Stronger

While 2016's Patriots Day looked at the big picture of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, Stronger focuses instead on the survival and recovery story of just one of its victims, Jeff Bauman, who lost both legs in the blast. Jake Gyllenhaal plays Jeff, and the film tracks the before, during and aftermath of his ordeal, concentrating not only on his physical rehabilitation, but also on his struggle with his elevation to the status of the pin-up boy of the "Boston Strong" movement. Gyllenhaal is perfect for the part, and there's an equally fine support performance from Miranda Richardson as Jeff's mother. While the movie occasionally slides into mawkishness, it's a strong story, solidly told, and perfect for audiences seeking a little emotional uplift.