By Charlie Denison, contributing writer
Having trouble finding something new to watch? Not satisfied with the suggestions you’re getting from friends? Want something you can relate to? If that’s what you’re in the mood for, here are some films about people who also find themselves – as U2 once sang – stuck in a moment they can’t get out of.
Groundhog Day (1993)
There is perhaps no better film about learning how to use time wisely than this comedy classic. Directed by Harold Ramis (known for iconic comedies such as “Caddyshack,” and “Ghostbusters”), “Groundhog Day” teaches us how to break through monotony and become our best selves by focusing on personal growth, not personal status.
If you’re already familiar with the movie, start it with 19 minutes to go and watch Phil Connors (comic legend Bill Murray in one of his all-time best performances) demonstrate what a perfect day looks like. This movie is so ideal for the moment it was even referenced by New York City Mayor Andrew Cuomo during a recent briefing.
Cast Away (2000)
Tom Hanks (the “celebrity canary in the coal mine for the coronavirus,” as he said during his “SNL At Home” monologue) stars as FedEx Systems Engineer Chuck Noland in this timely movie about a man stranded on a deserted island after surviving a plane crash. He’s on that island for four years, which is far worse than being stuck at home for a few months. Like “Groundhog Day,” “Cast Away” is about shifting priorities, realizing we are not in control, and understanding that much of the stress and anxiety we have is trivial. Noland constantly tells himself and his employees to “not commit the sin of turning our back on time,” but, when it comes down to it, he finds he’s the one who is guilty of that offense.
Directed by Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump,” “Back to the Future”), “Cast Away” is remarkably engaging and captivating, even with Hanks carrying two-thirds of the movie by himself. If you haven’t seen it, now’s the time, especially if you are quarantined on your own. The ending will stick with you – and so will the scene-stealing performance by Wilson the volleyball.
Moon (2009)
“Moon” was added to the list after I heard some buzz about it being a good quarantine watch, which is understandable as it’s about a man stuck on the moon for three years, mining a new energy source for Earth. I’ve had this movie in my queue but kept burying it (like I do a lot of space movies – they just typically aren’t my first choice). If you’re like me and haven’t prioritized this movie, I recommend springing it to the top. First of all, this movie has more Sam Rockwell (“Three Billboards…,” “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind”) than anyone can handle, so, if you like his style (I happen to be a fan), that makes “Moon” an extra fun watch.
Directed by David Bowie’s son Duncan Jones (“Source Code,” “Warcraft”), “Moon” is dark and suspenseful. It keeps you guessing and does so convincingly. I’m honestly startled it has taken so long for this movie to get credit where credit is due. I guess the same can be said for Rockwell.
The Martian (2015)
Matt Damon’s “Martian” is a feel-good “Moon.” It’s lighter and more charming, which makes it a fun date movie. It’s playful, prescient and funnier than you’d expect, which is atypical for director Ridley Scott (“Alien,” “Gladiator”). If you have reservations, know there is much more to this picture than Damon using his own shit to make compost in order to grow potatoes (we’ve all got to do what we’ve got to do, right?).
And if you’re in the mood for something particularly excruciating…
127 Hours (2010)
James Franco earned an Oscar nod for his portrayal of Aron Raltson, a 35-year-old who literally got stuck between a rock and a hard place during a hiking excursion near Robbers Roost Canyon in southeastern Utah. Raltson’s right forearm was pinned against a wall after a boulder became dislodged. This film, directed by Danny Boyle (“Trainspotting,” “Slumdog Millionaire”), captures an unfathomable tale of survival. It’s a good watch right now for those who feel like they’ve got it bad. Don’t worry – at least you don’t have to (spoiler alert) cut your own arm off. It’s also a good reminder to let someone know if you plan on hiking alone.
Enjoy these films and, as you do, be grateful we live in the time of DoorDash and Netflix to make quarantine much more bearable.
Charlie Denison is a freelance writer, musician, and award-winning journalist who lives with his wife in Lewistown, Montana. He studied film at the University of Kentucky and has been a loyal DVD Netflix member since 2009. Find him on Twitter at @charliebigsky.