5 Must-Watch Movies during Quarantine

(Don't worry, they're not all chick flicks)

Tired of mediocre Netflix movies? I'm no professional movie critic, but my daily movie nights of quarantine have made me somewhat of a movie buff. When I say daily, I mean that my family has literally watched a new movie every night since I've been home. That's a LOT of movies. So, allow me to share my favorite feel-good movies to get you through quarantine.

#1 GREEN BOOK

RELEASED: 2018

GENRE: Drama/Comedy

ABOUT:

"Dr. Don Shirley is a world-class African-American pianist, who is about to embark on a concert tour in the Deep South in 1962. In need of a driver and protection, Shirley recruits Tony Lip, a tough-talking bouncer from an Italian-American neighborhood in the Bronx. Despite their differences, the two men soon develop an unexpected bond while confronting racism and danger in an era of segregation" (Film Synopsis).

WHY I LIKED:

The unexpected bond between these two men, who appear to be complete opposites, is a heart-touching story story inspired by a true friendship. It is moving, humorous, and a must-watch if you have not seen.

“You never win with violence. You only win when you maintain your dignity.” - Don Shirley

#2 THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY

RELEASED: 2013

GENRE: Adventure/Comedy

ABOUT:

"Walter Mitty, an employee at Life magazine, spends day after monotonous day developing photos for the publication. To escape the tedium, Walter inhabits a world of exciting daydreams in which he is the undeniable hero. Walter fancies a fellow employee named Cheryl and would love to date her, but he feels unworthy. However, he gets a chance to have a real adventure when Life's new owners send him on a mission to obtain the perfect photo for the final print issue" (Film Synopsis).

WHY I LIKED:

I saw this movie in theaters years ago and craved to see it again because it inspires you to escape your day-dreams and make them a reality.

"To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life.” - Walter Mitty

#3 THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS

RELEASED: 2006

GENRE: Drama

ABOUT:

"Life is a struggle for single father Chris Gardner (Will Smith). Evicted from their apartment, he and his young son (Jaden Christopher Syre Smith) find themselves alone with no place to go. Even though Chris eventually lands a job as an intern at a prestigious brokerage firm, the position pays no money. The pair must live in shelters and endure many hardships, but Chris refuses to give in to despair as he struggles to create a better life for himself and his son" (Film Synopsis).

WHY I LIKED:

Not only this movie inspired by a true story, but you will feel deeply inspired after watching this film. His never-give-up attitude is contagious.

“The world is your oyster. It's up to you to find the pearls.” - Chris Gardner

#4 THE UPSIDE

RELEASED: 2017

GENRE: Drama/ Comedy

ABOUT:

"Phillip is a wealthy quadriplegic who needs a caretaker to help him with his day-to-day routine in his New York penthouse. He decides to hire Dell, a struggling parolee who's trying to reconnect with his ex and his young son. Despite coming from two different worlds, an unlikely friendship starts to blossom as Dell and Phillip rediscover the joy of living life to the fullest" (Film Synopsis).

WHY I LIKED:

The Upside is an uplifting film based on a true story with a touching, unexpected friendship and a lesson about acceptance and second chances. Moral of the story, don't judge a book by its cover.

"I know about his past. I’m interested in his future." - Phillip Lacasse

#5 LITTLE WOMEN

RELEASED: 2019

GENRE: Romance/Drama

ABOUT:

"In the years after the Civil War, Jo March lives in New York and makes her living as a writer, while her sister Amy studies painting in Paris. Amy has a chance encounter with Theodore, a childhood crush who proposed to Jo but was ultimately rejected. Their oldest sibling, Meg, is married to a schoolteacher, while shy sister Beth develops a devastating illness that brings the family back together" (Movie Synopsis).

WHY I LIKED:

Not only is this movie beautifully filmed and portrayed, but it is a heartfelt, award-winning, modern classic everyone should have the opportunity to experience.

"Just because my dreams are different than yours, it doesn’t mean they’re unimportant.” - Meg March

So, grab your popcorn and prepare to be inspired.