Next time you and your girls decide to spend the night in, why not take a step away from your average throwback chick flick? There are plenty of movies out there that we watch on our own time because they aren’t the type that come to mind when planning a sleepover. But, as long as the movie is entertaining enough that your friends stay off their phones while it’s playing, you will have a successful Girls’ Night In. Hopefully these picks will give you some ideas:
1. "The Shawshank Redemption"
You’ve probably heard of this movie before, and it’s reputation might lead you to believe it’s a stereotypical dad movie, but 1) your dad probably has good taste is movies and 2) it’s not what you’d expect. In fact, the whole movie is full of plot twists, so it will keep everyone’s attention. Plus, Morgan Freeman is the perfect narrator for a late-night flick.
2. "Ferris Beuller's Day Off"
If you haven’t seen this, you’re wrong.
3. "The Secret Life of Bees"
Maybe someone told you this movie isn’t that great in comparison to the book, but it’s perfect to watch with your friends if you’re in need of a sob sesh or a break from modern times. “The Secret Life of Bees,” is a contemporary film with a popular cast that takes place in 1964; it is the perfect combination of old and new. I have one friend who doesn’t like watching old movies, but I love old movies, so “The Secret Life of Bees” would be ideal for both of us. This film is for all types of movie-lovers.
4. "Dead Poets Society"
This movie will make you cry. A lot. However, it is also one of the best movies you’ll ever see. While “Dead Poets” might resonate more with high school students, it is truly timeless. The characters are round, relatable, bright and loveable. It will inspire you and your friends to “carpe diem.”
5. "An Education"
Another contemporary film that takes place right after WWII, “An Education” has both modern morals and all the old glamour of beatnik life in England. A few great things about this movie are: an emphasis on both the excitement and dangers of older men; a perfect, vintage wardrobe; Rosamund Pike playing Amy Dunne’s alter-ego, beautiful cinematography; and British accents.
6. "Ruby Sparks"
“Ruby Sparks” is the perfect balance between quirky, funny and dramatic. The beginning will make you and your friends laugh, and you will automatically fall in love with the idea of falling in love with your idea. In other words, picture the most genuinely perfect partner of your dreams coming to life when you least expect it. Would it work out? Is there really such thing as “perfect?” Watch the trailer to find out exactly what happens!
7. "The Kings of Summer"
This movie is kind of similar to “Peter Pan,” but less magical and more hilarious. Biagio and his strange way of life will steal your heart.
8. "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel"
If you and your friends refer to yourselves as “grandmas,” and take online quizzes titled, “Which Grandma Are You?” and spend long car rides and sleepovers making plans to spend the rest of your lives together, this movie is perfect for you. It will make you feel refreshed.
9. "The Birds"
If you’re looking for something scary to watch that even your nervous friend can watch, this is the one for you. Alfred Hitchcock is the master of suspense, and while his movies are decades old and the special effects don’t compare to today’s, you will still find yourself sitting at the edge of your seat throughout almost the entire film. The plot isn’t typical for scary movies, but that’s what makes it so amazing. If you’ve never seen any Hitchcock movies, your next GNI will be the perfect time to start.
10. "Remember the Titans"
This movie will make you laugh, cry, sing and fall in love. It will restore your faith in humanity. Yes, it is about football. Yes, seventhgrade boys love this movie, Yes, it is a Disney movie that discusses brotherhood and racial segregation in 1960s America. Yes, it seems cheesy, but the acting makes up for it. No, you will not be disappointed.
11. "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe"
A blast to your childhood that will make for a whimsical night. Watch this in the winter with cups of hot cocoa and lots of pillows and maybe some tissues.