Right now, we could all do with a pick-me up, and films can offer just such an escape. Be it a delightfully constructed modern rom com or a classic tale of friendship, there is something for everyone on the silver screen. Daily Info have picked some of the very best films available on streaming platforms, for all to enjoy at home.
When Harry Met Sally (Netflix)
Chronicling a friendship that blossoms into something more, When Harry Met Sally set a formula that has often been emulated by other comedies but has yet to be matched. Expertly directed by Rob Reiner and written by titan of the genre Nora Ephron, it is a charming watch. Packed with quotable lines performed by a terrific ensemble (led by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan), this feels almost designed to lift your mood.
Long Shot (Netflix, BFIplayer)
But that doesn’t mean there aren’t more recent romantic comedies worth your time. Take Long Shot for example - a film that somehow manages to find a way to balance being politically aware, amusingly crass and heart-warmingly schmaltzy. Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen have oodles of chemistry, and are surrounded by a host of fun characters, as the film builds to a lovely optimistic ending.
Roman Holiday (Now TV)
For the romantically-minded there’s also Roman Holiday. One of the finest examples of 50s American cinema, it takes a fairytale setup (a princess escapes her guardians and falls in love with a journalist) and packs it with spiky dialogue and exquisite Golden era acting. If you really want to know why Audrey Hepburn became such an icon, here is a perfect place to start.
Booksmart (Amazon Prime)
But not every love story needs to be a romantic one. Booksmart is the perfect example of a love story between friends. The plot is simple: academic superstars spend one last night together, in pursuit of a mythical party. Olivia Wilde makes her debut here and really excels in creating a warm, enticing, yet immediately cool viewing experience. There is so much to recommend in Booksmart, and it was our resident film guru’s top film of 2019. It’s that good.
What We Do in the Shadows (Amazon Prime)
Following a household of vampires in New Zealand, you’d expect What We Do in the Shadows not to leave you feeling too good. But it is in fact one of the sweetest, most endearingly silly films out there, thanks to the combined talents of Jemaine Clement (Flight of the Conchords) and Taika Waititi (Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Thor: Ragnarok). And once you’re done with the film, you can enjoy the surprisingly good TV series over on iPlayer.
Eddie the Eagle (Netflix)
Readers of a certain age will be more than familiar with the real life Eddie the Eagle. Director Dexter Fletcher takes a handful of liberties in his retelling, but produces a film that will have you cheering on its protagonist, all the way to the Winter Olympics. Taron Egerton is charming in the lead (charisma he would expertly use again for Rocketman), whilst High Jackman wears a pair of aviators pretty much better than anyone else can. This is one film sure to leave a big smile on your face.
Chef (Amazon Prime)
Sure to make you hungry and determined to experiment more in the kitchen, Chef tells the story of a gourmet chef who quits it all to set up a food truck and reconnect with his son. Director Jon Favreau takes a break from making big franchise fare for a more intimate affair, rewarding audiences with a fun, chilled-out watch that plays to the director’s strengths.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (Now TV, Disney+)
The most successful of the numerous attempts to combine live actors with animated characters (sorry Space Jam lovers), Who Framed Roger Rabbit is an incredible achievement. Somehow the film combines a hard-boiled detective story with Looney Tunes-like animated slapstick, to joyful effect. Packed with cameos from various animation powerhouses, there really hasn’t been a film, before or since, like Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
One Cut of the Dead (Shudder)
Finally, a pick for those who have one of our recommended alternative streaming services. The reason One Cut of the Dead is on the list can’t really be discussed without ruining the joy of the film. But trust us when we say that One Cut of the Dead has one of the most uplifting, punching-the-air good endings of the last decade. Stick with it and you will love it.