Oftentimes the only thing capable of bringing peace and comfort during a bad day, movies are usually the one thing cinephiles turn to during challenging times. Depending on which genre you choose, an upbeat film with an amusing, entertaining plot is usually just what viewers need to boost their mood.
While the term "comfort movie" differs from one person to another, given everyone's different likings, at least one of these movies is guaranteed to improve your spirits. From American Honey to Fantastic Mr. Fox, these are some of our favorite picks for when you need something to unwind from your stressful day.
'American Honey' (2016)
This A24 masterwork directed by Andrea Renold follows the very turbulent life of Sasha Lane's Star as she finds herself joining a traveling magazine sales crew that completely alters her previous lifestyle. With nothing to lose, Star lives vivaciously through her life-changing journey and finds herself falling in love with one of the misfits with whom she works.
Although some probably wouldn't think that American Honey fits into the category, it is ultimately a gorgeous, beautifully-directed movie that encapsulates what it feels like to live life to the fullest. An amazing character study with contagious exuberance, Renold's movie is a thought-provoking motion picture that tackles what it really feels like to be an outsider.
'Paddington' (2014)
Everybody who has already seen Paddington knows that it would be a crime not to include it on this particular list. When a young Peruvian bear finds himself lost and alone at Paddington station, a kind-hearted family named Brown offers him shelter and, throughout time, a considerable amount of pure, heartwarming love.
Radiating joy and happiness, the mere sight of Paul King's iconic character on screen is a delightful, almost instant mood booster. Although the character's backstory is sad, Paddington is nonetheless a timeless, extremely fun comedy that still makes for the perfect family movie.
'Kedi' (2016)
Also revolving around an animal — this time one of the most beloved felines out there, the Cat — Kedi is a masterfully-crafted Turkish documentary on the city of Istanbul. Holding an extremely high population of stray cats, the city is seen through the eyes of the treasured furry friend, and viewers get to immerse themselves in the beautiful tour cats with cameras on their backs provide, including beautiful landscapes.
Offering a stunning outlook on Turkish day-to-day life, Kedi is arguably a purrfect watch to indulge yourself in during a bad day. Equal parts funny and philosophical, this cat's-eye view is unlike any other.
'Easy A' (2010)
Emma Stone brings high-schooler Olive to life in this incredibly written dramedy. Tackling the importance of simply not caring, Easy A depicts the comical, oddly empowering way Olive deals with a made-up rumor surrounding her virginity and uses it to advance her social and financial standing.
A different type of teen comedy (and a very sharp, smart one at that) that is likely to brighten up anyone's mood, Easy A is an inspiring and witty little film with a realistic plot that catches a lot of viewers by surprise.
'Kiki's Delivery Service' (1989)
Honestly, any other Studio Ghibli film would equally be a top-tier choice. Still, Kiki's Delivery Service is perhaps one of the most relaxing of all; and what more could one ask for to decompress from a bad day at work? This wonderfully animated film provides a picturesque outlook on the life of a young, thirteen-year-old witch as she navigates through life.
A marvelous movie for all ages that teaches its audience that failure is an inevitable part of the creative process (and that is okay) while featuring a beautiful color palette that makes every scene look like it has come straight out of a painting, Hayao Miyazaki's delicious masterpiece is the very definition eye candy.
'The Nice Guys' (2016)
Starring hilarious dynamic duo Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe, this priceless action comedy set in 1970s Los Angeles follows two very different private investigators who team up to uncover the disappearance of a missing girl and the sudden death of a porn star.
There's not much to say about The Nice Guys except it just works — this may be due to how subtle and unexpected it is and how great Gosling's and Crowe's acting performances are. There is no doubt that this buddy cop comedy directed by Shane Black will have viewers shedding tears of joy and laughter.
'10 Things I Hate About You' (1999)
Possibly the blueprint of teenage romantic comedies, this William Shakespeare adaptation from the play "The Taming of a Shrew" revolves around two polar-opposite sisters, Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) and Kat (Julia Stiles). When the latter is set up with Patrick (Heath Ledger), serious feelings begin to arise.
Arguably one of the most rewatchable movies ever, 10 Things I Hate About You is an unforgettable film about the struggles of fitting in an extremely stereotyped society. It's also the ultimate comfort movie, providing equal parts comedic relief and emotional scenes.
'Amélie' (2001)
This feel-good classic tells the wholesome story of the innocent and naive Amélie (Audrey Tautou), walking us through the character's life as she helps those around her. With kind eyes and a loving attitude towards everyone and everything, Amélie sees beauty in everything.
Jean-Pierre Jeunet's film is the perfect reminder of how rewarding it is to appreciate the small things in life. It also teaches the world how to behave in the face of all the bad things that can happen, tackling the importance of caring for others and looking for the good in everyone.
'Scott Pilgrim vs. The World' (2010)
Fun and entertaining, this Canadian Edgar Wright comedy is set in a fantasy world where society is a giant computer system video game. Perfectly depicting the frustrating struggles of feeling stuck in the same place, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World follows protagonist Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera), who plays in a band in which he aspires to succeed.
Based on Bryan Lee O'Malley's graphic novels, this innovative and relatable flick is, beyond any doubt, a very comforting watch that successfully manages to cheer up its audience.
'Fantastic Mr. Fox' (2009)
Wes Anderson's highly praised stop-motion animated feature is the ultimate consolation watch for low-spirited folks. Not only does it offer viewers a really satisfying ASMR, but it also features stunning visuals. Centering around a charming urbane fox voiced by George Clooney, this story about crossing the line of family responsibilities is a must-watch.
Given how easy it is to care for these animated characters as they navigate through adventures in their own little world, it is impossible not to take great pleasure in watching Fantastic Mr. Fox. Delightful in every sense of the word, Anderson's quirky film excels at delivering great dialogue and storytelling.