Animation
Every once in a while, an animation comes along that truly takes our breath away, be it funny, charming, thought provoking or mind-altering. Below is a list of animated movies and TV shows that will leave you with a renewed feeling of happiness after watching!
TV Shows
About
Set in the 23rd century. Animals have mutated/evolved, and they basically run the surface. Humans have been forced to live in underground in burrows. 13 year old human Kipo accidentally ends up on the surface all alone after her burrow got attacked by a mega-monkey. She goes on a journey to find her way home, meeting people and mutes along the way.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation 
Testimonials
“This is the most wholesome and optimistic show ever. It’s all about seeing the best in others and believing in people’s ability to change. Humans and mutes hate each other, and yet Kipo is just so nice that it is frustratingly impossible to hate her. It has amazing and hilarious world building. Different animals have taken on different personas in the most random way – frogs in suits, bees playing dubstep music, raccoons in 80s fitness clothes.”
About
Adora is raised as a cadet in the Horde army, alongside her best friend Catra. She accidentally discovers a magical sword that turns her into She-Ra, a mythical princess. Adora realizes that the horde has been hurting innocent people and lying to her and manipulating her, so she leaves to join the Rebellion.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“This show has a bunch of princesses with superpowers fighting an evil army. It’s all about the power of friendship and there is lots of queer representation. Also there’s a flying talking rainbow unicorn and a whole sailor moon-esque transformation sequence. What’s not to love?”
Warnings
One important side character dies mid-way through the show.
Movies
Synopsis
Merida (Kelly Macdonald), the impetuous but courageous daughter of Scottish King Fergus (Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), is a skilled archer who wants to carve out her own path in life. Her defiance of an age-old tradition angers the Highland lords and leads to chaos in the kingdom. Merida seeks help from an eccentric witch (Julie Walters), who grants her an ill-fated wish. Now, Merida must discover the true meaning of courage and undo a beastly curse before it’s too late.
Testimonials
“One of the first Disney princesses who does not follow the Prince Charming trope. Instead, Brave is an inspiring movie showing the realities of growing up, navigating family relations, but ultimately finding the power within yourself.”
Warning: Violence
Synopsis
Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Héctor, the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“A thoughtful, culturally-rich movie that takes on topics such as family, life, and how to process death. Matched with beautiful music, this movie also brings Mexican culture to the forefront of a funny, yet emotionally-charged and insightful story.”
Warning: Talk of death, scene of someone getting killed via poison.
Synopsis
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift — every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Disney really kicked it out of the park again on this film! If you haven’t heard of this movie yet, where have you been? Perfect for all ages with the catchiest of music, this movie will definitely resonate with everyone.”
“This movie has so much heart and such great music. The songs will absolutely get stuck in your head. Encanto touches on how trauma gets passed down between generations – specifically within Latinx families, but relatable to many cultures. Beautiful, hilarious, emotional.”
Synopsis
Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s original feature film “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, Alberto (voice of Jack Dylan Grazer), but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface.
Testimonial
“Definitely a metaphor for those who feel different and out of place in society. Capturing the bond of strangers, this movie is colourful in content and visuals, great for any ages.”
Synopsis
Teenage elf brothers Ian and Barley embark on a magical quest to spend one more day with their late father. Like any good adventure, their journey is filled with cryptic maps, impossible obstacles and unimaginable discoveries. But when dear Mom finds out her sons are missing, she teams up with the legendary manticore to bring her beloved boys back home.
Testimonials
“A dazzling, heartwarming classic Pixar quest storyline – intertwined with a meaningful message about sibling relationships.”
“I love this movie. The big brother is exactly like my nephew and his wholesome, pure joy in everything he does makes me smile every time”
Warning: References to father’s death.
Synopsis
“Ron’s Gone Wrong” is the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitally-connected device, which is supposed to be his ‘Best Friend out of the Box.’ Ron’s hilarious malfunctions set against the backdrop of the social media age, launch them into an action-packed journey in which boy and robot come to terms with the wonderful messiness of true friendship.
