10 Movie Suggestions for When You Want to Escape

      Here are some film suggestions for when you need a break: whether it's from stress, overthinking, or a world that feels increasingly incomprehensible.

      We find solace in immersing ourselves in the dilemmas of others, allowing us to forget our own, within cinematic realms that are reminiscent yet distinctly separate from our reality. Here are seven films perfect for a much-needed escape.

      If you have any recommendations, feel free to share them.

      **Top Secret (1984)**

      Val Kilmer in Top Secret!, Paramount Pictures

      This film is one of the most delightfully absurd and low-stakes movies ever made, showcasing Val Kilmer's not just charisma but also his dancing skills.

      It’s a purposefully silly blend of an Elvis flick and a war thriller, featuring 1950s style musical numbers alongside a clever assortment of sight gags that cleverly deconstruct cinema.

      If you enjoyed Airplane! but haven’t checked out this follow-up from Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker, you’re in for a treat. We often recommend this as a top comedy choice.

      **The Empire Strikes Back (1980)**

      Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford in Star Wars – The Empire Strikes Back, Lucasfilm – Credit: C/O

      “This feels like a weird art movie,” a friend remarked when we stumbled upon an old VHS copy of The Empire Strikes Back during a bachelor party in Lake Tahoe, opting to watch it over heading to casinos or engaging in other typical activities.

      While this film troubled me as a child — because the protagonists don't triumph — it offers endless comfort as an adult. We relate to Han, Leia, and their crew as they navigate their way through the Empire, often using unconventional and messy solutions.

      At pivotal moments, the obvious choice is not always the best. Small victories can lead to setbacks, and vice versa. Yet, we trust that Luke’s innate goodness will ultimately overcome the Dark Side.

      Allow yourself to be drawn into this unusual art film.

      **The Silence of the Lambs (1991)**

      Anthony Hopkins in Silence of the Lambs, Orion Pictures – Credit: C/O

      When I struggle to sleep, I often challenge myself with complex problems to solve. Silence of the Lambs places Clarice Starling in both a literal and figurative maze — opening and closing with dark, labyrinthine hallways — and she navigates this with both skill and her profound empathy.

      Notably, she uncovers a critical clue leading her to Jame Gumb (Ted Levine) by discovering a hiding spot in a girl's room that many male investigators overlooked.

      Additionally, the performances are electrifying, with several direct-to-camera lines, particularly from Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), making it impossible to focus on anything else.

      While it’s possible to connect this film to contemporary discussions around identity and representation, let’s refrain from doing so for reasons outlined elsewhere.

      This is one of those film recommendations we only suggest for those with strong stomachs.

      **Anora (2024)**

      A still from Anora, NEON – Credit: C/O

      Anora is, among other things, incredibly visually stunning. Shot on a limited budget, often without permits in Brooklyn, it captures breathtaking visuals amidst strip-club lighting, the grandeur of an oligarch’s mansion, Las Vegas, and especially, towards the end, a significant weather event. (We prefer not to spoil too much.)

      You quickly become fully invested in the life of Ani (Mikey Madison), a stripper who appears to be offered a Cinderella-like escape from her harsh existence, but things take a turn.

      The film also has a humorous side, presenting moments of laughter in unexpected places, and those can often be the most rewarding laughs.

      **Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)**

      Credit: C/O

      Yearning for a day away from responsibilities? Live vicariously through the carefree suburban rebel Ferris Bueller, charmingly portrayed by Matthew Broderick, as he tries to help his uptight friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) enjoy a break, alongside his girlfriend Sloan (Mia Sera).

      Prepare to find yourself quoting this film incessantly, from iconic lines (“Bueller? Bueller?”) to the delightfully bizarre (“Do you have a kiss for daddy?”)

      It’s a wonderfully quirky film that reminds you that showing up every day isn’t mandatory.

      **Casablanca (1942)**

      Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca, Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      “Ilsa, I’m not good at being noble, but it’s clear that the issues of three little people don’t mean much in this chaotic world,” says Rick (Humphrey Bogart), in one of cinema's greatest films. “Someday you’ll understand that. Now, here’s looking at you, kid.”

      Regardless of your troubles, Isla (Ingrid Bergman) faces far greater ones. Torn between