Movies by Mood
Some people draw, some people journal, others read, cook, knit, or a whole other laundry list of things people do to unwind and relax. Me? Well, I enjoy watching movies the most. Something about snuggling in with a snack and a new story to dive into for an evening really brings me joy. Being transported to a different time and place with characters, plots, and conflicts is an experience like no other (not to romanticize life too much). I feel like every once in a while everyone needs to take two hours out of their life to just sit and experience joy, fear, love, and heartbreak through someone else's lens. So, I am taking the liberty as a self proclaimed movie critic and connoisseur to give some suggestions on what you non-movie watchers should view when you’re feeling some type of way.
What to watch when feeling well…sad.
This I feel like is an appropriate feeling to take a chill pill and just sit and watch a movie to decompress. So, my recommendation for watching when you're sad is “Good Will Hunting”. I know it seems like an odd suggestion but hear me out. This movie in essence is about a young man finding himself. Will (Matt Damon) is a legitimate genius working as a janitor at MIT when he solves an “unsolvable” math problem. The plot develops with his journey starting at the school with a full ride but a catch–he must attend therapy sessions to help get his personal life and mental health on the right track. This movie, in some ways, is heart wrenching and can help get out your sad cries. But trust the process here because something about watching young Matt Damon fall in love and find himself at the same time is quite the experience and I think has the power to turn around a sad mood and maybe even shed a happy tear.
Want to feel warm and fuzzy?
One of my personal favorite movies is perfect to make anyone smile and hold that warm fuzzy feeling. The movie is “You’ve Got Mail” starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Anyone who has seen 90’s chick flicks knows these two are just a joy to watch. The story takes us on a ride as hatred turns to friendship turns to love with unexpected twists and turns in between. This film makes you fall in love with each character in a different way and in some ways feels a little bit magic. Once the last scene ends, the comedy and wit this movie has are sure to put a smile on your face.
Want to punch someone? Don’t! Watch a movie.
We all get angry sometimes. I get it. Instead of lashing out or even saying something you could regret, I suggest sitting down, taking a deep breath and watching “The Dark Knight”. This movie is honestly a rollercoaster but probably one of the best performances by Christian Bale and Heath Ledger of all time. The intensity of each character in this movie is undeniable and will transform your anger into an interest in the action and adventure this movie takes you on.
I Could go on forever. But I won’t.
I’ve always wondered what makes a movie critic qualified so it was a pleasure being able to step into their shoes today. I could easily pick several movies for every mood however, that would go on page after page and ultimately be a list of the best movies of all time in my opinion. So, I will leave you with the advice to not get overwhelmed by the big, crazy world we live in and instead dive into a film. I will also leave you with a shortlist of some more suggestions of my favorite movies by mood.
Happy?
Take a gander at “Legally Blonde” or “The Parent Trap (1998)
Adventurous?
“Point Break”. Great actors, great plot, great movie.
Hopeless?
“Shawshank Redemption”-it’s my dad’s favorite movie and actually is fabulous.
In Love?
“The Notebook” - pretty self explanatory.
Unmotivated?
“Miracle”. I know sports movies are corny but this one gives me the chills every time.
Nostalgic?
“The Lizzie McGuire Movie”. Best film to come out of the 2010s.