We’ve all been had 'em: Those days when everything that could go wrong, does. Maybe you missed your train when you were already running late. Or maybe your morning coffee ended up coloring your blouse on the way to work. You could sit and mope about your bad luck—or turn to a little good old-fashioned cinema escapism. But not just any old flick will do. You need the best feel-good movies Spielberg and company have to offer—the ones that, when you feel like the dog meme surrounded by fire, will make it all melt away.
We've rounded up the best feel-good movies that have made us laugh and/or cry (happy tears, mind you!), from swoon-worthy rom-coms to heartwarming coming-of-age movies and sweet animated movies. And since what “feels good” is different for everyone (one woman's tearjerker is another woman's comedy), we’ve ordered this list by genre for easy navigation.
So grab your comfiest blanket, a glass of wine, and curl up with one of the best feel-good movies of all time. (Psst: If you want to keep the cozy going, check out the best comfort TV shows.)
Best Feel-Good Comedy Movies
'13 Going on 30' (2004)
In this rom-com classic, an '80s teen wishes to fast-forward to her 30s and wakes up 17 years older and looking like Jennifer Garner—but with the mind of a 13-year-old. Mark Ruffalo also shines as her reluctant love interest.
'The Big Lebowski' (1998)
TBH, this movie took a few viewings before we really got it. Most of the plot revolves around the main character of The Dude, who is seeking a replacement for a rug that’s been soiled in a random kidnapping mixup. ("It really tied the room together!") But that's also its brilliance: Regardless of what ridiculous circumstances come his way, Jeff Bridges' character is totally unflappable, offering a great reminder to take life as it comes and just go with it.
'The Birdcage' (1996)
If you don't know this film (or only know vaguely of the musical), you're in for a treat. This farcical case of bait-and-switch is so silly and sweet, that it's bound to lift your mood (and frankly, we’d expect nothing less from an all-star cast that includes Robin Williams, Nathan Lane, and Gene Hackman). Though the portrayal of the gay couple at its center (Williams and Lane) is a bit less progressive now than it once was, it’s still a film ahead of its time and funny.
'Booksmart' (2019)
Four years of fun in one night? What could go wrong? Beanie Feldstein gives a masterful performance in Booksmart—a hilarious movie about two high schoolers who attempt to do everything they never did before they graduate.
'Bridesmaids' (2011)
We’re summing this one’s “aww” factor up with just two words: Wilson Phillips. Any flick that gives us an excuse to live out our wildest karaoke fantasies is a shoo-in for a feel-good list. Singalongs aside, however, this comedy has some important messages about friendship and self-worth—and that’s on top of all the belly laughs that Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy et. al are delivering in rapid-fire succession.
'Bring It On' (2000)
Who could ever be sad with a teenage Kirsten Dunst showing off her best “spirit fingers?” Making lemonades out of betrayal after the squad's treacherous captain leaves them high and dry without a usable floor routine ahead of nationals, Torrance Shipman (Dunst) and co. give us all a lesson in perseverance and hope in Bring It On. The young love budding between Torrance and Cliff (Jesse Bradford) is also pretty darling. (Try and convince us that synchronized teeth-brushing doesn’t equal romance!)
'Clueless' (1995)
This modern-day remake of Emma made Alicia Silverstone a household name and with catchphrases like, "As if!" it’s not hard to see why. Matched with "ageless freak" Paul Rudd, Silverstone portrays a seemingly “clueless” young woman with plenty of heart who proves she’s far more complex than she seems. To say that her character's style has also stood the test of time is a major understatement.
'Confessions of a Shopaholic' (2009)
Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher) is a bonafide shopping addict with debt up to her eyeballs—and she still manages to land a job at a financial magazine, which lends itself to some hilarious moments. If her perpetual faux pas isn’t to make you crack a grin, however, the fashion is sure to leave you smiling.
'The Devil Wears Prada' (2006)
The Devil Wears Prada is a must-see for anyone who needs a pick-me-up. It’s delightful to watch Andy (Anne Hathaway) grow into her own as a writer and conquer her next-to-impossible job—and her even more impossible boss (Meryl Streep). Whether you’re a fashion fan or not, you’ll also appreciate her style glow-up. (“Are you wearing the .... the Chanel boots?" "Yeah, I am.”)
'Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead' (1991)
What would you do if the babysitter your mom hired to take care of you and your siblings for the summer passed away? If you’re 17-year-old Sue Ellen Crandell (Christina Applegate), you take matters into your own hands and get a job to pay your way—even if you lie about your age and qualifications. For all her mistakes, Sue Ellen will have you rooting for her every step of the way. Plus, the ‘90s fashion show is not to be missed.
'Dumb and Dumber' (1994)
It’s almost impossible to keep from laughing at least once during a (re)viewing of Dumb & Dumber. Between Lloyd’s ridiculous haircut, the side-splitting one-liners (“We got no food, we got no jobs, our pets' heads are falling off!”), and Harry’s unforgettable bathroom dilemma, it’s just the right comedic mix for giggling your troubles away.
'Easy A' (2010)
As the greatest nod to John Hughes of its generation, Easy A—a.k.a. the movie that put Emma Stone on the map—takes the late legendary director’s winning recipe for pairing teenage angst with impossibly kooky storylines for a rollercoaster ride of emotions. In this case, Olive Penderghast desires to help boost the confidence of her sexually inexperienced classmates by allowing them to make false claims about the nature of their relationships with her, damning her reputation in the process. In short, it’s everything an adolescent film should be, with a wise-cracking Stanley Tucci for an added dose of feels.
'Father of the Bride' (1991)
The best wedding movie of all time? Maybe. A great movie to watch and feel happy butterflies inside whether you're in the wedding mindset or not? Definitely. A bit dated? Sure, but enjoyable anyway.
'Groundhog Day' (1993)
On a bad week, it might feel like you're living out your worst day, every day, but this classic Bill Murray movie is here to remind you that is not true. But even if it were, eventually, you'd probably do some pretty amazing things.
'Legally Blonde' (2001)
One thing about Elle Woods? She knows how to turn a bad day, week, or semester around. Like, when the guy she thought was about to propose dumps her for Harvard, and she decides to take up studies at the prestigious university herself, on her terms. Do yourself a favor and watch Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Coolidge, and more iconic women in Legally Blonde if you're looking for a good laugh, the perfect movie for girls' night, or a reason to go to law school. "...What, like it's hard?"
'Mean Girls' (2004)
It’s been over 20 years since its initial release, and we’re still laughing at Karen’s attempts at post-rain weather reports and Regina George’s "cool" mom (Amy Poehler). Not that we’re surprised: It was written by SNL’s own Tina Fey. Maybe it’s how the girl world is so quick to heal after the chaos Regina and co. wreak on the school with their Burn Book full of insults, or maybe it’s the kind gesture Cady makes when she shares her crown with the rest of her classmates, but this film has a feel-good finale that leaves us a lot warmer and fuzzier than a movie named after bullies has any right to.
'My Cousin Vinny' (1992)
Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei are comedic gold as Vinny Gambini and Mona Lisa Vito—two out-of-town Brooklynites who struggle to fit in in rural Alabama, where Vinny’s cousin is being erroneously held on murder charges. Between their accents, flamboyant ensembles (“Oh yeah, you blend!”), and colorful terminology (we’ll forever be deeming exactitude as “dead-on balls accurate,” thanks), it’s the perfect two-hour escape from reality, be it your first or 100th viewing.
'No Hard Feelings' (2023)
We’re going to be so real: Getting emotional at a film featuring Jennifer Lawrence in her full-frontal glory (all for the sake of comedy) wasn’t exactly on our bingo cards. And yet, here we are. No Hard Feelings tugs at the heartstrings despite its raunchy humor, since at its core, it’s about two lonely people who forge a real friendship that goes far beyond the skin deep.
'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion' (1997)
There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing these two high school outcasts triumph over their mean-spirited bullies—even if they completely make up the details of their lives to do it. Honestly, we give them props for their Post-it backstory, but as our heroines played by Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino soon discover, sometimes, reality is even sweeter than fiction.
'School of Rock' (2003)
This adorable tale about a slacker rock star played by Jack Black teaching a bunch of kids to compete in the battle of the bands is both sweet and hilarious. Better yet, it's filled with plenty of classic rock jams and original music that still holds up.
'Two Can Play That Game' (2001)
This hilarious battle of the sexes sees marketing exec Shanté Smith (Vivica A. Fox) waging psychological warfare against her boyfriend Keith Fenton (Morris Chestnut) after she runs into him having after-hours drinks with another woman. The only problem? Keith’s been taking relationship advice from his good pal Tony (Anthony Anderson), who has some plans of his own for “flipping the script.” It’s funny, witty, and a must-see for anyone who’s ever felt down about a breakup.
'Uptown Girls' (2003)
There’s an inner child inside of all: That’s the message Brittany Murphy and Dakota Fanning’s characters of Molly and Ray impart in this ‘00s classic. Sometimes, that child needs to grow up to keep their lives on track, as is the case with Molly (Murphy), and sometimes, they grow up too fast, missing out on the joy right in front of them, as is the case with Ray (Fanning). Luckily, they find each other, and over a series of make-you-melt exchanges, can grow together.
Best Feel-Good Romance Movies
'27 Dresses' (2008)
Anyone who's even been in one wedding can empathize with this poor woman (Katherine Heigl), who's had to plan 27 "special days" for her closest friends and acquaintances. Bonus: A young James Marsden, looking cute and acting snarky, to ground the film from becoming too saccharine.
'50 First Dates' (2004)
Sometimes, you need a good old-fashioned reminder that love conquers all, and 50 First Dates delivers that message in spades. After all, its premise revolves around a man (Adam Sandler) who falls so hard for a stranger named Lucy with short-term memory loss (Drew Barrymore) that he’s willing to re-introduce himself to her and begin winning her heart again every time they meet. Even more heartwarming? It’s loosely based on a true story.
'Breakfast at Tiffany's' (1961)
Whether you appreciate her free-spirited lifestyle (who doesn’t love a gal who drinks champagne before breakfast and takes her croissants in front of Tiffany’s on Fifth Avenue in full eveningwear?) or her impeccable style (yes, that's Hubert de Givenchy she's wearing), Breakfast at Tiffany’s Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn) is impossible not to fall in love with—just ask her many suitors!
'A Cinderella Story' (2004)
There's been plenty of Cinderella iterations over the years, but nothing tops this one starring Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray. Jennifer Coolidge also delivers some of the most legendary lines of her career. Who could forget: "Droughts are for poor people, you think J.Lo has a brown lawn? People who use extra water have extra class."
'Coyote Ugly' (2000)
Sometimes, all you need to lift your spirits is a good old-fashioned jam session, and Coyote Ugly is just the film to prove it. Centered on an aspiring singer/songwriter (Piper Perabo) battling stage fright and trying to make ends meet as a dancing “Coyote” bartender, it’s got song and dance aplenty. It’s also got a sweet love story and an epic hot girl cast that includes Tyra Banks, Maria Bello, and Bridget Moynahan, plus a chart-topping soundtrack led by LeAnn Rimes that will have you belting out every word.
'Crazy Rich Asians' (2018)
This film based on Kevin Kwan's beloved book series an alternate reality of expensive real estate/fashion/lifestyle and a sweet story of two people (Constance Wu and Henry Golding) in love who are determined to make their relationship work despite their meddling families.
'Dirty Dancing' (1987)
Like your favorite comfort food, the best feel-good movies are often the ones we know like the backs of our hands: Yes, we’re talking about Dirty Dancing. Frankly, it doesn’t matter how many times we’ve seen Baby (Jennifer Grey) nail the lift or Johnny (Patrick Swayze) pull her out of that corner—this cinematic masterpiece is one invokes the warm fuzzies faster than you can say “Pachanga.”
'The Holiday' (2006)
Yes, this is technically a Christmas movie, but you don’t have to wait for the yuletide season to fall for its charms. And charms, there are aplenty. Between the ultra-touching friendship Iris (Kate Winslet) strikes up with her elderly neighbor (Eli Wallach) and the moving father/daughter dynamic between Iris’ widower brother Graham (Jude Law) and his two daughters, this movie will turn your insides to butter —and we haven’t even started on the two love stories as its center.
'La La Land' (2016)
This classic technicolor is always a good time. A nod to the grand set pieces and old-school musical numbers that made Gene Kelly and Irving Berlin legends of the Golden Age, it doesn't have the most uplifting ending, but the smile the first freeway dance sequence will put on your face is worth it.
