Movies Like In Search of Excellence

If you liked In Search of Excellence (1985), a movie directed by John Nathan, here are 20 movies with a similar feel, based on TMDB's recommendations. Each one links to its cast, trailer and where it's streaming.

1
Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story (1993)
★ 6.9/10
This film is a glimpse into the life, love and the unconquerable spirit of the legendary Bruce Lee. From a childhood of rigorous martial arts training, Lee realizes his dream of opening his own kung-fu school in…
2
Lord Jim (1965)
★ 6.8/10
After being discredited as a coward, a 19th century seaman lives for only one purpose: to redeem himself. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment in 2000.
3
JOY (2024)
★ 6.9/10
A young nurse, a visionary scientist and an innovative surgeon face opposition from the church, state, media and medical establishment, in their pursuit of the world’s first ‘test tube baby’, Louise Joy Brown.
4
Birth of the Dragon (2017)
★ 5.8/10
Set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s Chinatown, this cross-cultural biopic chronicles Bruce Lee’s emergence as a martial-arts superstar after his legendary secret showdown with fellow martial artist Wong Jack Man.
5
The Banker (2020)
★ 7.6/10
In the 1960s, two entrepreneurs hatch an ingenious business plan to fight for housing integration—and equal access to the American Dream.
6
On the Basis of Sex (2018)
★ 7.3/10
Young lawyer Ruth Bader Ginsburg teams with her husband Marty to bring a groundbreaking case before the U.S. Court of Appeals and overturn a century of sex discrimination.
7
Jay Kelly (2025)
★ 6.1/10
Famous movie actor Jay Kelly embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting both his past and present, accompanied by his devoted manager, Ron.
8
Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds (2025)
★ 6.9/10
The elite pilots of the Air Force Thunderbirds display exceptional skill, trust and courage during a high-stakes training season.
9
Redbelt (2008)
★ 6.4/10
Martial artist Mike Terry lives by a strict code of no competitions, for he feels that such contests weaken fighters. After saving a famous action star from a brutal attack, Mike takes a job in the film industry. He…
10
The Monuments Men (2014)
★ 6.1/10
Based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in history, The Monuments Men is an action drama focusing on seven over-the-hill, out-of-shape museum directors, artists, architects, curators, and art historians…
11
Fool's Gold (2008)
★ 5.8/10
Treasure hunter Ben "Finn" Finnegan has sunk his marriage to Tess and his trusty boat in his obsessive quest to find the legendary Queen's Dowry. When he finds a vital clue that may finally pinpoint the treasure's…
12
Animal Farm (2026)
★ 6.3/10
A group of farm animals rise up against their neglectful owner, dreaming of equality and freedom. But as the pigs take control, the revolution turns into tyranny, with truth rewritten and dissent crushed.
13
Top Gun (1986)
★ 7.1/10
For Lieutenant Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell and his friend and co-pilot Nick 'Goose' Bradshaw, being accepted into an elite training school for fighter pilots is a dream come true. But a tragedy, as well as personal…
14
Auto Focus (2002)
★ 6.4/10
A successful TV star during the 1960s, former "Hogan's Heroes" actor Bob Crane projects a wholesome family-man image, but this front masks his persona as a sex addict who records and photographs his many encounters…
15
G.I. Jane (1997)
★ 6.5/10
In response to political pressure from Senator Lillian DeHaven, the U.S. Navy begins a program that would allow for the eventual integration of women into its combat services. The program begins with a single trial…
16
Rescued by Ruby (2022)
★ 7.5/10
Chasing his dream to join an elite K-9 unit, a state trooper partners with a fellow underdog: clever but naughty shelter pup Ruby. Based on a true story.
17
Hands of Stone (2016)
★ 6.6/10
The legendary Roberto Duran and his equally legendary trainer Ray Arcel change each other's lives.
18
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny (2016)
★ 6.2/10
A story of lost love, young love, a legendary sword and one last opportunity at redemption.
19
Propeller One-Way Night Coach (2026)
★ 6.2/10
During the golden age of aviation, a young airplane enthusiast and his mother embark on a cross-country journey to Hollywood—and their simple flight transforms into the trip of a lifetime.
20
Bruce Lee, the Legend (1984)
★ 7.9/10
The Official Golden Harvest tribute to the Master of the Martial Arts Film, Bruce Lee.