Movies can mean different things to different people. Specific genres can make audiences feel a whole spectrum of varying emotions, all unique to the viewer. Any movie can be comforting to an individual and make them feel like everything is alright.
Whenever you’re having a difficult day and need a little warmth, you can always turn to your favorite comfort movies to cheer you up. Here are 10 of the best films that you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re in desperate need of some comfort.
‘Matilda’
This 1996 movie directed by Danny Devito is an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic novel of the same name. It’s about a six-year-old girl, Matilda, who finds out that she possesses magical abilities. She learns to make the most out of her incredible gift – with the help of a supportive teacher – as she deals with a harrowing home life.
It’s a faithful adaptation of the novel full of heartwarming scenes and humor. Matilda and Miss Honey’s relationship will capture the heart of any viewer.
‘Mrs. Doubtfire’
Directed by Chris Columbus, 1993’s Mrs. Doubtfire is a comedy-drama movie starring Robin Williams as a man who will go to great lengths to show his family how much they mean to him. Williams plays a newly divorced father with a restraining order who disguises himself as a female English housekeeper to connect with his children.
Truly, Williams is the heart and soul of the movie, never failing to be magnetic, charming, and funny at the same time. The movie also addresses the challenging theme of how divorce can affect children. It’s one that will tug at your heartstrings without hesitation.
‘The Parent Trap’
Certainly, a list of comfort films couldn’t be complete without mentioning The Parent Trap. The Nancy Meyer-directed movie is a classic from the 1990s, starring Lindsay Lohan as two twins who get separated at birth after their parents’ divorce. The mother raised one of the girls in London, while the other resided in California with their father. Twins Annie and Hallie reunited at summer camp and set up a scheme to switch places to bring their estranged parents together again.
The movie opens on a heartfelt score of Nat King Cole’s ‘L-O-V-E’ and the lightheartedness doesn’t disappear for its entire runtime. Lohan brings a lot of heart to the movie and never ceases to be charming. A delicate blend of comedy and emotion, The Parent Trap will make you feel like a kid again.
‘The Holiday’
Starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz, The Holiday is a romantic comedy that centers on two women on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean who have the worst luck with love. They plan to swap homes during Christmas and find new love in the process.
Winslet and Diaz are witty and incredibly charming. There are traces of director Nancy Meyers’s signature emotional tones mixed with many humorous moments, making it the perfect comfort watch.
‘The Goonies’
One can’t think of classic movies without Richard Donner’s The Goonies coming to mind. The family-friendly adventure flick follows a group of friends who stumble uopn a treasure map in one of their attics. With the looming threat of gentrification about to take over their town, the kids set out to find the treasure and save their home.
Donner’s movie is one that encompasses many genres and you’ve probably seen playing repeatedly on television. From the simple and fun plot to the amazing energy of the young cast, it’s a film that anybody can relate to and find solace in watching.
‘13 Going On 30’
Jennifer Garner is at her best here playing a 30-year-old successful fashion magazine editor living in New York City. She has everything: a great job, friends, and an adult life. But, she is actually a 13-year-old in a 30-year-old’s body due to a birthday wish mishap on her 13th birthday.
Gary Winick’s 13 Going On 30 is a timeless comedy packed with charm, heart, and emotion. The movie provides a positive message and some incredible chemistry between Garner and her co-star Mark Ruffalo.
‘Good Will Hunting’
Gus Van Sant’s 1997 movie Good Will Hunting follows Will Hunting (Matt Damon) as he begins to form a relationship with a respected psychiatrist Dr. Sean Maguire (Robin Williams). Despite their less-than-friendly beginnings, their dynamic soon evolves and blossoms into a mutual understanding and connection.
The film is a beautifully touching story that makes anybody who watches it feel comforted. Timeless, tragic, and heartwarming, Good Will Hunting will stay with you long after the credits stop rolling.
‘Hook’
Hook is Steven Spielberg’s take on the iconic character and story of Peter Pan. Robin Williams stars as an adult Pan who is burdened with a difficult job and adult responsibilities. After Captain Hook kidnaps his kids, Pan has to return home to Neverland, learn how to fly, and get them back from the pirates.
Williams’ performance brings the film to life, one that has all the aspects of the original tale present. It’s never lacking in emotion, humor, and nostalgia.
‘Uptown Girls’
Brittany Murphy is a musician’s daughter who is betrayed by her manager after he steals her money. With no other options, she is forced to get work as a nanny, finding a job taking care of a gifted yet sassy Dakota Fanning.
It’s a lighthearted comedic movie, even though it didn’t receive positive reviews from critics. Murphy is at her best and brings a free-spirited energy to the role. The film’s messages about growth, values, and girlhood are resonant and unforgettable.
‘Labyrinth’
This 1986 fantasy musical movie by Jim Henson takes us on a special journey to a magical labyrinth where Jareth, The Goblin King (David Bowie), has kidnapped a human baby. Sarah, the baby’s sister, has to beat the ticking clock to rescue him, encountering a group of colorful characters along the way.
The fantastical movie is fun, vibrant, and energetic, and Bowie’s incomparable musical talent pairs brilliantly with Henson’s creative imagination. Bowie is magnetic as The Goblin King and Jennifer Connelly’s performance as Sarah is whimsical and charming.
