So, you’ve done your daily exercise, got a bit of work done (if you have any), homeschooled the sprogs (if you’ve got ‘em) and perhaps had a cheeky little nap. Now, here you are again staring blankly at your screen scrolling through your watchlist on a mission to escape reality. And fair enough guys, we’re all starting to go a bit stir crazy staring at the same four walls every day, and if there’s one thing we all have in common right now, it’s the inevitable search for something that makes us feel good, anything good really.
If another thriller about an apocalypse or pandemic is not going to hit the mark, chances are you’re after some guaranteed good vibes. But, how do you know if that show is going to lift your spirits or kill off a pet dog in the opening scene? We know, worst film watching fear ever, right? Well, we’ve got you covered. Whether you're into Netflix, Amazon Prime or prefer a bit of Disney+, we've pulled together a list of feel good films guaranteed to give you all the smileys and lolz you need, because let's face it - we could all do with cheering up right now! You’re welcome.
1. Clueless (1995): light-hearted fun with retro vibes
“This movie is loosely based on Jane Austen's Emma, and it does an excellent job of transferring the story to a contemporary context.” - Sarah Wenk, Common Sense Media
A cheesy AF classic guaranteed to help you escape reality, and if you haven’t seen it before WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?! Seriously though, as the ultimate rich airhead movie, it’s a watch list favourite. Packed with iconic lines, Clueless is a satirical film about teenagers in upscale Beverly Hills that reminds us, no matter how rich and privileged, all teenagers experience the same inner conflict. The added nostalgia vibes are good too, although, aside from that signature co-ord outfit that Alicia Silverstone rocked, what ARE they wearing?!
Available of Netflix.
2. Madagascar (2005): beautiful but hysterical animal CGI
“Here is a family movie from which absolutely nothing is expected, and yet it's one of the week's best releases: a muscular, potent and very funny film.”
- Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian
Come on, who didn't love Madagascar? Don’t even try to fight it. We all laughed at the crazy antics of Chris Rock’s character of Marty the Zebra, and everyone loves the iconic “I like to move it, move it,” song. This movie isn’t just going to make you feel good, it’ll make you belly laugh out loud, no matter your age or penchant for CGI films. And now for a little throwback to help you "move it, move it" all the way to the sofa:
Available on Netflix
3. Space Jam (1996): Looney Tunes & basketball legend Micheal Jordan
“‘Space Jam’ is a happy marriage of good ideas--three films for the price of one, giving us a comic treatment of the career adventures of Michael Jordan, crossed with a Looney Tunes cartoon and some showbiz warfare.” - Roger Ebert
There’s a lot of hype about the new The Last Dance Netflix series, featuring the iconic trio; Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman. Well, we know we can’t wait for the new episode next Monday. So, why not watch a movie about Looney Tunes characters playing basketball with Michael Jordan, Bill Murray and a bunch of aliens, all to save the world. Standard. We know the plot is somewhat shallow, but still, it’s an easy watch sure to make you giggle and keep you entertained... until Monday that is, when we find out what went wrong with the Chicago Bulls - what was Jerry thinking?!
Available on Netflix.
4. To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018): teen fan fiction at its best
“Fans of teen romance will find much to like here, including an engaging performance by Lana Condor as Lara Jean and messages about self-confidence, honesty, and family unity.” - Renee Schonfeld, Common Sense Media
Based on the best-selling author Jenny Han’s YA series, To all The Boys, this film is everything we wanted and didn't even know we needed. You’ve gotta love those iconic Molly Ringwald films; 16 Candles, Pretty in Pink, The Breakfast Club, and of course the amazing romcom that was 10 Things I Hate About You - we miss your face Heath!
To All The Boys I’ve loved Before is nostalgic of the iconic romcoms of the 80s, and the cast is a well-known roster of up and coming actors like Lana Condor (X-men: Apocalypse, Alitta: Battle Angel and Deadly Class) and Noah Centineo (The Fosters, The Perfect Date, and Sierra Burgess Is a Loser) that have blown up since the release of the film. Besides, once you're in the rabbit hole that is watching Noah Centineo, you end up binging all of his movies and TV shows, because... just look at him. Sigh.
Available on Netflix.
5. Aladdin (1992): dreamy sing-along classics
“Jasmine is no Belle and "Aladdin" is no Beast, but add a big blue genie voiced by Robin Williams to the picture and you've got a very entertaining Disney movie.”
