During this strange time of social-distancing and mask-wearing, of self-quarantining and seemingly endless Covid-19 news articles, it has become quite easy to get stuck in a funk. But when all else fails, sometimes it is the undeniable power of a light-hearted movie that serves as the best medicine for turning that frown upside down. Below are eight feel-good films (each can be found on at least one streaming platform such as Showtime, Hulu, Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, etc.) that are sure to offer a little sunshine amidst these dark times. 

“Age Of Summer” (Showtime and Sling TV)

This film takes the audience back to the summer of ‘86, where protagonist Minnesota (Percy Hynes White) spends his days undergoing rigorous training with the Junior Lifeguards, all while doing his best to fit in with the cool kids of Hermosa Beach. Loaded with color and valuable life lessons, this coming-of-age movie offers a little something for everyone. 

“Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable” (Netflix)

In a documentary that captures the life, struggle, and accomplishments of world-renowned professional surfer and mother of two Bethany Hamilton, the Kauai native is shown overcoming the shark attack that changed her life forever. With strength and courage, makes those around her feeling, well, unstoppable.

“RBG” (Hulu)

With brilliant wit and female charm, Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court Ruth Bader Ginsburg has changed the world for women and men everywhere. “RBG” is a documentary that offers a mere glimpse into the complex, tedious fight for gender equality that Ginsburg undertook. This is an inspiring film that acts as an important reminder to stand up for our rights.  

“Booksmart” (Hulu)

Where most teenagers choose to party in high school, protagonists Molly (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) make a strict decision to keep their noses in the books. Then, on the day before graduation, they realize that they’ve missed out on all the fun. This wild ride follows Amy and Molly’s disastrous, yet wildly amusing journey to squeeze four years of poor decision making and crazy adventures into one night. 

“Now and Then” (Amazon Prime)

This heart-warming film travels through time as Roberta Martin (Rosie O’Donnell), Samantha Albertson (Demi Moore), Tina Tercell (Melanie Griffith), and Chrissy DeWitt Williams (Rita Wilson) reminisce about the summer of 1970. Through ups and downs, the four childhood friends boldly and proudly vow to remain bonded forever, which makes for an ending that leaves an appreciation for life’s small blessings. 

“The Parent Trap” (Disney Plus)

Separated at birth, twins Annie and Hallie (Lindsay Lohan) are reunited at summer camp. In an attempt to help parents (played by Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson) reconcile, the girls concoct a plan to switch lives. This 1998 remake of the beloved original offers a handful of good laughs while reiterating the importance of togetherness.

“Hot Rod” (Netflix)

Rod Kimball (Andy Samberg) is continuously getting beat up from his regularly performed, yet inevitably failed stunts, as well as by his stepfather Frank (Ian McShane). With its dumb, somewhat confusing humor, this comedy is bound to make you laugh out loud. 

“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (Netflix)

With graduation just around the corner, Ferris Bueller has one last chance to do what he does best: skip school. In one day, Bueller goes on a must-see adventure through the streets of Chicago, which leaves a desire to enjoy the present moment and make the most of what it has to offer.