Testimonial
“This movie genuinely kept me laughing throughout the whole thing- Ron’s behaviour was just too funny. This film attacks the complicated reality of technology in today’s world, and its impact on children, socializing and friendships.”
Synopsis
Shrek is an ogre (Mike Myers) who likes his space. He meets Donkey (Eddie Murphy) who doesn’t know how to give anyone space. They are set on an adventure to rescue Princess Fiona who has a secret and of course hijinks ensue.
Testimonial
“The animation may be dated now but this story is still hilarious. Eddie Murphy claims this to be likely his best work and I tend to agree. Mike Myers uses a Scottish-Canadian accent for Shrek based on his mom and it’s perfect. I now watch it with my kid and enjoy it as much as when I was younger.”
Synopsis
Twelve-year-old Ted (Zac Efron) lives in a place virtually devoid of nature; no flowers or trees grow in the town of Thneedville. Ted would very much like to win the heart of Audrey (Taylor Swift), the girl of his dreams, but to do this, he must find that which she most desires: a Truffula tree. To get it, Ted delves into the story of the Lorax (Danny DeVito), once the gruff guardian of the forest, and the Once-ler (Ed Helms), who let greed overtake his respect for nature.
Testimonial
“The sheer importance of this story will make it a FOREVER classic. From a beloved book into a beloved movie, The Lorax uses bright colours, humour and amazing songs to shed light on the importance of sustainability and taking care of the earth. This movie will inspire all its viewers to start planting seeds afterwards.”
Synopsis
In “Turning Red”, Mei Lee is a confident, dorky thirteen-year-old torn between staying her mother’s dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. And as if changes to her interests, relationships, and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited (which for a teenager is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda!
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Amazing Canadian representation! Finally a film that is set in Toronto, Ontario. A genuinely amazing new film, full of solid representation. The overall message of “it’s okay to not always be in control” really resonates.”
Warning: Lots of talk about changing bodies (puberty)
Comedy / Dramedy
It’s true: laughter is strong medicine. It draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body. Below is a list of comedies/dramedies that are sure to get you laughing!
TV Shows
Synopsis
A high school sitcom about a filipina-american teenage girl who has cancer and her best friend. 4 seasons. Though cancer is an important recurring theme, it manages to strike a great balance where the whole show is not about the cancer.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
I don’t enjoy too many high school shows, but this one is so wholesome (if a bit cheesy at times). This is the friendship we all aspire to. The ending of the first episode made me cry because it was so sweet. They really do have each others’ backs through everything and not only are the girls best friends but their families are also best friends and that’s what I need in my life.
Warning: Themes of cancer.
About
The series starts with Bob surviving a heart attack and immediately falling in love with his nurse, Abishola. Abishola is a no-nonsense woman from Nigeria. Even though they are very different, they work well together.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“This is great show around extended family, second marriages, and cultural differences. I enjoy that story this transcends race. I enjoy the love story here. I watch it regularly – I seem to recall the first few episodes were a little rough but I really enjoy it now. I love how much work Bob puts into learning about Nigerian culture and embraces their differences rather than trying to make Abishola be more “American”.”
Synopsis
A sitcom created by Kenya Barris (creator of Blackish). One season, 8 episodes in total. It stars Barris as a fictionalized version of himself, and “uncovers the messy, unfiltered, and often hilarious world of what it means to be a ‘new money’ Black family”. The family is based on his real life family, with the 6 children being loosely based on his actual kids.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“This show is hilarious and manages to be educational/ informative without feeling too heavy-handed. It’s set up as a documentary that one of the daughters is creating for her application for film school, so you get some great confessionals/interviews. The premise is beautiful because this girl is just following her parents as they do the wildest stuff.”
Synopsis
Comedy series following the exploits of Det. Jake Peralta and his diverse, lovable colleagues as they police the NYPD’s 99th Precinct.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“An incredibly funny show that gets funnier throughout the seasons! Definitely a light-hearted sitcom, often matched with heartwarming moments and politically important messaging.”
