Let’s face it. We all need some cheering up now & then. Probably even more so as we still maneuver our way through the aftermath of 2020.
Everyone cheers themselves up differently–whether it’s a nice bath, deep breaths, a face mask, or watching some feel-good films. Relax with these 12 movies that are sure to cheer you up.
Magical Girls in Magical Worlds
Do you believe in magic? In a young girl’s heart?
1. Kiki’s Delivery Service
There’s no mistaking Hayao Miyazaki’s love for creating magical worlds full of magical girls. There are many I could recommend but some deal with much darker themes than Kiki’s Delivery Service. This is an amazing coming-of-age film, about learning to be comfortable in your own skin, finding your place in a community, and overcoming obstacles you put in front of yourself.
2. Matilda
If you’ve ever felt misunderstood by your family or undervalued by your superiors, you’ll relate to the titular magical girl in Matilda. Dive head-first into this fun, colorful, kid’s world. And be prepared to crave some chocolate cake. (Seriously, how did they make it look so good?)
Fun Fact: Danny Devito wrote, directed, starred in, and narrated this ‘90s Roald Dahl adaptation.
Available to rent on Prime Video
3. Beetlejuice
Did you ever go through a goth phase where you wished you could float in mid-air, dancing to Harry Belafonte with your recently-deceased roommates, à la Lydia Deetz at the end of Beetlejuice? Oh, yeah, no, me either. But really, this quirky 80s classic is definitely a movie to revisit when you need some cheering up, even if it’s not Halloween.
Available for rent on Prime Video
You’ve Got A Friend In Me
Featuring cute, cuddly creatures that just wanna be your pal
4. Paddington
I’d be remiss not to mention the cutest little bear from Peru. Paddington is as wholesome as a film can get without being too mushy, too preachy, or just plain bad. Paddington is definitely a film to turn on when you’re feeling sad, if not the film you should turn on when you’re feeling sad.
5. Paddington 2
Yes, Paddington 2 has really knocked out Citizen Kane as the top-rated moving on Rotten Tomatoes. Did anyone else just picture Paddington the bear knocking out Orson Welles in a boxing ring? After watching Paddington (2014), you wouldn’t think it possible to top that. But here comes the Paddsters, saying, “hold my marmalade.”
Available to rent on Prime Video
6. Lilo & Stitch
Lilo & Stitch will remind you that, when you’re feeling alone, there’s actually a little alien out there, waiting to be your friend/pet. This Disney gem is a classic, cute, comforting movie about making your own family, embracing your weirdness, and that you aren’t really alone after all. Plus… we can all agree that Stitch is the OG Baby Yoda, right?
Good, Old-Fashioned Fun
BRB reverting back to my childhood
7. Space Jam
Revisit this 90s cult classic just in time for the long-awaited sequel to premiere on July 16th. Space Jam provides a healthy dose of nostalgia, sports, cartoons, and just general wackiness. It’s a good time. Welcome to the jam. (P.S. If the movie isn’t your thing, at least go check out its killer soundtrack.)
8. Spy Kids
If you ignore the traumatizing Thumb-Thumbs, this movie is 1000% sure to cheer you up. It teaches you the importance of family and also that your parents may actually be spies–even if you think they aren’t cool enough. When you’re done basking in the adventurous, imaginative world of Spy Kids, be sure to watch Spy Kids 2 (we don’t talk about Spy Kids 3).
Available to rent on Prime Video
9. The Parent Trap
Are you an Annie James or a Hallie Parker? Personally, I’m more of a Chessy. But whatever floats your boat. The Parent Trap is a great example of a remake done right! Grab a friend, some Oreos, and a jar of peanut butter and cuddle up to this true 90s treasure.
Grab Bag
A little something for everyone
10. Knives Out
If Knives Out doesn’t have what you’re looking for, I’m not sure what will. This movie has a lot going for it–mystery, comedy, an all star cast, and a little eye candy (yes, I’m referring to Chris Evans in his iconic torn, cream sweater). Its cheering-up abilities include: Daniel Craig’s Southern accent, a character who vomits after every lie they tell, and the unraveling of a truly puzzling whodunit.
11. Fargo
Listen, hear me out. Forget all the blood-in-the snow Coen-bro gloom & doom. Fargo may cheer you up, if only for the sole fact that you probably don’t make as bad of decisions as the main character. Aaaand your problems probably aren’t as severe. So take some comfort in that and enjoy one of Frances McDormand’s finest performances …Don’t cha know. Also, if you’ve seen the rebooted show but haven’t seen the original movie, it’s not too late to redeem yourself!
Available for rent on Prime Video
12. Thelma & Louise
We all need a friend like Louise. After Thelma leaves her crappy husband to go on a road trip with her BFF, her newly-adopted IDGAF attitude will inspire you to let go of whatever may be holding you back from living your best life. Because sometimes you just need to grab your best gal pal, hit the road, and never look back.
Available for rent on Prime Video
How many on the list have you watched? If you enjoyed our recommendations, join our newsletter for more.
