In this fast paced and often challenging world we live in that keeps testing us, the allure of feel-good movies is not merely entertainment- but a comforting escape, a cinematic embrace that soothes the soul. These films possess a unique power to uplift our spirits, leaving us with a warm afterglow long after the credits roll.
Some films tickle our funny bone while others show the beauty in the hardships we must face in life. In exploration of Great Movies, we delve into enchanting world of feel-good films, celebrating their ability to inspire, bring joy, and remind us of the simple, yet profound, beauty of the human experience, perhaps giving us a well needed hug of “things will get better”.
Groundhog Day
Director: Harold Ramis
For Fans of : Comedy, Bill Murray
Where to Watch:
This classic comedy stars Bill Murray as Phil Connors, a cynical and self-centered TV weatherman. Phil is reluctantly assigned to cover the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. However, he finds himself inexplicably stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day (February 2) over and over again.
Initially frustrated and attempting to exploit the situation, Phil soon realizes the futility of his actions and starts using the repeated day to learn new skills, help others, and become a better person. As he goes through countless Groundhog Days, he develops genuine connections with the townspeople, including his producer Rita (Andie MacDowell). Phil’s transformation is a central theme, showcasing the power of personal growth and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.
Bill Murray’s performance is crucial to the film’s success, blending comedy with moments of introspection. “Groundhog Day” is celebrated for its unique premise, witty writing, and the ultimately uplifting message that even the most self-centered individual can find redemption and meaning in their life.
When I initially watched ‘Groundhog Day’, I enjoyed it so much and everything was done so seamlessly- may it be the tone of the movie, characterization or atmosphere the movie creates; that I did not realize the efforts it actually needed to get it all right. After watching the movie, the song ‘I Got You Babe’ starts playing in your mind unexpectedly and that is when you realize that you have seen a memorable film that is going to stay with you for some time.
This movie is also part of our Great Movies List.
Rushmore
Director: Wes Anderson
For Fans of : Quirky Comedy
Where to Watch:
I didn’t expect such depth from what seemed like a simple film. It’s actually quite underrated. I realize now that I haven’t given Wes Anderson enough credit for his work. It takes a talented filmmaker to create something from a movie like this one.
Rushmore is about Max Fischer, who falls in love with a teacher at his university, Rosemary, who teaches first-grade students. Things take a turn when his newly made friend, a wealthy industrialist named Herman, starts a relationship with her. It is a movie that walks in a specific style. The opening and closing of curtains between the movie, the British accent, and its quirkiness- like the way Herman runs after talking to Rosemary. Rushmore gets its tone right early in the movie when it shows Max as the president or founder of so many clubs. It is hilarious how they show that he is good at everything except academics with those scenes.
Rushmore is hilarious from start to end. It isn’t the type of hilarious you would find in The Hangover or Superbad. It is the type that also has emotions involved. It is meant to make you feel relationships. There is love, there is friendship and they are genuine. Not just for namesake.
Although Rushmore won’t be added to the ‘Great Movies’ list, it has become one of my favorite movies now. It is going to be a movie I would visit to relax and have fun. You want an enjoyable movie with good filmmaking? This is the one!
The Terminal
Director: Steven Spielberg
For Fans of : Tom Hanks, Romance, Comedy
Where to Watch:
“The Terminal” (2004) follows Viktor Navorski, played by Tom Hanks, who becomes stranded at John F. Kennedy International Airport due to a political coup in his fictional Eastern European home country. Unable to enter the United States or return home, Viktor lives in the airport terminal, facing bureaucratic challenges and forming unexpected connections with airport staff and fellow travellers. As he adapts to his peculiar circumstances, Viktor’s resilience and positive attitude make him a beloved figure in the airport community. His resourcefulness and ability to make the best of a challenging situation bring humor and heart to the story.
The film, directed by Steven Spielberg, weaves together elements of comedy and drama. The Terminal finally is beautifully led by Tom Hanks that finds happiness in unexpected places.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Director: John Hughes
For Fans of : Teen Comedy
Where to Watch:
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” centers around Ferris Bueller, played by Matthew Broderick, a charismatic and clever high school senior. Ferris decides to skip school for the day and embarks on an elaborate adventure in downtown Chicago with his friends, Cameron Frye (Alan Ruck) and Sloane Peterson (Mia Sara).