Warning: Violence
About
Kim’s Convenience depicts the Korean Canadian Kim family that runs a convenience store in Toronto. The show centres around Appa, Umma, daughter Janet and estranged son Jung.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“I think this is one of the greatest Canadian shows of all time. Appa is one of the funniest characters ever.”
About
A behind the scenes look at a video game design company. They have the top game on the market and want to stay there. Created and stars Rob McElhenney.
Testimonials
“Amazing show that keeps you laughing while not dumbing it down. I have watched the bonus quarantine episode over and over again as the love the characters show for each other while dealing with the emotions of the pandemic is phenomenal.”
Synopsis
Created by Mindy Kaling, this sitcom is loosely based on her own childhood experiences. Devi Vishwakumar is dealing with the sudden death of her father, and also trying to have a more successful social life at high school.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“This show balances silliness/high school drama with some really heavy topics. I love that we get to see Devi make mistakes and grow and try to deal with things better. We love to see the South Asian representation.”
About
Follows the Parks and Recreation Department in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. Stars Amy Pohler, Nick Offerman, Chris Pratt, Rob Lowe, Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, and lots more.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“This is one of those shows you can watch over and over and laugh every time. The cast is incredible. Honestly, as the seasons go on it gets better and better. And as an added bonus you can keep an eye out for when Chris Pratt books Guardians of the Galaxy and suddenly returns to the series super fit! Rob Lowe and one of the writer/producer/directors are now doing a podcast called Parks and Recollection so you can watch the show along with them and hear the behind the scenes secrets. And make sure you google the outtakes. Absolutely hilarious.”
About
A wealthy family loses all of their money and has to move to the small town of Schitt’s Creek.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ representation
Testimonials
“This show is set in a world where homophobia pretty much doesn’t exist and I think that’s very cool of them. Eventually, a gay relationship is the main relationship on the show. To paraphrase Dan Levy (creator and star) – we often see queer characters get tragic endings, or they are happy and then it ends immediately. In this show you get to see the queer characters soar. It can take a while to get into this show, but the characters grow on you, and they each have such wonderful growth over the 6 seasons it’s honestly beautiful and very very wholesome. This show has been a safe haven for a lot of queer folks (especially teens and kids) and I love it. Watch the farewell special after and you will WEEP.”
“David memes are my life. Watch and join us in the love that is Schitt’s Creek”
Synopsis
Awkward teen Otis’ mother is a sex therapist. Otis ends up offering a secret sex therapy service at his high school when he and his friends realize that their peers know absolutely nothing about sex or sexual health.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“This show is nothing short of revolutionary. Never before have I seen sex talked about like this, in such an open, wholesome, and affirming way, and certainly not targeted at high schoolers. Beyond the sex therapy, it’s also got a great cast of complicated and wonderful characters who have their own journeys. Some difficult and emotional moments for sure. The show is ongoing so I don’t know how it’ll end but I’m confident it won’t be tragic because this is mostly a comedy.”
Warning: Sexual violence
Synopsis
American college football coach Ted Lasso heads to London to manage AFC Richmond, a struggling English Premier League football team. The show was initially conceived by stars Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt – who play Lasso and Coach Beard, respectively – over 20 years ago, when the pair were performing as improv comedy troupe Boom Chicago.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Ted Lasso helped me get through the first year of the pandemic. Unlike so many shows out there, this show just left me feeling good. Ted’s positive attitude and genuine respect (and love) for other people is endearing when so many other programs want to entertain though adversity. He shows forgiveness and patience for people when many of us wouldn’t. He discusses mental health head on and doesn’t cheapen the impact of loss or bullying. I have watched the series several times and will continue to do so.”
“Ted Lasso is an excellent intro to creating psychologically healthy and safe teams!”
