whole .

The stories vary widely in style, plot, and perspective, and encompass.

Like the life of a 19th-century notary, a post-WW1 playboy, a strong-willed journalist in 1970s California, an aging literary editor in the early 21st century, a clone inciting rebellion , and a primitive youth who survives in a post-apocalyptic world.

Why you should watch “Cloud Atlas”:

Cloud Atlas is a metaphysical movie that explores the meaning of human existence and living through space and time across lifetimes.

It is an eternal story about the seemingly small steps of conscious individuals who, following their vision and inspiration, move humanity forward.

The sweeping decisions we make throughout our lives, everything we do or don't do besides ourselves, affect the people around us .

It is this connection between like-minded spirits across lifetimes that is the fundamental backbone of all stories, intertwining and complementing through eternity.

15. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

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Convicted of rape, McMurphy is transferred to a psychiatric hospital.

Where Nurse Ratched and high doses of drugs, especially sedatives, rob the patient of individuality and any desire to make a change.

McMurphy doesn't put up with this and tries to lead a rebellion against the often strict and meaningless norms.

However, he comes into conflict with Ratched and the system she represents.

Why you should watch “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest”:

The movie analyzes whether insane people are mentally disturbed or individuals whose illness is a reaction to an abnormal and sick society .

Are real lunatics inside or outside of insane asylums, is the commonly accepted “normality” actually correct?

The lunatic asylum is presented as a metaphor for modern society , and the main character, the rebellious McMurphy, the protégé of the same lunatic asylum, rebels against the repressive system by asking uncomfortable questions about normality and abnormality in the modern world.

Although the film's action takes place in a mental institution, the film is not about showing the symptoms of mental illness but about the freedom of the mind in a closed system.

This film is an ordinary story about the lives of ordinary people who are made to feel alive through good motivation, realize that change is possible and finally get something to fight for.

16. Angel's Egg

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The Angel's Egg takes place in a dystopian fantasy world with only two characters .

There are two main characters, a young girl living in an abandoned building near an abandoned town and a man.

The man appears on the shore, and he watches a temple-like sphere rise out of the sea, and he silently descends into the city.

Meanwhile, the girl takes her giant egg, which she protects every day by stuffing it under her dress, and heads to the spooky city in search of food and bottles to collect water.

Why you should watch “Angel's Egg”:

A mysterious young girl wanders a desolate, otherworldly landscape carrying a large egg .

This is the basis for this very complex, ambiguous, and elusive film.

It's the kind of story that's open to interpretation since everyone can interpret it differently. Therein lies the genius.

But while it's frankly ambiguous, I'd argue that some themes are clearly present here if you think about certain scenes properly.

17. Thrive: What on Earth Will It Take?

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The film “Thrive” is an unconventional documentary that lifts the veil on what is really going on in our world.

Weaving together breakthroughs in science, consciousness, and activism, Thrive offers real solutions and empowers us with unprecedented and bold strategies to reclaim our lives and futures.

Thrive is more than a contemporary documentary. It's more of a well-researched and alarming glimpse into who really controls how the world works .

Why you should watch “Thrive”:

Packed with stunning footage, this documentary brings to light what's really going on in our world.

Obviously, the universe has the amazing ability to balance and thrive .

Just think of the miracle of human reproduction, which produces a being of unlimited potential.

This testifies to the fact that life is meant to function, and our purpose here on earth is to thrive .

But for the majority of people on this planet, life is not about thriving at all. It's about surviving, about making ends meet.

And the question is: is that intended?

18. Into the Wild

YouTube video

After graduating from college, Christopher McCandless decided to ditch his previous identity, adopt the name Alexander Supertramp, donate his life savings , and set out to roam America.

The ultimate goal of his trip was Alaska, i.e., a lonely life in untouched nature, far away from known currents and people.

In this adventure, he was not guided by any known influences, nor did he fight against any kind of authority, but he himself defined his journey , that is, the spiritual path he followed.

In less than two years, he managed to leave his mark on the vastness of the American continent.

Why you should watch “Into the Wild”:

Among those projects that stand out for creating a motivation for the viewer to start, do something new, and possibly turn something upside down in their life, this film definitely stands out .

The movie is full of wonderful quotes, and it's all interwoven with amazing music that unobtrusively sounds like a visual experience, elevating the atmosphere to a higher level.

In this film, Christopher McCandless abandons the hypocritical West , materialism, the American dream and lifestyle, and traditions that have been happily nurtured for centuries just because they are traditions while people get lost in the world.

He shows what it really means to be alive and not to be afraid to embark on a journey that is not only exciting but also spiritual .

As he inspires us all along the way to live a little more.

19. The Celestine Prophecy

YouTube video

The Prophecy of Celestine is the story of the adventure of an American pursued by the authorities through the Peruvian rainforests and highlands in search of an elusive ancient manuscript .

The mysterious manuscript tells of a new understanding that will help people to place historical events in the context of their own experiences, to understand the world around them as a succession of unusual coincidences, interpersonal relationships as an unnecessary struggle for power over emotional ones recognizing energy.

All this reflects on us and our life in the coming time .

Why you should watch “The Celestine Prophecy”:

Based on ancient wisdom, the Celestine Prophecy helps you make a connection between what you are experiencing.

It also allows you to see what will happen in the coming years of your life .

This unforgettable story exudes adventure and new discoveries, but it is also a guide to subtle observations and answers to questions about how and why you are in the moment, guiding you on the path to renewed energy and optimism .

20. Finding Joe – The Hero's Journey

YouTube video

Finding Joe is more of a motivational video than a film. In the beginning, the story of the mythologist Joseph Campbell is explained.

But then it quickly turns into an affirmation that shows how his observations about cross-cultural commonalities in myth can be transferred to everyday life .

So the film serves as a motivator on the way to our goals at a time when we need support the most.

Why you should watch “Finding Joe – The Hero's Journey”:

It gives lots of advice for personal expression, personal growth, finding your own purpose or career, and choosing your own hobbies.

One piece of advice is don't listen to people who say you can't do what you're doing or succeed.

Another is: Don't take the easy way, because that usually doesn't lead anywhere or to places that you don't really want.

Other aphorisms include: do the things you really love and face your fears with courage.

Courage isn't about conquering your fears. It's about facing and overcoming them .

Don't be too harsh on your negative traits either, because they too are part of who you are, which is you and not someone else.

21. Awake: The Life of Yogananda

YouTube video

The Life of Yogananda is an unconventional biography about the Hindu Swami who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s .

Paramahansa Yogananda is the author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, which has sold millions of copies worldwide and is now a standard work for seekers, philosophers, and yoga enthusiasts.

Personalizing his own quest for enlightenment and sharing his struggles along the way, Yogananda brought the ancient Vedic teachings to a modern audience, attracting many devotees and inspiring millions who practice yoga today .

Why you should watch the spiritual movie “Awake: The Life of Yogananda”:

This film is not just about Yogananda. It is much more than that. It touches on so many important historical, cultural, and spiritual issues.

The mystical experience as a reality equivalent to other experiences, understanding of cosmic energy or cosmic beings against a fundamentalist view of reality.

Understanding the connection between Gandhi, and the civil rights movement, and the philosophy of yoga.

Also, the connection between matter and energy, the connection between consciousness and spirit , and the place of these revelations in science, and the ultimate truth.

After all, a man who improves himself will improve thousands .

22. Peaceful Warrior

YouTube video

Dan Dillman is a slightly arrogant young man, a gifted student living the American dream .

Good grades, good looks and money, and a chance at a spot on the Olympic gymnastics team complete the picture of a man most of the planet would trade places with.

But not everything is so perfect. After a serious injury, he goes through difficult moments with the help of Socrates and the mysterious girl Joy.

It is the beginning of his journey to self-discovery that will challenge everything he knew or thought he knew about life.

Why you should watch “Peaceful Warrior”:

The movie Peaceful Warrior is a wonderful example of the transcendental dimension of movies .

The next time you're feeling hopeless and scared, take the time to really observe your surroundings, realize that your very existence is quite an event, and see if anything compels you to take action.

The mystical setting and spiritual message at the end of this film can secretly soothe our somewhat drained and melancholic souls searching for meaning in their existence.

And whether this film will change your life is a question that does not question the essence and success of its philosophy but rather a question for you and your desire to embrace new changes .

23. Inner Worlds – Outer Worlds

YouTube video

“Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds” is a four-part film released free for the benefit of all people .

 The author of the film is Canadian filmmaker, musician, and meditation teacher Daniel Schmidt.

He describes the film's theme as “ an outward reflection of his experiences during meditation. ”

In fact, as he practiced meditation, he found that many of the insights gained through meditation are consistent with the many teachings of spiritual traditions around the world and that they all contain a common basis.

Why you should watch “Inner Worlds – Outer Worlds”:

Watch the film Inner Worlds – Outer Worlds, and you will get a better picture of how ancient spiritual concepts and scientific discoveries are connected .

Spiritual concepts can give us a better understanding of how the universe works, and in this documentation, they are the guide to our existence.

The film will clearly answer the questions most people think the answer cannot be known.

The key questions of the existence of man and the universe explain the mystery of consciousness and existence in general.

24. Princess Mononoke

YouTube video

The action film Princess Mononoke is set in medieval Japan.

Ashitaka, the last prince of Emishi, manages to save his village by killing a mysterious demon in the form of a giant mutated boar, but he is wounded.

With the help of a wise woman, Ashitaka learns that the demon is actually a deity named Nago and that he is cursed because of him.

The curse, which spreads to the young prince like poison, gives him superhuman strength but will also kill him in the end .

The only hope for the young prince is to leave his village forever and travel west, where he may find a way to lift the curse.

Why you should watch “Princess Mononoke”:

Princess Mononoke touches on very interesting and universal subjects.

The most obvious theme is the destruction of nature , which is always relevant, especially in modern times.

And that is the question of how far man is willing to accept the destruction of nature and its now slowly limited sources for his egoistic goals and interests.

In this film, nature is not portrayed as a helpless being suffering, so to speak, from human harassment.

The deities turn against man, attacking him to prevent his destruction , although they know that it is becoming increasingly difficult to resist modern technology.

This will culminate in a very important scene at the end of the film that shows what happens when man transcends all the limits of reason .

25. Samsara

YouTube video

“Samsara” is a spiritual movie shot in no less than 25 countries over a period of 5 years.

It leads us through sacred areas, war zones, industrial complexes, to natural habitats.

The lack of any kind of narration and dialogue at the beginning makes “Samsara” a different kind of documentary .

Unlike most of this format, it encourages the viewer to interpret exciting shots full of exhilarating and incredibly high-quality photography.

Why you should watch “Samsara”:

Blending the ancient with the modern in its travels, this film seeks to artistically portray man's origins, how far he has come, and the overall experience of his life on this planet .

I wouldn't describe “Samsara” as a classic travelogue or documentary but as a beautifully staged meditation .

Its powerful narratives nourish the soul and enlighten one's understanding of the cyclical relationship between man and nature. This makes it one of the best spiritual movies of all time.

A fantastic film, a real break for the eyes and soul.

Watching a spiritual movie can be an incredibly uplifting and inspiring experience.

From exploring the power of self-discovery to challenging us to find balance in our lives, these spiritual films make it easy for anyone to learn more about their own inner wisdom or even gain some clarity on life’s most important questions.

Whether you are looking for something lighthearted and comical or something that will introduce you to deeper aspects of spirituality, this list of 25 best spiritual movies provides plenty of options for your next viewing session.

So grab some popcorn, press play, and get inspired!

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Kathleen Vincent

Is a digital marketer, yoga teacher, and writer. She's fascinated with the power of words and ideas to change the world. Kathleen loves exploring new philosophical insights from various spiritual traditions as well as popular psychology and holistic wellness practices.

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26 Best Spiritual Movies For a Thought Provoking Movie Night

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By Anna Marikar

November 7, 2023

Is your movie night feeling a bit, well, mundane lately? Are you yearning for a flick that does more than just entertain, but actually tickles your spiritual fancy and has you pondering the deeper questions of life? Say no more!

Whether you’re all cozied up on your couch solo or surrounded by your soul sisters, we’ve got a roundup of films that’ll do more than just pass the time—they’ll ignite your spirit and invite some serious introspection.

So, light some incense, get into your comfiest PJ’s, and let’s dive into a list of flicks that’ll nourish your soul and spark that inner peace.

