Best movies to watch on an airplane

I recently flew from London to New York and wanted some great movies to keep me entertained. I curated a list of films perfect for a flight. My choices offer a mix of genres to suit any mood. I found the right balance of engaging stories and manageable runtimes for a long journey. Prepare for takeoff!

Thrilling Action⁚ “The Raid⁚ Redemption”

For a pulse-pounding action flick perfect for a flight, I highly recommend “The Raid⁚ Redemption.” I saw it on my last trip to Bali, and it was the perfect way to unwind after a long day exploring the island. The movie is non-stop adrenaline; I was completely engrossed from beginning to end. The Indonesian action choreography is phenomenal – brutal, inventive, and incredibly well-shot. I found myself leaning forward in my seat, completely captivated by the relentless fight sequences. Forget complicated plots; this is pure, visceral action. The pacing is relentless, which is great for keeping you engaged during a long flight. There’s barely a moment to breathe, making it ideal for distracting yourself from any travel anxieties. I particularly loved the lead character, Rama; his unwavering determination in the face of overwhelming odds is truly inspiring. The film’s intensity is a fantastic escape from the monotony of air travel. It’s also a relatively short film, which is a big plus for airplane viewing. I didn’t want it to end, and I’m already planning a rewatch for my next flight. If you’re looking for a thrilling, intense, and unforgettable movie experience, “The Raid⁚ Redemption” is your perfect choice. It’s the kind of film that leaves you buzzing long after the credits roll, even after a long flight!

Laugh-Out-Loud Comedy⁚ “Booksmart”

Olivia Wilde’s “Booksmart” was my go-to comedy for a recent flight to Paris. I needed something lighthearted and funny to lift my spirits before a busy work trip, and this film absolutely delivered. The witty dialogue kept me chuckling throughout; it’s sharp, relatable, and genuinely hilarious. I particularly loved the dynamic between the two lead characters, Amy and Molly. Their friendship felt authentic and their contrasting personalities created some truly comedic moments. The film’s humor is clever and intelligent, avoiding slapstick in favor of witty banter and observational comedy. It’s the kind of movie that makes you laugh out loud, but also makes you think. I found myself relating to the characters’ anxieties about college and the pressures of being a high-achiever. The film cleverly balances its comedic elements with genuine emotional depth. The supporting characters are equally hilarious and well-developed, adding to the overall comedic brilliance. Even though I’d seen it before, watching it on the plane felt different. The confined space somehow amplified the humor, making every joke even funnier. It’s the perfect antidote to the sometimes stressful experience of air travel. If you need a good laugh during your next flight, I wholeheartedly recommend “Booksmart.” It’s a smart, funny, and emotionally resonant film that will leave you feeling good.

Thought-Provoking Drama⁚ “Manchester by the Sea”

I chose Kenneth Lonergan’s “Manchester by the Sea” for a long-haul flight to Australia. I knew I wanted something substantial, something that would engage me on an intellectual level, and this film certainly fit the bill. Casey Affleck’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking; his portrayal of grief and quiet despair is both subtle and devastatingly effective. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold naturally and organically. It’s not a movie filled with action or flashy visuals; instead, its power lies in its quiet intensity and the nuanced performances of its cast. I found myself completely absorbed in the characters’ lives and their struggles. The film’s exploration of grief, guilt, and the complexities of human relationships resonated deeply with me. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s a rewarding one. The film’s setting, the bleak beauty of the Massachusetts coast, perfectly complements the film’s somber tone. I appreciated that the film didn’t shy away from portraying the messy realities of life and loss. The quiet moments, the unspoken emotions, were just as powerful as the more dramatic scenes. While it’s a heavy film, the emotional weight felt appropriate for a long flight; it provided a contemplative experience that helped the time pass. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for a short flight where you might want something lighter, but for a longer journey, it’s a powerful and moving cinematic experience. It certainly made my flight more introspective and thought-provoking.

Something Different⁚ “Fantastic Mr. Fox”

My last flight to Paris was surprisingly turbulent, and I needed something lighthearted yet engaging to distract me from the bumpy ride. That’s where Wes Anderson’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox” came in. It was a perfect choice! The stop-motion animation is simply stunning; the detail and artistry are captivating. I found myself completely mesmerized by the visuals, even amidst the plane’s rocking. The film’s whimsical tone and charming characters provided a much-needed escape from the stress of air travel. The story, based on Roald Dahl’s book, is clever and witty, with plenty of humor for both adults and children (though I watched it solo!). The voice acting is superb, adding another layer of enjoyment to the experience. George Clooney, Meryl Streep, and Bill Murray deliver fantastic performances, bringing their characters to life with wit and charm. The film’s pacing is brisk, keeping things lively and preventing any boredom during the flight. It’s a film that’s both visually beautiful and narratively engaging, making it ideal for distracting oneself from the monotony of a long journey. I particularly enjoyed the film’s quirky sense of humor and its celebration of family and community. It wasn’t just a distraction; it was a genuinely enjoyable cinematic experience, perfectly suited to the somewhat unusual circumstances of airplane viewing. The vibrant colors and playful energy were a welcome contrast to the sometimes-dull airplane cabin. It was the perfect antidote to any pre-flight jitters, and even the turbulence felt less jarring while I was immersed in the world of Mr. Fox and his family. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for something delightfully different.

My Overall Flight Entertainment Strategy

Planning my in-flight entertainment is almost as important as packing my bags! For me, it’s all about variety and pacing. I always download a few movies beforehand – no relying on unreliable airplane Wi-Fi! I tend to pick one action-packed film for the takeoff and initial flight phase when I’m most alert. Then, I’ll switch to something more relaxed and character-driven for the middle portion of the flight. This approach prevents burnout from intense viewing. Finally, I save a lighter, more whimsical film for the landing approach; something that won’t leave me feeling emotionally drained before I disembark. I also always have a backup plan! I always download a few TV show episodes or podcasts for those times when the movie selection isn’t quite hitting the spot. Noise-cancelling headphones are a must-have for me; they block out engine noise and create a more immersive cinematic experience. Comfort is key too. I always bring a neck pillow and a soft blanket to make the flight as comfortable as possible. This holistic approach ensures I arrive at my destination feeling refreshed and entertained, not exhausted and overwhelmed. This is especially important on longer flights. It’s about creating a balanced and enjoyable experience, not just passively watching movies. The key is to curate a selection that reflects my mood and the different phases of the flight, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from start to finish. Remember to charge your devices completely before you leave! Trust me; low battery anxiety mid-flight is not fun.