For almost any purpose and during any season, there are many ways to relax. For some of us, that can mean getting a hot cup of iced coffee, going to the gym, hanging out with friends, or taking a trip. A relaxing night in with a timeless, feel-good film, however, is one of the simplest methods to divert your attention from the worries of everyday life and improve your mood in general.
Whatever your inclination, whether it’s an old-school romantic comedy, an animated throwback, or a movie where you’re pulling for the underdog (looking at you, Andy Sachs), the laughter, happy tears, and general mood-lifting are waiting. The best movies to make that frown upside down and that smile endure for a while are on this list, so you can skip the endless scrolling. So take a seat back, unwind, grab a bag of your favourite hot chips or popcorn, and let these uplifting movies lead you to the silver screen.
#1 Forest Grump
Although Forrest Gump has its critics, Tom Hanks’ portrayal of the good-hearted Alabaman guy in the film has cemented its place in American culture. Even though Forrest faces numerous physical and mental difficulties, he still manages to live his life and participate in some of the most important events in the history of the country. The film crosses many genres and eras, but always manages to re-connect with the audience through its enduring love tale.
#2 Mamma Mia
The holy grail treatment for a terrible day may consist of a Greek island, Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried, and an Abba soundtrack. Whether it’s the memorable musical moments, the storyline involving a destination wedding, or the stunning scenery, viewing this movie will have you feeling upbeat and happy.
#3 Paddington
An animated talking bear? There isn’t anything more uplifting than that! The Brown family adopts Paddington Bear after he ends up on the streets of London. An nasty taxidermist, convincingly portrayed by Nicole Kidman, is intrigued by the anthropomorphic bear’s very character. Paddington’s CGI portrayal in the movie is less unsettling than earlier live-action CGI animal attempts, and it is a delightful and family-friendly film. The film and its follow-up are both acclaimed family films.
#4 Father of the Bride
“A girl’s first love is her father,” as the saying goes. What transpires, though, when a girl meets a boy who threatens to take her away from her father in just 3 months? In this instance, the father is a frazzled Steve Martin who is coping with a hastily scheduled wedding by an odd French, performed by Martin Short . We witness a touching representation of the holy father-daughter relationship in a sequence of confrontations between the bride, Annie, and her father, George. The comedy relief provided by old friends and artists Steve Martin and Martin Short will have you in stitches if that isn’t enough to draw you in.
#5 Crazy Rich Asians
Ever consider how it might feel to learn that your significant other is secretly descended from a wealthy family located halfway around the world? When Rachel’s boyfriend—also an NYU professor—invite her to his sister’s wedding in Singapore, she finds herself in just this situation. The magnificent Singapore backdrop, vibrant cast, and comic edge of Crazy Rich Asians made it an instant classic when it debuted in theatres in 2018. It was also a welcome addition to the rom-com genre and the first Hollywood film since 1993 to have a cast that was primarily of Chinese heritage.
#6 Wine Country
Wine Country is a comedy film that follows many outstanding female comedians for a night of drinking and celebration as one of the women is getting married. The cast includes Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch, Amy Poehler, and others. Yet as the long weekend progresses, the six lifelong friends’ problems at work begin to surface, completely upsetting their girls’ trip. The on-screen chemistry between the six major actors is evident in Amy Poehler’s feature film directorial debut. And with the magnificent sights and sounds of the stunning California vineyards, what’s not to love?
#7 27 Dresses
The “always the bridesmaid, never the bride” cliché, an implicit sibling rivalry, a tonne of weddings, and Katherine Heigl and James Marsden belting out “Benny and the Jets” while intoxicated are all present in this film. Extra points if your personal wardrobe has ever collapsed under the weight of your many bridesmaid dresses, as Jane’s did in the movie starring Katherine Heigl.
