That cloud 9 experience of walking through the Memphis International Airport with AirPods that are blasting “New Kid in Town,” by the Eagles, is something that would only be in the movies, unless you’ve been fortunate enough to experience it on your own.
The only thing on my mind as I desperately attempt to find my terminal is: What movie will have the honor of being selected for my three-hour plane ride?
For some, flying is something they do not bat an eye about, and for others, it is a luxury. However, no matter how many “frequent flyer points” you’ve collected, or lack thereof, we can all agree that plane time is valuable time; it’s time filled with freedom. This freedom can soon turn to regret if careful consideration is not given to what movie will best entertain you during the flight. A bad plane movie is a let-down that you will remember for days, weeks, and if you are a grudge holder, months.
So… what do you look for when choosing the Holy Grail of a movie when flying?
First of all, I think a movie with quicker pacing is important. I want to be engaged the whole time, not having moments of boredom where I hop on my phone to scroll–only to realize that I tragically did not pay for the wifi on the plane, and because of my own cheap actions have to resort to playing the “Subway Surfers” app that has collected dust through the screen from being shelved since 2016.
Also, any movie that requires a pen and paper for note-taking is immediately out of the question. For goodness ‘ sake, this is a movie, not a murder trial. I do not want to put on my thinking cap while already having my seat kicked by the 13-year-old who is mid-growth spurt and cannot sit still. Not to mention the older man sitting in front of me, who, respectfully, could have used a shower pre-flight.
Sad movies are not plane movies.
Let me say it again, sad movies are not plane movies!
Contrary to what some may say, I do not want to get off a plane, eyes red and puffy, dragging my feet as I walk down the terminal, questioning the meaning of life and if my dog is still alive at home. Honestly, I steer clear of sad movies most of the time unless I am misinformed. Some may say I am a chronic optimist; I call it protecting my peace. But I think you are a different breed if you willingly choose a tear-jerker to watch during your little jaunt in the air with a myriad of strangers.
Okay, okay, there is more to the decision than that. In all honesty, the brightness of the movie is also a defining factor of what makes a movie “plane worthy.”
For example… “The Dark Knight”, by Christopher Nolan, awesome movie. But trust that you will be questioning what you are looking at for the majority of the experience, eyes squinting at the cheap plane screen.
A movie like “Crazy Rich Asians” has an array of bright colors that could honestly light your way as you multitask and read the book you always throw in a bag to feel productive.
You also must have a strong backbone when picking a movie for a flight. Because, no matter what angle you sit at, someone, or multiple someones, are watching right along with you. Do you really want Karen sitting diagonally from you to make a Facebook post after landing about how your generation is in its demise because you chose a concerning film?
Or what about the cute guy who is sitting a row behind… You want him to think that you are cool, fun and different. Or maybe you really have no concern for anyone else’s opinion–that is great! Just remember it is the choice you are making not only for yourself, but for those surrounding you as well.
In reality, I often find my eyes straying to the screen a row over from me, enchanted by the seemingly niche movie that I cannot hear, and cannot even read the lips of characters because of the weird angle I am sitting at. You might think, “I’ll go find that movie myself.” Be honest. You won’t. You will just position your body perfectly so the talented “movie-chooser” is unsuspecting (they definitely know) of your antics of leeching off their film.
Okay. You have your steps. The advice of a trusted individual, myself, on what movie to choose. Let us review.
- A quick-paced plot
- Not too thinky – this is downtime, not “lock in” time
- No sad movies! Ever!
- Good aesthetic, bright and engaging
- Confidence in the movie you chose
Bonus: good plane neighbors with good taste in cinema.
From a friend to a friend, if you have a trip planned soon, and you are now feeling more anxiety about what movie to watch, allow me to guide you, as Mrs. Frizzle would, to a starting point of great plane movies.
As mentioned, “Crazy Rich Asians.” A bright, uplifting movie with a quick plot that has conflict that is quickly resolved. Also very family-focused, which the grandma behind you will appreciate.
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” a snappy movie that requires minimal thinking and will have all rom-com lovers at your beck and call before the end of the journey.
Lastly, “Oceans 11,” a classic that has action, grabs your attention from the beginning, and George Clooney. Need I say more?
So there you have it — the non-negotiables of elite in-flight cinema. Quick pacing, low mental effort, zero emotional devastation, bright visuals and the confidence to hit play without second-guessing yourself. Pick wisely, settle in and let the roar of the engine fade into the background. Because, when the movie is right, the flight doesn’t feel long… It feels curated.
Be the first to comment