Have you watched the heartwarming movie Heaven is for Real and are looking for more inspiring films like it? This 2014 drama, based on the true story of a young boy’s near-death experience, touched the hearts of audiences with its uplifting message of faith and hope. If you enjoyed this movie, you’ll be glad to know there are many other great films out there with similar themes.
In this post, we’ll count down the top 17 movies that share common elements with Heaven is for Real, such as Christian themes, true stories of faith and perseverance, and explorations of the afterlife. Whether you’re a believer or just enjoy feel-good cinema, these picks are sure to move and inspire you. Let’s dive in!
1. Miracles from Heaven (2016)
Kicking off our list is another film based on an incredible true story. Miracles from Heaven stars Jennifer Garner as Christy Beam, a devoted mother whose young daughter Anna (Kylie Rogers) is suffering from an incurable digestive disorder. After a freak accident, Anna has a near-death experience and visits heaven before being miraculously healed of her condition.
Like Heaven is for Real, this movie depicts a child’s journey to the afterlife and how it transforms her family’s faith. It’s a tearjerker for sure, but watching the Beam family weather such difficult trials is ultimately very uplifting. If you need a good cry and want to feel inspired by the power of belief, Miracles from Heaven delivers.
2. The Case for Christ (2017)
For a film that takes a more investigative approach to questions of faith, check out The Case for Christ. Based on the bestselling book by Lee Strobel, this movie follows an atheist journalist who sets out to disprove Christianity after his wife becomes a believer. Despite his initial skepticism, Lee’s research into the historical evidence for Jesus leads him on an unexpected spiritual journey.
While not as overtly supernatural as Heaven is for Real, The Case for Christ does an excellent job dramatizing one man’s intellectual and emotional struggle with faith. Mike Vogel gives a compelling lead performance as Lee, and the supporting cast includes veterans like Faye Dunaway and Robert Forster. Whether you share Lee’s doubts or not, his quest for the truth makes for a thought-provoking watch.
3. I Can Only Imagine (2018)
Another hit Christian film, I Can Only Imagine tells the story behind the eponymous song – the best-selling Christian single of all time. J. Michael Finley stars as Bart Millard, the lead singer of MercyMe, who wrote “I Can Only Imagine” about his complicated relationship with his abusive father (Dennis Quaid).
Like Heaven is for Real, this movie grapples with questions of faith and the afterlife, as Bart envisions what it will be like to stand before God. But the heart of the story is Bart’s journey of forgiveness and reconciliation with his dad. Quaid gives an especially powerful performance as a man broken by his own pain but desperate to make things right with his son. Keep the tissues handy for this one.
4. Letters to God (2010)
Inspired by a true story, Letters to God follows a young boy’s battle with cancer and the lives he touches along the way. Eight-year-old Tyler (Tanner Maguire) copes with his illness by writing letters to God, which end up in the hands of a troubled mailman (Jeffrey Johnson) who is struggling to find his own faith.
This movie shares a lot of themes with Heaven is for Real – a child’s unshakable belief, a parent’s anguish, a community coming together in prayer. Some may find it overly sentimental, but Letters to God earnestly portrays the power of faith in dark times. It’s a poignant reminder to keep hope alive, even when God’s plan is unclear.
5. God’s Not Dead (2014)
One of the most successful Christian films of all time, God’s Not Dead follows a college student named Josh (Shane Harper) whose faith is challenged by an atheist philosophy professor (Kevin Sorbo). When the professor declares that “God is dead,” Josh sets out to prove him wrong in a series of debates that shake up the entire campus.
While not based on a specific true story like Heaven is for Real, God’s Not Dead was inspired by real-life court cases of Christian students facing discrimination. The film’s depiction of academia as hostile to faith is controversial, but its David vs. Goliath premise is undeniably compelling. If you want to see an underdog stand up for his beliefs, this movie will have you cheering.
6. Breakthrough (2019)
Another tear-jerking true story, Breakthrough depicts the miraculous recovery of a teenage boy who fell through the ice and was pronounced dead for 45 minutes. Chrissy Metz stars as Joyce Smith, the boy’s mother who refuses to give up on her son and prays ceaselessly for his healing.
Like Heaven is for Real, Breakthrough shows the power of faith in the face of impossible odds. It’s a testament to a mother’s love and the ripple effect one family’s story can have on an entire community. With a talented cast that also includes Josh Lucas and Topher Grace, this movie is a stirring reminder that miracles do happen.
7. 90 Minutes in Heaven (2015)
Based on the bestselling book by Don Piper, 90 Minutes in Heaven tells the true story of a pastor who died in a car crash, experienced heaven for 90 minutes, and then returned to life. Hayden Christensen stars as Don, who struggles to recover from his injuries and grapple with his newfound purpose.
Like Colton Burpo in Heaven is for Real, Don faces skepticism and even hostility from those who doubt his story. But he remains steadfast in his belief that he visited the afterlife and was sent back for a reason. 90 Minutes in Heaven is a thought-provoking look at what we believe about life after death and how those beliefs shape our lives here on earth.
8. War Room (2015)
Shifting gears a bit, War Room is a powerful drama about the impact of prayer. The film follows Elizabeth (Priscilla Shirer), a woman whose marriage is falling apart until she meets an older woman named Miss Clara (Karen Abercrombie) who teaches her to fight her battles in prayer.
While not directly about heaven or the afterlife, War Room shares Heaven is for Real’s emphasis on the importance of faith. Through Elizabeth’s struggles, we see how prayer can transform hearts and restore relationships. It’s an empowering message for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
9. Courageous (2011)
Another film from the makers of War Room, Courageous follows a group of police officers who resolve to become better fathers after tragedy strikes close to home. Alex Kendrick stars as Adam Mitchell, who along with his fellow officers makes a pledge to lead his family with integrity and faith.