These spiritual movies traverse different genres, but each invites viewers to question, to feel, and to explore the spiritual facets of their being. They blend entertainment with profound messages, making them perfect for a movie night that’s about more than just popcorn and good company—it’s about nourishing the soul, too.

Dim the lights, let the screen glow, and prepare for an adventure that’s sure to resonate with the spirit within.

best spiritual movies for a thought provoking watch

Best Thought Provoking Movies for Spiritual Awakening and Spiritual Growth

We’ve gathered a varied selection of spiritual awakening movies, spiritual documentaries, and Hollywood movies with deep thought provoking messages… so take a browse through our best spiritual movies list below and see which ones are calling out to you.

Table of Contents

Peaceful warrior, cloud atlas, the secret life of walter mitty, ram dass, fierce grace, awake: the life of yogananda, the celestine prophecy, groundhog day, american beauty, inner worlds, outer worlds, eat pray love, the dhamma brothers, the tree of life, the fountain, into the wild, waking life, more recommendations.

peaceful warrior movie

This is the story of a college gymnast, Dan Millman (played by Scott Mechlowicz), who has his life turned upside down after a chance encounter with a mysterious stranger he names Socrates (Nick Nolte). “Peaceful Warrior,” based on the journey of real-life philosopher and author Dan Millman, is about shattering illusions and the exploration of one’s inner self. It’s a beautiful blend of athleticism and spirituality that teaches us about the power of the present moment. After this movie, you might just find yourself taking a deeper breath and living a bit more consciously.

cloud atlas movie

Talk about a star-studded space odyssey through time! With Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, and directed by the genius Tom Tykwer (and the Wachowskis), “Cloud Atlas” is a mind-bending ride through different time periods, exploring how the actions and consequences of individual lives impact one another throughout the past, present, and future. It’s a complex tapestry of a spiritual journey that’ll have you questioning the nature of reality and our connections to one another. This one’s a bit of a brain teaser, but oh so worth it.

matrix movie

“The Matrix,” starring Keanu Reeves as the iconic computer hacker Neo, is a mind-bending dive into virtual reality that poses profound questions about our own existence. It’s a sci-fi epic that doubles as a spiritual awakening movie, challenging viewers to wake up to the world around them and question the nature of their reality. The entire film is a metaphor for rebirth and the quest for enlightenment.

secret life of Walter Mitty movie

Starring Ben Stiller, who plays Walter Mitty, this film takes us on a literal and figurative journey across different countries as the character embarks on an awakening journey of self-discovery. It’s about finding new ways to live and breaking away from the mundane daily lives we often find ourselves trapped in. It’s heartwarming, uplifting, and showcases the spiritual world in the form of the breathtaking landscapes Walter encounters.

contact movie

Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey lead this adaptation of Carl Sagan’s novel, where science and spirituality collide. “Contact” delves into the life of a passionate scientist played by Foster and her profound experience with potential extraterrestrial life. The film’s core is a deep exploration of faith, existence, and the universe—perfect for those who like to mix their spiritual concepts with a touch of science fiction.

the way movie

Starring Martin Sheen and directed by his son Emilio Estevez, “The Way” is a love story between a father and his young son who died while walking the Camino de Santiago. Sheen’s character decides to complete the pilgrimage in honor of his son, discovering his own path to spiritual healing and understanding in the process. It’s a film that speaks to the ancient practice of pilgrimage as a route to personal and spiritual transformation.

With Ben Kingsley in a career-defining role, “Gandhi” is a biographical film that covers the life of Mohandas K. Gandhi, a spiritual teacher and leader who led India to independence through non-violent protest. This film is not only a history lesson but an intimate look at a man who dedicated his whole life to peace, understanding, and the upliftment of his people. It’s an epic tale that is as enlightening as it is inspiring.

avatar movie

James Cameron’s “Avatar” takes us to the planet Pandora where a paraplegic marine finds a new life and causes for which to fight. It’s a film rich in spiritual concepts, particularly the interconnectedness of all living things and the destruction of nature by corrupt forces. Through stunning visuals and a story that parallels many issues on Earth, it offers a powerful commentary on how we might find our way back to a more spiritual existence.

If you’re into spiritual documentaries, then you can’t miss “Ram Dass, Fierce Grace.” This is a heartwarming story about Richard Alpert a.k.a Ram Dass, a prominent spiritual leader and author, who transformed from a Harvard psychologist to a beloved guru. This documentary film dives deep into his life, his teachings, and his enlightening perspective on the human experience after suffering a stroke. It’s about finding inner peace even when life throws the unimaginable at you.

kundun movie

Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese and starring an incredible cast including Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong as the Dalai Lama, “Kundun” is a visually stunning and emotional biographical film about the life and times of the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual and political leader of Tibet. This powerful movie takes you on a journey through the struggles and enlightenment of one of the most iconic spiritual leaders of our time. As you watch, prepare to be transported to the Middle East and take in lessons on compassion and non-violence.

An enlightening documentary about Paramahansa Yogananda, who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s, “Awake” is a must-see for anyone on a spiritual path. This film delves into the life of a yogi who inspired millions across the globe, and it may just inspire your own spiritual awakening.

the Celestine prophecy movie

Based on James Redfield’s best-selling novel, “The Celestine Prophecy” takes you on an adventure through the discovery of ancient scrolls in the rainforests of Peru. The movie, like the book, unfolds a unique perspective on spiritual insights and offers a narrative that could change the way you perceive the world around you. It’s a tale that’s part spiritual journey, part adventure quest, and it’s a perfect movie for those who love a good story mixed with deeper, soulful themes.

Yes, it’s a comedy, but don’t be fooled—Bill Murray’s tale of a weatherman stuck reliving the same day over and over is a profound look at personal transformation, the meaning of life, and the importance of living in the moment. “Groundhog Day” is a spiritual awakening movie in disguise, presenting powerful tools for change in the form of laugh-out-loud humor.

American beauty movie

With Kevin Spacey leading a stellar cast, “American Beauty” isn’t your typical spiritual film but bear with us. It’s a darkly satirical look into the life of an insurance salesman undergoing a mid-life crisis. But beneath its suburban drama surface, the film is a deep exploration of the search for beauty, self-liberation, and the meaning of life. It might just leave you questioning what your own version of the “American Dream” is.

This one’s for the deep thinkers and those intrigued by the dance of the cosmos. “Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds” is a non-verbal documentary that explores the connection between the 

“Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds” is a non-verbal documentary that explores the connection between the microscopic world of the molecular biologist and the expansive, cosmic world of the space odyssey. It’s a stunning and meditative exploration of the spiritual concept that everything is interconnected. The film delves into ancient practices, different spiritual traditions, and modern science to present a new understanding of the nature of our reality. It’s the kind of film that can make the entire universe feel intimately close and personally relevant to your spiritual growth.

eat pray love movie

Grab a glass of wine, some chocolate, and let Julia Roberts, as Elizabeth Gilbert, take you on a spiritual and physical journey that spans Italy, India, and Indonesia in “Eat Pray Love.” It’s the true story of one woman’s quest for self-discovery and the meaning of life after realizing that her entire life needs a revamp. There’s love, there’s food, there’s travel, and yes, there’s the quest for inner peace and balance. It’s a film that many can relate to when it comes to seeking a better life and healing past associations.

Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of the rich and famous when they have an epiphany? Director Tom Shadyac, of “Ace Ventura” fame, had just such an awakening. In “I Am,” he speaks with intellectual and spiritual leaders about what’s wrong with our world and how we can improve both it and the way we live in it. This documentary has Shadyac asking fundamental questions of our time, and while it’s thought-provoking, it’s also filled with optimism. It’ll make you rethink how you live your daily life.

the dhamma brothers movie

Now for a change of pace, let’s head to an overcrowded maximum-security prison. “The Dhamma Brothers” is a powerful documentary about a group of inmates who undergo a transformative journey via an ancient meditation practice. It’s a story of personal transformation against all odds and a testament to the power of thought and mindfulness in the unlikeliest of places.

samsara movie

If you’re into films that take you around the world without a single line of dialogue, “Samsara” is for you. It’s a non-verbal documentary from filmmakers Ron Fricke and Mark Magidson, and it’s visually breathtaking. From sacred grounds to industrial sites, “Samsara” takes us on a quest to discover the incomprehensible beauty of the world and the essence of the human spirit. It’s a movie that reminds us to remain connected to the ever-moving, ever-changing cycle of life.

This Terrence Malick masterpiece, starring Brad Pitt and Sean Penn, is a visual poem exploring the meaning of life through the lens of a middle-aged man’s childhood memories of his family. With stunning cinematography and a non-linear narrative, “The Tree of Life” touches on themes of loss, the human connection to the universe, and the quest for the divine. It’s a meditative piece that’s more about the experience and the emotions it evokes than about a straightforward storyline.

the fountain movie

Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz star in Darren Aronofsky’s “The Fountain,” a tale that weaves together three storylines from different time periods, all centered on the themes of love, mortality, and the quest for eternal life. It’s a visually stunning film that contemplates the mysteries of life, death, and rebirth, challenging viewers to consider the nature of our existence and our search for meaning.

into the wild movie

Based on a true story, “Into the Wild” follows the journey of Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch), a young man who gives up his possessions and savings to explore the Alaskan wilderness. The film, directed by Sean Penn, delves deep into themes of self-discovery, the beauty of nature, and the search for truth. It’s a poignant tale of adventure and what it means to live life to the fullest.

Timbuktu movie

In Abderrahmane Sissako’s “Timbuktu,” the spiritual journey is weaved through a tapestry of resilience and quiet resistance. Set against the backdrop of the ancient city’s occupation by extremist forces, the film tenderly captures the day-to-day defiance of its people as they cling to their cultural and religious identities in the face of oppressive new laws.

While “Timbuktu” may not scream ‘spiritual awakening’ in the traditional sense, its spirit resonates deeply with themes of inner strength and peace. It’s a cinematic meditation on the endurance of the human soul. Each frame is a painting, each story a parable reflecting the struggle between the purity of spiritual teachings and the distortion of these beliefs by those who seek to exploit them.

Sissako’s masterpiece encourages us to ponder over our own convictions and the role of faith in defining and upholding our moral and ethical backbones. For those who seek movies that stir the heart and provoke thought about our collective humanity, “Timbuktu” is a subtle, yet powerful, call to spiritual reflection. It’s a film that doesn’t just occupy the screen but also occupies the mind and spirit long after the credits roll.

Directed by Richard Linklater, “Waking Life” follows a young man as he navigates a dream-like reality, encountering a series of philosophical discussions about life, free will, relationships, and what it means to be conscious. This animated film is unique in both style and substance, offering a cerebral experience that’s perfect for those nights when you’re feeling especially contemplative.

Baraka movie

If you were captivated by “Samsara,” then “Baraka” is a must-watch, as it’s a precursor to that film. Directed by Ron Fricke, “Baraka” is a beautifully shot, non-verbal documentary that captures the essence of the human experience in its diverse forms across different cultures. With no plot or narration, it invites you to interpret the profound imagery in your own way, potentially leading to personal insights about the world and your place in it.

wild movie

Starring Reese Witherspoon, “Wild” is the true story of Cheryl Strayed, a woman who, after a series of personal crises, decides to hike more than a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. It’s about the transformative power of nature and the strength of the human spirit. You’ll be reaching for your hiking boots and soul-searching diary before the credits roll.

best spiritual movies list

These films are the perfect companions for those nights when you’re seeking something deeper than the typical movie experience. They’re like visual meditations, each offering a gateway to self-reflection and a fresh perspective on the wonders of our existence. 

So, snuggle up with your favorite throw blanket, set the mood with some calming candles, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey that just might change the way you see the world. Happy soul-searching!

list of the best spiritual movies

And there you have it, beautiful beings—a list of the best spiritual movies to elevate your movie night from meh to mesmerizing. Each film offers a different perspective, a new insight, or a profound question, but they all share one thing: the power to move and transform us. In our busy lives, sometimes we forget to look within and ask the big questions. These movies are powerful tools that can help us remember and reconnect with what’s truly important.

So next time you’re scrolling through Netflix, Amazon Prime, or your old DVD collection, consider choosing a movie that offers more than just a good story, but also a dose of enlightenment. Remember, the right film can be just the ticket to inspire, provoke thought, and maybe even point you in the direction of your own spiritual awakening. Keep seeking, keep growing, and keep watching—your soul will thank you for it.

