10 Movie Suggestions for When You Want to Escape

      Here are some movie suggestions for when you need to take a break: whether from stress, overthinking, or a confusing world.

      We find solace in becoming engrossed in the issues of fictional characters, allowing us to forget our own — in cinematic experiences that, while connected, feel entirely different from our reality. Here are seven films to watch when you just need to unwind.

      Feel free to share your own recommendations as well.

      **Top Secret (1984)**

      Val Kilmer stars in Top Secret!, a Paramount Pictures production.

      This film is one of the most wonderfully absurd and low-stakes comedies ever created, featuring a performance by Val Kilmer that showcases both his charisma and his dancing ability.

      It’s a hilariously silly blend of an Elvis-style movie and a war thriller, complete with ’50s musical numbers and an impressive collection of clever visual jokes that critique cinema itself.

      If you enjoyed Airplane! but haven’t seen this sequel from Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker, get ready for an exhilarating experience. It’s often one of our top comedy picks.

      **The Empire Strikes Back (1980)**

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

      A friend once remarked, “This feels like a strange art film,” when we found an old VHS of The Empire Strikes Back during a bachelor party in Lake Tahoe and chose to watch it rather than indulge in typical casino activities.

      Although this film troubled me in my childhood — the heroes don’t win — it brings me endless comfort as an adult. I deeply relate to Han, Leia, and the others as they narrowly evade the Empire, often solving their dilemmas in unconventional, messy ways.

      At every juncture, the obvious choice isn’t necessarily the best. Small victories can lead to greater losses and vice versa. Yet we trust that Luke’s innate goodness will ultimately overcome the Dark Side.

      Allow yourself to be drawn into this unconventional art film.

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

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

      Whenever I struggle to sleep, I often think about a challenging problem and its potential solutions. Silence of the Lambs presents Clarice Starling in a literal and metaphorical maze — the film opens and closes with shadowy, winding corridors — and she navigates her way out with both skill and deep empathy.

      Recall how she deduces the crucial clue that leads her to Jame Gumb (Ted Levine) by discovering a hiding place in a girl’s room that numerous male investigators have missed.

      Additionally, the performances are electrifying, especially Dr. Hannibal Lecter’s (Anthony Hopkins) direct-to-camera lines that will consume your thoughts completely.

      While it’s possible to draw modern critiques regarding identity and representation from this film, let’s refrain from doing so, as we’ll discuss here.

      Also, this is a recommendation we reserve for those with a strong constitution.

      **Anora (2024)**

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

      Anora is exceptionally visually stunning. Filmed on a minimal budget, often with guerrilla tactics on the streets of Brooklyn, it captures breathtaking visuals in settings ranging from strip clubs to an oligarch’s mansion, Las Vegas, and particularly, in a climatic weather event. (No spoilers here.)

      You quickly become engrossed in the life of stripper Ani (Mikey Madison), who seems to have an opportunity for a fairytale escape from her tumultuous existence. However, things take a turn.

      It’s humorous, and often unexpectedly so. You’ll find yourself laughing in moments where laughter feels inappropriate, which can lead to the most refreshing kind of laughter.

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

      Credit: C/O

      In need of a break? Experience one vicariously alongside carefree suburban rebel Ferris Bueller, charmingly played by Matthew Broderick, as he attempts to give his uptight friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) a day to remember, along with his girlfriend Sloan (Mia Sara).

      Be prepared to quote the film endlessly, from the obvious (“Bueller? Bueller?”) to the delightfully strange (“Do you have a kiss for daddy?”)

      This wonderfully eccentric movie serves as a reminder that you don’t have to show up for everything every day.

      **Casablanca (1942)**

      Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca. Warner Bros. – Credit: Warner Bros

      “Ilsa, I’m not good at nobility, but it doesn’t take much to realize that the issues faced by three little people don’t amount to a hill of beans in this mad world,” Rick (Humphrey Bogart) states in this timeless masterpiece. “Someday you’ll understand that. Now, here’s looking at you, kid.”

      No matter your troubles, Isla (In