15 Comforting Movies to Watch to De-Stress After the Election

“Inside Out 2” has quickly become a beloved film for audiences of all ages, and it’s easy to see why. While technically a kids’ movie, its universal themes of emotions, self-discovery, and growing up resonate deeply with everyone—making it a perfect choice to uplift spirits after a stressful time.

The film’s immense success is a testament to its broad appeal, becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time and the eighth highest-grossing movie ever. Its ability to balance humor, heart, and thought-provoking messages about the complexities of change and personal growth makes it a standout. Whether you’re watching it with family, friends, or on your own, “Inside Out 2” offers a warm, comforting reminder that growing up can be messy but also beautiful. “Inside Out 2” is streaming on Disney+.

“Girls Trip” follows four lifelong friends who reunite for a wild trip to the Essence Festival in New Orleans, rediscovering their bond and having fun while facing personal challenges. The film is an escapist comedy, offering laughter, outrageous moments, and a celebration of friendship and empowerment. It creates a sense of community by highlighting the importance of authentic connections and supporting one another through life’s ups and downs.

“When Harry Met Sally” is a romantic comedy that explores the evolving relationship between Harry and Sally, two New Yorkers who initially believe men and women can’t be friends without romantic involvement. Over the course of many years, their friendship deepens into love, showcasing the beauty of companionship, mutual respect, and emotional vulnerability.

The film’s loving qualities lie in its portrayal of authentic connection, where love develops gradually and organically through shared experiences and deep conversations. With witty dialogue and heartfelt moments, it celebrates the idea that true love often comes from friendship and the willingness to embrace each other’s imperfections.

“Crazy Rich Asians” is a vibrant and fun romantic comedy that follows Rachel Chu, an American-born Chinese economics professor, who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend Nick’s family, only to discover they are insanely wealthy. The film is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and high-society drama, set against the backdrop of lavish parties and stunning visuals.

What makes it so watchable is its lively energy, charming performances, and the way it celebrates cultural identity with humor and heart. The movie is full of fun, from its witty dialogue to its over-the-top, glamorous setting, offering an entertaining and refreshing cinematic experience that’s both heartwarming and hilarious.

“The Holiday” is a charming romantic comedy that follows two women, Iris and Amanda, who swap homes for the holidays to escape their personal struggles. While staying in each other’s picturesque homes—one in snowy England, the other in sunny California—they find unexpected romance and a fresh start.

With the holiday season approaching, this feel-good movie is perfect for the time of year, offering warmth, festive cheer, and a cozy escape. Its mix of heartwarming moments, sweet love stories, and picturesque settings makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to relax and enjoy a dose of holiday magic.

“Little Miss Sunshine” is a quirky, heartwarming comedy-drama about a dysfunctional family who embarks on a cross-country road trip to support their young daughter, Olive, as she competes in a beauty pageant. Despite their individual struggles and differences, the family comes together, learning valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and perseverance along the way.

The film’s uplifting qualities lie in its message that success isn’t about perfection, but about the courage to keep going and embrace life’s imperfections. With humor, tenderness, and a strong sense of unity, “Little Miss Sunshine” reminds viewers that even in the face of adversity, family, determination, and self-acceptance can lead to unexpected triumphs.

“CODA” is a deeply moving film about Ruby, a hearing teenager in a deaf family, who navigates the complexities of balancing her love for music with her responsibilities at home. As the only hearing member of her family, Ruby finds herself torn between pursuing her dreams and supporting her parents and brother, who rely on her as their interpreter. The film beautifully explores the unconditional love within a family, highlighting the sacrifices and emotional connections that bind them.

“CODA” is important because it sheds light on the deaf community while celebrating the universal themes of family loyalty, self-discovery, and the power of communication, making it a touching and relatable story of love and belonging.

“Hidden Figures” tells the inspiring true story of three African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played crucial roles in NASA’s space program during the 1960s. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, these brilliant mathematicians and engineers helped launch John Glenn into orbit, making history in both the civil rights and space exploration movements.

The film is an important story because it highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women of color in science and technology, breaking down barriers and demonstrating the power of perseverance, intellect, and courage in the face of adversity. It’s a powerful reminder of the untold stories that shaped history and the importance of diversity in innovation.