About
It’s a highschool reunion and after the reunion is the afterparty. Some friends … some not so friendly get together and someone is murdered. Each episode is the party from another party goers perspective as they tell their version of what happened to the Detective (Tiffany Haddish). The cast is stacked with comedy talent including Ike Barinholtz, Ilana Glazer and Ben Schwartz.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“Do you love a good mystery? I DO! And I love this show. I admit I didn’t solve the mystery and that only made it better. I wish they made more shows like this.”
Warnings: Someone dies (but that’s the point).
Synopsis
Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) dies and wakes up in “The Good Place”, where only the top 0.001% of humans get to end up. She was put there as a mistake, and must figure out how to grow as a human to actually fit in.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“It’s well written, funny, wholesome, intelligent, has excellent commentary on society (which just gets better and more on point each season), and it has the absolute best messaging I think I’ve ever seen in a live action TV show. It’s also got my favourite take on soulmates ever across its 4 seasons. The entire cast is perfect. Make it to the end of season 1, and then the whole show reaches a new level. Every season finale I was like, where the heck are they gonna take this? And every season they delivered.”
“I love this show – but my advice is don’t google it too much. You don’t want to spoil any of the surprises.”
Synopsis
The story of four female freshman roommates at a college in Vermont. They don’t know each other and come from varying social, financial, and cultural backgrounds. The show is about discovering themselves in every aspect, including sexuality.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Another project from Mindy Kaling. I didn’t think I would love this show as much as I did. I only wish I had as much fun in university as these roommates are having. I binged watched the season and then lost it when I realized that I have to wait another year for more. Seriously???”
Warning: Nudity
Movies
Synopsis
Based on the true story of the first ever Jamaican bobsledding team. A top Jamaican runner gets tripped on his Olympic qualifying run, and decides to get to the Olympics through bobsledding instead. Bobsledding is done on ice and Jamaica is famous for having no ice. Hilarity ensues.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“This movie was one of my absolute favourites growing up. The characters and dialogue are so memorable. It’s a great underdog story. The whole movie is just fun and wholesome and inspiring.”
Warning: Some very dated jokes.
Synopsis
A forty-something couple (Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrn) decide to adopt kids through a foster-to-adopt program. Lizzie, a teenager, makes an impression, but she has two younger siblings who the couple decides to foster/adopt with her as well. Based (partially) on a true story of the director’s own journey with adoption. Heartfelt comedy.
Testimonial
“You might see that Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrn are in this and think, oh, this will be just a fun light-hearted movie! And you would be wrong. It’s hilarious for sure, but it packs an emotional punch as well. It’s very wholesome to see this family come together. I’ve watched it at least 5 times and cried happy tears each time.”
Synopsis
A classic tale of Guy likes Popular Girl, Guy asks Nerdy Girl who writes other people’s essays for money to write a love letter to Popular Girl for him, Nerdy Girl also loves Popular Girl.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“The main character is a closeted, socially awkward, Asian-American lesbian and I love her. As much as I absolutely love the quiet pining and the gay panic rampant in this movie, my favourite thing is that the main relationship/love story in this movie is actually the friendship between the guy and the main character and I just find that very wholesome as a change of pace.”
Musicals
It’s no secret – music is great for our well-being! Below you’ll find a list of catchy musicals that will definitely get your foot tapping and feeling happy.
TV Shows
About
Josh and Melissa are on a couples’ retreat looking to spark the romance back in their relationship. Out on a hike they make a wrong turn and somehow they are transported to the fictional town of Schmigadoon where everyone sings and dances their day away.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“This show is so funny. Basically the idea is if any of us actually were put into one of these towns that are in musicals such as “The Music Man” wouldn’t we all be wondering how the heck did I get here and how do I get out of here. They ask for directions and the whole down sings. They need to find somewhere to stay and people sing. WIth Keegan-Michael Key and Cicily Strong as the couple you know it’s gonna be funny.”
