These cinematic classics are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
My VCR was to my childhood self what the radio was Freddy Mercury. If I was ever feeling down and had nowhere to go, I’d pop in one of my old favorite cassettes sit excitedly to watch one of my favorite movies. I think the movie I watched the most back then was The Mask with Jim Carey, which apparently a lot of people consider a bad movie? I love that movie, it still makes me laugh. But I digress; while most of the big blockbuster films these days tend toward the serious and dramatic, the value of an upbeat, heartwarming picture absolutely cannot be overstated. If you’re feeling a little down in the dumps right now (because let’s be real, there’s a lot of things to be sad about right now), try one of these classic movies for an emotional pick-me-up.
School of Rock
Now I just love Jack Black movies in general, he’s a very likable person. But this movie was especially awesome, as it was all about introducing a class of sheltered kids to the wonders of classic rock, and in the process, learning more about themselves and the things that make them happy. Academics are one thing, but you should always pursue your passions. “Rock got no reason, rock got no rhyme,” as the song goes.
Aladdin
The animated one, not the live-action one. The original Aladdin is pretty much my most beloved Disney movie of all time, and why wouldn’t it be? It’s got romance, action, some great musical numbers, and more than its share of laughs thanks to the late, great Robin Williams. It’s one of the quintessential rags to riches stories. No, it’s not especially realistic, but it’s still a great time.
The Princess Bride
I think a lot of us miss having our parents read to us as kids. Not just for the familial bonding, but because your parents would always put their own spins on stories, whether they be funny voices or sudden, weird plot shifts. If you’re longing for those times, put yourself in Fred Savage’s shoes for this classic tale that reminds us even a “kissing story” can be lively and action-packed.
Elf
What is it about holiday movies that bring out the warm fuzzies in everyone? I guess it’s just the idea that, if only for a day, everyone can get behind the idea of peace and goodwill on Earth. It certainly helps when you’ve got a lovable elf played by Will Ferrell spreading smiles everywhere he goes (no matter how adamantly some refuse at first).
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
All you have to do is say the words “pure imagination,” and I instantly flash back to that wonderful room full of candy delights. Now, I could sell you an entire spiel about this movie showing us a wonderful spot of color and whimsy in a grey cityscape, and that’s certainly true, but let’s be real: the best part of this movie is watching Gene Wilder sass a bunch of bratty kids. I would watch an entire movie of him giving sideways looks to annoying people.