"Feelms" that inspire JOY
1. "It's a wonderful life", Frank Capra, 1947.
Synopsis: George Bailey (James Stewart) is an honest and modest citizen who directs and keeps afloat a small family bank, despite the attempts of a powerful banker to ruin him. On Christmas Eve 1945, overwhelmed by the sudden disappearance of a large sum of money, which would mean not only the bankruptcy of his bank, but also a great scandal, decides to commit suicide, but when he is about to do it something extraordinary happens.
This a magical film that teaches us how life around us would have been if we had never existed. The big joy and attachment to life that it radiates makes you want to enjoy every moment and give thanks for what you have, either little, a lot or regular, because, in the end, the most important thing are human relationships.
2. "Singing in the Rain", Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen, 1952.
Synopsis: Before meeting aspiring actress Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), the silent cinema idol Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) thought he had it all: fame, fortune and success. But as soon as he meets her, he realizes that the only thing missing in his life was her. With the birth of the talkies, Don wants to film musicals with Kathy, but silent movie queen Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) stands in their way.
This is one of the most vital films I've ever watched. Both the music and the joy of the actors, fantastic in their respective roles, invite to stand up from the chairand start dancing with them! Ideal for moments of letdown!
3. "The Sound of Music", Robert Wise, 1965.
Synopsis: Austria, 1938. Maria (Julie Andrews) is a cheerful novice who leaves the abbey to become governess to the seven children of a retired military officer, Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer), a recent widower. The von Trapp house functions as a barracks, but Maria manages to bring back joy to the children and to win their respect and affection.
Music, children, beautiful nature, rebellion, learning ... how not to succumb to the charms of this movie? Who has not felt mesmerized by its great soundtrack and has not hummed some of its songs? A classic that will live forever.
4. Amélie ("Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain", Jean-Pierre Jeunet, 2001).
Synopsis: Amélie Poulain (Audrey Tautou) is a positive young woman with a special light that accompanies her wherever she goes. Raised by eccentric parents, she's had limited contact with the outside world since childhood. Given this, Amélie develops a great imagination and establishes as a personal goal for her life to help people find happiness without them knowing about it. The pursuit of happiness of others will lead her to meeting Nino Quincampoix (Mathieu Kassovitz), a mysterious "prince charming".
One of my top 5 favorite movies. It exudes innocence, goodness and joy for life, and has become a cult movie practically since its release. Iconoclastic, very plastic and visual, and with a message of confidence in humanity. What more can you ask for to brighten existence? :)
5. Mamma Mía! (Phyllida Lloyd, 2008).
Synopsis: Donna (Meryl Streep), an independent, single mother who owns a small hotel on an idyllic Greek island, is about to let Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) go, the spirited daughter she's raised alone. Donna has invited her two best friends to her daughter's wedding: Rosie, a practical and logical woman and Tanya, wealthy and multi-divorced. The two are former members of her former band, "Donna and the Dynamos". Meanwhile, Sophie has secretly invited three guests. Determined to find a father to take her to the altar, she invites three men who visited the idyllic island 20 years ago. During the 24 chaotic, magical hours before the ceremony, new loves will bloom and old romances will be rekindled on an island full of possibilities.
Musical sprinkled with the most cheerful songs of the Swedish group Abba, this film is a proper amusement. Breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, a wedding organization and sentimental conflicts, all wrapped up in outstanding performances. Great "feelm" to relive the summer and lift your spirits! ;)
If you can think of more movies that inspire JOY, or want to say something, share your thoughts! Thank you!