Ladies and Gentleman, school has officially started. Some of us have been anxiously waiting for this moment, dying to take classes that stimulate our creativity and enhance our sense of purpose. Others have been dreading this moment, fearing the possibility of constant homework and sleepless nights. Whichever group you belong to, the time to work has come all the same.
At this point in the school year, you are most likely not experiencing a large amount of stress. Your classes are probably filled with student introductions, syllabus discussions and basic lessons. School, at the moment, is breezy. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but, unfortunately, this breezy nature will not last. Your classes will become much tougher, your homework will take much longer and your stress level will, at times, be through the roof. This transition is inevitable and we all struggle to cope with it. Throughout my college career, however, I have discovered a few solutions to help minimize the stress that this transition causes. One of these solutions includes watching upbeat movies on Netflix.
Now I know what you must be thinking: isn't that solution counterproductive? Doesn't it just lead you to procrastinate more, giving you less time to finish your work and thus making you more stressed about meeting deadlines? As much as I understand the concern behind this inquiry, I believe that it is okay to procrastinate as long as your procrastination eventually leads to mental rejuvenation. Also, if you are really concerned about meeting deadlines, this solution can work for you as long as you budget your time well. So, with all that being said, here are ten upbeat movies on Netflix to watch when you are stressed.
1. "Legally Blonde"
This is probably one of the most witty and heartwarming underdog stories you can come across. Not only is this film perfect for those who are stressed by being positively hysterical, but it also reminds us that, if we are strong, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way, whether that obstacle be relationships, school or our social lives.
2. "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl"
If you are feeling slightly deflated and need to watch something with a remarkably uplifting soundtrack, this movie is just what you need. Not only is its music extraordinary, but it contains incredible characters including Jack Sparrow, one of the most entertaining personalities to grace any movie screen. With this movie's fantastical music and sensational characters, the alleviation of one's stress is almost guaranteed.
3. "Grease"
While this movie does contain some serious themes, they certainly do not outshine the bright and colorful moments that take place throughout the film. With memorable scenes including the Rydell High School Dance, the epic car chase against the Scorpions, and the senior carnival full of romance, this movie is certain to make your stressed mood slightly more carefree.
4. "Princess Bride"
This movie is possibly one of the most engaging and exciting films on this list. It is near perfect. Due to it's gorgeous scenery, entrancing romance and enthralling action sequences, you easily become enraptured in its world. This movie is perfect for those who are at their wits' end; it forces them to focus on one of the most uplifting themes any movie can focus on: love.
5. "Clueless"
How can you not smile when thinking about this movie? It is full of ridiculous tropes, strange fashion and air-headed characters and we love every minute of it. There is something about this movie's silliness that drags us out of our slumps. Perhaps it simply makes us feel silly for a moment and causes us to forget the struggles we have in front of us. In any case, this movie is a wonderful stress reliever.
6. "The Emperor's New Groove"
Being one of my favorite Disney films of all time, there was no way that "The Emperor's New Groove" would be left off this list. The premise itself is ridiculous. A woman decides to murder an emperor in order to become empress, but her bumbling sidekick screws up and changes him into a llama by mistake. I mean seriously? But it is this absurdity that we love; it is an absurdity that can distract us from the stress we are facing in our lives.
7. "High School Musical"
Every once in a while, corniness and nostalgia are needed in times of stress. In my opinion, the Netflix movie that perfectly fits this need is High School Musical. While displaying classic high school tropes who attempt to break their molds, this film emphasizes the importance of determination in times of adversity. In addition, everyone knows this movie's songs and once they start singing along there is no denying the rejuvenating effect they have on peoples' spirits.
8. "Jeff Dunham: Spark of Insanity"
I am slightly cheating with this selection because it is not technically a movie, but I felt this special was necessary to share. I find it absolutely hilarious and, when people get stressed, laughter is one of the best medicines. With this stand-up comedian voicing puppet personalities such as Walter, Peanut and José the Jalapeño, this show can help you forget about all of your worries.
9. "13 Going on 30"
Being one of the most lovable chick flicks around, I could hardly resist placing this Jennifer Garner film on this list. It is full of spunky characters and a pretty epic dance number, both of which cause us to light up and momentarily forget about the difficulties we are currently facing. This movie also proves to us that if 13 year old Jenna Rink can face adult responsibilities, so can we.
10. "Back to the Future"
Who can deny how absolutely epic a time-traveling DeLorean is? No one, that's who. This movie is both so preposterous yet so unbelievably enjoyable that you can't help but go along with its kooky scenarios. These kooky scenarios, ranging from Marty McFly time travelling to when his parents met to his inadvertent reveal of rock-n-roll, cause us to be immediately whisked away from our current responsibilities into this world of fun.
We all need a break every once in a while, and indulging in certain leisurely activities, such as watching these films, is important if you wish to maintain your sanity. So, whenever you are going through times of stress, I strongly suggest you look up these movies on Netflix. If they are helpful in any way, watch them when necessary as you continue to push through your collegiate struggles.