2020 is a dumpster fire: Chill out for a bit with these happy movies
Is the horror of 2020 constantly weighing you down? Are you looking for ways to take your mind off this year? It may be time to turn off the news, uninstall social media apps, and just relax with a movie that will lighten your mood.
Sometimes, all you need is a charming form of entertainment to forget about the world and raise your spirits. Whether it’s a laugh or a smile, these movies will keep you happy for a while. Here are some happy movies to watch to keep your mind off of 2020.
Shazam! (2019)
Shazam! is a refreshing change of pace for DC superhero movies. The usual dark, grisly tone in DC movies makes way for charming, hilarious characters and bright visuals. Zachary Levi’s performance is infectious as he embodies the overwhelming excitement of a teenager who develops superpowers.
Shazam! also contains an enormous amount of heart as it has a strong message about the power of family and how the ones closest to us make us stronger.
Back to the Future (1985)
Are you telling me they built a time machine out of a Delorean? Yes, they did. Back to the Future is impossible to watch without a constant smile on your face. Whether it’s Christopher Lloyd’s chaotic and over-the-top performance as Doc Brown or Alan Silvestri’s epic score, Back to the Future is a high-speed, immensely fun ride that will boost your mood in bunches.
Elf (2003)
It is early November, but since it is 2020, why not start Christmas off early? Elf is a modern Christmas classic for good reason. It gives off an incredible amount of holiday spirit, especially through Will Ferrell’s iconic performance as Buddy the Elf. Watching Ferrell single-handedly cheer up New York City with his overwhelming positivity is charming every time. If you watch Elf without smiling, then ba-humbug to you!
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has plenty of awesome action movies in their collection. However, Guardians of the Galaxy is the most fun. It’s funny, heartwarming, and has a great soundtrack of feel-good, retro songs, adding an exciting atmosphere to this space epic. If you love this movie, check out its sequel which is just as fun & hilarious.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
It’s hard not to be swept away while watching this overly happy musical. The Greatest Showman fills its audience with hope & inspiration through impressive, colorful visuals and show-stopping musical numbers. Hugh Jackman is wonderful as P.T. Barnum alongside a great cast, including Zendaya & Zac Efron. The song “This is Me” will make you cry with happiness and get stuck in your head for the rest of the day.
Mary Poppins (1964)
If you’re looking for an oldie but a goodie, Mary Poppins will satisfy that. Disney always finds a way to please their audience, but Mary Poppins may be Disney’s most whimsical & lighthearted movie. Julie Andrews melts hearts with her performance as the magical nanny, along with catchy songs like “A Spoonful of Sugar”. Settle down and enjoy a “Jolly Holiday” with Mary.
Despicable Me (2010)
This animated film is anything but despicable. Despicable Me has a tremendous amount of heart as the world’s greatest villain, Gru (Steve Carell), adopts three girls for selfish reasons, but learns to love them and leave his evil ways behind. Despicable Me also contains the massively popular Minions characters, who may be annoying to some, but are undoubtedly hilarious.
The Muppets (2011)
In 2011, The Muppets made a comeback in a big way. The second The Muppets begins, there’s an overwhelming atmosphere of happiness & delight. Kermit the Frog and company always provide delightful entertainment for audiences which continues to this day. Listening to “Rainbow Connection” will always brighten up your day.
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Robin Williams was one of the funniest people onstage and on screen. Mrs. Doubtfire is a charming comedy about a recently divorced father who pretends to be a nanny in order to see his kids more. Williams is hilarious as the fake nanny and uses his vocal talents to the full capacity.
Ratatouille (2007)
Ratatouille is the most underrated Pixar movie. While a rat who can cook is a strange concept, Ratatouille is an inspirational movie about following your passions and overcoming negative perceptions. There’s a beautiful message within the film as well: not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere.
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If 2020 is getting you down, take a break and check out the recommended movies listed above. It’s never a bad idea to take some time off and put a smile on your face.
