14 Films That Showcase the Best in Humanity

The 2025 Oscars may be over, but the conversations sparked by great films and the creatives behind them will long outlive award season.

From film to music to theater, award shows are never just about the trophies. Presenters, performers, and winners often use their moment on the grandest stage to speak — or sing — to something bigger than themselves.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande from Wicked perform onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars — Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande perform onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Adrien Brody, winning Best Actor for his performance in The Brutalist, addressed antisemitism and racism: “I believe if the past can teach us anything it’s a reminder to not let hate go unchecked.” The filmmakers behind Best Documentary Feature winner No Other Land — Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham — used their speech to call for a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: “We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together, our voices are stronger,” said Abraham. Emilia Pérez star Zoe Saldaña, who took home the award for Best Supporting Actress, made history as the first American of Dominican descent to win an Academy Award. “I know I will not be the last,” she said.

Films have always been a mirror to our times, but the best ones go further — they challenge us, uplift us, and remind us of our shared humanity. That’s why the Make It Better Foundation’s nonprofit partner, the Greater Good Science Center, compiles an annual list of movies that highlight the best in humanity. Below, see the 14 films they selected, then head to Greater Good Magazine for insights from contributors about their picks.

The Connection Award: All We Imagine As Light

The Solidarity Award: Anora

The Purpose, Compassion, and Awe Award: Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story

The Empathy Award: Daughters

The Intellectual Humility Award: Heretic

The Gratitude Award: My Old Ass

The Humility Award: Perfect Days

The Healing Award: A Real Pain

The Friendship Award: Robot Dreams

The Resilience Award: Simón

The Radical Acceptance Award: Thelma

The Other Significant Other Award: Wicked

The Love Award: Wild Robot

The Curiosity Award: Will & Harper

Read the full article at Greater Good Magazine: 14 Movies That Highlight the Best in Humanity: 2025.

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