ARE YOU BINGING ON TRAVEL MOVIES DURING THE PANDEMIC?
The pandemic lockdown continues and I find myself escaping to worlds where travel is possible by binging travel movies on Netflix, or any movie that allows me to experience places that bring joy to my vagabond heart.
That also got me wondering what others would consider good travel movies? Does it have to be a movie where the character (or characters) actually make a trip or is it the location that is more important? I know that personally, I take both into consideration, but more often than not I will categorize something as a travel movie if it is set in a city that I love.
There are so many great travel movies, but here are the first 10 that popped into my head in no particular order:
James Bond movies: This may seem like a strange selection to some (and I know I cheated by not listing just one movie), but this guy’s life is all about travel and adventure! If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a James Bond movie, or if you’ve never seen one, watch Casino Royal or Spectre and let’s have this conversation again.
Midsommar: In addition to being one of the best horror movies ever made, the cinematography is amazing. This is definitely one of the most beautifully filmed horror movies that I’ve ever seen and makes me want to plan a summer trip to Sweden - I’ll just pass on the mushroom tea.
Crazy Rich Asians: I’ve always wanted to go to Singapore, so this movie is a good substitute until I can get my butt out there. Plus, it has many LMAO moments, beautiful sets, and it’s refreshing to see a non-traditional cast in a movie that breaks boundaries.
Midnight in Paris: Anyone who loves Paris will enjoy seeing the movie, but I also enjoyed the dream-like feeling of watching it. This may not be your cup of tea if you’re not a fan of Paris.
The Talented Mr. Ripley: It was because of this movie that I got deja-vu moments when I visited the Venetian Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas for the first time. The Venetian is a very accurate recreation of Venice if you’re wondering, but it’s definitely a lot cleaner, LOL. Beautifully shot, amazing actors, great script, and a rare instance of when the audience is actually rooting for the movie's villain.
The Hangover: Who can’t relate to this tale of traveling with your friends and hitting a few hiccups during that trip? Hahaha, ok hopefully you’ve never had problems like those in the Hangover, but it’s a fun movie that combines travel and the importance of friendship.
Before Sunrise: There is something magical about the way this movie unfolds. Perhaps it wouldn’t have worked if it wasn’t Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy playing the leads, but any young traveler should be able to appreciate the appeal of this movie.
Raiders of the Lost Ark: Two words: Indiana Jones.
Up in the Air: George Clooney traveling like a boss and earning air miles like a savage may not happen again for years to anyone after the pandemic, so watching this movie may be the only way that the generations after us know what life was once like before COVID.
Elf: One of the best Christmas movies set in one of the greatest cities in the world equals one of my favorite travel movies. Christmas and New York City just work together and I will challenge anyone who feels otherwise to a snowball fight.