Movies
Synopsis
Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Héctor, the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
A thoughtful, culturally-rich movie that takes on topics such as family, life, and how to process death. Matched with beautiful music, this movie also brings Mexican culture to the forefront of a funny, yet emotionally-charged and insightful story.
Warning: Talk of death, scene of someone getting killed via poison.
Synopsis
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift — every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Disney really kicked it out of the park again on this film! If you haven’t heard of this movie yet, where have you been? Perfect for all ages with the catchiest of music, this movie will definitely resonate with everyone.”
Synopsis
Gisele (Amy Adams) has met her perfect prince (James Masden) but his step-mother (Susan Sarandon) is not pleased so she tricks Gisele into another realm where “happy endings don’t exist” (sadly this is our realm). Imagine the cheesiest princess getting stuck in NYC and that’s where it just starts.
Testimonial
“This is possibly the perfect Disney movie … and it makes fun of Disney. I suggest you google the easter eggs and cameos because they are so fun. They are currently making a sequel (out later this year) so you need to watch this one to get it. Imagine if some fairy tale princess walked into your house and called her “forest friends” over. Hilarious. If you’re not into musicals you will still enjoy the music as the song contents are super funny.”
Romance
Nothing beats a classic romance movie to uplift your spirits! Below is a list of romance movies destined to make your heart flutter.
TV Shows
Synopsis
Created by Mindy Kaling, this sitcom is loosely based on her own childhood experiences. Devi Vishwakumar is dealing with the sudden death of her father, and also trying to have a more successful social life at high school.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“This show balances silliness/high school drama with some really heavy topics. I love that we get to see Devi make mistakes and grow and try to deal with things better. We love to see the South Asian representation.”
Movies
Synopsis
The film tells the story of a paleontologist in a number of predicaments involving a scatterbrained heiress and a leopard named Baby. Starring Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn.
Testimonial
“It’s a classic screwball comedy (black and white). It’s not for everyone but I love classic romance movies like this. Although the movie was a commercial flop, it is now considered one of the greatest movies of all time. It’s just a great classic romance.”
Synopsis
Rachel Chu is happy to accompany her longtime boyfriend, Nick, to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. She’s also surprised to learn that Nick’s family is extremely wealthy and he’s considered one of the country’s most eligible bachelors. Thrust into the spotlight, Rachel must now contend with jealous socialites, quirky relatives and something far, far worse — Nick’s disapproving mother.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“I will re-watch this movie over and over again until the end of time! This culturally-rich, beautifully adapted movie from the popular book, is one that everyone needs to see. It tackles issues on culture, class, family and politics while also displaying the most beautiful clothing. Not-to-mention the soundtrack which has multiple popular American songs re-recorded in Chinese – also with new original music as well. Overall this film is an amazing rom-com!”
Synopsis
There’s a secret test in the SAT’s that measures your ability to be a spy. The DEBS are a spy agency of college-aged girls in catholic school girl type uniforms. Amy, the ‘perfect score’, attracts the (romantic) attention of Lucy Diamond, the most notorious supervillain around.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ representation
Testimonial
“This is such a fun, ridiculous, wonderful lesbian movie. It’s campy and silly and doesn’t take itself too seriously, and I absolutely love it. There’s some action, a cute romance, and some great side characters.”
Synopsis
Gisele (Amy Adams) has met her perfect prince (James Masden) but his step-mother (Susan Sarandon) is not pleased so she tricks Gisele into another realm where “happy endings don’t exist” (sadly this is our realm). Imagine the cheesiest princess getting stuck in NYC and that’s where it just starts.
Testimonial
“This is possibly the perfect Disney movie … and it makes fun of Disney. I suggest you google the easter eggs and cameos because they are so fun. They are currently making a sequel (out later this year) so you need to watch this one to get it. Imagine if some fairy tale princess walked into your house and called her “forest friends” over. Hilarious. If you’re not into musicals you will still enjoy the music as the song contents are super funny.”