'Mamma Mia!' (2008)
A musical movie with a stacked cast and chock-full of ABBA songs? What’s not to love? This feel-good film will immediately transport you to the Greek islands and put you in that carefree summer mood with its fun storyline. It follows bride-to-be Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) on her mission to find out which of three potential men her mom (Meryl Strep) shared a romance with is her birth father by inviting them all to her wedding.
'Never Been Kissed' (1999)
As far as we’re concerned, Drew Barrymore is the human equivalent of sunshine, and no film makes that fact more obvious than Never Been Kissed. In it, Barrymore plays Josie Geller, a reporter assigned to go undercover as a student at a local high school. Since she didn’t exactly thrive the first time around, it’s the perfect opportunity to put the past behind her once and for all—and maybe even snag her first real kiss while she’s at it.
'Pretty Woman (1990)
This rom-com gem is truly a modern-day fairytale. In one of her most iconic roles, Julia Roberts stars as a sex worker who keeps a wealthy businessman (Richard Gere) company for a week, only to end up falling in love with him. Admittedly, it's not a conventional love story, but its more romantic moments will leave you with plenty of butterflies.
'To All The Boys I've Loved Before' (2018)
We seriously wish this movie existed when we were in high school. Lara Jean's (Lana Condor) intense feelings for her crushes feel real and not overdramatized, unlike so many teen romantic comedies that have come before it. At its core, this flick is as feel-good as it can get.
'The Wedding Singer' (1998)
Spoilers ahead, but it must be said that if you’re not crying happy tears by the time Robbie Hart (Adam Sandler) has begun singing goofy songs about wanting to grow old with Julia Sullivan (Drew Barrymore) in this movie, you’re not watching it right. After 95 minutes (give or take) of witnessing the fictional wedding singer and waitress fall hopelessly in love while entangled in impossibly wrong-for-them relationships, the happy ending more than delivers—it even hits Barrymore, who once teared up watching it at home, in the feels.
'When Harry Met Sally' (1989)
Filmmaker Nora Ephron was the best screenwriter of her time (and all time, TBH), and listening to Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal deliver the perfect line readings while their characters fall in love is like sipping a cup of warm tea. We could, and probably have, fallen asleep to this movie—it's poetry.
Best Feel-Good Dramas
'Akeelah and the Bee' (2006)
This is one of those movies that inspires you and makes you feel lighter, all at once. It sees a young girl from southern L.A. named Akeelah (Keke Palmer) studying for a spelling bee with her mentor (Laurence Fishburne), and it's sweet and wonderful and makes you feel things.
'Big Fish' (2004)
Who said fairytales had to end at adulthood? Certainly not Edward Bloom (Ewan McGregor/Albert Finney). Even on his deathbed, the old man refuses to concede to his son Will (Billy Crudup) that the tall tales he’s always told him about his life were just that. But maybe he has his reasons—and maybe Will’s old man led a life far more magical than his son could ever have imagined.
'Forrest Gump' (1994)
Forrest Gump is one of those movies everyone should watch at least once. Gump, a man with a big heart and an intellectual disability, takes us through his life’s story, which is tied up in major historical events like the Vietnam War and the Watergate Scandal, as he sits at a bus stop. There are moments in his tale when you’ll laugh and certainly cry, but all in all, his mantra is one you’ll never forget: “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get."
'Good Will Hunting' (1997)
The film gets a lot right about the city and its inhabitants. And naturally, Robin Williams is its beating heart—every time he's on screen, you breathe a sigh of relief. He's like the therapist for the viewers, as well as Matt Damon's troubled genius of Will, and the role preserves the actor’s memory in the best way possible.
'The Greatest Showman' (2017)
Feel-good movies tend to have a central character who beats the odds to achieve their dreams, and The Greatest Showman's is Hugh Jackman. This musical is a rags-to-riches story of a visionary with designs to put on a show unlike any other with his band of underestimated misfits. (And spoiler alert: He does.) Bonus? Zendaya’s aerial stunts will make your jaw drop.
