Looking for a feel-good flick? We’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite adventure movies and documentaries that are sure to inspire.
From desert survival to superhuman climbing, these true-life adventure films and docs will inspire you to persevere, stay positive, and never give up. Because sometimes we all need a little reminder that we’re capable of doing hard things.
So grab the popcorn and get ready for an action-packed, inspiration-filled movie night.
‘127 Hours‘
This movie tells the incredible true story of outdoorsman Aron Ralston (played by James Franco). Trapped alone in a desolate slot canyon, Ralston goes to extreme measures to escape alive. This movie is available on Amazon.
‘Free Solo‘
There’s good reason this documentary won an Oscar. Not only is the cinematography stunning, but the story is downright gripping. Follow along as renowned climber Alex Honnold defies gravity and makes history. Check it out on Amazon.
‘180 South‘
Inspired by Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins’ 1968 trip to Patagonia, Jeff Johnson goes on a quest to follow in their footsteps. Signing on with a small boat headed to Chile, he experiences delays, setbacks, and the adventure of a lifetime. “180 South” is available on Amazon.
‘Maidentrip‘
Follow along as 14-year-old Laura Dekker sets out to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Following a yearlong fight with Dutch authorities, she takes to the sea alone in search of adventure and the opportunity to make history. This film is available on Amazon.
‘Touching the Void‘
This 2003 drama will have you on edge of your seat. It follows two men on what turns out to be a disastrous climb of Siula Grande in Peru. Between a broken leg and a raging storm, survival seems impossible.
But with no way out but down, they continue on in a harrowing tale of perseverance and human potential. This movie, based on the book by the same name, is available on Amazon.
‘Soul Surfer‘
This is an incredible true-life tale. Teen surfer Bethany Hamilton loses her arm in a shark attack but refuses to let that stop her. With incredible determination, she works hard to reclaim the sport of surfing and return a champion. Catch this one on Amazon.
And if you enjoyed that, check out Hamilton’s latest documentary, “Unstoppable.”
‘Wild‘
In search of redemption and healing, the inexperienced Cheryl Strayed (played by Reese Witherspoon) heads out to hike 1,100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. Along the way, she comes to terms with the past, grows stronger on the trail, and learns the value of carrying on. “Wild” is available on Amazon.
‘Charged: The Eduardo Garcia Story‘
You need to add this to your must-see movie list. A young chef and outdoorsman’s life is forever changed one winter day in Montana.
While out on a hike, Garcia is shocked with 2,400 volts of electricity. Incredibly, he doesn’t die, but he does lose muscle mass, a rib, and an arm.
This documentary chronicles his recovery and quest to become a better person both physically and mentally. The movie is available on Amazon.
‘Man on Wire‘
Just try to watch this without holding your breath. This documentary details Philippe Petit’s daring (and illegal) act of tightrope walking between the World Trade Center’s twin towers in 1974. More than just a daring act, it shows the seemingly impossible feats that are possible when people focus and work together. Check it out on Amazon.
‘The Motorcycle Diaries’
This docudrama will take you on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip. Based on a true story, it chronicles the motorcycle road trip of two young friends, “Che” Guevera and Alberto Granado. Watch this one on Amazon.
