Be inspired
The road to success is full of bumps, as seen on the big screen.
WE’VE all watched at least that one movie which depicts the success story of an individual, be it fictional or based on a true story (of course the true story gives double the impact).
Success stories usually give us a sense of contentment and motivational boost because if that someone can do it, why not you? So, when you need a pick me up or when you feel things aren’t going your way, check out these films:
> Billy Elliot
It’s not based on a true story, but I felt it should be on this list. This work by Stephen Daldry, released in 2000, tells the tale of a young boy Billy Elliot, during the miners’ strike in 1984. Contrary to what is expected of him like all boys of his time, that is to be a boxer, he falls in love with the art of ballet and has to endure the wrath of his father and estrangement from his brother.
In addition to being the only boy in ballet class, he has no money for lessons. Nonetheless, (surprise, surprise!) he overcomes the odds to become an incredible ballet dancer, a legendary one even. By the way, this film was nominated for three Oscars. So yes, it’s a must-watch classic.
> The Pursuit Of Happyness
Nope, not happiness, but happyness. One of my favourite quotes in this movie is “if you have a dream, protect it” because it rings true no matter how wild the dream is. We shouldn’t give up on our dreams. Ever.
Christopher Gardner, played by Will Smith, seems to be living under a raincloud as he struggles to sell his bone density scanner. Nothing seems to go his way, new technology is in the market, hence there’s no room for his product. Even so, he treasures everyone of the products because they are his only means to get by. Then he decides to go all out for the biggest dream he ever had: to be a stockbroker. He confides in his wife about his dream, only to receive a callous snort.
Tired of such a life, his wife leaves him. That’s one big blow to him, one that could even rob the determination out of the toughest of men. However, he keeps going. With his son (played by his own son Jaden), he searches the streets looking for a place to stay, at the same time juggling with sale of his scanners and his stockbroking internship, once even resorting to sleeping in a toilet of a train station. But all that is history when he makes it past his gruelling internship to become a very successful stockbroker. This film reminds us how the worst of situations are really blessings in disguise because they make you stronger than ever.
> Karate Kid
Yep, two movies with Jaden Smith on this list! You got to admit: this boy has talent. Jackie Chan fans, you would have a soft spot for this film as well.
He plays a considerably more serious character this time, Mr Han, the mentor to Dre Parker (Jaden Smith). Dre starts off as the kid who is bullied by a group of boys, headed by pack leader, the notorious Cheng who knows kung fu like the back of his hand.
The fact that he has fallen for Mei Ying does not help either. But like underdog movies, lo and behold, in the end, with the help of the wise Mr Han, he emerges as a champion. This movie is simple but it holds a lot of truth.
> Never Say Never
As I type these very words, I can distinctly hear girls shriek and guys groan. Yes, anything related to him has that kind of effect these days. Like it or not, I think he is talented and he is pretty bold for following his dreams. He doesn’t care what you think, he will always be releasing new records no matter what verbal abuses you throw at him, and that has made him who he is ... Justin Bieber.
That is exactly what you will see in this film. You will realise his initial struggles to make it into the industry and you will be inspired to just follow your dreams, never say never.
Success stories. You’ve got to love them. They can make you feel a little more emboldened with the decisions you make in life. They can make you see it’s okay to be afraid as long as you’re courageous enough to face the fear.
They make you see how nothing is impossible and the only thing that stands and will ever stand between us and our dreams are ourselves.