When the sky opens up and rain begins to fall, there’s something inherently comforting about curling up with a great film. The rhythmic patter of raindrops provides the perfect soundtrack to an immersive movie experience. Here’s a curated list of ten exceptional films to watch when it’s raining outside. These selections promise to transport you to different worlds, soothe your soul, and ignite your imagination.
Kumbalangi Nights (2019) – Amazon Prime / YouTube / Apple TV
Director: Madhu C. Narayanan
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Cast: Shane Nigam, Soubin Shahir, Fahadh Faasil, and Sreenath Bhasi
Madhu C. Narayanan’s “Kumbalangi Nights” is a captivating Indian film that portrays the dynamics of a dysfunctional family in a small fishing village in Kerala. The film’s rich storytelling, compelling characters, and beautiful depiction of rural life create a deeply engaging experience. Its portrayal of relationships and personal growth is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Aavesham fans, there’s something special for you at 23:58.
Brooklyn (2015) – Amazon Prime / Apple TV
Director: John Crowley
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson, and Jim Broadbent
John Crowley’s “Brooklyn” is a beautifully crafted period drama based on Colm Tóibín’s novel. The film stars Saoirse Ronan as Eilis Lacey, a young Irish immigrant navigating life in 1950s Brooklyn. The film’s lush cinematography, heartfelt performances, and poignant story of love and identity make it a deeply satisfying watch for a rainy afternoon.
The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) – SonyLiv
Director: Lasse Hallström
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Cast: Helen Mirren, Om Puri, Manish Dayal, and Charlotte Le Bon
Directed by Lasse Hallström, “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is a culinary drama that tells the story of an Indian family opening a restaurant in a quaint French village, directly across the street from a Michelin-starred eatery. The film, starring Helen Mirren and Om Puri, is a delightful blend of cultural clash, culinary delights, and personal growth. Its warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for a cosy day indoors.
October (2018) – Amazon Prime
Director: Shoojit Sircar
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Cast: Varun Dhawan, Banita Sandhu, Gitanjali Rao, and Sahil Vedoliyaa
Shoojit Sircar’s “October” is a hauntingly beautiful Indian film that stands apart from the mainstream. Starring Varun Dhawan in a career-defining role, the movie delves into the themes of love, loss, and the inexplicable connections that bind us. The story unfolds in an unusually slow and contemplative manner, akin to the gentle pitter-patter of rain. Its minimalistic approach and emotional depth are perfect for introspective rainy-day viewing.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012) – Amazon Prime / Apple TV
Director: Stephen Chbosky
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Cast: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, and Mae Whitman
Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a coming-of-age drama about a socially awkward high school freshman who finds solace in a group of misfit friends. The film’s heartfelt performances and relatable themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery make it a comforting and engaging watch for a rainy day.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) – Amazon Prime
Director: Michel Gondry
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Cast: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, and Mark Ruffalo
Michel Gondry’s “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” is a masterclass in storytelling and visual artistry. The film explores the fragility of human relationships through the lens of memory erasure. Starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, it seamlessly blends science fiction with romance and drama. The dreamlike sequences and the emotional rollercoaster the characters go through are perfectly suited for a day spent indoors, with the rain adding to the film’s melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere.
In the Mood for Love (2000) – Amazon Prime
Director: Wong Kar-wai
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Cast: Tony Leung Chiu-Wai, Maggie Cheung, Ping Lam Siu, Tung Cho ‘Joe’ Cheung
Wong Kar-wai’s “In the Mood for Love” is a cinematic poem about unrequited love and the unspoken connections between two neighbours in 1960s Hong Kong. The film’s rich colour palette and meticulous attention to detail create a visually stunning experience. Its slow, deliberate pacing mirrors the rhythm of a rainy day, making it a deeply immersive watch. The haunting score and impeccable performances by Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung will linger long after the credits roll.
The Secret In Their Eyes (2009) – Amazon Prime
Director: Juan José Campanella
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Cast: Ricardo Darín, Soledad Villamil, Pablo Rago, Carla Quevedo
Juan José Campanella’s Argentine masterpiece “The Secret in Their Eyes” is a gripping thriller that intertwines a murder investigation with a complex narrative about justice and obsession. The film’s mood is perfectly complemented by a rainy day, as it keeps you on the edge of your seat while delving into deep emotional territories. The impeccable performances and the film’s intricate plot structure make it a compelling watch.
Kapoor & Sons (2016) – Amazon Prime / Apple TV / Netflix
Director: Shakun Batra
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt, Rishi Kapoor
Shakun Batra’s “Kapoor & Sons” is a heartfelt Indian family drama about the dysfunctional Kapoor family. Starring Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt, and Rishi Kapoor, the film explores themes of family, love, and reconciliation. Its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and emotional depth make it an engaging watch for a rainy day.
Big Fish (2003) – Amazon Prime / Apple TV
Director: Tim Burton
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup, Jessica Lange
Tim Burton’s “Big Fish” is a fantastical tale that blends reality and imagination through the life stories of a travelling salesman, played by Ewan McGregor. The film’s enchanting narrative and visually rich storytelling make it a delightful escape. “Big Fish” is a celebration of the art of storytelling and the wonders of life, perfect for a rainy day when you want to be transported to a world of magic and whimsy.