Like Heaven is for Real, Courageous grapples with questions of fatherhood and what it means to leave a legacy. It’s a powerful call to step up and be the dads our kids need, even when it’s hard. With themes of integrity, community, and of course faith, this movie will inspire you to be a better parent and person.
10. The Shack (2017)
Based on the controversial bestselling novel, The Shack grapples with the problem of evil and the nature of God. Sam Worthington stars as Mack, a man reeling from the abduction and murder of his young daughter. In the depths of his despair, Mack has a supernatural encounter with God (Octavia Spencer) that transforms his understanding of love and forgiveness.
Like Heaven is for Real, The Shack imagines what it would be like to meet God face to face. While the film’s unorthodox portrayal of the Trinity caused some backlash, its central message of healing and grace is undeniably powerful. If you’ve ever struggled to make sense of suffering, The Shack offers a thought-provoking perspective.
11. Risen (2016)
For a fresh take on the Easter story, check out Risen. Joseph Fiennes stars as Clavius, a Roman tribune tasked with investigating the disappearance of Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. As Clavius interviews witnesses and tries to piece together what happened, he finds his worldview challenged by the testimonies of the disciples.
While not directly about heaven, Risen explores the earth-shattering implications of Jesus’ resurrection. By telling the story through the eyes of a nonbeliever, the film invites us to examine the evidence and decide for ourselves what we believe. It’s a gripping historical drama that breathes new life into a familiar tale.
12. The Star (2017)
If you’re looking for a family-friendly film that still packs an emotional punch, consider The Star. This animated movie tells the story of the Nativity from the perspective of a brave donkey named Bo and his animal friends. As Bo embarks on an adventure to follow the star to Bethlehem, he learns important lessons about friendship, courage, and destiny.
With an all-star voice cast that includes Steven Yeun, Gina Rodriguez, and Oprah Winfrey, The Star is a delightful retelling of the Christmas story. Like Heaven is for Real, it affirms that God has a plan for each of us, no matter how small we may feel. This movie is perfect for snuggling up with your little ones and celebrating the reason for the season.
13. Ben-Hur (2016)
A remake of the 1959 classic, Ben-Hur tells the epic story of a Jewish prince (Jack Huston) who is falsely accused of treason and seeks revenge against his adoptive brother (Toby Kebbell). As Ben-Hur’s quest for vengeance consumes him, a chance encounter with Jesus of Nazareth offers a different path.
While not explicitly about the afterlife, Ben-Hur is a powerful story of faith, forgiveness, and redemption. Like Heaven is for Real, it shows how an encounter with the divine can change the trajectory of a life. With stunning visuals and gripping action sequences, this movie is a must-see for fans of historical dramas.
14. Soul Surfer (2011)
Based on the incredible true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, Soul Surfer follows a teenage girl’s journey to reclaim her passion after losing her arm in a shark attack. AnnaSophia Robb stars as Bethany, who relies on her faith and family to overcome seemingly impossible odds and get back on her surfboard.
Like Heaven is for Real, Soul Surfer grapples with questions of God’s plan in the face of suffering. But it’s also a triumphant story of resilience and determination. Bethany’s unwavering spirit will inspire you to chase your own dreams, no matter what obstacles stand in your way. With stunning surf footage and a stellar cast, this movie is a feel-good gem.
15. The Nativity Story (2006)
Another great choice for the holiday season, The Nativity Story offers a reverent and moving portrayal of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. Keisha Castle-Hughes stars as Mary, a young woman whose faith is tested when she learns she will give birth to the Son of God. Oscar Isaac co-stars as Joseph, her devoted husband who trusts in God’s plan.
With lush cinematography and strong performances from its leads, The Nativity Story brings new depth and humanity to a story we’ve heard countless times. Like Heaven is for Real, it’s a reminder that God often works in mysterious ways, calling ordinary people to extraordinary destinies. This movie is perfect for reflecting on the miracle of Christmas.
16. The Young Messiah (2016)
Ever wonder what Jesus was like as a child? The Young Messiah imagines a year in the life of 7-year-old Jesus (Adam Greaves-Neal) as he begins to understand his identity and purpose. Sean Bean co-stars as a Roman centurion tasked with tracking down the boy amid rumors of a new king.
While speculative in nature, The Young Messiah offers a thought-provoking glimpse into Jesus’ early years. Like Heaven is for Real, it grapples with the mystery of the divine breaking into ordinary life. With a talented cast and sensitive direction, this movie is a fresh take on a familiar story.
17. The Passion of the Christ (2004)
No list of faith-based films would be complete without Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. This unflinching depiction of Jesus’ final hours shocked audiences with its brutal violence, but also moved many to tears with its portrayal of sacrificial love. Jim Caviezel stars as Jesus, with Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene and Maia Morgenstern as Mary.
While not for the faint of heart, The Passion of the Christ is a powerful meditation on the meaning of the cross. Like Heaven is for Real, it grapples with the mystery of suffering and the hope of resurrection. Regardless of your beliefs, this movie is a stunning achievement in filmmaking and a testament to the enduring power of the Gospel story.
So there you have it – 17 movies that share the spirit and themes of Heaven is for Real. Whether you’re in the mood for a tearjerker, a family film, or a biblical epic, there’s something on this list for everyone. These movies remind us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope to be found in faith.
Of course, this is just a sampling of the many great faith-based films out there. If you have a favorite that didn’t make the list, share it in the comments below! And if you haven’t seen Heaven is for Real yet, what are you waiting for? Grab some tissues and prepare to be inspired.
Thanks for reading, and happy watching! May these movies uplift your spirit and remind you that, as the song goes, God is good all the time. All the time, God is good.
