Lockdown 3.0 is arguably harder than the previous ones. Most of us are tired of virtually socialising, zoom calls, live workouts and baking banana bread. And we just want to spend our time watching tv shows and films during these cold, dark months.
When I’m feeling down and anxious watching good films, especially ones I’ve seen before, is really comforting.
At times escapism can be good. It allows us to switch off from our daily lives and temporarily remove ourselves from current stressful situations. It can be a therapeutic distraction that can give our minds a rest.
So, we have created a list of feel-good films to watch when you are feeling low. We hope these will help to make you smile.
Shrek
I couldn’t create a list of movies without including the Shrek series. They are a classic throwback with some great soundtracks, based on the lives of Ogres and fairy-tale creatures. They are light-hearted and easy to watch, but first and second movies are a clear favourite.
Paddington
Both these films are a joy to watch. They follow the life of a marmalade loving bear, named Paddington. After leaving his aunt he ventures to London to find a new life. These films are fun to watch and a true form of escapism. With a lovely plot and a great cast this film is perfect to watch when things are tough. The Paddington films are the movie equivalent of a warm hug.
Bend It Like Beckham
It follows the life of aspiring footballer, Jesminder Bhamra and her sister’s wedding. Jesminder’s family does not want her to play football, but with the help of friend Jules Paxton (Keira Knightley), she secretly joins a local semi-pro team. It’s an old school film with a happy, funny, upbeat plot.
Devils Wears Prada
This film follows Andy (Anne Hathaway), a recent college graduate who lands a job at the prestigious Runway magazine as an assistant to the demanding editor Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). It’s both funny and smart making it the perfect film to get lost in.
Notting Hill
If Hugh grant and Julia Roberts aren’t enough, this classic rom-com will have you laughing and crying as you enjoy a somewhat unrealistic British fairy tale. Familiarity is a great comfort when life is overwhelming, so Notting Hill is a great feel-good movie to rewatch when you are feeling down.
Madagascar
Another animation because children’s films are easy to watch, they are relatively short and are often way more fun. The film sees a group of animals from New York’s Central Park Zoo get lost and end up in Madagascar where they must adapt to life in the wild.
Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle
This remake of an old classic follows a group of teenagers who play a magical computer game which sees them turn into the avatars in the game. The film is full of adventure, love and comedy. An easy watch and true escapism.
The Personal History Of David Copperfield
A beautiful take on a Dickens novel. This comedy drama is fun to watch, with moments that will make you laugh and cry. With a fantastic cast (yes, I love Dev Patel), this adaptation follows the life of David Copperfield from birth to adulthood. A wonderful, slightly chaotic, yet uplifting movie.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Another old school rom-com that sees Fotoula Portokalos, a Greek American woman who falls in love with non-Greek Ian Miller. It follows their family dynamics, which can often be frustrating whilst also being incredibly heart-warming and loving.
Nia Vardalos originally wrote this film as a play, partially based upon her own life.
Rocketman
A music biopic based on the beginning of Elton John’s career. If you are a fan of his music then this film is a delight, filled with vibrant musical numbers, beautiful costumes and electric energy. A heartfelt yet exciting film.
