When life is not going the way that you would like it to, one of the best things that you can do is escape for a few hours into a great movie. If you’re looking for one that will put a smile on your face and add some warmth to your heart, here are our choices of 10 movies that are available right on your Netflix account.
1. The Fundamentals of Caring
This Netflix original sets Paul Rudd, Selena Gomez and newcomer Craig Roberts on a roadtrip across America to see “the country’s lamest sites”. It is heartfelt without being cheesy and both funny and honest. This is a movie even teens and their parents could sit and enjoy together!
2. Inside Out
Rumor has it that Disney will soon be adding their entire film collection to the Netflix stacks. But, for now, there are still some of the recent masterpieces in there to enjoy. You don’t have to be a kid to appreciate (and laugh with) this animated flick. This is the story of a young girl coming to terms with moving and her emotions trying to guide her through. One of the best things about this movie is that it reminds us that all emotions have an important place in our lives.
3. About Time
A love story that everyone can fall in love with, this is the story of a man who is able to go back in time and relive and change any moment that he chooses. Tim (played by Domhnall Gleeson) decides to use this gift to find love (with Rachel McAdams). He is guided through his journey by his father, played by Bill Nighy. This film is a beauty view of family and the possibilities that life can bring.
4. About a Boy
A one-hit-wonder singer living off of the royalties of his famous Christmas song, he (reluctantly) befriends the young boy living next door. They help each other to navigate the world in a unique and utterly endearing way. This is arguably Hugh Grant’s best work. It was recently remade into a television show, which is also available on Netflix and also has its merits.
5. Love Actually
You can’t really talk about feel-good movies without mentioning this Christmas classic featuring a huge cast of British talent. This mix of stories will have you laughing, crying and remembering how wonderful and magical the holidays really can be. While some save it to watch in December, it really is a movie that could help you pick up your spirits no matter what the season.
6. Mona Lisa Smile
Set at Wellesley Girls’ College in the 1950s, this film has Julia Roberts as a young art professor who encourages her students to think for themselves and go against the social norms that rule their lives. Supported with a stellar cast of women including Kirsten Dunst, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Julia Stiles, and Ginnifer Goodwin.
7. RENT
This is not your typical movie musical. Set in the 1980s in New York in the middle of the AIDS crisis, this movie tells the story of a group of artist friends who are squatting in an abandoned building on the Lower East Side. This film is not without its dark moments but celebrates the power of coming together through scary times.
8. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
In a time when most people are afraid of showing any signs of aging, it is refreshing to see a film that is all about the life that can still be lived when you’re in the autumn of your life. This movie tells the story of a young man who opens a home for retirees in India, bringing together a group of British seniors who are looking for an alternative to the standard living offered in England. This film is fun, charming and heartwarming. The sequel is also worth a watch!
9. The Intouchables
This French film is based on the true story of French aristocrat Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caregiver Abdel Sellou, an immigrant from Algeria living in the projects of Paris. Sellou attends the interview for the job of caretaker, hoping not to get hired so that he can continue his welfare benefits. Instead, Philippe likes his unconventional style and hires him. The two drastically improve each other’s lives through their friendship.
10. This Is Where I Leave You
The cast of this film, which includes Tina Fey, Jason Bateman, Adam Driver and Jane Fonda, is enough reason to tune in and watch. This film also has an amazing story and script, showing the week after the family’s patriarch passes away and the family sits shiva. This film shows the ins and outs of a dysfunctional family who don’t necessarily get along but also won’t give up on each other.
If you’re looking for some feel-good fashion choices, check out the Spread Positivity Collection:
