Like many others, I’ve been unable to go outside as frequently during the pandemic, so I’ve been left with more free time to watch movies. Here are a couple films that I enjoyed and highly recommend, and will hopefully bring you some enjoyment too. All movies were ranked based on overall plot, excitement, and character development, and are rated PG-13 or below.

1. Space Sweepers (Sci-fi)

I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I originally watched it because it stars Kim Tae-ri, one of my favorite actresses, but I got hooked really quickly. It takes place 70 years in the future, where the Earth has become uninhabitable. A few can go to a safer place in space, but only if you have the means to. The CG was well done and the plot was engaging- lookout for the twist!

2. Titanic (Romance/Drama)

It’s a timeless classic. I watched this movie for the first time a couple of months ago, and I don’t regret it. Most people know the story of the Titanic, but watching it occur in 3D (well, I guess 2D) was a whole different experience. My advice: bring a box of tissues and a blanket to cry on- you’ll need it.

3. Mission Impossible- Fallout (Action/Adventure)

This list would definitely not be complete without this movie. Though it is possible to understand the plot without watching the previous five in the series, I would recommend at least watching the fifth movie, “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation”, in order to fully understand the characters and their choices. The heart dropping action scenes, the twist within the twist- this movie has all of it. And of course, the soundtrack!!

4. Minari (Drama)

I loved how wholesome this one was. It tells the story of a Korean-American family that is seeking the American Dream in the 1980s. It’s rooted in hope and pain, but showcases the true beauty of family. If you are looking for a warm and heartfelt family drama, this one’s for you.

5. Interstellar (Sci-fi/Adventure)

I watched this movie once before, but it was just as mind-blowing the second time. Christopher Nolan (director) depicts a dystopian future of Earth where mankind must flee the almost uninhabitable Earth through a wormhole, and a team of scientists are searching to find which of the three possible planets are habitable. “Interstellar” was bold, pure, and heart-wrenching, and best of all, I loved how I understood the decisions of the characters, even the “villains”. A lot of movies contrast the “good and bad guys” as starkly as black and white, but I liked how “Interstellar” didn’t shy away from showing reality is different- everyone is just trying to survive.