“Mamma Mia!” is a joyful musical set on a beautiful Greek island, where the spirited Sophie is about to get married and invites three men from her mother’s past, hoping to discover which one is her father. The stunning Mediterranean setting, with its crystal-clear waters and sun-drenched landscapes, adds to the film’s feel-good atmosphere.

The iconic ABBA songs—like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia”—infuse the movie with energy and charm, creating an uplifting soundtrack that’s impossible not to sing along to. With its fun, lighthearted vibe, “Mamma Mia!” is the perfect escape, leaving audiences with a sense of joy and a renewed appreciation for love, family, and music.

“The Pursuit of Happyness” is a deeply moving film about Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who fights against homelessness while caring for his young son, Christopher. The film’s central theme is the unconditional love between father and son, as Chris’s determination to provide a better life for his child drives him to persevere through countless hardships.

Despite facing overwhelming challenges, the bond they share is the emotional heart of the movie, showing how love, sacrifice, and hope can help overcome even the toughest obstacles. It’s a powerful reminder of the lengths a parent will go to for their child and the strength of familial love in the pursuit of a better life.

“Air” is a movie that tells the story of Nike’s game-changing partnership with basketball legend Michael Jordan. The movie focuses on how Nike’s struggling basketball division, led by executive Sonny Vaccaro, took a risk on the unknown rookie, offering him a groundbreaking endorsement deal that would forever change the sports marketing landscape.

With its fun and fast-paced narrative, Air explores the behind-the-scenes hustle, the personal stakes, and the passion that led to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand. The film combines humor, heart, and a sense of entrepreneurial spirit, making it an engaging and uplifting watch.

The new Netflix documentary, “Will & Harper”, shows just how far Ferrell has come since SNL — and how much his journey has been shaped by his close friendship with fellow SNL alum, Harper Steele, who opens up about her journey to becoming a trans woman.

The documentary takes an intimate look at their 30-year friendship and how it evolved after Harper came out as trans. Three years ago, Ferrell received an unexpected email while filming a movie: Steele, his friend and collaborator for decades, was coming out to him as a trans woman. That moment marks the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship, which the pair explores during a cross-country road trip documented in “Will & Harper”. The movie will make you laugh, cry, and think about places in society.

“Fatherhood” is a heartfelt drama starring Kevin Hart as Matt, a man who unexpectedly becomes a single parent after the sudden death of his wife shortly after giving birth to their daughter, Maddy. With no family support nearby, Matt must navigate the challenges of raising his daughter while balancing his career and personal struggles.

The film explores themes of love, resilience, and the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood, as Matt learns to embrace his role as both mother and father. Through humor, vulnerability, and tender moments, “Fatherhood” showcases the deep bond between father and child and the sacrifices made for family. It’s a touching story about the transformative power of love and the strength it takes to face life’s unexpected challenges.

“Catch Me If You Can” is a thrilling and entertaining film based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a master of deception who successfully posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer while evading the FBI for years. Played by Leonardo DiCaprio, Frank’s cat-and-mouse game with FBI agent Carl Hanratty, portrayed by Tom Hanks, drives the plot.

The film blends action, suspense, and humor, making it a highly enjoyable ride as Frank constantly outsmarts Carl with his quick thinking and charm. With its fast-paced action, clever twists, and compelling performances, “Catch Me If You Can” is a fun and engaging watch that combines the excitement of a heist movie with the warmth of an unlikely friendship.

“The Devil Wears Prada” is a stylish and entertaining film that follows Andrea Sachs, a young journalist who lands a job as an assistant to the powerful and demanding editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, Miranda Priestly. As Andrea navigates the glamorous yet cutthroat fashion world, she struggles to balance her career ambitions with her personal life. The movie is a visual feast, filled with high-fashion moments, dazzling wardrobes, and the pulpy drama of the fashion industry.

With its sharp wit, memorable performances by Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, and behind-the-scenes look at the competitive world of fashion, “The Devil Wears Prada” is a must-watch for those who love fashion and enjoy a compelling, fast-paced story about ambition, power, and personal growth.

After an intense election season, escapist and uplifting movies provide the perfect way to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s the feel-good camaraderie of “Girls Trip”, the inspiring journey of “The Pursuit of Happyness”, or the fun and fashionable world of “The Devil Wears Prada”, these films offer a chance to unplug and enjoy a lighter, more joyful experience. They remind us of the power of laughter, love, and resilience, making them an ideal choice for a much-needed emotional reset.