And hey, if you’ve got recommendations or experiences with any of these films, don’t keep them to your enlightened self—share the love in the comments and feel free to share this blog post and list of spiritual movies with friends. Happy watching!

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Anna Marikar

Anna is a Wales-based writer and graduate from SOAS University of London. As the voice behind On Your Journey, she empowers women to embrace holistic well-being and spiritual growth through her expert insights into wellness and symbolism. When she isn't writing thought-provoking articles, you'll find her busy crafting and raising her 4 children.

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20 Spiritual Awakening Movies That Will Evolve Your Consciousness

By: Author Bulgarea Candin

Posted on Last updated: April 13, 2021

For those of you who are interested in expanding your consciousness, understanding the universe, and discovering the ways you can experience life, spiritual awakening movies are perfect.

Not only do they allow you to broaden your mental horizons, but they also let you truly dive into your own life.

We won’t lie to you — this can be terrifying. But ultimately, you will become better in touch with yourself and those around you because of it.

Having said all of this, spiritual awakening movies are  not for everyone.

Indeed, not all films are made for everyone!

So, it’s a matter of trial and error to find the ones that best suit you.

We are going to discuss these movies that will make you rethink your perspective and spiritual attitudes:

  • The Truman Show
  • Peaceful Warrior
  • Into the Wild
  • Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith
  • Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter… and Spring
  • The Fountain
  • Groundhog Day
  • The Five People You Meet in Heaven
  • Seven Years in Tibet
  • The Celestine Prophecy
  • Cloud Atlas
  • Astral City: A Spiritual Journey

Some of these films can be found on Netflix. But for others, you will have to dive into the depths of Amazon Video and possibly even your local secondhand electronic shop!

Whichever way you decide to watch these masterpieces, we’re sure your life will change for the better afterward. 

Let’s jump right in.

List Of 20 Spiritual Awakening Movies:

#1 the truman show (1998).

Released on June 5, 1998, Peter Weir’s ‘The Truman Show’ was the year’s 11th highest-grossing film behind Armageddon, Saving Private Ryan, and Godzilla.

The action takes place on a large set populated by actors for a reality television program broadcast live around the clock worldwide about Truman Burbank until he discovers the truth and decides to escape.

#2 Peaceful Warrior (2006)

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Set at U.C. Berkeley, ‘Peaceful Warrior’ stars Scott Mechlowicz as a troubled but talented gymnast who meets a spiritual guide portrayed by Nick Nolte.

The film is based on the 1980 novel Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman and directed by Victor Salva.

#3 Into the Wild (2007)

‘Into the Wild’ is based on the true-life story of Christopher McCandless who was portrayed by actor Emile Hirsch. ‘Into the Wild’ grossed more than $56 million worldwide.

#4 Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith’ is the final installment in the Star Wars prequel trilogy. It stars Frank Oz, Kenny Baker, Ewan McGregor, Anthony Daniels, Natalie Portman, Christopher Lee, Samuel L. Jackson, Ian McDiarmid, and Hayden Christensen.

The film was written and directed by George Lucas. 

#5 I Origins (2014)

It is a SF romantic drama film written and directed by Mike Cahill.

‘I Origins’ story centers on a New York-based molecular biologist studying the evolution of the eye.

#6 Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter… and Spring (2003)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBptr1OWYZI

It is a 2003 South Korean film directed by Kim Ki-duk about the life of a Buddhist monk as he passes through the seasons of his life, from childhood to old age.

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The director said about the film:

”I intended to portray the joy, anger, sorrow and pleasure of our lives through four seasons and through the life of a monk who lives in a temple on Jusan Pond surrounded only by nature.”

#7 I Am (2010)

The film was financed by donations from over 400 different people around the world.

‘I Am’ consists of four short films:

Each film is based on real-life stories. 

#8 The Shift (2009)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iyuXLpp1jE

 In ‘The Shift,’ Dr. Wayne W. Dyer explores the spiritual journey from ambition to meaning.

#9 The Fountain (2006)

‘The Fountain’ consists of three storylines involving immortality. It stars Rachel Weisz and Hugh Jackman and was written and directed by Darren Aronofsky.

#10 Groundhog Day (1993)

In ‘Groundhog Day,’ Bill Murray portrays Phil Connors, a cynical TV weatherman, who becomes trapped in a time loop forcing him to relive February 2 repeatedly.

The film also stars Robin Duke, Chris Elliott, Rick Overton, Rick Ducommun, Andie MacDowell, Angela Paton, Marita Geraghty, Brian Doyle-Murray, and Stephen Tobolowsky.

#11 The Five People You Meet in Heaven (2004)

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The movie is inspired from a novel with the same name that follows the life and death of a man who is killed and sent to heaven.

#12 The Matrix (1999)

‘The Matrix’ depicts a dystopian future in which humanity is unknowingly trapped inside a simulated reality created by intelligent machines.

The film stars Joe Pantoliano, Hugo Weaving, Carrie-Anne Moss, Laurence Fishburne, and Keanu Reeves.

#13 Seven Years in Tibet (1997)

It is based on the 1952 book of the same name that was written by Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer on his experiences in Tibet between 1939 and 1951. It stars Brad Pitt and David Thewlis.

#14 The Shack (2017)

The film stars Tim McGraw, Aviv Alush, Sumire Matsubara, Alice Braga, Radha Mitchell, Graham Greene, Octavia Spencer, and Sam Worthington.

‘The Shack’ is based on the 2007 novel of the same name by William P. Young, and it takes us on a father’s uplifting spiritual journey. 

#15 Milarepa (2006)

It is a 2006 film about the life of the Tibetan tantric yogi, Milarepa.

‘ Milarepa’ was shot in the Spiti Valley, high in the Himalayas in the Zanskar region close to the border between India and Tibet. 

727, 747, 756, 818, 828, 909, 911, 919, 929, 939, 949 – Spiritual Meaning

READ MORE: Why was The Book of Enoch removed from the Bible?

#16 The Celestine Prophecy (2006)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efk7ImHv0-M

‘The Celestine Prophecy’ is based on James Redfield’s best-selling novel of the same name. 

It follows John Woodson who tracks down an ancient Peruvian manuscript containing Nine Insights.

READ MORE: The Book Of Jubilees

#17 The Way (2010)

‘The Way’ promotes the traditional pilgrimage and honors the Camino de Santiago. It stars Renée Estevez, Yorick van Wageningen, James Nesbitt, Deborah Kara Unger, and Martin Sheen.

It was directed, produced, and written by Emilio Estevez.

READ MORE: 12 Types Of Spiritual Practices

#18 Cloud Atlas (2012)

‘Cloud Atlas’ has multiple plots occurring during six different eras in time. Some of the stars in the film are Jim Broadbent, Halle Berry, and Tom Hanks.

It was written and directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer.

READ MORE: Best Lucid Dreaming Movies

#19 Astral City: A Spiritual Journey (Nosso Lar) (2010)

‘Astral City: A Spiritual Journey’ (Portuguese: Nosso Lar) is based on the book of the same name by the medium Francisco Cândido Xavier.

READ MORE: List Of 70+ Spiritual Documentaries

#20 Mr. Nobody (2009)

It tells the life story of Nemo Nobody, a 118-year-old man who is the last mortal on Earth. The film stars Juno Temple, Toby Regbo, Natasha Little, Rhys Ifans, Linh Dan Pham, Diane Kruger, Sarah Polley, and Jared Leto.

‘Mr. Nobody’ uses nonlinear narrative and the multiverse hypothesis style.

Featured image credit – Denis Belitsky/Shutterstock

READ THIS NEXT:   The Best Existential Movies of All Time

  • About the Author
  • Latest Posts

As a founder and chief author at InsightState.com, Bulgarea Candin helps readers on their spiritual journeys. His writings are designed to inspire creativity and personal growth, guiding readers on their journey to a more fulfilled and enlightened life.

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Tuesday 11th of October 2022

Thank you so much, for putting together this list, I've been making my way through it and couldn't have asked for s better chronology!

I stumble upon this Brazilian movie, which I think after viewing, it would fit perfectly in this list: The Dreamseller.

Saturday 24th of April 2021

What Dreams May Come (1998) with Robin Williams is best film on reincarnation ever made, really surprised it is not on your list. Somewhere in Time (1980) with Christopher Reeve is also good. So many other films about relationships through many lifetimes.

Tana Hartman Thorn

Wednesday 4th of August 2021

Loved What Dreams May Come!

Wim Wenders' Wings of Desire is another one of my favorites.

The Cinemaholic

18 Best Meditation and Spirituality Movies on Netflix (April 2024)

 of 18 Best Meditation and Spirituality Movies on Netflix (April 2024)

When it comes to revealing the beauty and mystery of existence and the universe, movies hold a secret key to unlock cryptic answers. As a unique art form that deals with space and time, cinema has been exploring the haunting question of “Who am I?” for more than 100 years. Almost all the master filmmakers who took this path ended up in one abstract and intangible phenomenon that can be represented by the generic term “spirituality.” Filmmakers like Andrei Tarkovsky , Theo Angelopoulos, Béla Tarr, and Ingmar Bergman elevated their movies into deep meditations on humanity and its myriad spiritual ways of interacting with the universe. Netflix features a good bunch of these movies, which will make you stop and think about life a bit more keenly.

18. Forgiven (2016)

movies about spiritual journey

Lieutenant Alex Morgan (Kevin Sorbo) finds himself in a rather difficult situation after a guy named James Davies (Casey Fuller) takes the pastor and his two daughters hostage inside a church. James has a gun on him, and although Alex is wondering how to prevent him from pulling the trigger on the hostages, one of the pastor’s daughters is desperately trying to talk James out of his predicament. Is James really a bad guy? Or did he happen to do something wrong? Can he be forgiven for it? Directed by Kevan Otto, ‘Forgiven’ can be streamed right here .

17. I Can Only Imagine (2018)

movies about spiritual journey

Directed by Jon Erwin and Andrew Erwin, ‘I Can Only Imagine’ is a biographical drama based on the creation of the song ‘I Can Only Imagine’ by the group MercyMe, written by the lead singer Bart Millard. It is considered the best-selling Christian single of all time. Surprisingly, the song is about Bart’s relationship with his abusive father. J. Michael Finley stars as Bart Millard, while Dennis Quaid plays the role of Bart’s father, Arthur Millard. The rest of the cast includes Madeline Carroll, Amy Grant, and Cloris Leachman. You can watch it here .

16. A Week Away (2021)

‘A Week Away’ is a Christian teen drama film directed by Roman White. The story of this jukebox musical film follows Will (Kevin Quinn), a troubled teen who faces a critical decision – juvenile hall or a summer camp. Opting for the latter, Will embarks on a transformative journey. He is immediately captivated by Avery (Bailee Madison), while his friend George (Jahbril Cook) pines for Presley (Kat Conner Sterling). You can watch the movie here.

movies about spiritual journey

As camp competitions ensue and friendships solidify, Will’s murky past threatens to tarnish these newfound bonds. The film beautifully reintroduces classic Christian tracks from legends like Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, and Steven Curtis Chapman, crafting them into contemporary masterpieces. Featuring performances by Bailee Madison, Kevin Quinn, David Koechner, and Sherri Shepherd, the movie beautifully showcases the power of redemption, love, and community. You may watch the film here .

15. Blue Miracle (2021)

‘Blue Miracle’ is a drama film directed by Julio Quintana. Set against the backdrop of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, the narrative revolves around “Papa” Omar, who runs the Casa Hogar orphanage. With the establishment on the brink of foreclosure, an unexpected twist arrives in the form of a street kid, Moco, and a stolen watch that belongs to a fishing boat captain named Wade Malloy.

movies about spiritual journey

As Hurricane Odile wreaks havoc, the international Bisbee Black and Blue Fishing Tournament turns to locals for participation. Omar and the orphans team up with a down-on-his-luck Wade to compete in the tournament, hoping the prize money might save their home. Featuring Dennis Quaid, Jimmy Gonzales, and Raymond Cruz, this touching drama beautifully portrays the themes of hope, perseverance, and community. Its inspiring storyline highlighting resilience in the face of adversity is what makes the film a worthy addition to the list. Feel free to check out the movie here .

