The Best Feel Good Films For Isolation

Let’s face it, we’re all getting pretty well acquainted with streaming services at the moment. From Netflix, to Amazon Prime, to Disney+, there’s so much great content out there to consume, and we’ve got the time to watch it. So here’s the ultimate guide to feel good movies for lockdown, as picked by you…

Little Women (U)

Whether you’re going for Gilliam Armstrong’s 1994 classic, or Greta Gerwig's 2019 remake, the adventures of Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy March will fill up your heart, leave a smile on your face, and perhaps give you inspiration to start your own family newsletter too...

Here’s what you said:

“It’s the best. film. ever. No need for an explanation!” - Olivia

Dark Crystal (PG)

Lizards called the Skeksis. Wizards called the Mystics. A cracked crystal. And an adventure of a lifetime for a Gelfling called Jen who has to save his world from the Skeksis’ wrath. Oh, and they’re puppets. What more could you want?

Here’s what you said:

“This and Labyrinth are Jim Henson puppet films from the 80s. Light hearted humour, catchy songs, classic 80s special effects. They’re proper feel good films!” - Lauren

Legally Blonde (12)

Is there anything more iconic than Elle Woods replying “What, like it’s hard?” when questioned about whether she got into Harvard Law School? If you’re looking for something empowering, motivating and full of lols, look no further. 

Here’s what you said:

“It’s a cheesy chick-flick to keep you going. Let’s be honest, it never gets old!” - Joss

“It’s ultimately about being who you are and being a strong and independent woman!”  - Sofie

What a Girl Wants (PG)

A classic tale of a hippy American girl finding out her dad is a stuffy English Lord - who doesn't know she exists. Will she find him? Will they get on? Will he believe he’s actually her dad? Will her free-spirit clash with his rules-and-regulations lifestyle? SO MANY QUESTIONS! Throw in a bunch of slapstick humour and some questionable early 2000’s fashion choices and you’ve got yourself a lot of laughs.

Here’s what you said:

“It’s my childhood favourite, and a lighthearted rom-com with a really good soundtrack! I definitely recommend if you want to wind down or just want something in the background while you study/draw etc” - Holly

Wreck It Ralph (PG) 

When you play video games, do you ever think about the characters having lives of their own once you turn your console off? Well, Disney did. Follow Ralph, classed by his video game as a villain, as he attempts to fulfil his dream to be seen as a hero by characters he ‘lives’ with. Lots of mishaps, some great animation, and a tug at the ol’ heartstrings.

Here’s what you said:

“It’s lighthearted but there definitely a hidden life story in it” - Fatma

Hacksaw Ridge (15)

The true story of Desmond T. Doss, a conscientious objector who was awarded the Medal of Honour at the Battle of Okinawa. This film takes us through Desmond’s life and the situations that led him to the strong belief of “thou shalt not kill” - even during the war. An incredible depiction of human belief and strength. 

Here’s what you said:

“It’s based on a true story and words can’t really describe it...it’s that amazing!” - James

Wonder Woman (12A)

Strong women. Explosions. Loads of action. And saving the world. 2017’s remake of Wonder Woman, starring Gal Gadot, is an adventure from start to finish. When the first man ever sets foot on the secluded, women-only island of Themyscira and tells Diana of the horrible reality threatening to consumer humankind, they work together to defeat Ares, the God of War. Guaranteed to have you on the edge of your seat.

Here’s what you said:

“It’s the perfect isolation movie to keep you motivated and ready to wield a sword from the comfort of your own home...There’s nothing more fun than throwing yourself into a world of subverted gender tropes and kick-ass women fixing society one war criminal at a time!” - Lucy

Pretty in Pink:

This John Hughes brat-pack classic has all the 80s highschool tropes you could ask for. Unpopular girl. Outsider best friend. Wealthy out-of-her-league love interest. Super cool record store. Multiple unrequited loves. And of course, the pink dress. Not to mention, a great lip sync rendition of Otis Redding’s Try A Little Tenderness. This is definitely feel-good to the core. 

Here’s what you said:

“An 80’s rom-com about a girl who isn’t popular in school, and falls in love with one of the popular guys. the movie is really feel-good with an amazing soundtrack” - Cara