Every now and again, we can all use a little escapism
There are few things that give you that feeling of escape better than films. Thus, we've picked a selection of escapist movies to get you through the next while.
Since we can't travel for the time being, we've picked films that will bring you to exotic locations without leaving the comfort of your couch.
Roman Holiday
Rent on Youtube or Google Play
This classic starring the inimitable Audrey Hepburn as a princess in disguise exploring the capital of Italy, and Gregory Peck as a reporter hoping to get a scoop on her, is just full of joy and fun. You’ll want to book a trip to Rome immediately after watching it.
La Dolce Vita
Watch on Amazon Prime
Another Rome-set title that’s worth watching as well is 'La Dolce Vita'. It’s renowned as one of the greatest movies in world cinema and features a renowned sequence in which an actress goes swimming in the Trevi fountain. Mind you, that’s one movie moment you won’t be able to recreate - unless you want to get arrested.
Call Me By Your Name
Rent on Youtube or Google Play
This romantic drama which sees Timothee Chalamet’s 17 year old experience love for the first time with Armie Hammer’s grad student, wouldn’t have been the same without the lush, sunny setting of Crema, Northern Italy. Fans of the film have journeyed there to recreate such scenes as when the characters dance in the street.
Sideways
Rent on Youtube or Google Play
This highly acclaimed comedy will inspire you to book a flight to California’s wine country post haste. It sees a soon-to-be-married actor and his divorced, depressed friend take a road trip with numerous dramatic, alcohol induced turns.
Wine Country
Watch on Netflix
A related title worth watching is 'Wine Country', which is on Netflix. It sees a group of girlfriends, who’ve been pals for years, head to Napa Valley to get drunk and consider their life choices. Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph and Tina Fey are among the cast.
The Darjeeling Limited
Watch on Disney+, or rent on Youtube or Google Play
This is one of Wes Anderson’s lesser appreciated movies, but it’s another great feature from the highly imaginative and stylistic director. It sees three brothers played by Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody and Jason Schwartzman travel around India, one year after their father dies, in an effort to bond. The escapist flick is full of funny, beautiful and deeply contemplative moments.
Midnight In Paris
Watch on Netflix
Another Owen Wilson starrer, 'Midnight in Paris' sees a screenwriter explore France’s capital. It transforms into the 1920s, populated by characters from the era, every night at midnight.
Cold War
Watch on Amazon Prime
Another feature that involves an absolutely stunning depiction of Paris can be found in 'Cold War', which is on Amazon Prime. It follows a Polish director and singer trying to escape their oppressive Communist country, and make their way to France. We warn you in advance though, it's a tearjerker.
Eat Pray Love
Watch on Netflix
Great as Julia Roberts is, 'Eat Pray Love' pales in comparison with the original book by Elizabeth Gilbert. Still it’s an easy to watch girly, escapist movie as our heroine travels to Italy, India and Indonesia in an effort to find herself.
Vicky Christina Barcelona
Watch on Amazon Prime, or rent on Youtube or Google Play
Barcelona has never looked more beautiful than in 'Vicky Christina Barcelona'. It helps that it has beautiful stars in Scarlett Johansson, Penelope Cruz, Rebecca Hall and Javier Bardem, to match. The film sees two best friends explore love, art and life on a holiday in the Spanish city.
Lost In Translation
Watch on Amazon Prime
An oldie but a goody, 'Lost in Translation' is still probably the first film that comes to everyone’s mind when you think of movies set in Tokyo. The film captures the Japanese city’s vast offerings and eccentricities as Bill Murray and Scarlett Johannsson explore the place.