14. Layla M. (2016)

movies about spiritual journey

‘Layla M.’ is a Dutch movie that reveals a terrifying face of religion and spirituality. The plot follows 18-year-old Layla, a Dutch girl of Moroccan descent, who is irritated by the Islamophobia prevailing in society. As an extreme response to the religious apartheid of the society, she marries a radical Islamist and moves to Syria with him. But her Utopian preoccupations about radical Islam soon turn upside down as she finds it extremely hard to adjust to the patriarchal value system that governs society. Nora El Koussour plays the titular character of Layla in the movie. The film is directed by Mijke de Jong. ‘Layla M’ was the official entry of the Netherlands for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards. You can check out the film here .

13. Come Sunday (2018)

movies about spiritual journey

Written by Marcus Hinchey, ‘Come Sunday’ is a drama movie that stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jason Segel, Condola Rashad, and Lakeith Stanfield. The Joshua Marston directorial follows Carlton Pearson, an internationally renowned and popular pastor who, after arriving at a shocking conclusion, risks his family, church, and everything else to spread the message. He soon begins to preach that there is no hell, a view that contradicts Christian beliefs. As a result, he is immediately branded as a heretic and is ostracized from the church. He now faces an uncertain future, but does he change his controversial stance? You can watch ‘Come Sunday’ here and find out.

12. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)

movies about spiritual journey

‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail,’ directed by Gilliam and Jones, is a hilarious take on spirituality and faith. The plot is a parody of the legend of King Arthur’s quest for the Holy Grail and its consequent events. Set in 932 AD, King Arthur and Patsy, a musical Spamalot, comb through Britain in search of men to join the Knights of the Round Table. But when God appears to them on the way and asks Arthur to find the Holy Grail, their mission turns on its head. Made by the iconic British comedy troupe Monty Python, the movie is considered one of the best comedies ever made. The cast members include John Cleese, Eric Idle, Graham Chapman, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, and Terry Gilliam. You may watch the movie here .

11. Life of Brian (1979)

movies about spiritual journey

British comedy group Monty Python’s comedy movie ‘Life of Brian’ is a walk on the tightrope between religious satire and blasphemy. The plot follows the titular character Brian Cohen (played by Graham Chapman), who is born on the same day as Jesus Christ! When the young Jewish man is mistaken for Jesus, the swap triggers a series of hilarious events. The movie is from the popular Monthy Python members Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. ‘Life of Brian’ is directed by Terry Jones. In a THR report, the movie has been described as “a wacky, good-natured satire, carrying much more of a whimsical and friendly air than a sacrilegious flavor.” You can stream the film here .

10. PK (2014)

movies about spiritual journey

At times, it takes an outsider to raise questions about the status quo we are living in. In the Indian satire movie ‘ PK ,’ an alien who is stranded on Earth after a crash landing starts asking questions about things we believe are universal norms and rigid customs. The movie is a terrific portrayal of spirituality and religion as two institutions complimenting each other while cashing in on people’s vulnerabilities. The alien, PK, provokes the establishment with his innocent questions about religion, spirituality, beliefs, customs, laws, and many more. People even mistake him for god! He is beaten to a pulp, makes unlikely friends, and finds even love but no answers to his questions. ‘PK’ is Indian cinema at its absurdist and satirical best. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the movie features Aamir Khan and Anushka Sharma in the lead roles. ‘PK’ became one of the biggest hits of Indian cinema and garnered rave reviews from Indian and international critics. You can stream it here .

9. The Devil All The Time (2020)

‘The Devil All The Time’ is a Gothic crime-thriller film directed by Antonio Campos. This tale, steeped in violence, faith, and darkness, is set in southern Ohio and West Virginia from the close of World War II to the 1960s. Based on the novel by Donald Ray Pollock, this gripping narrative weaves the stories of various deeply flawed individuals, including a tormented war veteran, Willard Russell (Bill Skarsgård), and his orphaned son, Arvin (Tom Holland).

movies about spiritual journey

The nefarious activities of serial killer duo Carl and Sandy Henderson and the twisted evangelism of preacher Roy further complicate this bleak landscape. Robert Pattinson, Riley Keough, Jason Clarke, and Sebastian Stan round out an impressive ensemble cast. Through its multifaceted exploration of generational violence, faith, and redemption, the film delves deep into the soul’s murkiest corners. A rich tapestry of interconnected tales, the film confronts the dual nature of humanity, exposing both its darkest vices and its capacity for redemption. You can watch the film here .

8. IO (2019)

movies about spiritual journey

The Netflix film ‘IO’ is a meditative walk through themes like the fate of humanity, existence, identity, and our spiritual connection to Earth. The plot is set on a futuristic Earth destroyed by the greed of mankind. People are fleeing the planet, which is no longer inhabitable. The new human hotspot is Jupiter’s moon IO and the space beyond it. But some people stay behind, determined to fix Earth and make it glow like a blue diamond again.

Sam, who is a young scientist and daughter of a pro-Earth activist, decides to stay behind. Though she has a plan to save Earth, staying behind is dangerous because the atmosphere is running out of Oxygen. The key to Sam’s destiny is in the title of the movie, ‘IO,’ which stands for the mortal lover of Zeus and the mother of Hercules in mythology. ‘IO’ puts forward the complex connection between women, earth, fertility, and the phenomenon of “birth.” The movie, which stars Margaret Qualley, Anthony Mackie, and Danny Huston in the lead roles, is directed by Jonathan Helpert. You may watch the film here .

7. You People  (2023)

movies about spiritual journey

Starring Jonah Hill, Eddie Murphy, and Lauren London, ‘You People’ is a story of an interreligious couple i.e. a white Jewish man (Hill) and a Black Islam woman (London), and their families. As expected, we are subjected to a cross-culture exploration and the issues that modern love is underscored by, including different cultures, different expectations, generational dissimilarities, and different faiths. How the couple maneuvers through all this is what we find out in this social commentary disguised as a romantic comedy. You can stream it here .

6. Ram Dass, Going Home (2017)

movies about spiritual journey

Produced by Further Pictures, ‘Ram Dass, Going Home’ is a short documentary that paints an inspiring portrait of the titular protagonist. The popular author and advocate for awareness of death and dying has, since the 60s, remained an influential spiritual figure by offering people much-needed guidance on life. While his unforgettable message continues to resonate with his followers, facing his own death now, Ram Dass must use his own philosophy of death and dying to face the final months of his life. The film revolves around his philosophy and work by trying to enlighten viewers with his thoughts on different aspects of life. Feel free to check it out here .

5. The Dreamseller (2016)

movies about spiritual journey

A Brazilian drama directed by Jayme Monjardim, ‘The Dreamseller’ is a drama wherein troubled psychologist Júlio César on the verge of jumping off a building is saved by a beggar named Mellon Lincoln Filho. What follows is how Mellon explains to Júlio that things can be better. This sparks a friendship between the two people, and as it progresses, we get to see how Mellon’s ideology stores the true meaning of what life should be all about. However, his opinions garner him a huge following, which earns him some enemies as well. Will Júlio be the one to save Mellon this time? Starring César Troncoso as Mellon Lincoln Filho and Dan Stulbach as Júlio César, ‘The Dreamseller’ is a must-watch. You can stream it here .

4. Tarung Sarung (2020)

movies about spiritual journey

Starring Panji Zoni, Yayan Ruhian, Maizura, and Cemal Faruk, ‘Tarung Sarung’ is an Indonesian drama movie produced by Chand Parwez Servia and Fiaz Servia. The Archie Hekagery directorial revolves around a young adult named Deni Ruso, who is born with a silver spoon and has to never work for anything in life. However, the life of the spoilt young man changes forever when he comes across an environmental activist who is outspoken about her beliefs and does not shy away from fighting for the greater good. Deni is forced to not only rethink his life choices but also come to terms with the harsh realities that he has so far somehow avoided facing. You can stream ‘Tarung Sarung’ here .

3. In Vitro  (2019)

movies about spiritual journey

‘In Vitro’ is a sci-fi short directed by Søren Lind and Larissa Sansour. It stars Hiam Abbass and Maisa Abd Elhadi and is set in Bethlehem in the decades-long aftermath of an ecological disaster. We have two scientists who struggle to make sense of the disaster, deal with their memories, and figure out a future from scratch. With brilliant use of imagery to portray the human experience amid a lost world, the film upholds emotions and questions that many of us will struggle to grasp, and rightfully so. It is up to us what we make of it, just like the future. You can watch the short here .

2. The Miracle Club (2023)

movies about spiritual journey

Three formidable actresses join forces in this spiritual drama and take us on a pilgrimage filled with mirth, warmth, forgiveness, and miracles. We have Maggie Smith, Kathy Bates, and Laura Linney, and joining them is Agnes O’Casey. Set in Ireland in 1967, we follow Lily (Smith), Eileen (Bates), and their much younger friend/companion Dolly (Agnes O’Casey), who win the Holy Cross Talent Show and thereby the chance to go to Lourdes, the miraculous pilgrimage site in France. However, before the trio can leave, the youngest member of the lot, Chrissie (Laura Linney), returns after decades. It was Chrissie’s mother who organized the show but passed away before she could embark on the pilgrimage, and Chrissie is here for her funeral. As frosty as the women are with Chrissie, she joins them on the journey, replacing her mother, which seemingly results in a trip overshadowed by secrets from the past. Can the women ultimately find the peace that they are seeking? To join them on their journey and find out, you can watch this Thaddeus O’Sullivan directorial right here .

1. The Two Popes (2019)

movies about spiritual journey

Directed by Fernando Meirelles, ‘The Two Popes’ stars Jonathan Pryce as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) and Anthony Hopkins as Pope Benedict XVI. The events in the film take place after the Vatican leaks scandal and explore the relationship between the two men of faith as they discuss their tastes, their differences, their choices, the way they perceive God, and even their favorite TV shows, among other stuff. All this is underscored by the Cardinal’s submission of resignation as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, something that Pope Benedict doesn’t want to sign. A great film propelled to brilliance by the performances of the two prolific actors, ‘The Two Popes’ received nominations at the Oscars, the BAFTAs, and the Golden Globes. You can stream it here .

Read More: Best Documentaries About Religion on Netflix

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Movies About Spirituality: A Guide to Finding Meaning on the Big Screen

  • By Daria Burnett
  • October 15, 2023

movies about spiritual journey

If you’re looking for movies that explore spirituality, you’ll find a wide range of options to choose from.

These films delve into the nature of faith, the search for meaning, and the mysteries of the universe.

Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking drama or an uplifting tale of redemption, there’s a spiritual movie out there that’s sure to resonate with you.

One of the most popular genres within the spiritual movie category is the religious film.

These movies often explore the teachings and traditions of specific faiths, such as Christianity, Judaism, or Islam.

They may tell the story of a prophet or saint, or explore the struggles and triumphs of a particular religious community.

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Some of the most beloved spiritual films of all time fall into this category, including “The Ten Commandments,” “The Passion of the Christ,” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”

Another type of spiritual movie is the metaphysical or philosophical film.

These movies often explore the big questions of life, such as the meaning of existence, the nature of reality, and the possibility of an afterlife.

They may draw on religious or spiritual themes, but they’re more concerned with exploring these questions from a secular perspective.

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Some examples of metaphysical movies include “The Matrix,” “The Tree of Life ,” and “Interstellar.

Understanding Spirituality in Films

When it comes to movies, spirituality is a topic that is often explored.

Many films delve into the concept of the human spirit and its connection to the world around us.

Spiritual films can be a great way to gain insight into the nature of our existence and explore the deeper meaning of life.

Movies about spirituality often explore themes such as love, compassion, faith, and the search for meaning.

These films can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and can help you gain a greater understanding of yourself and the world around you.

One of the most important aspects of spirituality in films is the portrayal of the human spirit.

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Spiritual movies often depict the spirit as a powerful force that is capable of overcoming even the most difficult challenges.

These films can be a great source of inspiration and can help you tap into your own inner strength and resilience.

Another important theme in spiritual films is the connection between the human spirit and the world around us.

Many of these movies explore the idea that we are all interconnected and that our actions have a ripple effect on the world.

By watching these films, you can gain a greater appreciation for the world and the people around you.

Overall, movies about spirituality can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

Whether you are searching for meaning in your life or simply looking for inspiration, spiritual films can help you tap into your own inner wisdom and find the answers you are seeking.

Iconic Spiritual Movies

movies about spiritual journey

If you’re looking for movies that explore spirituality, there are some iconic films that you definitely don’t want to miss.

Here are a few that are worth checking out:

“The Matrix” is a science fiction film that explores some deep philosophical questions about the nature of reality and the human experience.