Synopsis
Romantic comedy, with a strong hit of family feels too. Same director as The Half Of It. This movie focuses on perpetually busy surgeon Wil, her mother who moves in with her due to a scandal (no spoilers!), and her dancer girlfriend Vivian.
Fun fact: This was the first Hollywood movie that centered on Chinese-Americans since 1993.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“Wil is another deeply awkward Asian-American lesbian and I love her. Lots of cute stuff, lots of family feels, lots of good good commentary on gossipy Asian communities. It gets Real at times, but everyone is happy at the end I promise.”
Synopsis
Peter breaks up with his new boyfriend just before going home for Christmas. He convinces his best friend Nick to come home with him and pretend that they are now dating.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“A nice twist on the “fake dating” trope. There is something so heartwarming about watching Nick interact with Peter’s family. No really big surprises in the storyline, just a wholesome, cute, gay romcom where nobody dies or is sad at the end.”
About
Based on the true story of comedian Kumail Nanjiani meeting and falling in love with his wife Emily. Emily contracts a mysterious illness and is forced to deal with Emily’s family as well as his own.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“I love this movie. It has some absolutely hilarious moments but also takes itself seriously when needed. Kumail is so funny in everything he does and I think it’s amazing that he and his wife shared this story with the world. It deals with overcoming cultural differences and how hard it can be to break from tradition.”
Synopsis
A classic tale of Guy likes Popular Girl, Guy asks Nerdy Girl who writes other people’s essays for money to write a love letter to Popular Girl for him, Nerdy Girl also loves Popular Girl.
Includes 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC representation
Testimonial
“The main character is a closeted, socially awkward, useless Asian-American lesbian and I love her. As much as I love the quiet gay pining and the gay panic rampant in this movie, my fave thing is that the main relationship/love story in this movie is actually the friendship between the guy and the main character and I just find that very wholesome as a change of pace.”
Synopsis
A rich woman’s ex-husband shows up unexpectedly the day prior to her second marriage wedding day. Also showing up unexpectedly is a tabloid reporter. Starring Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn and James Stewart.
Testimonial
“This movie is considered one of the greatest comedies and romantic movies of all time. It’s a classic film (Black and White) that was ahead of its time for women’s independence (not a huge surprise with Katharine Hepburn as the lead).”
Synopsis
A movie within a movie. A young boy’s grandfather tells one of his favorite stories. While telling the story we are watching the action unfold. It includes sword fighting, pirates, kidnapping, true love, and much more. Every step of this film is total joy. Stars Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Andre the Giant, Mandy Patinkin, and many more.
Testimonial
“I can’t say enough how important this movie was to me and my siblings growing up. We would watch it over and over again to memorize every word and every gesture. This movie has launched a thousand memes and even more than 30 years later the humour stands. Watch for huge stars like Billy Crystal as Miracle Max. Have fun storming the castle!”
Warnings: The ROUS (Rodents of Unusual Sizes) might be a bit much for little kids.
Sci Fi, Fantasy & More
Sometimes you want to laugh, but also see some incredible action. These are the “other” programs that don’t quite fit in the traditional categories but will still leave you happy and smiling.
TV Shows
About
It’s a highschool reunion and after the reunion is the afterparty. Some friends … some not so friendly get together and someone is murdered. Each episode is the party from another party goers perspective as they tell their version of what happened to the Detective (Tiffany Haddish). The cast is stacked with comedy talent including Ike Barinholtz, Ilana Glazer and Ben Schwartz.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“Do you love a good mystery? I DO! And I love this show. I admit I didn’t solve the mystery and that only made it better. I wish they made more shows like this.”
Warnings: Someone dies (but that’s the point).
Movies
About
This movie takes place almost entirely in world of a multiplayer video game. We see the world from Guy’s perspective as he breaks from being a non-player character to an independent thinker (all to impress the woman of his dreams).
Testimonials
“Can Ryan Reynolds not be hilarious? This is a great movie and despite the what you may think – how can this end happy?? It totally does! And huge bonus funny points for Ryan Reynolds also playing The Dude (you have to watch it to understand). And there are a ton of cameos including Canning Tatum, Hugh Jackman, and Tina Fey.”
