After reading the post about possibly motivational/inspirational music, I couldn't help but think about motivational/inspirational movies. With that in mind I developed a general formula for all of the movies I have ever seen that are supposed to be motivational/inspirational whether I liked them or not. I think it generally goes something like this:
Character introduction: We don't know everything yet, but soon learn there is a goal/problem to solve. Protagonist is not perfect but this makes him/her more real (human). Introduced to Antagonist(s).
->Something happens to give protagonist a chance -> Antagonist cheats/gets the upper hand-> Hope seems lost-> Hard work/people come together (Usually in the form of a montage) -> Motivational speech -> The most important event of the movie (climax); The result is in question but always has a happy ending
Also there is almost always a great theme song that is played throughout the movie.
I think the main reason movies that are considered "motivational" or "inspirational" include some kind of emotional connection with the protagonist. This is usually the result of identifying or empathizing with the protagonist and their situation.
A couple of my favorites that follow this formula that immediately come to mind are The Karate Kid, Goonies, Cool Runnings, and Mighty Ducks (think the flying V) as a result of my 1990's childhood.
Anyone else notice this formula or think I should to change mine in some way? Think of any other movies that follow this pattern? Are they usually good or just too cheesy?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6wRkzCW5qI
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