During this time of uncertainty, even with a good degree of optimism, there’s nothing like watching an up-beat, happy movie to liven the senses and release some adrenalin. Those working hard including from home need some release from the Monday to Friday routine.
Sitting watching a great movie with a happy ending (the ‘baddies’ always lose!) is good fun. Make it a special event.
Create an ‘interval’ to make it a bit of an occasion for your family or partner, accompanied with a glass of beer, Tanqueray gin and tonic, Jack Daniels, or a double espresso ‘rocket fuel’! Or for kiddies an ice cream or chocolate Oreo.
The most recent happy movie (I’ve watched it a few times) is ‘Mama Mia’. Probably THE most happy movie, the music, songs dancing; awesome! The dance scenes; co-ordination, intricacy, and perfect timing is unbelievable, simply brilliant. Made me want to stand up and sing!! Glad I did not; the glass of gin and tonic would have shattered. The scenes with the boats, everything such good fun! And the actors; playing characters from younger days to older, and back and forth and so well done. I could watch it again…….and again. The ABBA music is super!
Now, a real ‘old’ classic!! The 1979 movie, Grease!! Truly an iconic movie always raising a smile from the very first scene. The typical postures of those years, the outfits; everything. The acting combined with singing and music lifts the heart, and takes me back to ‘former days’!!
Such movies really do put a smile on one’s face. And what does a smile do? It releases endorphins and other positive, driven elements.
Another movie that balances challenging times with good times and ultimately freedom is the 1965 ‘The Sound of Music’.
Music, especially upbeat opens the heart to another Universe allowing ourselves to be carried away to lands of fantasy, leaving the cares of the world behind as we drift in a mist of dreams, reawakening our love of music that has always been there but in this busy world, remained hidden; but just beneath the surface, awaiting liberation.
On a number of occasions, I have listed my all-time favorite music. The first is Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto Number 2, accompanying the iconic movie ‘Brief Encounter’. I still love the movie and the romantically undulating music, moving one along with a wave of romanticism transporting viewers back to 1945 when it was released. The sound of a steam train’s whistle in the first scene visits me often.
Also for me, a true classic; witnessed at Brussels Grand Place, a spectacular light and music event. Son et Lumièr – by composer Vangelis, 1492 Paradise Conquered. Truly awesome!
There is a description in one of my BizCatalyst 360° essays describing those precious minutes which at one time lasted seconds and in others, hours as it replayed in my mind. The music visits my subconscious to become so vivid, I am still standing there watching the multi-colored shafts of light flying up and down the classic buildings in harmony with the music. Dennis Pitocco (Editor-in-Chief) actually added a photo replicating the event!
I am not expecting the sales of Mama Mia to sky-rocket, but if you can, watch the movie! The happiest ever movie!
Guaranteed to put a smile on your faces! You might even get up and dance!
Simon. I loved this and I agree a must have.
Your post illustrates why art and culture are not “nice to have” but “need to have” to stay sane in trying times.