7 Of The Best Feel-Good Movies For An Unproductive Day
Permission to get nothing done.
During the exam block last year, I found myself often binge-watching Netflix in an attempt to procrastinate my exams away. Five seasons of OITNB later, I decided that I somehow must be hardwired to procrastinate.
After a hectic few minutes of mixed emotions (10 per cent satisfaction in my ability to watch that much television, 40 per cent guilt for leaving my assignments to the last minute and 50 per cent shock in response to the season finale), I concluded that we all need a very unproductive TV day every now and then.
Thus, I bestow upon you a compilation of feel-good movies that should assist you on a particularly not-getting-anything-done type of day. These movies are guaranteed to put you in such a good mood that you will become immune to guilt. Getting things done starts tomorrow.
#1 ‘Grease’
Grease has something for everyone (romance, music, cars, dancing and fabulous hairstyles). If you haven’t watched it since you were a kid, do yourself a favour and revist it. It has the most killer 50s-inspired soundtrack, and it’s damn near impossible to not find yourself jumping on top of the furniture and grooving out to “Grease Lightning”.
#2 ‘The Breakfast Club’
The classic 80s film that brings together people of all different social cliques – the jock, the nerd, the weird introvert, the popular girl and the scary kid – in an early morning detention. The Breakfast Club is a comforting film that’s always guaranteed to put you in the best (and most rebellious) mood.
#3 ‘Letters to Juliet’
This is NOT just a film just for girls. Letters to Juliet is a charming, witty and very entertaining movie. Set in Tuscany, Italy, I can guarantee that you’ll be left with a severe case of wanderlust.
#4 ‘Shrek’
That’s right, folks – contrary to popular opinion, this is not just a kids’ movie (if you’re in doubt, I shall remind you of Shrek joking that Lord Farquad’s castle must so big because he is compensating for something). There’s a great soundtrack, important life-lessons and a fantastic plot, what more could you want from a feel-good film.
#5 ‘Mamma Mia’
Who doesn’t love a good musical with some of Hollywood’s best actors? Mamma Mia is a stress-free movie that encourages serious audience participation. Expect to participate in some light, stylish-but-daggy dancing and very loud singing.
Plus, it’s impossible to not get a kick out of Pierce Brosnan (AKA James Bond) singing and dancing to ABBA. Better yet, make your Mum’s day and go watch it with her.
#6 ‘Johnny English’
Remember Johnny English? We bet you don’t. Known for getting his tie stuck in a sushi train and gracefully throwing his coat out the window when aiming for the coat-rack, Johnny English is the most confidently unintelligent spy you will come across. He never fails to miraculously (accidentally) save the day. Oh, Johnny.
#7 ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’
I don’t think this list would be complete without the movie based on the king of procrastination himself, Ferris Bueller. This classic 80s film will leave you feeling utterly inspired to skip uni lectures and live your days spontaneously. Anyone?
Remember that it’s okay to have fun and distract yourself from the stresses of everyday life. If you’re in the mood for a lazy pick-me-up day, make sure you do it with these movies.
On that note, I’ll leave you all with suiting a lyric from Wham, “If you’re gonna do it, do it right”. Make sure you’re left grinning as the credits roll.
(Lead image: The Breakfast Club/Universal Pictures)