Honestly the movie is simply like hanging out with your friends and chilling. It is a celebration of youthful rebellion and the desire to break free from the constraints of routine. The movie captures the essence of teenage exuberance, friendship, and the pursuit of joy, making it a beloved classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. The iconic line “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it” encapsulates the film’s central theme of savoring the moment.
Good Will Hunting
Director: Gus Van Sant
For Fans of : Robin Williams, Life Wisdom
Where to Watch:
Despite his raw talent, Will (Matt Damon) struggles with his troubled past, abusive foster homes, and an innate distrust of people. When Professor Gerald Lambeau (Stellan Skarsgård) discovers Will’s abilities, he tries to help him break free from his circumstances. However, it’s a therapist Dr. Sean Maguire (Robin Williams) who makes a breakthrough by connecting with Will emotionally and helping him confront his painful past.
The heart of the film lies in the evolving relationship between Will and Sean, exploring themes of intellect, emotional healing, and self-discovery. Will’s journey is also intertwined with his romantic involvement with Skylar (Minnie Driver).
“Good Will Hunting” received critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling, powerful performances, and exploration of themes such as identity, healing, and the importance of human connections in overcoming personal struggles. It won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay for Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.
The Intern
Director: Nancy Meyers
For Fans of : Robert DeNiro, Genuine Relationships
Where to Watch:
“The Intern” is one of my favourite movies in this list. A movie which you can drag to any time of and runtime and still enjoy it. The story revolves around Ben Whittaker, played by Robert De Niro, a 70-year-old widower who becomes a senior intern at an online fashion retailer, About the Fit, founded by Jules Ostin, portrayed by Anne Hathaway. Ben brings a wealth of life experience to the company and quickly becomes an invaluable mentor to his much younger colleagues.
Jules, the overwhelmed founder, initially skeptical of having a senior intern, comes to appreciate Ben’s wisdom, work ethic, and support. As Ben navigates the modern workplace, he forms meaningful connections with his coworkers and even helps Jules deal with the challenges of balancing work and personal life. The unconventional yet beautiful relationship between Ben and Jules brings humor and even some heartfelt moments. This relationship alone is so well developed and defined that it gives some kind of satisfaction that a movie could pull off such a beautiful thing
It's A Wonderful Life
Director: Frank Capra
For Fans of : Classic Movies, Romance, Life-Changing Movies
Where to Watch:
There are mystery movies that once seen cannot be rewatched because they give themselves away. Then there are movies like ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ which turn out to be the most rewatchable movies. It surely is a timeless classic. The more you watch it the more familiar you get with it. This was the first movie Frank Capra (director) made after returning from service in World War II. He wanted it to celebrate the lives and dreams of America’s ordinary citizens, who tried their best to do the right thing by themselves and their neighbours.
The story unfolds on Christmas Eve as George, facing financial ruin and contemplating suicide, is visited by an angel named Clarence (Henry Travers) who shows him what life would have been like if he had never been born.
The narrative explores George’s selfless life, where he sacrificed personal dreams to help others and run his family’s savings and loan business in the small town of Bedford Falls. The alternate reality portrayed by Clarence reveals the positive impact George has had on the community and the lives of those he loves. The film encapsulates themes of compassion, sacrifice, and the profound effect that one individual can have on the lives of many.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” has become a holiday classic, cherished for its portrayal of the importance of human connections and the transformative power of a compassionate and purposeful life.
Lady Bird
Director: Greta Gerwig
For Fans of : Teen Comedy, Drama, Delicate relationship with parents
Where to Watch:
Lady Bird at first seems to be a simple coming-of-age movie but within a few minutes turns out to have something unique and fresh. When the emotions come into the picture it gets complex and the movie hits hard. It is evident that Greta Gerwig (director and writer of the movie) took a lot of inspiration from her own life growing up in Sacramento for her incredible directorial debut.
The film is a depiction of financial strain, natural humour, overbearing love, awkward adolescence, romantic relationships, and complicated relationships with parents and offers its audience a glimpse of all this nostalgic joy that everyone goes through.