The movie follows the story of a hacker named Neo, who discovers that the world he thought was real is actually a computer simulation created by sentient machines that have enslaved humanity.

The film is full of spiritual and religious symbolism, and it invites viewers to contemplate the nature of consciousness and the meaning of existence.

Cloud Atlas

“Cloud Atlas” is a complex and ambitious film that weaves together multiple storylines from different time periods and cultures.

The movie explores themes of reincarnation, karma, and the interconnectedness of all things.

It invites viewers to contemplate the idea that our actions in one life can have consequences in future lives, and that we are all part of a larger cosmic tapestry.

“Samsara” is a non-narrative documentary that explores the beauty and diversity of the natural world, as well as the ways in which human beings have shaped and transformed the planet.

The film is a meditation on the cycles of birth, death, and rebirth that are a fundamental part of the spiritual traditions of many cultures.

It invites viewers to contemplate the impermanence of all things, and the interconnectedness of all life.

Life is Beautiful

“Life is Beautiful” is a heartwarming and poignant film that tells the story of a Jewish father and son who are sent to a concentration camp during World War II.

Despite the horrors of their situation, the father uses his imagination and creativity to shield his son from the worst of the atrocities and to help him find joy and beauty in the midst of suffering.

The film is a testament to the power of the human spirit to find meaning and purpose even in the darkest of circumstances.

“Avatar” is a science fiction film that explores themes of environmentalism, colonialism, and spirituality.

The movie takes place on a distant planet called Pandora, where a group of human colonizers are exploiting the planet’s natural resources and waging war against the indigenous population, the Na’vi.

The film invites viewers to contemplate the idea that all life is interconnected, and that we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world.

The Life of Pi

“The Life of Pi” is a visually stunning film that tells the story of a young Indian boy named Pi who is stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker.

The film explores themes of faith, resilience, and the power of the human imagination.

It invites viewers to contemplate the idea that the stories we tell ourselves can shape our perception of reality and help us find meaning and purpose in difficult times.

“I Origins” is a science fiction film that tells the story of a molecular biologist named Ian who is studying the evolution of the human eye.

The film explores themes of spirituality, reincarnation, and the nature of consciousness.

It invites viewers to contemplate the idea that there may be more to the human experience than what can be explained by science, and that there may be a deeper spiritual reality that we are all connected to.

Themes Explored in Spiritual Movies

movies about spiritual journey

Spiritual movies often explore themes that are central to the human experience.

From life and death to love and friendship, these films offer insights into the nature of reality and our place in it.

Life and Death

Many spiritual movies explore the themes of life and death, and the interconnectedness of all things.

They often offer a perspective on death that is both comforting and enlightening, emphasizing the idea that death is not an end, but a transition to a new phase of existence.

Love and Friendship

Love and friendship are also common themes in spiritual movies.

These films often explore the power of love to transform individuals and communities, and the importance of connection and compassion in our lives.

War and Peace

Some spiritual movies also address themes of war and peace, highlighting the destructive power of violence and the need for reconciliation and forgiveness.

They often suggest that true peace can only be achieved through understanding and empathy.

Reality and Perception

Many spiritual movies challenge our perceptions of reality, suggesting that our understanding of the world is limited by our own perspectives and biases.

They encourage us to question our assumptions and to seek out new ways of seeing and experiencing the world.

Self and Ego

Finally, spiritual movies often explore the themes of self and ego, encouraging us to look inward and to cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves.

They often suggest that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found through self-awareness and self-transcendence.

In summary, spiritual movies offer a unique perspective on the human experience, exploring themes that are central to our lives and our understanding of the world.

By engaging with these films, you can gain new insights into yourself and the world around you, and deepen your understanding of the human condition.

Documentaries on Spirituality

If you’re interested in exploring spirituality through the medium of film, documentaries can be a great place to start.

Here are a few documentaries on spirituality that you might find interesting:

Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds

“Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds” is a four-part documentary series that explores the nature of consciousness, the power of meditation, and the interconnectedness of all things.

Through interviews with scientists, philosophers, and spiritual teachers, the series takes you on a journey through the inner and outer worlds of the human experience.

“I Am” is a documentary by filmmaker Tom Shadyac, who is best known for directing comedies like “Ace Ventura” and “Bruce Almighty.” In “I Am,” Shadyac explores the nature of humanity and the interconnectedness of all things.

The film features interviews with scientists, philosophers, and spiritual leaders, and encourages viewers to question their own beliefs about the world and their place in it.

“Yogananda” is a documentary about the life and teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, a spiritual leader who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the early 20th century.

The film features interviews with Yogananda’s followers, as well as archival footage and reenactments of key moments in his life.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of yoga and meditation in the West, “Yogananda” is a great place to start.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your spiritual practice or simply explore new ideas, these documentaries on spirituality are sure to inspire and enlighten you.

Spiritual Awakening Through Movies

Movies can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and transformation.

They can help you become more aware of your inner self and provide insights into the nature of reality.

Here are some movies that can help you on your journey towards spiritual awakening.

The Matrix is a classic movie that explores the nature of reality and the power of consciousness.

The movie follows the story of a man named Neo who discovers that the world he lives in is a computer-generated simulation.

Through his journey, Neo learns to awaken his consciousness and become aware of the true nature of reality.

Eat Pray Love

Eat Pray Love is a movie about a woman named Liz who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

The movie takes place in Italy, India, and Bali, and follows Liz as she learns to embrace the present moment and find inner peace.

The Celestine Prophecy

The Celestine Prophecy is a movie based on the book of the same name by James Redfield.

The movie follows the story of a man named John who discovers a manuscript that reveals the secrets of life.

Through his journey, John learns about the power of synchronicity and the interconnectedness of all things.

The Secret is a movie that explores the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction.

The movie teaches you how to manifest your desires by focusing on positive thoughts and feelings.

Waking Life

Waking Life is a movie that explores the nature of reality and the power of consciousness.

The movie follows the story of a man who is trapped in a dream and must awaken his consciousness to escape.

Through his journey, he learns about the nature of reality and the power of perception.

These movies are just a few examples of how movies can help you on your journey towards spiritual awakening.

Influence of Yoga and Religion in Spiritual Films

When it comes to movies about spirituality, it’s hard to ignore the influence of yoga and religion.

Both have played a significant role in shaping the way we view and understand spirituality.

Yoga, for instance, is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years.

It has been used to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Many spiritual films have incorporated yoga as a way to show characters finding inner peace and enlightenment.

The practice of yoga has also been used to depict the journey of self-discovery and the search for meaning.

Religion, on the other hand, has been a central theme in many spiritual films.

Christianity, in particular, has been a popular subject in movies about spirituality.

Films like “The Passion of the Christ” and “The Shack” have explored the themes of faith, redemption, and forgiveness.

Other religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, have also been featured in spiritual films.

The influence of yoga and religion in spiritual films can be seen in the way characters behave and interact with each other.

For example, characters who practice yoga are often depicted as calm, centered, and in control of their emotions.

Characters who are religious are often shown as having a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose.

In conclusion, the influence of yoga and religion in spiritual films cannot be ignored.

Whether it’s through the practice of yoga or the exploration of different religions, spiritual films have helped us to find meaning and purpose in our lives.

Impact of Spiritual Films

movies about spiritual journey

Watching spiritual films can have a profound impact on your life.

These movies can inspire you to change your perspective on life, evolve as a person, and find happiness in unexpected ways.

One of the most significant impacts of spiritual films is that they can change your outlook on life.

By presenting different perspectives and beliefs, these movies can encourage you to question your own beliefs and see the world in a new light.

This can lead to personal growth and a greater understanding of yourself and others.

Spiritual films can also inspire you to evolve as a person.

They can teach you valuable lessons about compassion, forgiveness, and acceptance.

By watching these movies, you can learn how to become a better person and make a positive impact on the world around you.

Another benefit of watching spiritual films is that they can bring you happiness.

These movies often have a positive message and can leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

They can also help you find meaning and purpose in your life, which can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

In conclusion, watching spiritual films can have a significant impact on your life.

They can change your perspective, inspire personal growth, and bring you happiness.

So, the next time you’re looking for a movie to watch, consider choosing a spiritual film.

You might be surprised at how much it can impact your life.

How Can Movies About Spirituality Help in Recognizing Spiritual Awakening Symptoms?

Movies about spirituality can serve as a spiritual awakening symptoms tutorial , helping individuals recognize the signs of their own spiritual awakening.

These films often portray characters going through profound inner transformation, allowing viewers to relate and understand their own spiritual journey more deeply.

Viewing Platforms for Spiritual Films

movies about spiritual journey

When it comes to watching spiritual films, there are several viewing platforms available to you.

Here are some of the most common options:

DVDs are a great way to watch spiritual films at home.

They are easy to use, and you can watch them as many times as you like.

You can also buy or rent DVDs from a variety of online retailers or local stores.

Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu offer a wide selection of spiritual films that you can watch on your computer, TV, or mobile device.

These services are convenient because you can watch the films anytime and anywhere as long as you have an internet connection.

If you prefer to watch spiritual films on the big screen, you can visit your local cinema.

Many cinemas offer screenings of spiritual films, especially during film festivals or special events.

Watching a film in a cinema can be a great way to immerse yourself in the story and connect with other viewers.

No matter which viewing platform you choose, make sure to do your research and read reviews before watching a spiritual film.

This will help you find the best films that resonate with you and your spiritual journey.

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8+ Movies To Begin Your Spiritual Journey With| Best Picks For You

Kirti Bhati

Spiritualism has recently become a trending and new way of living that people are practicing these days. Considering the distracted and unhealthy lifestyle that we are surrounded with I believe practicing spiritualism does add the element of peace and happiness to our lives.

Moreover, it works as a buffer from negative events, thoughts, behavior, and emotions! So I have even planned to start my journey of spiritualism. I was quite not sure where to begin and a few days back while scrolling through my Netflix I realized this is the platform where I can begin my spiritual journey from!

I decided to curate a list of the best spiritual movies available on different platforms and thought that it might help others too. So here I am sharing the best spiritual movies with you

Best Movies To Start Your Spiritual Journey

1. the celestine prophecy (2006).

Where to watch it: Amazon Prime Video

IMDb Rating: 4.9

This movie inspired by the best-selling book is sure to make you a part of Jon’s journey. The synchronized events that life offers him, sends him on a quest of discovering the laws of the universe and looking for ways to activate them. This movie clearly shouts spirituality!!! Watching this one will help you open the doors of bliss and trust the universe like never before!

Indecisive? See the trailer of this spiritual movie now:

2. Awake: The Life of Yogananda (2014)

IMDb Rating: 7.3

This documentary is inspired by a real-life story of the infamous Indian yogi and yoga guru- Paramahansa Yogananda. He was the one who introduced the concepts of yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s. The movie uses real footage and interviews to tell his journey of spiritual awakening through yoga, religion, and science. This movie is sure to feed your mind and soul. Secretly, I want it to inspire me and you to incorporate yoga in our lives (because, why not!).

3. Happy (2012)

Where to watch it: Netflix

IMDb Rating: 7.2

Whether you are looking for upliftment through Netflix movies or a guide to set yourself on the journey of spirituality, Happy is always on the list. This is the magic of this amazing movie. A documentary where the director Roko Belic went to the slums, streets, and greatest spiritual leaders to find out the meaning and causes of something we all have been chasing- Happiness! The realistic aspect of it is sure to bring some tears so do keep tissues handy pal.

4. The Prophet (2015)

Where to watch it: Netflix and Amazon Prime Video

IMDb Rating: 7.1

My list of best spiritual awakening movies would have been incomplete without mentioning an animated movie. Hey, but that is not the only reason why Gibran’s The Prophet has made it to the list. The amazing animation, the beautiful message, and the subtle way of connecting you with spirituality does set this one apart from the rest. Trust me the way they unfold the eight poetic wisdom teachings so beautifully you will be mesmerized and inspired to dive into the world of spirituality.

5. 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama (2006)

IMDb Rating: 7.5

Who could be a better preacher of spirituality than one of the greatest leaders of spiritualism? Any guesses who am I referring to here? Yes, it is His Holiness, Dalai Lama. His spiritual teachings have always inspired me to connect with something greater than myself. This amazing interaction between Rick Ray’s questions from his journey through India and the Middle East with the Dalai Lama is sure to leave you inspired. Plus, you are sure to find your answers on spirituality here.

