Studio Ghibli films
Studio Ghibli’s enchanting soundtracks and easy-on-the-eyes animation make them great for visual and aural relaxation. Encounter weird and wonderful creatures in My Neighbour Totoro or embark on a spell-binding adventure in Howl’s Moving Castle. Whether you are completely new to anime or a hard-core fan, these films can be relied on for aesthetically pleasing images to brighten up your January.
A “nothing happens” film
There are some films that lack a particularly eventful plot, but are full of comforting characters and pretty settings. Films like Lost in Translation and The Breakfast Club allow you to enjoy an interesting cast of characters without having to be too invested in plot and action - perfect to put on in the background when getting some work done.
Wes Anderson films
Known for artistic use of colour and symmetry, films directed by Wes Anderson will mesmerise you into awe and relaxation. Asteroid City is a great option for its slow pace and dreamy colour palettes. Although the plot is a little more intense, the homely tones in stop motion animation Fantastic Mr Fox are comforting to look at, and George Clooney and Meryl Streep’s voices are very soothing to listen to.
Childhood classics
When you are feeling down from the January cold or stressed about assignments, revisiting a comforting childhood film can help you to unwind. Disney and Pixar films have a nostalgic feel and almost always a happy ending. Some especially relaxing examples are Ratatouille, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and Mary Poppins.
Fantasy Favourites
If you want something familiar but more substantial than a children’s film, rewatching a fantasy series can be a cosy, atmospheric way to relax. Whilst the ending of the Harry Potter films becomes far less relaxing, returning to Hogwarts and seeing the Golden Trio in their youth can be very comforting. When you have seen a film so many times, even the life or death action of the later Harry Potter films feels nostalgic.