This year was filled with great movies. From the groundbreaking success of Black Panther to the return of franchises fans have longed to see grace the screen again, here’s a look back on some of the most uplifting films released in 2018.
1 of 11 Mary Poppins Returns
Fifty years after the first Mary Poppins, the famous caretaker (played by Emily Blunt) returns to London to help the now-grown up Michael and Jane recover after a family tragedy.
2 of 11 Instant Family
Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne star in this comedy about a couple who gets more than they bargained for when they foster-to-adopt three siblings. Based on the real-life experiences of writer and director Sean Anders, it’s a funny and powerful story about adoption.
The story behind MercyMe’s hit song comes to life in this uplifting film. Bart Miller, the lead singer of the band and the author of the famous song, was abused by his father, Arthur, growing up. When Arthur (Dennis Quaid) is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, he finds faith and attempts to restore relationship with his son. It has the same hopeful spirit as the song it originated from.
4 of 11 The Incredibles 2
Fourteen years after the first film premiered, Pixar delivers strong sequel, which picks up shortly after the first film left off. Helen (Elastigirl) is chosen to be the face of a campaign to help the public trust superheroes again. Meanwhile, Bob struggles to hold down the fort at home. It’s a movie the whole family will enjoy.
5 of 11 Christopher Robin
A grown up Christopher Robin (played by Ewan McGregor) is visited by Winnie-the-Pooh and embarks on a journey that reunites him with the famous inhabitants of the Hundred Acre Wood. Along the way, Tigger, Piglet and the rest of the friends remind Robin what’s really important in life.
6 of 11 Black Panther
After losing his father in Captain America: Civil War, the Black Panther, T’Challa, returns to Wakanda and struggle to take his place as king. When a rival for the throne emerges, those around him must choose a side and determine the future of their country. It’s a thoroughly entertaining and thought provoking ride, and one of the best movies in the Marvel franchise.
7 of 11 A Wrinkle In Time
Based on the beloved Madeleine L’Engle series, A Wrinkle in Time tells the story of Meg Murry, as she journeys across the universe in search of her missing father. Oprah Winfrey, Reese Withersppon and Mindy Kahling star as the three witches who guide her on her journey.
Directed by Clint Eastwood, 15:17 to Paris tells the true story of how three childhood friends stopped an attempted terrorist attack on a train bound for Paris. The film follows the trio through childhood, military service and how they ended up on a trip through Europe that placed them in the right place to stop the attack. The three men played themselves in the movie which also stars Jenna Fischer and Judy Greer.
9 of 11 Ocean's 8
This fun-filled heist movie stars Sandra Bullock as Debbie Ocean (sister to Daniel Ocean from Ocean’s 11), who has spent years plotting her next crime: stealing a $150 million necklace. To pull it off, she assembles a team of top criminals played by the likes of Cate Blanchett, Rihanna and Sarah Paulson. It’s a light-hearted movie perfect for fans of heist films.
10 of 11 Dog Days
Told in the vignette style of Love, Actually and Valentine’s Day, Dog Days weaves together the stories of a group of dog owners in Los Angeles whose pups help them find love, friendship and successful careers. Eva Longoria, Vanessa Hudgens and Nina Dobrev co-star.
11 of 11 The Hate U Give
This heartwarming and challenging movie—based on the bestselling young adult novel by Angie Thomas—follows Starr Carter, a teenager whose life is changed forever when she witnesses a police officer shoot her childhood friend. Starr is confronted with the injustice of the situation and must decide whether she will stay silent, or risk everything to speak up for what she believes in.
The award-winning actress and singer shares her favorite Bible verse, the best advice she’s ever received, and what inspired her to write her new book.
