I know the feeling; you’re sitting down in front of your Netflix screen staring at the grid of movies with no idea which one to watch. So, check our list of lockdown movies!
The endless movie streaming options often feel overwhelming and you end up settling with re-watching that movie you’ve seen a million times. With the coronavirus having us in lockdown and spending so much time watching movies, this is almost an everyday occurrence, and I don’t know about you, but there’s only so many times I can re-watch the entire High School Musical series.
There also those ‘must watch’ classics that you’ve had sitting on your lockdown movies list but just can’t bring yourself to watch, or when you did, you got bored pretty quickly. Even if they are good, Citizen Kane and The Godfather probably aren’t the vibe for right now. So, forget about them, and take a look at this new lockdown movie list, full of fun, exciting and emotional movies all with a bit of needed escapism.
Whether you’re after a high action thriller or a heart-warming doco, we’ve got you covered. In no particular order, here’s our lockdown list of six movies streaming now.
1. The Spy Who Dumped Me (Netflix)
This movie was underrated at the time of its release and it deserves justice as being one of the best comedies of 2018.
Not only does The Spy Who Dumped Me have a killer cast with Mila Kunis, Kate McKinnon and Justin Theroux, but it has some incredible action sequences topped with an unexpected narrative. Kunis and McKinnon play best friends Audrey and Morgan that end up on a chaotic trip across Europe after Audrey is dumped by her boyfriend, who is revealed to be a spy.
The pair are then thrown into the deep end as they’re left with a mission to complete. There’s a bit of everything for everyone: spy action, female friendships, Gillian Anderson and most importantly, fun. It’s the perfect choice for your Zoom movie night with friends.
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2. The Farewell (Amazon Prime)
Based on an actual lie, The Farewell is the story of Billi and her family as they deal with their grandmothers’ terminal cancer diagnosis. With the decision not to tell their grandmother of her illness, the family unites in China to say goodbye to her under the guise of a wedding.
The Farewell takes it’s time in the best possible way, establishing complex and realistic characters in an intricate situation. Despite the sadness of a cancer diagnosis, the movie finds moments of humour and celebrates the joy in family.
The story is based on the real-life experiences of its director Lulu Wang, exploring the internal culture clashes that many Chinese-Americans and immigrants face but it will resonate with anyone who has struggled with identity. Awkwafina leads the movie in a powerful performance as Billi, completely different to her previous comedic roles.
However, it’s Nai Nai, played by Zhao Shu-zhen that really steals the show and is a true treasure of the movie. The Farewell is beautiful, moving and cathartic. It’s a one of a kind movie for everyone to adore.
3. Uncut Gems (Netflix)
If you’re looking for something high energy, Uncut Gems is the ride you need. Starring Adam Sandler (yes, the acclaimed actor from Jack & Jill) in what should have been an Oscar award winning performance, Uncut Gems follows Howard Ratner, a New York City jeweller with a gambling addiction who is constantly on the search for his next big win.
The sound design pulls you into the gritty world of this movie, never giving you a chance to relax or catch your breath. As the audience you get dug deeper and deeper into a hole alongside Howard just hoping he gets a win.
Other familiar faces of the movie include Lakeith Stanfield and Idina Menzel, but it’s the surprise performances by basketball legend Kevin Garnett and singer The Weeknd that make this movie even more real. It’s a fast paced, anxiety inducing and almost frantic, but it’s compelling and incredibly well done. Uncut Gems is guaranteed to bring some chaos to your lockdown.
4. Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (Netflix)
Whether or not you are familiar with Mister Rogers, you’ll want to bring your tissues to this one. Won’t You Be My Neighbor? is a portrait of Fred Rogers, the beloved American television host and creator of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, a children’s show that explored a broad range of topics using puppets and music.
Teaching children about the harder things in life, Fred Rogers tackled a range of issues with care and kindness. Not only is this movie profoundly tender but it beautifully captures the spirit of Fred Rogers, sharing his life story. It remembers Fred, not only as a dedicated children’s entertainer, but also as a man who struggled with self-doubt and fear.
Won’t You Be My Neighbor? is a tearjerker but also a movie that reminds us that we are surrounded by love. It leaves you with a feeling of optimism that there is still good in the world, we just need to share it.
5. Handsome Devil (Netflix)
I never knew rugby playing, angsty Irish teen boys at boarding school could make for such a wholesome movie and yet here we are. Handsome Devil is the story of Ned, a somewhat arrogant music obsessed loner who is met with a new roommate, Connor, the ruby playing quiet kid with a secret he’s trying to hide.
It feels familiar in its coming of age narrative, but this movie offers unexpected plot developments, unique characters and a refreshing LGBTQ+ story.
Andrew Scott is amazing as Mr Sherry, the English teacher reminiscent of Dead Poets Societys’ John Keating, and who really sends home the message of finding your own voice.
It’s a story about acceptance and identity in a way that is uplifting and charming. It also has a great soundtrack that feels like a warm hug.
6. Little Women (Amazon Prime)
Little Women is a literary classic and story we’ve seen on screen a few times before. However, Greta Gerwigs’ 2019 update is a charming take on the beloved story. Not only is this movie overwhelmingly beautiful just to look at, but it is also consistently entertaining.
Despite being a period piece, it never feels passé. Instead, the themes of independence, family and sacrifice experienced by the sisters are relevant and relatable. Little Women has a hint of melodrama but also a tenderness that is incredibly warming.
It’s one of those movies where you experience almost all the human emotions with moments of sadness balanced with really light-hearted fun moments. Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh both give stellar performances as sisters Jo and Amy. Not to mention Timothée Chalamet as Laurie, who you can’t help but to swoon a little bit when he’s on screen.
Little Women is masterfully done and a fresh take on a classic, making it one that’s unmissable.