6. Peaceful Warrior (2006)

Imagine bumping into a stranger and changing your life to 180 degrees! Giving shape to this weird fantasy of mine is the movie, based on the best-selling novel by Dan Millman- Peaceful Warrior. An all-star athlete life witnessed major life challenges due to his accident but a gas station attendant aids in his recovery by changing his view of life and way of living. You know now that is the magic of spirituality I can’t wait to explore.

7. The Secret (2006)

IMDb Rating: 5.6

Have you considered reading the novel The Secret for a long time, but reading is not your cup of tea? We have good news for you. There is now a movie that uses the central idea of The Secret- Law of Attraction. This movie is a compilation of interviews with world-famous scientists, philosophers, and authors who have themselves experienced the magic of The Law of Attraction. The Secret has been the first step towards spirituality in the lives of many. A friend of mine too started her journey of spirituality from this very movie so I can vouch for this one!

8. The Shift (2009)

IMDb Rating: 8.3

If you are a sucker for IMDb rating, you might have just got a big smile on your face. The work o Dr. Wayne Dyer has been inspiring and influencing millions of people on their way to spirituality. If you wish to join this tribe this movie is for you. It will help you understand the shifts in our lives from ambition to meaning, from morning to afternoon, and from non-spiritualism to spirituality.

Other Spiritual Awakening Movies

Craving for more? We have got you sorted (don’t worry)! Here are some more handpicked spiritual awakening movies for you to watch (when you are done with the list shared above).

1. The Matrix (1999)

Yes, you read it right this spiritual awakening movie comes from 1999! Here you will see how a computer hacker can hack more than your IDs and passwords- The Path To Spirituality. This movie is loaded with spiritual connotations (share your favorite bit in the comments section with us).

Are you always asking yourself what’s wrong with the world? Or Looking for ways to make it a better place to be in? Honestly, it doesn’t matter on which side you lie on. Tom Shadyac is right here to give you solutions for both through his talks with spiritual and intellectual leaders from across the globe.

3. Samsara (2011)

If you have been thinking that you only need words to understand spirituality, this documentary right here is sure to prove you wrong! This non-verbal documentary that took 5 years of making in 25 different countries is a wholesome experience and learning session in itself.

4. Ram Dass: Fierce Grace (2001)

Looking for a realistic approach to pave the way for spirituality in your life? What can be a better way than learning it from a modern mystic man Ram Dass! This biography cum documentary helps you understand spirituality at a deeper level along with awakening the potential of being a spiritual being in you.

5. The Five People You Meet in Heaven

Another movie inspired by the New York Times best-selling book is a perfect blend of drama, fantasy, and spirituality (of course). Plus the title of this movie is so intriguing in itself that I couldn’t afford to miss it.

Do you have more spiritual awakening movies to add to the list? Drop it down in the comments section.

Also, don’t forget to share with us which movie you are going to watch this weekend to begin your journey of spiritualism.

Bye-bye, I will go and grab my tub of popcorn now and satisfy my soul with these spiritual awakening movies.

You too enjoy!!!

  • Top 10 Uplifting Movies On Netflix That Could Change Your Life
  • 30 Best Inspirational Movies on Netflix to Motivate You In 2021
  • Top 21+ Uplifting, Inspiring and Feel-Good Latest Movies on Amazon Prime (2021)

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About The Author

Kirti Bhati

I am an English literature (major) and psychology (minor) graduate from St. Bede’s College, Shimla. Postgraduate in Clinical psychology from IIS University, Jaipur. She has published a Research paper on Music therapy in the military population and Workplace stress in a national seminar conducted by Fortis hospital (gurugram) and international seminar conducted by St. Bede’s College, Shimla, Respectively. Authored a dissertation work on ‘effect of social media addiction on the mental and physical well-being in adolescents’ Currently working at calm sage as a writer.

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Merry

I watched I Origins for the first time yesterday. It's one of the absolute best movies I've seen in this genre. I'd love to find more similar to that.

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YourTango

The 50 Best Movies To Sharpen Your Mind & Awaken You

Prepare to be awakened..

  • Isabella Pacinelli

Last updated on Feb 10, 2023

woman watching a movie

Spiritual movies help seekers understand the world we live in, all while watching a film. But you're doing more than just watching a film — you're developing your awareness and opening your mind up to new ideas.

A good spiritual film introduces you to other worlds and realms, gives eye-opening views of the supernatural, and pushes viewers to think about life and death in a different way.

Whether they are dramatic, romantic, fantastical, documentary-style, or even science fiction, spiritual movies allow you to contemplate the deeper questions in life and discover the truth of the world.

The 50 Best Spiritual Movies

1. waking life (2001).

This adult animated docu-fiction film explores philosophical questions of the nature of reality, dreams and lucid dreams , consciousness, the meaning of life, free will, and existentialism.

RELATED: 8 Ways To Find Your Unique Spiritual Path — No Religion Required

2. Samsara (2011)

Filmed over five years and in 25 countries, "Samsara" explores sacred grounds, disaster zones, industrial sites, and natural wonders of the world. A Sanskrit word meaning “the ever turning wheel of life,” "Samsara" shows the interconnection of our lives.

3. Boyhood (2014)

This coming-of-age drama follows the same cast over 12 years to show the trials and tribulations of growing up and parenting.

4. Revolver (2005)

The British-French film "Revolver" is a dark and complex action thriller that entices the audience with gambling and crime. Protagonist Jake Green soon learns that the biggest danger he faces is himself.

5. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring (2003)

This Korean film is entirely set on a floating monastery that shows the change in seasons as new events unfold — romance, temptation, and spiritual growth.

6. Being John Malkovich (1999)

The fantasy comedy film, "Being John Malkovich" follows the adventures of an unemployed puppeteer who discovers a portal that leads into the mind of actor John Malkovich.

7. Human (2015)

This honest and meaningful documentary uses testimonies and aerial images to illustrate the realities and diversity of human conditions.

8. Life is Beautiful (1997)

Depicting the horrors of Nazi Germany, this film portrays the romance between Jewish-Italian waiter Guido and his wife Dora. When Guido and their son, Giosue, are taken to a concentration camp, he's determined to protect his son by turning the events into a game.

9. Cloud Atlas (2012)

A movie that spans across hundreds of years, with actors playing multiple roles, six individual stories come together to explain how big an impact we all have on the past, present and future.

10. The Reality of Me (TROM) (2011)

The almost 14-hour long documentary attempts to analyze the world we live in through influential lectures, talks, and clips.

11. I AM (2010)

"I AM" is a film that aims to describe what’s wrong with the world and how we can improve upon it and the way we live. Director Tom Shadyac searches for the answer through intellectual and spiritual leaders.

12. Fight Club (1999)

Starring Brad Pitt and Edward Norton, "Fight Club" follows the creation of an underground club with strict rules and regulations that uproot their mundane lives.

13. The Truman Show (1998)

This dramatic sci-fi film reveals that Truman Burbank is living his life on a TV set. It explores Christianity, metaphilosophy, simulated reality, existentialism, privacy, and reality television.

RELATED: 12 Beautiful Things That Happen After A Spiritual Awakening

14. Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds (2012)

Historical documentary "Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds" explores the one vibratory field that connects all things. This field is at the root of every spiritual experience and scientific investigation — and maybe they’re not so different after all.

15. American Beauty (1999)

"American Beauty" is a romantic drama about a telesales operative who becomes disillusioned with his life and begins to search for fresh excitement, affecting his wife and daughter.

16. Home (2009)

Showing the consequences of climate change, "Home" depicts how Earth’s problems are linked to the pressure humanity has placed on the environment. This documentary involves aerial footage from 54 countries.

17. Into the Wild (2007)

After living his life according to books, being a top college student and athlete Christopher McCandless decides to leave his wealthy parents behind and embark on an adventure to the Alaskan wilderness, free of possessions.

18. Earthlings (2005)

A horror documentary, "Earthlings" explores animal suffering endured at factory farms, research labs, and puppy mills.

19. I Origins (2014)

Dramatic sci-fi film "I Origins" follows the story of a molecular biologist studying the evolution of the eye. He eventually discovers that his research implicates and complicates both his scientific and spiritual beliefs.

20. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

What if you could forget ever meeting someone you love? Heartbroken after his girlfriend Clementine has erased all memories of him, Joel undergoes the same procedure, but ends up realizing that our memories make up the core of who we are.

21. Happy (2011)

In an attempt to find the true meaning of happiness, writer and director Roko Belic travels from Louisiana to Kolkata. He combines real life stories and the leading scientific research in happiness.

22. Dark City (1998)

This spiritual film deals with memory, thought control, human will, and the altering of reality as John Murdoch suddenly wakes up to find that he's wanted for murder. As he searches for answers, he comes across an underworld controlled by a group known as the Strangers.

23. Her (2013)

Shortly after his marriage ends, Theodore falls in love with an operating system program that is playful and sensitive, known as “Samantha.”

24. Mr. Nobody (2009)

"Mr. Nobody" is set in 2092, where humanity has conquered immortality. However, there is one last mortal left on Earth: 118-year-old Nemo Nobody. Throughout the film, Nemo is interviewed by psychiatrists and journalists who are eager to hear of his life.

25. The Culture High (2014)

People from all different walks of life come together to discuss the cannabis prohibition within society in this documentary.

26. Surviving Progress (2011)

Canadian documentary "Surviving Progress" dives into the thoughts of popular figures like Stephen Hawking, Jane Goodall, and Margaret Atwood on the potential destruction of civilization due to the progress that’s been made.

27. Kymatica (2009)

This documentary investigates the reason for the current state of the world. Despite blame on secret organizations, corporations, and corrupt politicians, the root of the issue is that humanity is evolving and taking the world with it.

28. The Matrix (1999)

Starring Keanu Reeves, "The Matrix" illustrates a virtual world that is imprisoning humanity. It follows the discoveries of a computer hacker who wants to find the true nature of his reality.

RELATED: 7 Healing Myths That Keep People From Making A Full Recovery, According To A Spiritual Life Coach

29. Tuning In (2008)

In the spiritual documentary "Tuning In," filmmaker David Thomas strives to explain the phenomenon of spirit channeling which involves a psychic connection with a spirit being.

30. Peaceful Warrior (2006)

Gifted athlete Dan Millman meets a mysterious man who opens his eyes to a new vision of strength and understanding. This inspirational story encourages viewers to live in the moment and overcome obstacles.

31. The Life of Pi (2012)

A film about loss and survival, "The Life of Pi" uses beautiful visuals to explore perception, family, nature and animals, morality, and what the truth really means.

32. The Fountain (2006)

A film about metaphysics, universal patterns, Biblical symbolism, and boundless love, "The Fountain" follows a man who travels through time in search of immortality and to save the woman he loves.

33. Lucy (2014)

Starring Scarlett Johansson, "Lucy" is a thriller film that follows a woman used as a drug mule. After accidentally absorbing the drugs, she develops psychic powers, telepathy, and mental time travel.

34. Ram Dass: Fierce Grace (2001)

This documentary traces the life and teachings of Richard Alpert (Ram Dass), who is known as a spiritual inspiration to people across the globe.

35. Planetary (2015)

The historical documentary "Planetary" is said to be a provocative and breathtaking wake-up call to shift our perspective as we know it. It explores our cosmic origins and future as a species.

36. Ashes and Snow (2005)

A collection of both still and movie camera shots, "Ashes and Snow" illustrates the unique interactions between humans and animals. Maybe we’re not so different after all.

37. Solaris (2002)

Based on the classic sci-fi novel of the same name, "Solaris" focuses on a psychologist who investigates the strange behavior of scientists on a space station. But he soon discovers that the orbiting planet, Solaris, may be playing tricks.

38. Groundhog Day (1993)

Starring Bill Murray, this romantic comedy follows a cynical TV weatherman who continues to live the same day over and over again when he visits the town of Punxsutawney.

39. Awake: The Life of Yogananda (2014)

This documentary brings attention to the life of Hindu mystic Paramahansa Yogananda on his path to enlightenment.

RELATED: 7 Signs You Have A Spiritual Connection And How To Grow Spiritually With Your Partner

40. Footprints: The Path of Your Life (2016)

A group of 10 men from various backgrounds are led on a 40-day pilgrimage with a Roman Catholic priest. They learn the importance of perseverance, commitment, and assistance.

