Starting out with some golden oldies, these two absolute classics share the same legendary director in Alfred Hitchcock. His unmistakable cinematic style has left its mark on both films and watching them back-to-back would just enhance the experience. With North by Northwest, you have a spy thriller with a case of mistaken identity and a chase across the United States; but with Rear Window, it’s a much slower murder mystery that builds suspense throughout the film, and stars the incredible Jimmy Stewart. The two complement each other incredibly and would definitely make for an exciting night at the movies.
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975) and Girl, Interrupted (1999)
Not a particularly cheery option, but still two seminal pieces of cinema. These films share the psych ward setting and the unsettling, claustrophobic feeling that comes with that. They feature some truly outstanding performances from the likes of Angelina Jolie (who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2000), Jack Nicholson and Whoopi Goldberg. Whilst they may not brighten up your day, they are a pair of must-see films with compelling plots and characters that will, in some strange manner, find their way into your heart.
3. Ponyo (2008) and Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
For those who are looking for something lighter, here’s a perfect pairing. Both of these are the product of Studio Ghibli and are without a doubt two of the most beautiful and most comforting animated films out there. Ponyo follows the tale of a mischievous sea princess who wishes to escape the confines of her underwater palace, whilst Kiki’s Delivery Service shows us the coming-of-age tale of a young witch who works at a little bakery in a seaside town. Gorgeously created by the famed Hayao Miyazaki, this is the perfect double bill for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
4. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) and Poor Things (2023)
This may seem like a somewhat nonsensical pairing at first, but the two films share a lot in common. ESOTSM follows a couple through their breakup, whereupon they decide to undergo a procedure to wipe all their memories of their time together. Joel is played spectacularly by Jim Carey, whilst the eccentric Clementine is portrayed by Kate Winslet. Poor Things also features a somewhat eccentric female lead in the form of Bella Baxter, who embarks on a journey to explore and educate her own mind. Both have a surrealist, sci-fi quality to them, and explore the human mind, soul and body – all whilst boasting some beautiful visuals.
