In the outcome of this week’s election, many are in desperate need of escapism from reality. Although it is important to keep a foot in the world of the practical, we must remember the importance of art and entertainment uniting us with joy, empathy, or laughter. Here are a few films that will hopefully provide just that.

"Blazing Saddles"

The power of humor combating bigotry is never more prevalent than in "Blazing Saddles," a farce on the western genre that also delivers a powerful statement against racism. Through the chemistry of Cleavon Little and Gene Wilder, the film formulates a tender and sincere narrative that breaks down racial barriers alongside masterful slapstick. It’s a film best summed up by a quote from Gene Wilder; “[it] smashed racism in the face, and the nose is bleeding.”

"Zootopia"

The most recent film on the list, "Zootopia’s" clever allegory may be preaching to the choir, but there’s no discouraging its message of tolerance to children. At a time where some find it socially acceptable to express their own xenophobia, the film makes an attempt to portray the danger dichotomy of doing so. Coupled with some beautiful animation and hilarious script "Zootopia" may just be the best comfort food to digest at the moment.

"Doctor Strangelove or: How I learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb"

For the inner nihilist who fears the incompetence of world leaders, there is no better way to tickle your funny bone then watching this Stanley Kubrick masterpiece. Walking a fine line of dry wit and farce, "Doctor Strangelove" perfectly lampoons tensions present during the Cold War in the 1960s. With the topic of nuclear war and The Doomsday Clock more present in the media, "Doctor Strangelove" can be seen as indicative of the time, which is just as interesting as it is scary. Just remember, there’s no fighting in the “war room.”

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier"

A reminder that patriotism does not always mean trusting your government, "The Winter Solider" is a great mix of 70s political paranoia thrillers and modern superhero blockbusters. Where the first Captain America film established the star spangled man’s ideology, "The Winter" Soldier pits him against an internal threat that seeks to destroy the unifying principals Steve Rogers champions as an American. On top of its political depth, the action is brutal and kinetic and the characterization between Cap. and friends is very well developed. It is the perfect love letter to the character that highlights his philosophy, “The price of freedom is high, but it’s a price I am willing to pay.”

Any Political Movie from Steven Spielberg

Call his movies formulaic or dated, if there is one thing Spielberg is able to deliver with gravitas, it is stoicism, and this country could use it now more than ever. From the tender character portrait of “Lincoln,” the emotional endearment of “Saving Private Ryan,” or the ethical rhetoric in “Bridge of Spies” there’s no better director at instilling hopeful Americana better than the kind of blockbusters himself. Perhaps much of it relies heavily on idealism, but if we dismiss the optimism of Spielberg for cynical gratification then it abandons the hope that this country can ever be unified.

These films perhaps illustrate one of the most important concepts of the freedom of expression, that art is an effective substitute for violence.