- Common Sense Media Editors, Common Sense Media
You know it wouldn't be a feel good film list without a Disney film or two. Anyone that’s recently watched the Will Smith adaption of the film may think they’ve had their fill of Aladdin but let’s be honest, it just doesn't compare to the original we all know and love. Don’t get us wrong, Will Smith was great as the Genie (is there anything he can’t do?!), but nothing compares to the great late - Robin Williams. We miss you too Robin! And while we’re at it, here’s that iconic clip of “friend like me.”
Available on Disney+.
6. The Big Sick (2017): comedic star crossed lovers having that talk
“Edgy and hilarious, Nanjiani and Gordon’s true story of cross-cultural love is a Trump-baiting marvel that’s worth the hype.” - Jimi Famurewa, Empire
Interracial couples in general are not often featured or depicted well in films or television, even more so Asian… well The Big Sick has swooped in to change that, and who doesn't love a romcom with a beautiful message? Even better, this story is based on the real-life romance between Kumail Nanjiani and his wife, Emily Gordon. The Big Sick delivers compelling viewing with cultural differences, aspiring dreams and a heart wrenching twist that really makes you contemplate what’s really important in life. Okay, so when it comes to your plight for feel good films, you might cry a bit, but ultimately you’re left with a surge of feel goodness that is worth the roller coaster ride. Honestly, this movie hits so true, it’s absolutely perfect.
Available on Amazon Prime.
7. Tarzan (1999): beautiful story with antics of elephant-gorilla duo
“A film for Uncle Walt to be proud of - with a strong story- line and superior animation.” - Ian Nathan, Empire
We recently watched this Disney classic again, so we have it on good authority that Tarzan will 100% boost your mood, and give you all the tingles. Phil Collins classics like You’ll Be in My Heart, and Strangers Like Me will have you singing along. Okay, so full disclosure, the first bit is sad, but the rest of the movie is pretty darn amazing. The way Kala takes care of baby Tarzan, who’s immensely adorable, is heart-warming and instills hope. And, since we’re already in the mood for a Disney sing-along, here’s a clip of Strangers Like Me for you to blare out and sing along to. Who knows? Maybe your neighbours will join in!
Available on Disney+.
8. Heathers (1988): teen dark comedy full of good vibes with a dark twist
“But if there was a popular '80s adolescent movie that genuinely did dabble with the darker elements of the teen dream while nominally staying within genre boundaries, it was Heathers.” - Adam Smith, Empire
The Heathers are our favourite mean girls, and this movie’s satirical view of cliques with the embodiment of an 80s American youth, garnered quite the cult following. Then of course there’s the quality cast with Wynonna Ryder (Stranger Things) and Christian Slater (Mr Robot), this film has everything you want from a dark teen comedy. High school drama, conflicted love stories and just a little bit of blood and gore. So, if your idea of feel good vibes is all rainbows and unicorns, this one isn't for you.
Available on Amazon Prime.
9. Up (2009): heart wrenching feel good vibes, if you want a good cry
“In its opening stretch the new Pixar movie “Up” flies high, borne aloft by a sense of creative flight and a flawlessly realized love story.” - Manhola Dargis, The NY Times
If you haven’t seen Up, at least once, then you’re missing out. A widowed elderly man goes on an adventure with a boy scout to fulfil his dream of going to South America. An aesthetically beautiful film that charts the relationship between Carl and his wife, which is moving beyond words. He’s a grumpy old man, but learning about the way he loved his wife makes him hard to hate, which makes his new friendship with the overly enthusiastic boy scout Russel, all the more amusing.
Disclaimer: this film is guaranteed to make you cry right from the start, but it gets better and better, and by the end you actually like the sad part, because it was a growing moment for us all.
Available on Disney+.
10. My Neighbour Totoro (1988): a classic studio ghibli
“An otherworldly tale of childhood and a definitive work of imagination.”
- Dan Jolin, Empire
Any film made by Studio Ghibli is worth a watch with the level of thought and detail that goes into the development. They are all wonderful but their mascot film was My Neighbour Totoro. A brilliant piece that became a cultural icon for Japan and Totoro with its own cult following. The characters bring a kind of innocence and nostalgia for childhood that tugs on the heart strings.. It’s a film that’s awe-inspiring, and heartfelt, and you won't ever regret watching it.
Available on Netflix.