Then there are also displays of the tenderness of genuine goodbyes to your best friend while leaving for college that hit right in the heart. It gives you so many messages that will make it worthwhile and the film makes a special place in your heart. Now you might have seen all this but it was not quite like this. It is not about what the film shows but much about how it is shown.
The Truman Show
Director: Peter Weir
Where to Watch:
“The Truman Show” (1998), directed by Peter Weir, is a satirical comedy-drama starring Jim Carrey as Truman Burbank. Truman lives an ordinary life in the idyllic town of Seahaven, but unbeknownst to him, his entire existence is a reality television show broadcast to a global audience. Truman is the unwitting star of a 24/7 broadcast, with every aspect of his life, from his birth to his relationships, carefully orchestrated by the show’s creator, Christof (Ed Harris).
As Truman begins to notice anomalies and inconsistencies in his seemingly perfect world, he becomes increasingly suspicious and curious. His journey to discover the truth becomes a captivating exploration of free will, media manipulation, and the desire for authenticity in a fabricated reality. Despite the constant surveillance and attempts to control his life, Truman’s determination to break free leads to a dramatic and poignant climax.
The Truman Show is not only enjoyable but a depiction of Carrey’s acting skills in a drama movie.
About Time
Director: Richard Curtis
For Fans of : Romance, Time Travel
Where to Watch:
“About Time” is one of those movies which has helped me in my life to go through situations I am afraid to be in and has also taught me to enjoy the beauty of little things in life. Rom-Com king Richard Curtis brings to us this beautiful movie. In the film, we get a quirky concept, a delightful setting, a romantic relationship, some sentimental scenes that will get you teary, and an unusually fascinating yet beautiful message.
Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) gets to know about a little secret from his dad (Bill Nighy) on his 21st birthday. The men in his family can travel in time. But his dad makes it clear – you can just travel in your past life. You cannot go in the future or even in the past and try to stop the World Wars. Now when you get to know that you have this special power, what would you do? Bring in some extra time in your life to obtain money and fame? Relive the moments you mess up in life? Try to make your life into this perfect tale? Avoid regret of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities you get – may it be meeting that girl you want to spend the rest of your life with, making up with people you have somehow lost contact with, or may it be your career.
The movie does it all. Above all, what makes the movie close to my heart is not just wondering how life would have been if I had this gift, but is actually the beautiful message it gives at the end that can be embodied in our normal life. It has become a movie I like to visit once in a while just to remind myself to cherish those little things that make this world a sweet place to live in, which our tiny mind tends to ignore in all its tensions and worries.
Amelie
Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
For Fans of : Introvert Movies, Romance
Where to Watch:
If you get a group of introverts together and tell them to make a movie about introverts, ‘Amelie’ is probably the movie you would get. It has got all the quirkiness – secretly helping others, thinking about questions that fascinate only you, or may it be the small things that give you so much happiness.
One day, after listening to the news of the death of Princess Diana, Amelie is startled and drops a perfume stopper on the ground, leading her to discover someone’s old childhood metal box. After tracking down the person to whom the box belongs, Amelie returns the box to him. But not just like any person would return it. She keeps the box in a phone booth and calls the booth from a distance where she can see it. Bretodou, who finds his childhood box, is moved to tears by the memories it held. And Amelie has found her mission in life. She would go on to do good deeds around society but not in any old way. Instead with heavily planned strategies that amuse her and carefully avoiding any human interactions in the process.
We Bought A Zoo
Director: Cameron Crowe
For Fans of : Father-child relationship, Animals
Where to Watch:
“We Bought a Zoo” (2011), directed by Cameron Crowe, is a family-friendly drama based on the true story of Benjamin Mee, played by Matt Damon. Following the death of his wife, Benjamin decides to make a fresh start for his family by purchasing a dilapidated zoo in the countryside.
The film chronicles Benjamin’s journey as he takes on the monumental task of renovating the zoo and managing its diverse animal inhabitants. The challenges he faces in the process become a metaphor for healing and rebuilding a fractured family. His relationship with his two children, Dylan (Colin Ford) and Rosie (Maggie Elizabeth Jones), is central to the narrative as they cope with grief and adapt to their new, unconventional life.
Benjamin encounters various obstacles, from dealing with skeptical zookeepers to meeting the rigorous standards for zoo accreditation. Through these trials, he discovers a sense of purpose and a renewed appreciation for the importance of family, love, and the natural world. Overall it is a really
The Pursuit of Happyness
Director: Gabriele Muccino
For Fans of : Growth from Hardships, Father-son Relationship
Where to Watch:
“The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006), directed by Gabriele Muccino, is a biographical drama starring Will Smith as Chris Gardner. The film tells the true-life story of Gardner’s struggle with homelessness while pursuing a career as a stockbroker in San Francisco in the early 1980s.
Chris Gardner faces numerous hardships, including financial instability, eviction, and the challenges of being a single parent to his young son, Christopher (played by Jaden Smith). Despite these adversities, Gardner remains determined to secure a better future for himself and his son. He battles homelessness by participating in a competitive internship program at a brokerage firm, all while enduring the daily struggles of life on the streets.
“The Pursuit of Happyness” gets tough to watch sometimes. But at the end it is really an uplifting story of triumph over adversity and teaches about true happiness.
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Director: Zoya Akhtar
For Fans of : Friendship movies, Adventure, Romance
Where to Watch:
“Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” revolves around three childhood friends – Kabir (Abhay Deol), Arjun (Hrithik Roshan), and Imran (Farhan Akhtar) – who reunite for a bachelor road trip across Spain. The plan is that each one of them will plan a secret adventure that the other two have no idea of what it is going to be. Only once they reach Spain will the adventures be revealed, because after that, there is no turning back.
These experiences force the friends to confront their fears, insecurities, and unresolved issues. These seem to give gravity to the movie and in fact open a perspective on how one must live.
All the three actors are extremely talented and act very naturally in the hilarious as well as serious situations they get into. If you got some friends over or are alone and want to relax and enjoy- “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” can never go wrong.
Forrest Gump
Director: Robert Zemeckis
For Fans of : Tom Hanks, Innocent Protagonist, Motivational Movies
Where to Watch:
Forrest, a man with a low IQ but a pure heart, unintentionally becomes part of several pivotal moments in American history from the 1950s to the 1980s. Despite his intellectual limitations, Forest achieves remarkable success in various fields, including college football, the military, and the shrimp business. His life is intertwined with his childhood friend and love, Jenny, whose troubled life contrasts with Forest’s simplicity.
Throughout the film, it imparts simple wisdom and life lessons through Gump’s journey. The film is known for its heartwarming moments and memorable quotes. You surely must have heard of “Run, Forrest Run” 😊.
Chef
Director: Jon Favreau
For Fans of : Mouth-Watering Food, Father-son Relationship
Where to Watch:
“Chef” is a 2014 film written and directed by Jon Favreau, who also stars as Chef Carl Casper. The story revolves around Carl, a once-renowned chef who falls out with his controlling restaurant owner (Dustin Hoffman) and decides to start a food truck business. Fueled by a desire for creative freedom and the encouragement of his ex-wife (Sofia Vergara) and friend (John Leguizamo), Carl embarks on a cross-country journey with his son Percy (Emjay Anthony).
The food truck, named El Jefe, serves Cuban sandwiches and other delectable dishes. Along the way, Carl and Percy bond which bring a lot of feel-good moments, and the social media buzz around their food truck grows. The film celebrates the joy of cooking and is filled with scenes of mouth-watering dishes. Believe me, you’re going to get hungry after this one.
Spirited Away
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
For Fans of : Studio Ghibli, Anime,
Where to Watch:
Spirited Away is the kind of movie, I could start anytime and still enjoy. It brings in the small kid in me and is even soothing.
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, the story follows a young girl named Chihiro, who, while moving to a new neighborhood, becomes trapped in a mysterious and magical world. When her parents are transformed into pigs after eating enchanted food, Chihiro takes a job at a bathhouse owned by the witch Yubaba in order to find a way to rescue her family and return to her world.
As Chihiro navigates the mystical realm, she encounters various magical creatures, spirits, and challenges. Spirited Away is one of the most beautifully animated movies I have seen. The beauty of it all is how the movie creates a picture, or a map of the entire magical place. That is how detailed it is!
“Spirited Away” received widespread acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003. It has since become a beloved classic, captivating audiences of all ages with its enchanting narrative and visual splendor.
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