41. Soul Surfer (2011)

After a shark attack leaves surfer Bethany Hamilton without her left arm, she must find strength and purpose in her future.

42. God’s Not Dead (2014)

In this inspiring coming-of-age story, a devout Christian student must prove that God exists in order to pass his college philosophy course.

43. Magic in the Moonlight (2014)

Colin Firth and Emma Stone star in the romantic comedy "Magic in the Moonlight." Well-known magician Stanley Crawford has a knack for exposing phony spiritualists; however, he's left surprised and shaken by a young woman’s gift.

44. Miracles from Heaven (2016)

Anna Beam survives a headlong tumble into a tree and tells her family of her visit to heaven. Not long after, she shows signs of recovery from her lifelong rare, incurable disorder.

45. On Yoga: The Architecture of Peace (2017)

This spiritual documentary film is based on photographer Michael O’Neill’s book. He interviews yoga masters in India, Tibet, and New York to captivate the effects of this spiritual practice.

46. Kumaré (2012)

When American filmmaker Vikram Gandhi poses as an Indian guru to satirize the New Age movement, he finds that his followers are receiving genuine benefits from his deception.

47. 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama (2006)

During a private visit to his monastery, filmmaker Rick Ray poses philosophical questions to the Dalai Lama. His questions come from his own observations on his journey throughout India and the Middle East, as well as the wisdom of the extraordinary spiritual leader.

48. Conversations with God (2006)

"Conversations with God" is a drama adventure film that follows unemployed and homeless Neale Donald Walsch. At his lowest point in life, he receives divine inspiration and turns his dialogues with God into a best-selling series of books.

49. Astral City: A Spiritual Journey (2010)

Brazilian film "Astral City: A Spiritual Journey" is a spiritual movie that discusses the afterlife in a unique way. When a deceased doctor is taken out of purgatory, he's brought to a spirit colony that shows him the real meaning of life after death.

50. Ayurveda: The Art of Being (2001)

"Ayurveda: The Art of Being" is a spiritual movie set in India. The documentary by Pan Nalin explores the traditional Hindu system of medicine that is practiced in India.

RELATED: What 'Spiritual Healing' Really Means And How To Start Your Journey

Isabella Pacinelli is a former contributor to YourTango, features editor for Ashland University's The Collegian, and freelance writer for Medina Weekly News. Follow her on Facebook for more.

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Spiritual Growth

Promote and develop your connection to your spirit from the guidance of renowned spiritual teachers with our must-watch collection of eye-opening spiritual documentary films and docuseries. Learn from well-known spiritual leaders like the Dalai Lama, Ram Dass, and Deepak Chopra as they explain all facets of ancient and modern spiritual practices: astrology, channeling, dreaming, psychedelics, and much more. Find only the best spiritual documentaries from thought-provoking filmmakers, such as Awake: The Life of Yogananda or What The Bleep Do We Know. Whether you’re beginning your spiritual journey, searching for life-changing ways to improve your wellness, or just looking to learn more about yogis, Buddha, inner and outer worlds, and more, explore uplifting spiritual movies and shows below.

new episode 94% 6% The Journey of Remembering Awakening the First Wound S2 : Ep4 21 mins

93% 7% Gaia Original The Journey of Remembering 13 Episodes

95% 5% The Journey of Remembering 12,000-Year Reset & Awakening S2 : Ep1 20 mins

96% 4% The Journey of Remembering Healing Earth’s Broken Heart S2 : Ep2 27 mins

97% 3% The Journey of Remembering Turning Poison Into Medicine S2 : Ep3 29 mins

new episode 95% 5% Superpower: Extended Interviews Understanding the Ocean of Mind: Jude Currivan Extended Interview S1 : Ep3 1 hr

88% 12% Series Superpower: Extended Interviews 3 Episodes

new episode Beyond Belief Are Tarot Misfires Divine Perfection? S23 : Ep18 45 mins

96% 4% Open Minds How To Unlock Powerful Tarot Readings S27 : Ep4 43 mins

94% 6% Beyond Belief NDE: Meeting Your Divine Team S23 : Ep16 41 mins

96% 4% Open Minds Life's Purpose: Destiny in Your Hands S27 : Ep3 46 mins

97% 3% The Journey of Remembering Part 1: The Calling S1 : Ep1 21 mins

97% 3% Beyond Belief Wisdom From Intergalactic Past Lives S23 : Ep15 42 mins

89% 11% The Last Shaman 1 hr 19 mins

98% 2% The Journey of Remembering Part 2: 11/11/11 S1 : Ep2 20 mins

72% 28% Beyond Belief Don’t Fear the Tarot with Angela Thomas S3 : Ep68 28 mins

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5 Mind-Bending Movies Anyone on a Spiritual Journey Should Watch

  • 84.6K SHARES

A thought-provoking movie has the ability to shift our perspective and inspire us to make changes in our lives that we otherwise may not have made.   While some movies only scratch the surface of our psyche, others go straight to the soul and encourage and empower us to integrate the teachings or messages into our daily lives. By being engaged and fully present while watching a movie, you can absorb the underlying message to further open your heart and mind.  

The Secret (2006)

   

The Celestine Prophecy (2006)

Awake: The Life of Yogananda (2014)

The Matrix (1999)

wonderful comments!

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The 17 Best Movies About Self-Discovery, Ranked

"I wasted so much time worrying about what could go wrong."

Self-discovery — often described as the process of finding oneself and gathering valuable insight into one's character — is one of the biggest challenges anyone can face. Although it provides us with understanding regarding our values, needs, and wants, it can be equal parts painful and frustrating.

Fortunately, throughout the years, many incredible movies have showcased that those challenges are often the most enriching and that examining our own behavior and making changes to be better is essential for character development. No matter which stage in life one is in, there is a wide range of films, from Wild to Frances Ha , that are guaranteed to bring comfort and solace . Down below, we look back at the best movies about self-discovery that are assuredly worth the watch .

17 'Eat, Pray, Love' (2010)

Director: ryan murphy.

This iconic Julia Roberts-led movie is essential when the subject is self-discovery films , despite not being the best film of the bunch regarding this niche topic. Eat, Pray, Love is about a newly divorced woman who realizes that she might need to go on a self-development quest — this ultimately takes her to Italy, India, and Bali.

Based on Elizabeth Gilbert ’s memoir of the same name, this Ryan Murphy movie may be a good pick for anyone going through a divorce or a similar, scarring situation. Although it had the potential to be a much better film than it turned out to be, Eat Pray Love is still entertaining and even inspiring at times. It also benefits from stunning location shots that will probably have viewers — especially those who enjoy traveling without leaving the comfort of their homes — glued to their screens.

Eat, Pray, Love

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16 'Wild' (2014)

Director: jean-marc vallée.

2014's biographical adventure drama starring Reese Witherspoon , directed by Jean-Marce Vallée , and based on the 2012 memoir by Cheryl Strayed , depicts a woman driven to the edge due to the unfolding of deeply tragic events in her life. She decides to put her life back together again by setting out alone to hike the Pacific Crest Trail.

Inspired by an outstanding true story, Wild is about the obstacles that stand in our way and our demeanor towards them . Nailing a depiction of survival in the wilderness and highlighting the importance of bringing out the best in yourself, this 2014 feature provides audiences with insight into healing from traumatic experiences and is undoubtedly worth checking.

Rent on Apple TV

15 'Erin Brockovich' (2000)

Director: steven soderbergh.

The second Julia Roberts movie on this list is Steven Soderbergh 's poignant Erin Brockovich , a dramatized biopic based on an inspiring real-life unemployed and single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a powerful company that has allegedly polluted a city's water supply.

Soderbergh's must-see courtroom drama is very much a self-discovery film in the sense that it follows the protagonist as she finds her power and confidence, making the best use of them (in this case in particular, it is to make things right and shed light on the cause she's fighting for). Its enthralling narrative and top-notch performances — namely Roberts', won earned a deserved Academy Award nomination — are nothing short of incredible, as likely expected.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

14 'into the wild' (2007), director: sean penn.

Directed by Sean Penn , Into the Wild is based on a biography written by Jon Krakauer and first published in 1996. In the film, a young man ( Emile Hirsch ) leaves his middle-class life in pursuit of freedom, giving up his home, family, and possessions after graduating from Emory University.

This enthralling man vs. nature film depicts the unfortunately tragic but real events of Christopher McCandless 's life, and it does so in a way that keeps audiences invested and fully immersed. By illustrating how venturing off into nature and connecting with wildlife often helps people find a sense of true meaning in life, Into the Wild makes for a thoughtful movie that sends out a powerful message about innocence, isolation, risk, and self-reliance .

Watch on Tubi

13 'Nomadland' (2020)

Director: chlóe zhao.

2021's Best Picture Academy-Award winner, Nomadland by Chloé Zhao is a thoughtful meditation on grief and seclusion; it portrays the life of a woman ( the talented Frances McDormand in one of her three Oscar-winning performances) in her 60s who, in the aftermath of losing everything in the Great Recession, decides to embark on a life-altering journey through the American West.

Based on Jessica Bruder 's 2017 book of the same name, Nomadland offers viewers plenty of food for thought as it draws inspiration from several true stories. In addition to the top-notch performance and beautiful visuals, Zhao's quiet but moving film highlights that there is no such thing as a "late" blooming, self-discovering, and character development .

12 'Soul' (2020)

Director: pete docter.

One of 2020's best animation pictures, the fantasy comedy-drama Soul is a Pixar production following a middle-school band teacher and aspiring pianist named Joe (voiced by Jamie Foxx ) who finds himself lost in life. However, when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he discovers what it really means to have a soul.

Winning two out of the three Academy Awards for which it was nominated, Soul has proven to be a critical success and a fan favorite even if its box office earnings weren't particularly otherworldly. Pete Docter's entertaining and existentialist movie is a beautiful meditation about life and death that also focuses on the path of self-discovery and improvement , and is aimed at audiences of all ages: mature children and adults alike.

11 'Good Will Hunting' (1997)

Director: gus van sant.

This Matt Damon and Robin Williams -led drama by Gus Van Sant follows a highly intelligent janitor at M.I.T. who has a gift for mathematics. However, despite his brightness, Will is a troubled kid that needs help to find direction in life. That's when psychologist Sean steps into the picture with incredible results.

Both a commercial and critical success (earning tons of Oscar nominations and gathering over $225 million at the international box office), the heartwarming and inspiring Good Will Hunting endures one of the best psychological drama movies of all time . The Best Picture-nominated feature written by life-long friends Ben Affleck and Damon has captured the attention of many ever since its release, and part of Good Will Hunting 's charm has to do with its utterly humanistic narrative that highlights the protagonist's search for identity .

Good Will Hunting

10 'her' (2013), director: spike jonze.

In this Joaquin Phoenix -led Spike Jonze movie set in a beautiful, futuristic, pastel-colored world, viewers get a glimpse into the life of lonely Theodore, a heartbroken writer who finds himself struggling with his monotonous daily basis in the aftermath of a painful divorce. That is, of course, until he meets Samantha, an artificially intelligent virtual assistant voiced by Scarlett Johansson .

Making for the perfect double feature to watch with Sofia Coppola 's Lost in Translation , which is also a movie about self-discovery, Her is a compelling slice-of-life story that examines humanity's relationship with technology and its consequences . Furthermore, one of the film's strongest assets is how it provides audiences with a thoughtful message about self-improvement and encourages human connection.

9 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' (2013)

Director: ben stiller.

Directed, produced, and starring Ben Stiller , The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a feel-good movie that tells the story of an ordinary man whose head is constantly in the clouds, fantasizing about being a navy commander, a skilled surgeon, and a military captain. When both Walter and a colleague are on the verge of losing their jobs, he decides to embark on a peculiarly extraordinary adventure.

Based on the short story of the same name by James Thurber in The New Yorker, this engaging and highly creative Stiller film analyzes the differences between a regular life that leans towards escapism versus an action-driven, successful one. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty shines a light on finding oneself and actually taking action to fulfill one's dreams and ambitions .

8 'The Darjeeling Limited' (2007)

Director: wes anderson.

Set in the backdrop of the stunning Indian countryside, Wes Anderson 's affecting The Darjeeling Limited centers on three estranged brothers, played by Owen Wilson , Adrien Brody , and Jason Schwartzman , as they reunite for a train trip across India in the aftermath of their father's death.

