We’ve all had a broken heart at one time or another. Sometimes it’s because you got out of a long-term relationship while other times it might be because you have a bad case of unrequited love. Whatever the scenario, it’s always handy to have things on hand to cheer you up. I’ve made a list of six movies that never fail to cheer me up when I’m down. Having recently read The Museum of Heartbreak by Meg Leder (which was AWESOME, you should go read it), I definitely think Penelope Marx, the protagonist, would’ve benefitted from this list! Penelope creates her own personal museum after “coming face to face with the devastating, lonely-making, butt-kicking phenomenon known as heartbreak.” It’s available as an extended excerpt until July 31st. Once you’re done reading that, start watching the movies below. You’ll feel better in no time!
1. Legally Blonde
This one is great because it’s only AFTER Elle moves on from Warner that she lives up to her full potential. The way she comes out of a bad breakup and moves on is not only inspiring, it’s so fun to watch. (Side note: If you haven’t yet, you NEED to listen to the soundtrack to Legally Blonde: The Musical)
2. Pride and Prejudice (2005 adaptation)
There is always some debate over which P&P adaptation is the best, but hands down this is the one you want to watch when you’re down in the dumps. This film is gorgeous, from the cinematography to the music, and, of course, the actors. As soon as I put this movie on, I’m always in a better mood.
3. Moana
I couldn’t get through this list without adding a Disney movie. Not only is Moana amazing all around, it shows you that you can have an awesome adventure without adding any romance in the mix.
4. Love, Rosie
This is a great one to watch if you’re dealing with a case of unrequited love. It shows that sometimes things have to be in both the right place and at the right time to work out.
5. Clueless
This movie is a hilarious adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma. Though Cher tries to play matchmaker, the ultimate moral of this movie is that sometimes you can’t force things. You just have to have the confidence to believe in yourself and never give up, and everything will fall into place. (Additionally, if you’re looking for more of a period version of this story, I recommend the 2009 BBC mini-series)
6. The Princess Diaries 2
Okay, this is something that everyone else might not agree on, but this is one of my favorite movies. It’s silly and fun, and includes Julie Andrews mattress surfing (what more could anyone want?). This movie is always guaranteed to bring me out of any funk, and HELLO, it’s such a girl power movie.
Spoiler: Mia doesn’t need a man! She can do it all on her own, and if that isn’t the greatest message of all, I don’t know what is.
There, I bet you’re feeling better already aren’t you!