7 Holiday Movies That Will Inspire People In Recovery
December 16, 2019 - Life in Recovery - 0 Comments
Watching movies is one of the best sober activities that people in recovery can enjoy. Not only are movies entertaining, but at the same time, they can also help inspire and provide new insights to those who are watching.
When you search online for movies that people in addiction recovery may enjoy, many of the suggested films are either dramatic titles or stories about people struggling with addiction.
While there’s really nothing wrong about watching these types of movies, there are times when these themes can be too serious or depressing to watch, especially during the holiday season.
To change things up, we compiled a list of films that are perfect for the holiday season. These titles may not be something you’d first think of if you are in recovery, but they will surely touch your heart and inspire you at least a little bit.
Most of the suggested films are also recent titles with just a few classics added in. Don’t worry, we’ll try hard not to give spoilers!
1. Klaus (2019)
As the title suggests, this movie is a re-imagining of Santa’s story. While this is an animated movie, even adults will enjoy how heartwarming this story is.
It starts with a spoiled and pampered son of a wealthy family running a postal business, Jesper. Jesper’s father assigns him to a remote island to teach him a lesson and here he discovers Klaus, a hermit toy maker whom he eventually help transform into who we know today as Santa.
Why it’s inspiring:
Klaus is a story of transformation. It will show you that nothing is impossible. Even in the direst situations, there is still hope to change. The film also teaches how a true act of goodwill always sparks another.
2. Noelle (2019)
Noelle is another Santa story but with a different twist. Noelle Kringle is Santa’s daughter and her brother is next in line to be the next Santa Claus. But right before Christmas, Santa’s heir disappears and Noelle embarks on a rescue mission to find her brother.
Why it’s inspiring:
Being a Christmas-themed comedy, Noelle will surely lift up your spirits. There are a lot of funny scenes and emotional moments that are perfect for the holidays. Best of all, the message is all about believing in yourself and that you can do anything you set your mind to.
3. Last Christmas (2019)
This movie is a Christmas romantic comedy set in London where a reckless Christmas store worker struggling with depression, meets a mysterious man who seems too good to be true.
Why it’s inspiring:
Sometimes there’s nothing better than a cheesy love story set in the most wonderful time of the year. The movie follows the story of the lead character, who unlike the usual protagonists, is far from perfect. She makes bad decisions and is often reckless. Throughout the film, she slowly turned her life around, which is quite relatable and inspiring at the same time.
4. The Princess Switch (2018)
This Vanessa Hudgens starrer is another romantic comedy where two women who look alike from totally different backgrounds swap identities. It’s reminiscent of The Parent Trap meets The Holiday, and it is surprisingly a feel-good film.
Why it’s inspiring:
In the movie, one of the lead characters had just broken up with her boyfriend and because of her heartbreak, she was reluctant to do anything after that. When she finally decided to be brave and go to a strange country to enter a baking competition, she discovers that there’s a lot of amazing things waiting for her.
While the movie’s plot is a bit unrealistic bordering on fantasy, it shows you that when you get out of your shell, you can discover things about yourself that could change your life in ways you may never have imagined.
5. Frozen 1 (2013)
Yes, brand-new Frozen 2 is probably still out in the cinemas and while that may be an amazing family movie as well, we feel that that the original Frozen film is more suitable to this list. You probably know what the plot is already but if you’re one of the few who have never watched this animated film, then here’s the gist:
It’s a story of two princesses who are sisters – Elsa and Anna. Elsa, who is to be crowned queen was cursed/blessed with supernatural powers that turn everything into ice. This made her isolate herself for fear of endangering the people close to her, including her sister.
Why it’s inspiring:
The character journey of Elsa is something many people in recovery can relate to. Because Elsa was different from the rest, it made her retreat and become isolated. Instead of owning up to her powers, she hid away. Her decision to let it all go and put everything in the past was what empowered her to become the queen she deserves to be.
6. Home Alone (1990)
What happens when an 8-year old gets left behind all alone at the house during the Christmas holidays? This Christmas classic is about a boy named Kevin who was always bullied by his elder siblings and cousins. When he finds himself left behind, he had to find ways to protect himself and his home from house robbers.
Why it’s inspiring:
There are moments in our lives when we feel that we’re alone, helpless and everything is going against us. This film is a heartwarming story of how a young kid deal with all that and yet he still manages to find ingenious ways to succeed against all odds thrown at him.
7. It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
This classic film is considered one of the greatest films of all time. It is a Christmas fantasy about an angel who tries to convince a man not to take his life on Christmas Eve by showing him an alternate reality of what would have been if he was never born.
Why it’s inspiring:
For a Christmas movie, having suicide to start the plot may seem too heavy, however, the story is perfect for people who are undergoing recovery. It is a great reminder that your life is a gift, you should not give up, and that you are a valuable person that deserves a new beginning.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.
