We get it: midterm season still lingers for some of us students. At this point, we are mentally exhausted by our workload, we are emotionally exhausted from the shaky dating world, and we are too tired to even care about parties anymore. It’s the mid-semester rut that we know all too well.
None of us have time to read a good book, and sometimes that upbeat playlist just doesn’t do the trick. What you need is a good ol’ movie. Set aside a little bit of time to relax and curl up to the powerful effects of a pick-me-up movie to get you out of your rut.
Here are just some of the best movies to get you recharged and ready for life again:
Wild (2014)
This movie was praised for having such a strong, driven leading female role. After a number of traumatic experiences, a woman decides to take the 1,100-mile route of the Pacific Crest Trail by herself. She meets a number of people along the way who make her experience interesting, but it’s mainly a story about fulfillment and identity.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
If you have wanderlust, you will especially appreciate this movie. A man who plays out scenarios in his head without the courage to actually do what he imagines (Who hasn’t done that?) goes on a daring journey to track down the last photograph in an attempt to save the soul of Time Magazine and his job.
Forrest Gump (1994)
Who doesn’t love a good, goofy protagonist who happens to find himself in many iconic moments in history? Not that that happens often… Forrest Gump is an undeniably unique film that plays up the innocence of both humanity and life. Funny, charming, and uplifting, this movie is a classic!
The Holiday (2006)
Now that Christmas is approaching, it’s appropriate to pull out those holiday movies that you’ve been waiting for all year long. Two women in completely different countries and situations decide to switch houses (and lives) for the holiday season. They learn about themselves and their relationships and make dramatic changes in their life to be happy again.
Begin Again (2013)
Filled with great music and amazing actors, this movie is terrifically done. A failing music producer with his own personal struggles encounters a girl who just went through her own relationship trauma. They meet at an open mic night where he hears her sing for the first time, and their business and friendship progress beautifully as they record amazing music throughout New York City.
Houseboat (1958)
This classic film is probably one of the most charming in history. A wealthy dad, who doesn’t have a great relationship with his kids, moves into a disheveled houseboat with his three children and a new nanny. Their relationships grow and the meaning of love and family are defined in this brilliant film.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Who doesn’t love a good musical? The soundtrack, inspired by ABBA’s great hits, creates a story about a young girl growing up (getting married, moving away, and defining herself) and her mother’s re-discovery of her own dreams and love life. The music is catchy and the characters are easy to love. It’s a must!
The Other Woman (2014)
Ever experienced an unfaithful man? These women have. After finding out that they are all “sharing” a man, the women eventually become friends trying to take down their mutual ex. Featuring hilarious actresses and a universal message of girl power, it’ll get you over that guy in no time!
The Princess Bride (1987)
Sometimes you just need to get into a different reality altogether. Forget about midterms, essays, and projects and just watch this classic tale of romantic love and quest in this incredibly witty adventure.
Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life (1983)
Anything from Monty Python will be a good bet, but if you find yourself wondering what any of this (school, work, life) all means, this movie is highly recommended. No spoilers – just watch it.
Holes (2003)
Who can forget this movie about friendship and fighting for the right thing? After falsely accused of theft and finding himself in a desert detention camp, Stanley discovers the mysteries of the past that lead to the events happening in these boys’ lives.