Sometimes the thing you need more than anything is to curl up on the couch and watch a film that fills your soul. It could be the story of an underdog, the test of a friendship, or a courageous adventure, but one thing is for sure, if it involves an animal, the emotions run all the higher. We love our furry friends as much as the next person, which is why we’ve brought you this selection of heart-warming films that feature them right at the centre. So, whether your favourite animals have feathers or fur and four legs or more, we’ve got a film that you’re going to find absolutely adorable.
Seabiscuit, 2003
Starting off with a big hitter, Seabiscuit doesn’t only tell the story of an incredibly talented racehorse, but also the story of an underdog who really did rise through the ranks to make it to the top. If you’re not a fan of horse racing then you might not be aware that Seabiscuit is actually based on a true story, making it all the more heart-warming when you watch it through until the finale. This film was one of the first times that Tobey Maguire really got to star in a film if you exclude the horse that is! Maguire played John ‘Red’ Pollard in the film, a man who was down on his luck, left blinded in one eye, but still determined to make it as a jockey. He had limited success until he met a diminutive racehorse, who until now hadn’t done much good on the track. Little did Red know that this horse was going to take him to levels of success that he could only have dreamed of. We won’t ruin the ending for you, but suffice it to say that Red and Seabiscuit go on an incredible adventure together that you won’t be forgetting in a hurry. So, if the exciting scenes from Seabiscuit have got you wanting to try your hand at betting on the horses then you needn’t go all the way to the United States to bet on it. This guide by SBO features lots of information on all of the best betting sites in the Netherlands, including the bonuses that they have available, as well as the sports that you can bet on and information on whether they feature in-play betting or not.
Paddington, 2014
If a family film is high on your list then this brilliant film about Paddington bear is just the ticket. Paddington is a true icon of Britishness, so it only made sense for him to be voiced by one of the most brilliant young British actors around, Ben Wishaw. Paddington’s adventures take him all the way from the jungles of Peru to the busy streets of London. It takes Paddington a little time to adjust to life with his new family, The Browns, but once he settles in it becomes clear that he’s an irreplaceable member. Unfortunately for Paddington and The Browns, there is trouble afoot and it seems to be up to Paddington to do something about it. The little brown bear is hurled into a difficult and sometimes even dangerous world, leaving all of us with bated breath as we wait to see how Paddington is going to escape unharmed. This film perfectly bridges the gap between children’s stories and something that the adults can enjoy too. It’s hilariously witty, disarmingly adorable, and the perfect film for a rainy Sunday.
Bambi, 1942
Perhaps one of the greatest films of all time with an animal at the centre, Bambi is one of Disney’s oldest classics. It’s surely impossible to make it to adulthood without being aware of this adorable cartoon fawn, but just in case, here’s a quick synopsis for you. Disney’s films used to be a little darker and deal with some more difficult themes than they do nowadays and Bambi is no exception. In the first part of the film, we see Bambi orphaned, owing to the actions of a hunter who hunts his mother during the winter. With his mother gone, Bambi has to learn to fend for himself. Thankfully, Bambi meets a couple of equally adorable friends, Thumper a cute grey bunny, and Flower a bashful baby skunk. Along with Thumper and Flower, Bambi explores the Great Forest, learning the dangers of hunters and also the joys of romance. He meets another fawn called Faline and strikes up something of a crush. Although the film is desperately sad in parts, the adorable cast and the blossoming of young love make this film every bit as heartwarming as the rest.