As expected (considering the filmmaker's impeccable body of work), this quirky Wes Anderson feature deals with grief, miscommunication, family, and human connection, successfully sending a poignant message about these themes. Additionally, The Darjeeling Limited illustrates the bumpy road of healing and self-enlightenment while offering audiences a captivating — at times even touching — self-aware satire with memorable characters at its center. It is the perfect pick for those who are looking for bittersweet, entertaining, and truly stylish drama.

The Darjeeling Limited

7 'lost in translation' (2003), director: sofia coppola.

It isn't for no reason that this Sofia Coppola flick remains one of her most well-regarded works. With Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson in the lead roles, the 2003 movie depicts the meaningful bond between a faded movie star and a young woman who is stuck in an unhappy relationship as they cross paths in the city of lights, Tokyo.

Lost in Translation , often regarded as one of the finest self-discovery movies there is, is a captivating exploration of alienation and loneliness and offers audiences an entertaining and thought-provoking story that many people can relate to. The film's central theme is the feeling of being isolated , which is a universal sentiment that most people experience at least once in their lives. Additionally, Coppola's visually striking film highlights, like many other films on this list, the importance of human connection in our lives.

Lost in Translation

6 'moonlight' (2016), director: barry jenkins.

Barry Jenkins ' incredible directorial debut, which earned a few Oscar nods, tells the story of a young Black man (played by Trevante Rhodes , Alex R. Hibbert , and Ashton Sanders ) as he comes of age. It depicts three visceral phases in his life: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, highlighting his struggles with identity and sexuality.

Through the lead character's captivating — though at times devastating — journey, the thoroughly moving Moonlight sheds light on the anxiety that comes with growing up and finding one's place in the world , especially as a non-straight person of color. The way Jenkins' movie was the first film with an entirely Black cast and the first with a gay main character to win the Best Picture Oscar makes it groundbreaking and certainly worth checking out.

5 'Frances Ha' (2012)

Director: greta gerwig.

Starring Greta Gerwig , Barbie ' s highly praised director (and the mind behind the highest-grossing film of the year) before reaching stardom, this comedy-drama by talented filmmaker Noah Baumbach depicts an honest portrayal of an aspiring struggling dancer who finds herself working as an apprentice at a dance company. In the meantime, Frances attempts to chase her dreams, even if unable to afford a Brooklyn apartment on her own.

There are many great aspects of Baumbach's truly genuine and humane black-and-white film, but its endearing depiction of close female relationships and the frustrating scuffle to find a sense of belonging for yourself somewhere in the world are certainly at the top of the list. All in all, Frances Ha is undoubtedly worth a look, especially if readers find themselves in a similar situation to its lead protagonist.

Watch on Netflix

4 'The Truman Show' (1998)

Director: peter weir.

Starring Jim Carrey in one of his most memorable roles, Peter Weir 's mind-bending The Truman Show centers around an insurance sales assistant who discovers that his whole life is a reality TV show. As he becomes aware that there are hidden cameras and people watching his every move, Truman must face the truth and reclaim the life he once thought was his.

This psychological comedy-drama is one of the most celebrated movies to come out of the 1990s, and it is not hard to understand why. The Truman Show is a poignant satire that examines mass media manipulation, criticizing its power and influence on many's lives. Additionally, Weir's movie provides audiences with an intriguing, out-of-the-box tale revolving around self-discovery that ends on a satisfying note .

The Truman Show

3 'everything everywhere all at once' (2022), directors: daniel kwan, daniel scheinert.

Last year's Best Picture winner endures a beloved and acclaimed A24 movie with many still looking to watch it. Best Actress winner Michelle Yeoh is a Chinese immigrant named Evelyn Wang who must enter the multiverse in order to stop her daughter ( Stephanie Hsu ) — an alternate version of her, that is — from annihilating her world.

Everything Everywhere All at Once is an epic adventure that fully immerses audiences in its wild experience. Although it is hilarious (and just plain silly at times), the highly original film by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert also counts on plenty of emotional moments, sending valuable messages on mother-daughter relationships, identity, and the importance of being in the present moment.

Everything Everywhere All at Once

2 'ikiru' (1952), director: akira kurosawa.

In Akira Kuosawa’s incredible drama (one of the best films in Japanese history), a bureaucrat wonderfully played by the talented Takashi Shimura attempts to find meaning in his life after he discovers he has terminal cancer. In the meantime, audiences are invited to take a sneak peek inside his seemingly boring and monotonous life.

The existential, self-discovery journey and personal redemption in Ikiru is touching and heartbreaking , featuring a well-written central character that audiences can’t help but sympathize with and even relate to at times in his quest to find meaning. It’s impossible to stay indifferent to this humanist tear-jerker especially fit for sensitive audiences who are fascinated by the mundane and well-thought-out character studies. In the same vein as Ikiru is last year’s beautifully filmed Perfect Days , which is also Japanese.

Watch on Max

1 'The Worst Person in the World' (2021)

Director: joachim trier.

When it comes to movies about finding yourself, The Worst Person in the World assuredly fits the bill. This incredible realist piece of filmmaking by Joachim Trier narrates four years in the life of a young woman ( Renate Reinsve ) who navigates through her life, including hardship and heartbreak on a quest to find meaning.

Despite its memorable title, The Worst Person in the World isn't actually about the worst person in the world — instead, it focuses on those who truly feel like they embody what it must mean to be such a thing. Trier's heartfelt feature delves into the frustration that arises from learning in all areas of life , resulting in a deeply moving and mesmerizing experience that is guaranteed to provide consolation and understanding to audiences who are undergoing similar situations.

The Worst Person in the World

NEXT: The Best Movies that Will Inspire You to Find Your Own New Beginning

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COMMENTS

  1. 50+ Profound Movies to Further Your Spiritual Journey

    23. Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds (2012) Not Rated | 122 min | Documentary, History. There is one vibratory field that connects all things. It has been called Akasha, Logos, the primordial OM, the music of the spheres, the Higgs field, dark energy, and a thousand other names throughout history.

  2. Top 50 Spiritual / Awakening / Thought Provoking Films

    Top 50 Spiritual / Awakening / Thought Provoking Films. Menu. Movies. Release Calendar Top 250 Movies Most Popular Movies Browse Movies by Genre Top Box Office Showtimes & Tickets Movie News India Movie Spotlight. ... Happy takes us on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy.

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    8 Mr. Nobody (2009) Belga Films SA, Pathé Distribution, Independent Films, Concorde Filmverleih, Independenta Film, Wanda Visión, Association of Czech Film Clubs (ACFK), Szuez Film. In 2009, Mr ...

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    Cloud Atlas 2012. Cloud Atlas is a 2012 film written and directed by Tom Tykwer, Andy Wachowski, and Lana Wachowski. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by David Mitchell. The film stars Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, and Hugh Grant.

  5. 28 Best Spiritual Movies 2024

    The 29 best spiritual movies and spiritual series accompany specific processes on the journey to your expanded awareness. You will begin to remember your purpose. In this list of spiritual movies, each awakening film comes with a short personal text by Dominik Porsche.

  6. The Best Spiritual / Awakening / Dharma Films of all Time

    Votes: 40,992 | Gross: $1.33M. A wordless journey into the visual patterns of nature juxtaposed with the patterns that humanity has created on this planet. Spiritually uplifting, the soul dances after watching this film. 4. Inner Worlds, Outer Worlds (2012) Not Rated | 122 min | Documentary, History.

  7. 25 Best Spiritual Movies That Will Inspire and Enlighten You

    25. Samsara. 1. "Samsara" is a spiritual movie shot in no less than 25 countries over a period of 5 years. It leads us through sacred areas, war zones, industrial complexes, to natural habitats. The lack of any kind of narration and dialogue at the beginning makes "Samsara" a different kind of documentary.

  8. 26 Best Spiritual Movies For a Thought Provoking Movie Night

    Kundun. Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese and starring an incredible cast including Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong as the Dalai Lama, "Kundun" is a visually stunning and emotional biographical film about the life and times of the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual and political leader of Tibet. This powerful movie takes you on a journey through ...

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    The Ten Most Spiritually Literate Films. B elfast. Directed by Kenneth Branaugh. A soulful, richly human, coming-of-age film brimming with meaning. Bergman Island. Directed by Mia Hansen-Love. An exploration of love, creativity, and the power of the imagination as experienced by two filmmakers. Coda.

  10. Spiritual Movies: 10 Transformative Films to Awaken Your Soul

    Join us on this transformative cinematic journey as we explore the power of storytelling to awaken the soul. 1. "The Celestine Prophecy". Released in 2006, "The Celestine Prophecy" is ...

  11. 10 Best Spiritual Movies of All Time

    Read More: Movies That Broke World Records. 1. Andrei Rublev (1966) Largely considered as one of the finest films of all time Andrei Tarkovsky's 'Andrei Rublev' takes us on a spiritual journey based on a 15 th century iconic painter, yet we throughout the entire film we never see him paint. I believe 'Andrei Rublev' is the greatest ...

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    The Shack. Milarepa. The Celestine Prophecy. The Way. Cloud Atlas. Astral City: A Spiritual Journey. Mr. Nobody. Some of these films can be found on Netflix. But for others, you will have to dive into the depths of Amazon Video and possibly even your local secondhand electronic shop!

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    8. IO (2019) The Netflix film 'IO' is a meditative walk through themes like the fate of humanity, existence, identity, and our spiritual connection to Earth. The plot is set on a futuristic Earth destroyed by the greed of mankind. People are fleeing the planet, which is no longer inhabitable.

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    1. Samsara (2011) This non-verbal documentary is a mind-blowing exploration of humanity and our role in our realities. 2. Kumaré (2011) This normal man went on a mission to explore the power that gurus have on people - so he impersonates a guru and travels the world "healing" people.

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    "Eat Pray Love" (2010) — A Journey of Self-Discovery and Spiritual Awakening: IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 No list of spiritual movies on Netflix is complete without a nod to this contemporary classic. Based on Elizabeth Gilbert's memoir, "Eat Pray Love" is a heartwarming and soul-stirring tale that traces the voyage of Liz, a woman ...

  16. Discover the Most Inspiring Spiritual Movies and Tap ...

    Movies about spirituality can serve as a spiritual awakening symptoms tutorial, helping individuals recognize the signs of their own spiritual awakening. These films often portray characters going through profound inner transformation, allowing viewers to relate and understand their own spiritual journey more deeply.

  17. 8+ Movies To Begin Your Spiritual Journey With| Best Picks For You

    3. Happy (2012) Where to watch it: Netflix. IMDb Rating: 7.2. Whether you are looking for upliftment through Netflix movies or a guide to set yourself on the journey of spirituality, Happy is always on the list. This is the magic of this amazing movie. A documentary where the director Roko Belic went to the slums, streets, and greatest ...

  18. 50 Best Spiritual Movies To Sharpen Your Mind

    The 50 Best Spiritual Movies. 1. Waking Life (2001) This adult animated docu-fiction film explores philosophical questions of the nature of reality, dreams and lucid dreams, consciousness, the ...

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    This is definitely one of the best spiritual films on Netflix. 8. "The Fountain" (2006) - Love, Death, and the Quest for Eternal Life: IMDb rating: 7.2/10. Among the spiritual films on Netflix, "The Fountain" is a visually stunning and deeply philosophical film that weaves together three interconnected storylines.

  20. Spiritual Documentaries & Metaphysical Movies

    The Journey of Remembering. Part 5: The Path of the Dragon. S1:Ep5 26 mins. 98%. 2%. The Journey of Remembering. Part 6: The Power Within. S1:Ep6 24 mins. Browse our spiritual documentaries and videos to deepen your connection with your own spirit, guided by renowned spiritual masters and experts.

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    Awake: The Life of Yogananda (2014) Along the spiritual path, we understand the importance of moving from the mind into the body, and this movie highlights how yoga is not just an exercise for the body - but one of the mind and spirit as well. Awake follows the life of an infamous yoga guru named Yogananda, who brought yoga and meditation to ...

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    These family-friendly movies look at the religious and spiritual realms and tell some very inspiring stories. When life gets hard, you've got to have faith. These family-friendly movies look at the religious and spiritual realms and tell some very inspiring stories.

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    The second Julia Roberts movie on this list is Steven Soderbergh's poignant Erin Brockovich, a dramatized biopic based on an inspiring real-life unemployed and single mother who becomes a legal ...

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    When life gets hard, you've got to have faith. These family-friendly movies look at the religious and spiritual realms and tell some very inspiring stories.