���For most of us, finals are over or we're still dragging through the last few, praying to anyone and everything that summer gets here soon. We're all ready for a break, and quite a few of us are probably ready for some relief from the tedious amount of studying and writing we've crammed into the last month. One remedy? A good movie. Whether a feel good film or a slightly bittersweet flick that will maybe make you tear up a bit, here's a list of some of my favorite movies to watch when a little encouragement (and heartwarming sadness) in the form of film is necessary.
1. The Princess Bride
I don't know about you, but this is one of my ultimate go-to films for any reason. Sad? Watch this. Date night? Watch this. Need something to reminisce about with your friends? Watch this. It's the perfect combination of romance, action and comedy, with just enough of each to please almost anyone.
2. Amelie
This film is the embodiment of happiness. From the main character, to the cinematography, to the plot, it's all so light and cheery. Amelie's acts of kindness will motivate you to go out to do good deeds as well. And besides, the beautifully captured shots of Paris will brighten you up as well.
3. Grease
Obviously if you're not a huge musical fan, skip to the next movie. But this one is the classic boy finds girl, loses her, then finds her again to drive off happily into the sky in classic car. Yeah, that actually happens. This movie is the perfect weird mix of what we like to think the 50s was like with some of the best musical numbers from cinema. Trust me, you'll be softly whispering the songs after you see this.
4. Legally Blonde
Another one that's not for everyone, but I personally believe that this is one of the best feminist films from this century. What does Elle Woods do when she's unceremoniously dumped & told she's not good enough? Weep? Mope? Sure, some because she's still human. But she proves him wrong. So, so wrong. It's the ultimate rallying call for those who don't feel like they belong - but then prove to everyone that they are in fact worthy.
5. Little Miss Sunshine
If you haven't seen this, please, please go find it and watch it right now. It's such a realistic portrayal of how an actual family relates to each other - sweet moments, jealousy, quirks that are loveable but also odd. It's a bittersweet movie, with a lot of moments that will probably hit your right where it hurts, but the end is perfection.
6. Dead Poets Society
This movie is one of those movies that everyone loves if they've seen it. It pulls out all the big life lessons and is one of Robin Williams' (RIP) best roles. You'll fall in love with the characters and also have your heart broken by the end of it all, but will definitely have some big ideas to chew on afterwards. The appreciation for literature is also a plus for any fellow nerds out there.
7. Steel Magnolias
I watched this for the first time with my mom around the age of 11, and it's so, so good. Disguised as a chick flick, this movie is so much more. If you've noticed, I'm obsessed with relatable characters, and this movie definitely has at least one for everyone. Also, if you're from the south, you'll really identify with this one. Every time I watch, it makes me reminisce about small town life - at least, the good parts.
8. Short Term 12
Ready to have your heart shredded into tiny pieces, then put back together with some perfect storytelling? Watch this. Go into without knowing the story like I did, it's so much better. The realness of this film, and the heavy subjects it deals with, will make you feel all the emotions. Just be ready to cry. And smile. And probably cry some more.
9. Spirited Away
Honestly almost any of Miyazaki's films will bring you out of a slump, but Spirited Away was my childhood favorite, so it's one of the first movies I turn to when I'm feeling bummed. The combination of whimsy and seriousness is so perfect, whether you're a kid or a college student looking for some nostalgia. Miyazaki is the master of making anime films that are perfect for cuddling up and destressing with.
10. The LOTR Trilogy
Now. I understand that this might be an odd choice for some. Gollum? Sauron? Orcs? How will that help someone who's feeling down? Well, I could write a whole paper on this, but Frodo's story is basically the most uplifting tale ever spun. Why? He's so relatable. He's your everyday person, struggling to get by on a mission that was thrown at him. Sound familiar? *whispers* (It's us. That's college, as well). It's message that goodness will always triumph over the dark is comforting as well.
These are only my picks for some movies that will help after the hell of finals week, or after any week where you need to destress. If you have any suggestions, let me know - and keep going as finals come to an end! Good luck to everyone and remember - you've got this. Just think of all the Netflix that will be your reward afterwards.
