The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry released in cinemas this week, here are eight similar movies if it’s left you craving more.
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (2023)
This is a 2023 movie starring Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton. After receiving a letter from an old colleague, Queenie Hennessey, stating that she’s in a hospice and bidding him farewell – Harold decides to walk from the south of England to Berwick-upon-Tweed to spark hope for her. As he walks, it becomes clear that he’s doing this to earn forgiveness, as he reminisces about his past mistakes; especially those involving his estranged son.
Read our full review of this movie here.
The Bucket List (2007)
“The Bucket List” is a 2007 comedy drama starring Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. It is a comedy-drama about two terminally ill friends go on an adventure to complete a bucket list. This involves everything from skydiving, to riding motorcycles on the Great Wall of China and visiting Mount Everest.
“The Bucket List” is similar to “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” because they both deal with themes of getting older and discovering what’s truly important in life. Both movies have main characters who go on journeys that challenge them and help them grow as people. They meet many different people along the way who make them think differently and appreciate life more. Both movies also explore how we deal with regrets and the importance of forgiveness.
The Straight Story (1999)
“The Straight Story” is a drama directed by David Lynch. It is based on the incredible true story of Alvin Straight, who drove across two states on a lawnmower to reconcile with his dying brother. Too disabled to get a drivers license, a slow-moving lawnmower is all he has.
“The Straight Story” is another movie that shares similarities with “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.” Both films follow an older protagonist who embarks on a long journey, encountering a variety of interesting people along the way. “The Straight Story” explores themes of family, forgiveness, and regret as the main character tries to reconnect with his estranged brother. Similarly, “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” explores themes of regret and loss, but also redemption and the importance of human connection. Both films highlight the power of relationships and how they can change our perspective on life. Ultimately, both movies show us that it’s never too late to take action and make meaningful changes in our lives.
Wild (2014)
Wild is a 2014 adventure film starring Reese Witherspoon. It is based on Cheryl Strayed’s 2012 memoir of the same name. The movie is about a young woman hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in order to overcome personal trauma and find inner peace. Along the way, she reflects on her past mistakes and struggles, while also encountering a variety of people who help her on her journey.
“Wild” is another film that shares similarities with “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.” Both movies follow a protagonist on a transformative journey of self-discovery, dealing with themes of personal growth, loss, and the healing power of nature. While “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” sees its protagonist walking across England, “Wild” follows a young woman who hikes the Pacific Crest Trail in an attempt to find herself and come to terms with the death of her mother. Both films feature main characters who are dealing with significant loss and pain, but who are able to find hope and healing through the challenges they face on their journeys. Ultimately, both movies remind us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of personal growth and self-discovery to help us overcome life’s hardships.
Into the Wild (2007)
“Into the Wild” is a 2007 adventure film, about the real life story of Christopher McCandless. After graduation, Chris hitchhiked to Alaska and lived off the land in an abandoned bus – telling nobody where he was going.
“Into the Wild” is similar to “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” in that both movies feature a protagonist who sets out on a journey of self-discovery, encountering a diverse range of people along the way. In “Into the Wild,” a young man named Christopher McCandless gives away his possessions and travels to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Similarly, Harold Fry sets out on a walk across England to visit his dying friend, Queenie Hennessy. Both movies explore themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the importance of human connection. They also show us how these journeys can lead to deep reflection and help us find a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. Ultimately, both films remind us of the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and find hope in the face of adversity.
The Son (2022)
“The Son” is a 2022 movie, which is a loose sequel to the movie “The Father”, from Florian Zeller. Peter (Hugh Jackman) and Beth (Vanessa Kirby) have just had a new-born child and things are going well. However, the re-entry of Peter’s son into his life throws everything off-balance. His son suffers from mental health problems and holds resentment towards his father for how he treated his mother.
“The Son” and “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” share similarities as both explore family, loss, and regret. In “The Son,” Peter tries to connect with his estranged son and acknowledge the pain he’s caused. In “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry,” Harold reflects on his past mistakes, particularly with his son David. Both movies emphasize the importance of family, forgiveness, and communication, and show how regret can impact our lives. Ultimately, they remind us of the fragility of life and the power of human connection.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” is a 2011 movie starring Judi Dench and Bill Nighy. The film is about a group of retirees moving to a retirement home in India. They’re looking to start a new chapter in their lives, learn about themselves and find their place in the world. The film explores themes of aging, personal growth, and the power of human connection.
Both “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” and “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” deal with themes of personal growth and self-discovery. They emphasize the importance of taking risks and embracing change, as well as the power of human connection. Both movies show us that it’s never too late to start anew and find meaning in life. If you couldn’t get enough of Penelope Wilton’s role as a doubtful wife in “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry”, this movie has a treat in-store of you.
A Walk in the Woods (2015)
“A Walk in the Woods” is a 2015 comedy drama, directed by Ken Kwapis. Two friends, Bill and Katz, decide to hike the Appalachian Trail, which spans over 2,000 miles. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, physical exhaustion, and encounters with wildlife. As they trek through the wilderness, they reflect on their lives, their friendship, and the beauty of nature.
Both “A Walk in the Woods” and “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” follow a protagonist on a transformative journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of friendship, human connection, and the healing power of nature. Both movies remind us that life is a journey, and the experiences we have along the way can help shape us into the person we are meant to be.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
Eat Pray Love is a 2010 movie starring Julia Roberts. It follows the true story a recently divorced woman named Liz Gilbert who travels to Italy, India, and Bali in search of self-fulfilment and inner peace. Along the way, she explores different cultures and embarks on a spiritual journey. The film explores themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing new experiences.
Both “Eat Pray Love” and “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” follow a protagonist on a transformative journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of personal growth, embracing new experiences, and the power of human connection. Both movies remind us of the importance of living life to the fullest and finding meaning and purpose in our lives.
These were eight movies similar to “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry”. Are any of these movies your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.