Warnings: Computer game style violence.
About
Dark comedy – Max (Jason Bateman) and Annie (Rachel McAdams) are a married couple who are OBSESSED with competition and games. They met at a trivia night and became a team forever more. Well Game Night is when a game goes wrong. Max’s brother shows up and tries to take over their friend group game night. He promises them an amazing time but things go wrong. Unfortunately, no one realizes it’s not pretend until things have gone super wrong. Fortunately a very satisfying ending.
Testimonials
“I love this movie. First of all I have always wanted to have a regular game night with friends so I think it’s partly out of envy. Fortunately even as things go horribly wrong you can’t help but laugh (especially as they make horrible decisions based on believing it’s pretend). This movie is one that my sister and I watch together all the time and even with its dark aspects it still cheers me up. The ending was a total surprise to me (the first time) making it a movie you will want to watch multiple times to catch something new.”
Warnings: Being a dark comedy, there is violence. Not recommended for children.
About
Simon Pegg plays Sgt. Nicholas Angel, quite possibly the best police officer the MET (London police) has ever had. His colleagues hate him because he is so much better than them so his supervisors transfer him to a small village where crime never happens hoping to get rid of him. There Sgt. Angel uncovers a town too good to be true where bizarre fatal accidents happen way too often.
Testimonials
“This is the second film in the Cornetto Trilogy by Edgar Wright. This movie is hilarious and the cast is insane: Cate Blanchet (plays Jeanine .. you don’t even see her face .. she was a huge fan and asked to be involved); Oliva Coleman, Martin Freeman, Timothy Dalton, and many more. My family still uses Yarp and Narp when talking. Definitely a go to film for us.”
Warnings: Not recommended for children.
About
Four teenages are sucked into Jumanji (which is now a video game). They come out as characters played by The Rock, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillian. It takes them a while to realize they are in the game but they have to play as a team to save everyone. Only as a team can they win.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“This movie is hilarious. The original Jumanji is canon but it’s dark and used to trouble me. This one just made me laugh the whole time. Kevin Hart is so funny sometimes I could just watch it for him alone. I think the acting is amazing. We all know these actors and what they normally play but now they are playing other people tripped in their bodies (well you know what I mean if / when you watch).”
Warnings: There is violence but it’s not particularly graphic (maybe the cake scene, but it’s funny). Fine for older kids.
About
The sequel to the 2017 movie (so make sure you watch that first). The original team is back along with Aquafina, Danny DeVito and Danny Glover. The original teens get sucked back into the game. Turns out the game has moved up to level 2 so the tasks are all new.
Includes BIPOC representation
Testimonials
“I don’t know if I like this as much as the first but I am so impressed with the acting. Not to give anything away but The Rock gives an impressive performance that is insanely meta.”
About
Shaun and his best friend live in London when they wake up one day to a zombie apocalypse (which they have NO CLUE is happening). Over the course of the day these best friends have to figure out where to hide out and who they want to save along the way.
Testimonials
“OK – it’s a zombie movie – but trust me – it’s a funny, happy zombie movie. It can get gory but this is one of my go to films when I’m feeling down (and don’t want to watch anything mushy) – you know those days!?! Dry British humour coupled with a stellar cast make this on constant play rotation at my house.”
Warnings: For a zombie movie it’s not very gory but judge with care. Not recommended for children.
About
Thor is trapped on the planet Sakar while his sister, Hela, is destroying his home. He has to get back to stop her and save his people.
Testimonials
“I love this movie. The soundtrack is perfect and there are laughs from the get go. Granted you have to like Sci-Fi action hero stuff to like this one but with Taika Waititi at the helm he made it super funny. There is lots of action but this movie shows Thor finally realize his powers with laughs along the way. Bonus is you don’t have to have watched the other Marvel movies to enjoy this one.”