FILMS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY
In the middle of winter, we’re turning to films that offer comfort, warmth, and a reminder of why we love cinema. This month’s AIFF Team Recommendations highlight films that spark joy in different ways. Through gentle humour, romance, nostalgia, and human connection. From recent AIFF discoveries to timeless classics, these selections celebrate storytelling that lifts the spirit and invites us to slow down, laugh, and feel a little lighter.
Flow (2024)
Director: Gints Zilbalodis
Origin: Canada
A standout from AIFF 2024, Flow is a visually poetic animated film that unfolds without dialogue, relying entirely on movement, sound, and emotion. Following a solitary cat navigating a world reshaped by water, the film becomes a gentle meditation on resilience, curiosity, and connection. Quiet yet deeply affecting, Flow reminds us that joy can be found in simplicity and shared survival.
(Available on Crave)
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Director: Rob Reiner
Few films capture the humour and complexity of relationships quite like When Harry Met Sally. This enduring romantic comedy blends sharp dialogue with genuine emotional insight, exploring friendship, love, and timing in ways that still resonate decades later. Witty, comforting, and endlessly rewatchable, it’s a film that continues to make audiences smile and reflect in equal measure.
(Available at the Carbon Arc on Feb 14th, 2026)
The Parent Trap (1998) &
The Parent Trap (1961)
Director: Nancy Meyers (1998), David Swift (1961)
Across generations, The Parent Trap has remained a beloved family favourite. The 1961 original offers classic charm and playful storytelling, while the 1998 remake delivers a modern update filled with heart, humour, and iconic performances. Together, these films celebrate family, reconciliation, and childhood imagination, making them perfect comfort viewing for audiences of all ages.
(Available on Disney+)
Pride & Prejudice (2005)
Director: Joe Wright
Joe Wright’s adaptation of Pride & Prejudice transforms Jane Austen’s classic novel into a visually lush and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. Anchored by sweeping landscapes, subtle performances, and an unforgettable score, the film captures both the romance and restraint at the heart of Austen’s work. It’s a quiet, restorative watch that continues to enchant new audiences year after year.
(Available on Crave)
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (1993)
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Kenneth Branagh’s vibrant adaptation of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing is a joyful celebration of wit, romance, and theatrical energy. Set against sun-drenched Tuscan landscapes, the film balances sharp, playful dialogue with an ensemble cast that leans fully into the fun of verbal sparring and romantic misunderstanding. Led by the unforgettable chemistry between Emma Thompson and Branagh, the film feels both classic and refreshingly alive. Its warmth, humour, and lightness make it a perfect reminder that literary adaptations can be accessible, entertaining, and deeply joyful. A timeless pick for viewers looking for clever banter, big performances, and a feel-good cinematic escape.
(Available on Amazon Prime)
Looking Ahead
These films remind us that happiness in cinema takes many forms, from quiet moments of reflection to laughter, nostalgia, and romance. As winter continues, we invite you to revisit old favourites and discover new ones that bring warmth and joy to the season. Stay tuned for more AIFF Team Recommendations throughout the year.
(Image sources: IMDb and official distributor materials)