'Little Miss Sunshine' (2006)
The family at the center of this indie dramedy has a lot going on: They're struggling with depression, drug abuse, body image, and that only cracks the surface. They're also not all that awesome at dealing with those issues. But there's something about watching the purposeful not-so-perfectness of it all come together that cheers your soul. And if nothing else in the movie does, young Abigail Breslin's dance number in the finale definitely will.
'Little Women' (2019)
Okay, so there will be tears while watching Greta Gerwig's remake of Little Women, but hear us out: Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Timothée Chalamet, and Laura Dern's performances (yes, there are a lot!) are incredible. Then, there's the storyline itself. While watching Jo (Ronan) grapple between her career and love, we're reminded of what matters in this life. It's pure and it's excellent.
'Now and Then (1995)
You can’t talk about moving coming-of-age films without paying homage to 1995’s Now and Then. Flipping back and forth between the past and the present, four women (Demi Moore, Melanie Griffith, Rosie O’Donnell, and Rita Wilson) reunite as adults to remember the epic summer they shared as girls (played by Gaby Hoffmann, Thora Birch, Christina Ricci, and Ashleigh Aston Moore) that changed them all in unique ways. It’s got friendship, nostalgia, and so much heart, yours will be full for days after viewing.
'The Peanut Butter Falcon' (2019)
You know that feeling you get after eating a hot bowl of soup on a cold winter’s day? All cozy and warm inside? Yeah. Watching this film is kind of like that—and the proof is in its 95 percent Rotten Tomatoes rating. It’s centered on Zak (Zack Gottsagen), a young man with Down syndrome who’s on the run from his care facility with the sole mission of meeting his professional wrestling hero. On the way, he makes an unexpected friend in Tyler (Shia LaBeouf), a wayward fisherman who’s made enemies of his competitors. Together, they become an unstoppable pair that sets out to take on the world.
'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' (2005)
A coming-of-age for young women, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants sees Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel, America Ferrera, and Amber Tamblyn portraying four best friends who all magically fit into the same pair of jeans. Since the pants seem to work as a good luck charm for the girls, they decide to share ownership of them, shipping them to each other as they venture off to their summer plans. It's funny and endearing, and it'll make you cry both happy and sad tears.
'Wonder' (2017)
If needed remembrance of the healing power of kindness, Wonder is it. Based on the journey of a schoolboy with Treacher Collins syndrome, a genetic condition that affects the development of the facial bones and the skull, the film sees Auggie (Jacob Tremblay) finding acceptance among his peers after a period of ostracization. It’s even more heartwarming when you consider that the novel the movie is based on was reportedly inspired by several real-life stories of those affected by the condition.
Best Feel-Good Action/Thriller Movies
'Deadpool' (2016)
Deadpool is the kind of superhero movie that many have tried to imitate, but few have succeeded in pulling off. That’s because Ryan Reynolds has the kind of deadpan sarcasm that's laugh-out-loud funny, and honestly, we’re not 100 percent sure he's even playing a character. It's got a fun origin story packed to the brim with excitement, pop culture references, and witty tidbits.
'Everything Everywhere All At Once' (2022)
This genre-bending A24 movie became an unexpected hit and for good reason. The story follows an aging immigrant woman (Michelle Yeoh) who wants to file her taxes but goes on an unexpected adventure through parallel universes. It’s trippy, action-packed, and features an emotional message that will make you want to hug your family tighter.
'Guardians of the Galaxy' (2014)
Many have praised Guardians of the Galaxy for its über-nostalgic tune collection, as well as its witty banter and relatable band of outcasts (er, as relatable as a green assassin or a super strong hulk-like creature can be). For us, the feel-good factor of this film boils down to one thing and one thing only: the cutest talking tree-like organism you've ever seen. “I am Grooooooootttttt!”
'Men in Black' (1997)
When your villains include a cockroach-like alien species named “Bug,” and the agents sent to handle them include Will Smith, you know you’re in for an enjoyable movie experience. This one has plenty of action, but belly laughs, too. Did we mention it also has one hell of a soundtrack? (Don’t act like you don’t know all the words to the title song.)
'Ocean's Twelve' (2004)
Intellectuals will love the mental cat-and-mouse hijinx that ensues in this star-studded film pairing Brad Pitt, George Cooney, and Julia Roberts together in what might be the best casting of all time. It’s also a chance to root for the underdogs—you know, if the underdogs just so happen to be a bunch of highly skilled jeweled egg thieves.
