The Princess Bride (1987)
Starting off strong with an 80’s classic, “The Princess Bride” has something for everyone.
From sword fights to giants to princesses and acts of true love, this 1987 classic is a must-watch. At the beginning of the film, audiences see a girl named Buttercup teasing her farmboy, Wesley. Their love is at the core of the movie from the very start, before Buttercup becomes a princess and Westley the Dread Pirate Roberts. But above all, what makes this film a true cult classic is its humor.
With memorable lines like, “inconceivable!” and “I’ve got my country’s 500th anniversary to plan, my wedding to arrange, my wife to murder and Guilder to frame for it. I’m swamped,” the film’s comedic timing stands the test of time.
Robin Wright and Carry Elwes give phenomenal performances that make the viewer root for both true love and Westley and Buttercup. There’s just something about love and fantasy that screams spring, making this an ideal rewatch.
Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Based on the novel by Jane Austen, “Pride and Prejudice” has always been a classic. Full of spring imagery and light-hearted plots, it’s one rewatch audiences can’t help but come back to.
The tension between Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) and Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) is palpable. The constant pull between Elizabeth’s prejudice against the wealthy Mr. Darcy and Mr. Darcy’s pride against falling for her is something viewers can’t tear their eyes away from. This film is visually stunning, and was nominated in 2006 for a BAFTA in Best Costume Design and Best Make Up & Hair.
Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
More iconic than classic, this Wes Anderson film explores the adolescent adventures of young preteens Sam Shakusky and Suzy Bishop.
Sam Shakusky is a Khaki Scout of America and an orphan. When he disappears, the entire troop, his troop leader, and the police are searching for him. What they find out is that he ran away with Suzy, a girl he had begun exchanging letters with and had fallen in love with. Suzy and Sam play adult, camping and hiking trails as though they could live in the woods forever.
Their youth and sense of play in the film draw the audience in, keeping them hooked throughout. “Moonrise Kingdom” is the kind of film that feels like an ode to nostalgia and also a coming-of-age movie.
