Top 5 Movies That Make Me Smile

Inspired by the Top 25 Films That Make You Happy post via top10films.co.uk, I found myself thinking about the movies that genuinely make me happy to watch these days. Put a smile on my face, perhaps a laugh in my gut, but always leave me thinking "ah, what a great day," regardless of my mood going in. It's easy to forget those movies amidst the sea of deep emotional dramas that I'm drawn to, so I felt the need to honor them in some way. So, let's begin!

5. Star Wars Episode 4 - A New Hope:

There exist very few films in the world that can put a smile on my face as often, or as long lasting, as the ever prevailing classic Star Wars. I love the characters, the story, the mythos. Every aspect of it wonderfully blends childhood nostalgia, with modern day excitement and thrill.  From beginning to end, it's one classic I can watch anytime, every time.

4. Blazing Saddles:

Have I mentioned before that I love Mel Brooks? Well, in a strictly admiration way, of course *cough*. I love absurd random humor, and I could easily match this up with Young Frankenstein, which I think is the better film overall. Still, nothing makes me laugh as hard as Blazing Saddles. I can't stop. It absolutely kills me. The perfect blend of off the wall humor, and extreme absurdity make it all worth it.

3. The Princess Bride:

I believe my love for absurdity has been mentioned once already (see above comments). Add to that a overly repressed romantic side, and you'll find my fascination for The Princess Bride not all that surprising. I love the simplicity, and beauty, of its romance. The creativity with which it creates, and embraces the world. And by god, how can you not love Peter Falk!? There's got to be some law in the cinematic realm that fronts him an automatic likability factor of 10.

2. The Great Dictator:

There's something sweet, and wonderfully amusing, about Chaplin's The Great Dictator that, despite having reviewed it, I can never fully express. A sort of wonder, and comedic excellence, that can't be defined, but rather experienced. subtle in its heart, but overly present in the moments it adds a smile to your face. Even with its breathtaking final speech, Chaplin's Great Dictator never leaves me wanting.

1. Harvey:

By this point on my blog you're probably tired of reading me ramble on about Jimmy Stewart, Harvey, and the films of Kurosawa. Yet, there's something to be said for wanting to share those things you really love. Harvey is one of those rare films that never lets me down. No matter what mood I'm in, or how recently I've seen it, every time I walk away feeling like a better person. A happier person. A winner in every respect of the word. It exudes charm, silliness, and heart with every scene, and for that I am eternally grateful. Perhaps I should get off my butt and write a review for it already, huh?


Well there you have it. My top 5 go to films for a smile when I need it most. What are some of your go to films when happiness is required?