11. Grown Ups (2010): family film vibes with hilarious moments
“The Big Chil(dren) David Spade, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider and Kevin James in "Grown Ups." "Grown Ups” is a pleasant, genial, good-hearted, sometimes icky comedy that's like spending a weekend with well-meaning people you don't want to see again any time real soon.” Roger Ebert
No matter your feelings towards Adam Sandler, Grown Ups is the ultimate feel good movie. Even better than the silly quips and hilarious family conflict moments, including the random cup phone farts and the way David Spade’s character says “Maze”, the surroundings in the lake house are so peaceful, you feel like you’re on holiday with them. It’s kinda like the feeling you get when you watch F.R.I.E.N.D.S - you feel part of the group.
Available on Netflix.
12. Pitch Perfect 2: Bringing out your inner Glee
“Pitch Perfect 2 is a joyous harmony of bawdy humour, campus hi-jinks and crisp musical performances… Some of the jokes fall flat, it's true. But no matter. Funnier and sleeker than Pitch Perfect, this is a rare sequel that hits all the right notes.” Patrick Smith, The Telegraph.
Look, if we had our way you’d watch all three, but alas the original is not currently available on Netflix, Pitch Perfect 2 and 3 however are, so why not enjoy some predictably good vibes and tunes at the same time? There are mixed reviews on the sequels, but honestly, if there’s music, Rebel Wilson and harmonic battles, it’s enough for us. And if you can’t be bothered to watch the whole film, why not shoot straight for a watch of the final song! Instant end of good movie vibes.
Available on Netflix.
13. Silver Linings (2012): Outwardly dark, but ultimately beautiful
“Jennifer Lawrence is the standout in a tonally uneven, eccentric romantic dramedy that fuses The Fisher King with Romy And Michele’s High School Reunion.” Damon Wise, Empire
What’s great about this film is the unexpected and intense way the characters are embodied by Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper. There’s some really dark undertones around mental health, but dealt with so beautifully and sensitively you almost experience that journey from darkness to light with them. It’s definitely not as light-hearted as the other films on this list, but it’s packed with so much heart, you’re guaranteed to feel good when it’s all over.
Available on Netflix.
14. Blended (2014): Great family comedy in the African wilderness
“It took Drew Barrymore to rescue Adam Sandler from himself. The new romantic comedy Blended is Sandler's best movie in years, a funny, lighthearted and--yes, cheesy--picture that has enough goofy antics to win over his most diehard fans yet is written in a way that won't offend broader audiences.”
- Erik Samdahl , filmjabber
If you haven’t seen this film yet, then you really are missing out. It’s a shame most of the reviews are so negative (seriously, it took us ages to find a good one), because honestly there are so many great moments and an overall upbeat feeling that all of the family will enjoy. Even if you don’t like Sandler, chances are you’ll enjoy this movie. Although if you are going to watch it with the kids, there are a couple of “close to the mark” moments, including the little girl saying: “he’s a good Daddy, he just doesn’t have a vagina.” - yes, it’s full of cliches and silly moments, but honestly we all need more silly in our lives right now. If you want to feel good, watch this film. You won’t regret it.
Available on Amazon Prime.
15. Dirty Dancing (1987): Nobody puts baby in the corner
“Endlessly quotable, strangely fascinating and immensely charming, there's a reason that this retains an evergreen appeal. And it takes a hard heart not to grin at the final, euphoric dance number.”
- Caroline Westbrook, Empire.
Well, we couldn’t have a list of feel good films without Dirty Dancing! It doesn’t matter how many times you watch it, the melon carrying, the river lifts, the terrible improv moment when she misses the lift, and just enough sadness to make that final uplifting scene even more powerful. This movie is a little gem that you can watch over and over again - a timeless classic. If you don’t fancy watching it all over again, here’s a quick montage of the best scenes to wrap things up:
Available on Amazon Prime.
Now, put your feet up and prepare to feel good!
There has never been a better time to rewatch some old classics and get a dose of feel good vibes, and we’ve even thrown in some musical gems so you can sing along! A word of warning though, once you get started on the Disney classics, it’s hard not to fall into a binge watching loop, until it’s 2am and you're ordering Disney karaoke!
So, less moping about and curling up under your duvet, stick one of these feel good films on instead. Better yet, why not set yourself the task to watch them all! What do we reckon, all 15 feel good films in 3 days? Totally doable. We’ll race you!
Think we’ve missed a classic in the list? Send us a tweet with your recommendation @wearefribe #feelgoodfilms! We’d love some more inspiration.