Paddington 2
Paddington 2 is a feel good comedy about the iconically adorable and well-mannered British bear, Paddington. The film follows the bear, voiced by actual British gentleman Ben Whishaw, as he tries to save up enough money for the perfect gift for his auntie’s 100th birthday before he’s literally sent to prison.
It’s a known fact that Paddington bear dismantled the prison system, and despite looking like a film for kids, it’s genuinely really heartwarming. Available on Netflix.
Only Yesterday
Only Yesterday is one of two Studio Ghibli films with a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, both, bizarrely, not by Hayao Miyazaki (My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away) but Isao Takahata. Only Yesterday is a sweet slice of life about a woman who embarks on an extended trip to the country and reminisces about her childhood, her teenage years and how those parts of her would see herself now and her choices. It's a bittersweet film for those of us who have ever daydreamed or reflected on how we got to where we were and who we are now compared to our past selves.
It’s also, as the trailer shows, super pretty and charming. Available on Netflix.
The Tale of Princess Kaguya
The Tale of Princess Kaguya is a reimagining of a classic Japanese folktale called The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, also directed by the late Isao Takahata. The film follows Kaguya, a tiny woodland spirit from a bamboo stalk who grows into a gorgeous young woman, and tasks her suitors with a series of near impossible tasks to prove their love.
Animated in a gorgeous watercolour art style, it’s a beautiful and striking film to watch. Available on Netflix.
Toy Story
Fact: the original Toy Story is a genuine treasure in our hearts and cinema. So, it’s no surprise to see it on here. Available on Disney Plus (duh).
Toy Story 2
Again, Toy Story 2 is iconic. we absolutely looove Betty Bo Peep and Jessie. Giving us cottagecore and cowgirl inspo for days. Although, while we're at it, where is Shrek on this list? Available on Disney Plus.
Pinocchio
Pinocchio, the classic animated film released in 1940 about a puppet who dreams of being a real boy is, allegedly, one of the best films of all time. Let that sink in. Catch it on Disney Plus.
Mary Poppins
“It’s Mary Poppins, y’all!” - Yondu, Guardians of the Galaxy, when asked what his favourite film is of all time. Obviously available on Disney Plus.
