We all dream of a fitter, healthier version of ourselves. But often, lack of motivation and discipline can make that weight loss journey a Herculean task. That’s where movies can come in. Here’s how movies might inspire you:
- Seeing relatable characters: Characters overcoming challenges or transforming themselves physically can be inspirational. You might relate to their struggles and be motivated by their triumphs.
- Witnessing positive changes: Seeing the physical and emotional improvements characters experience through dedication and hard work can spark a desire to achieve similar results for yourself.
- Feeling empathy: Connecting with a character’s struggles with weight or body image can create empathy and motivate you to support their journey, inspiring you to start your own.
- Dreaming big: Movies helps you to dream big and motivate you to achieve desired goals.
- Experiencing emotional shifts: Films can evoke sadness, frustration, or anger towards societal pressures or unhealthy relationships with food, triggering a desire to make positive changes.
- Feeling hope and empowerment: Uplifting stories with successful transformations can spark hope and belief in your own ability to achieve similar goals.
- Finding workout motivation: Movies featuring athletes or physically demanding activities can ignite your desire to be more active and challenge yourself physically.
- Building self-belief: Witnessing characters overcoming self-doubt and negativity can boost your own confidence and belief in your ability to achieve your goals.
- Realistic goals and expectations: Remember that movies often portray weight loss in a dramatized or unrealistic way. Focus on the healthy aspects of the journey, not just the physical transformation.
Movie narrates stories of triumph, struggle, and transformation, reminding us that change is possible, no matter the starting point. Many of these movies draw inspiration from true stories, offering the motivational push you seek. These stories can ignite your fire and guide you on your weight loss journey. Avoiding junk foods can assist you in the fat loss journey. Get ready to be motivated by these five weight-loss themed movies.
1. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
Director: Sharon Maguire
Starring: Renee Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant
Runtime: 1 hour 36 minutes
In “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” Renée Zellweger portrays Bridget Jones, a quirky and relatable singleton who struggles through the ups and downs of love and life. Bridget resolves to do two things- to lose 20 pounds and quit smoking. Throughout the film, Bridget is worried about her weight and self-image, but ultimately learns to embrace her imperfections and love herself for who she is. One memorable line from the movie is when Bridget declares, “I like you very much. Just as you are.”
How it inspires weight loss: Bridget’s journey reminds us about our frequent New Year resolution failures. She also reminds that self-acceptance is the cornerstone of any successful weight loss journey. While striving for improvement is important, it’s equally crucial to love and accept yourself unconditionally along the way. Embrace your journey with kindness and compassion, knowing that you are worthy of love and respect exactly as you are.
2. Brittany Runs a Marathon (2019)
Director: Paul Downs Colaizzo
Starring: Jillian Bell
Runtime: 1 hours 43 minutes
Brittany Runs a Marathon starring Jillian Bell as Brittany Forgler, tells the story of a 28-year-old overweight woman who decides to take up running after a health scare. We meet Brittany at her lowest point – overweight, directionless, reckless, and broke after being fired for her party lifestyle. The film follows her journey as she trains for a marathon, overcoming physical and emotional challenges along the way.
This movie is more than just running. It is about pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and proving to herself that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. It was a triumph of endurance and determination, a testament to the power of the human spirit.
3. Run Fat Boy Run (2007)
Director: David Schwimmer
Starring: Simon Pegg, Thandie Newton, Hank Azaria
Runtime: 1 hours 40 minutes
“Run Fatboy Run” is a heartwarming comedy that follows the journey of Dennis, a lovable yet hapless man portrayed by Simon Pegg. Five years after abandoning his pregnant fiancée Libby (Thandie Newton) at the altar, Dennis discovers that she has moved on with wealthy American Whit (Hank Azaria). Dennis impulsively decides to enter London marathon to prove himself to Libby despite being terribly out of shape. He embarks on a hilarious and heartwarming journey of self-discovery, facing physical and emotional challenges along the way.
The film has a strong comedic element, with witty dialogue and Pegg’s signature humor shining through. The film ultimately delivers a positive message about redemption, second chances, and self-improvement. It’s inspiring and uplifting but has a predictable ending.
4. Fat (2013)
Director: Mark Phinney
Starring: Mel Rodriguez, Ashley Lauren
Runtime: 1 hours 31 minutes
“Fat” is a raw and brutally honest portrayal of one man’s struggle with obesity and food addiction. The film follows Ken, played by Mel Rodriguez, a morbidly obese man who is trapped in a cycle of self-destructive behavior. As Ken grapples with his weight and the emotional scars of his past, he forms a complex relationship with a young woman named Lydia, portrayed by Ashley Lauren. Together, they confront their demons and search for meaning and redemption in a world that often judges based on appearances.
The film goes beyond weight loss, delving into deeper themes like isolation, addiction, and self-destruction. Phinney’s storytelling is both heartbreaking and hopeful, offering moments of humor and warmth amidst the darkness. Overall, “Fat” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
5. Bridesmaids (2013)
Director: Paul Feig
Starring: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy
Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes
The story revolves around Annie, played by Kristen Wiig, whose life is a mess as she navigates through failed relationships and a failing business. She’s asked to be the maid of honor for her best friend Lillian’s (Maya Rudolph) wedding. Annie had to compete with Helen (Rose Byrne), a wealthy and seemingly perfect woman vying for Lillian’s attention.
Several characters, including Lillian and Megan, engage in conversations about weight loss and dieting, often in the context of wedding preparations. Lillian even experiences pressure from the bride, Diana, to lose weight for the dress.
Disclaimer about these movies:
The film’s explicit depictions of food addiction and self-harm could be triggering for viewers with similar experiences. Remember, the most important takeaway isn’t about replicating their exact paths, but finding the lessons and emotions that resonate with you. Some film’s portrayal of obesity is not necessarily representative of everyone’s experience.
Just like having a good playlist of songs for your workout, one can have a good play list of movies which can help you to achieve your goals. Some movies, you would love to rewatch with others, some alone.