'Top Gun' (1986)
Starring Tom Cruise, a very handsome young Val Kilmer, and Meg Ryan before she became America's sweetheart, this prototypical '80s film may be secretly filled with hidden meaning, depending on who you ask. But even if it’s not, it will have you cheering for its speed-chasing heroes as they take to the skies.
Best Feel-Good Family Movies
'Despicable Me' (2010)
There’s something about seeing a supervillain fall in love with three orphans eager to see the best in him despite his many flaws that makes us choke us up. Sure, they may foil his evil plans, but the love they give him makes it all worthwhile. There are also the minions, who are cute as cute can be, to up the sweetness factor.
'Elf' (2003)
Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf is nothing short of cheerful, even encountering hardened of New Yorkers. It’s a film that will make you laugh and look forward to the holidays, no matter the time of year.
'Ella Enchanted' (2004)
We still turn to this movie whenever we need a good cheering up. It's physically impossible to be sad during its more energetic musical numbers, especially the ending's "Don't Go Breaking My Heart." Based on Ella (Anne Hathaway), a young woman who's been cursed with the "gift" of obedience since she was a baby and is on a journey to find the fairy godmother who sealed her fate, she teams up with Prince Charmont (Hugh Dancy) and falls for him, despite his annoying fan base. It may be a little bit cheesy and a little bit predictable, but it's also oh-so-good.
'Encanto' (2021)
We might not talk about Bruno, but we can sing the praises of the film that introduced him to us. With Encanto, Lin-Manuel Miranda has created a mystical, magical world that reminds us of the importance of family. If that wasn’t heartening enough, however, a message of self-acceptance interwoven throughout each character arc, from the Madrigal sisters of Mirabel, Isabel, and Luisa to the mysterious Bruno himself.
'The Emperor's New Groove' (2000)
The Emperor's New Groove is a Disney movie in a league of its own. Wacky and irreverent, it’s no fairytale; instead of a princess, we get David Spade as a talking llama, but the result is amazing, underrated, and great for a quick pick-me-up if you're feeling down.
'E.T.' (1982)
If you feel the tenderness between Drew Barrymore and E.T. is legit as you’re watching it, that’s probably because it is: She thought he was real and used to bring him lunch on set. “I really loved him in such a profound way,” she has said. That love translates through the screen, as does the closeness between the extra-terrestrial and Barrymore’s onscreen brother Elliott (Henry Thomas).
'The Goonies' (1985)
The Goonies has adventure, pirate ships, lost treasure, and a young Josh Brolin, but the unwavering companionship between Mikey (Sean Astin), Mouth (Corey Feldman), Chunk (Jeff Cohen), and the rest of the gang that makes it so whole-hearted. Who doesn't want to be a Goonie?
'Grease' (1978)
The catchy music. The dancing. Sandy’s (Olivia Newton-John) incredible makeover. Everything about Grease screams “good time.” From the Pink Ladies’ dissection of Sandy and Danny’s (John Travolta) romantic “Summer Nights” to the epic carnival you wish your high school put on for your graduation, there’s no shortage of opportunity to sing along with the Rydell High crew. It's cheesy at times, but its energy and nostalgia can't be ignored.
'Gremlins' (1984)
You don’t even have to watch Gremlins all the way through to get a case of the feel-goods: One look at Gizmo and his goofy grin, and your heart will soar. Still, it’s heartening to know that the furry little creature is safe from the gremlins by the film’s end and that his new friend Billy might see him again someday—when he’s ready to follow the rules of not feeding him after midnight, getting him wet, or exposing him to bright sunlight.
'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' (2001)
The first installment in the Harry Potter series is also the best, thanks to its childlike imagination and world-building, which set the series up for its subsequent, more weighty films. Harry (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (Rupert Grint), and Hermione (Emma Watson) are figuring out how to navigate Hogwarts in The Sorcerer’s Stone, and it's delightful seeing them enjoy their magical classes.
'If' (2024)
IF had us all up in our feelings before its title sequence even began, largely due to the giant purple character of Blue (Steve Carell) that serves as its star. He’s not alone, either: The film is stacked with adorable beings, all voiced by a Tinsel Town heavyweight. Beneath its cuddly creature surface, however, IF has real grit, reminding us all that we’re never too old to give in to the children that live inside us—or our imaginary friends.
