More Than Just Entertainment
Films and shows invite us to do more than escape—they ask us to feel, reflect, and grow together. The selections gathered here celebrate the joy of good storytelling while offering something deeper. Some help us see life from new angles, others explore what connects us as humans, and many find light even in life's harder moments. There's nothing wrong with being entertained—but how much richer the experience when stories not only delight us but also reveal truth, showcase beauty, and inspire goodness in ways that stay with us long after the credits roll.
The stories that stay with us often reveal something true about our shared humanity. Neighbors can share their personal favorites through our simple recommendation form in The Neighborhood.
The Good Place
This clever comedy follows Eleanor Shellstrop who arrives in the afterlife and discovers she's been sent to "The Good Place" by mistake. With friends who become like family, she navigates moral philosophy, personal growth, and plenty of frozen yogurt. Behind the laughs lies a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be a good person and how we can always choose to become better.
Ted Lasso
When an optimistic American football coach is hired to manage a struggling English soccer team, everyone expects disaster. Instead, Ted Lasso brings his folksy wisdom, homemade biscuits, and unwavering belief in people's goodness to transform both the team and those around him. This heartwarming series shows how genuine kindness can break through cynicism and create community in the most unexpected places.
Win or Lose
Win or Lose" follows a middle school softball team through the same events from multiple perspectives, showing how each person's story intertwines with others. Through its innovative animation and storytelling, the series helps viewers understand that truth often depends on perspective, that beauty can be found in unexpected places, and that goodness comes from understanding others' experiences. Perfect for families to watch together and could foster good discussion.
Anne with an "E"
This reimagining of "Anne of Green Gables" follows imaginative orphan Anne Shirley as she transforms the lives of siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, and their small Canadian community. With stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, the series explores themes of belonging, prejudice, and the beauty of seeing the world through hopeful eyes.
Won't You Be My Neighbor?
This heartfelt documentary explores how Fred Rogers transformed children's television through radical kindness and respect. Director Morgan Neville reveals Rogers' commitment to addressing difficult topics with children honestly and compassionately. Through interviews with family and colleagues, we discover how one man's belief in human dignity created a counter-cultural force still relevant today. This film reminds us that goodness isn't weakness, and that truth delivered with love can change lives.
I'm Still Here
This moving documentary follows individuals facing life's end with remarkable courage. Through intimate portraits, the film invites us to consider what truly matters when time grows short. Director Tim Cragg crafts a compassionate narrative that neither shies away from suffering nor wallows in it, offering a clear-eyed look at how confronting death can illuminate life. The film reminds us that accepting truth - even difficult truth - can open doors to unexpected moments of beauty and connection.
Conclave
Following a Pope's death, cardinals gather for the secretive process of electing his successor. As hidden agendas clash, the film explores questions of faith, power, and divine purpose. With stunning performances, Conclave reminds us that even sacred institutions are run by flawed humans seeking truth in a complex world. Director Edward Berger masterfully balances political intrigue with spiritual questioning, showing how goodness can emerge from flawed processes when people remain committed to something greater than themselves.
Whale Rider
In a Māori village, young Pai believes she's destined to become tribal chief, despite her grandfather's belief that only boys can lead. This stunning film weaves together cultural heritage and one girl's determination to honor both tradition and truth. Director Niki Caro creates a world both mythic and real, where a young girl finds courage despite rejection from those she loves. With breathtaking landscapes and emotionally honest performances, the film celebrates how genuine respect for tradition sometimes means allowing it to grow.