'Little Monsters' (1989)
This one has a few good scares in store (even as an adult, its villain Boy gives us the heebie-jeebies), and a NSFW scene involving apple juice, but at its heart, Little Monsters is a picture about friendship. Brian (a teenage Fred Savage) and Maurice (Howie Mandel) are the best of buds—never mind that Maurice is a blue-skinned monster with horns and teeth that can cut open tin cans. (Kinda handy, no?)
'Mary Poppins' (1964)
Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews) is a magical nanny who uses her powers—and a little bit of sugar—to cheer up her two attention-starved charges. Between the fun songs, animated sequences, and Poppins’ always-chipper attitude, the entire film exudes joy. We dare you to be sad after watching it.
'Paddington 2' (2018)
We've said it before and we'll say it again: Paddington 2's Oscar snubs were a total travesty. The first film is sweet and tender, but the second one offers all of that and a scene-stealing performance by Hugh Grant and a brilliant metaphor for Brexit, all wrapped up in a heartwarmingly gooey marmalade.
'The Parent Trap' (1998)
Whether you re-watch this one for the Lilo excellence, the father/daughter scenes with Daddy Quaid, or merely a dose of childhood nostalgia, The Parent Trap will warm your heart.
'The Princess Bride' (1987)
From the start, you know The Princess Bride will be a mood-booster: It begins with a grandfather (Peter Falk) telling his sick grandson (Fred Savage) a story to lift his spirits. This magical movie also has all the ingredients for complete escapism: As the grandpa describes it, we’re talking, “Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles...” Need we go on?
'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' (2022)
Puss (Antonio Banderas) is adorable and his escapades make for a great onscreen adventure. The Last Wish sees our favorite booted feline team up with Kitty Softpaws (voiced by the legendary Salma Hayek) to get his nine lives back. This feel-good film features animation that's a feast for the eyes, but it also has a surprisingly refreshing take on anxiety and mental health.
'Shrek 2' (2004)
The first Shrek movie helped to set off a new age of digital animation. The second, however, offers a much more fun time. Watching the swamp ogre (Mike Myers) adapt to the big city is a hilarious ride, and the Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders) as a badass villain is a superb reimagining. Plus, this introduces us to Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas)!
'Toy Story 3' (2010)
Much like the third Star Wars film, Toy Story 3 brings home its trilogy without missing a beat. We’d also argue that it’s more sentimental than the Toy Stories before, as Andy heads off to college, leaving the toys to find a new purpose.
'Up' (2009)
Yes, we know the first few minutes of this Disney film are tragic, but if you can make it through the tearful beginning, the rest of the film is super endearing. A grumpy, old man (Edward Asner) and an upbeat adventure scout (Jordan Nagai) make an adorable (and hilarious) pair as they travel to Paradise Falls. It’s a charming story that will surely make it to the top of your list of Disney favorites.
'WALL-E' (2008)
WALL-E is a cute-as-can-be robot with a curious personality whose mission is to help clean up a trash-ridden Earth. Then he meets EVE, a high-tech robot created to find proof of life on Earth, and the two soon embark on a galaxy-crossing journey. Who knew a Disney film about robots could be so charming and thought-provoking?
'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' (1971)
If you haven't given the OG Willy Wonka a true start-to-finish rewatch since you were a kid, this is your sign to do just that and take a trip inside the fantasy realm that the late Gene Wilder so expertly weaves. Besides, if watching the bratty Violet Beauregarde (Denise Nickerson) turn into a blueberry and the spoiled Veruca Salt (Julie Dawn Cole) gets her comeuppance as a “bad egg” doesn’t restore your faith in humanity, we don’t know what will.
'The Wizard of Oz' (1939)
Heralded as one of the most influential movies of all time, The Wizard of Oz has been beloved by fans of every generation since 1939. To say it’s got heart would be an understatement; there’s a whole character dedicated to the organ (we see you, Tin Man), but it has its roots in other warm and fuzzies, too, ranging from themes of friendship and self-confidence to family and appreciation for what you have. It’s also a delight for the senses—particularly when Dorothy lands in Oz and everything turns to color.
