Every once in a while, you watch a movie which triggers something deep inside you. Either it’s an unexplainable mix of emotions or a logical drive towards a new goal. That’s the effect of a powerful cinematography.
Most films are like gateways which afford you unseen views of the world. They inspire you to put a stop on your sedentary lifestyle and breathe the fresh air which flows outside the metropolitan box. More importantly, such films ignite your wanderlust. Check out the top ones from my private selection below, and get ready to scratch that travel itch.
Samsara (2011)
Called as a ‘trance movie’ by critics, this non-narrative documentary film by Ron Fickle is truly the one to behold. Smoothly capturing various aspects of the world, both natural and man-made, this travelogue carries you through the Himalayas, the European cathedrals, the Native American tribes, the great deserts, and whatnot.
Each segment has its own thematic palate and orchestra of tunes. The cycle motif of birth and death— the literal meaning of the word ‘Samara’—seems to repeat in it too.
The entire movie is almost a sacrosanct experience, acquired in one great flow. It touches your heartstrings and raises your adrenaline level. Do give it a go.
The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Three estranged brothers reunite to undertake a collective journey through India with the purpose of healing themselves spiritually. This is the basic premise of ‘The Darjeeling Limited’.
Interestingly enough, the title refers to an eponymous train that takes the brothers through the heart of the great subcontinent.
Directed by Wes Anderson who is famous for his artistic vision and stylized palate, this flick touches all the right parts of India which include temples, nunneries, villages, bazaars, and whatnot. You can stream it over Spectrum online or you can order it on-demand from your cable provider.
Wild (2014)
Everyone has their fair share of sorrows, but when Cheryl Strayed was struck by the absolute worst, she decided to travel. This is the inspiration behind ‘Wild’.
Losing her beloved mother, failing her marriage, and falling into an abyss of self-destruction, the distraught Cheryl dons her travel wear, packs her bags, and goes on a journey across the Pacific Crest Trail—one of the longest and the toughest hikes in the States.
This movie shows some of the most spectacular views of the countryside and teaches you that anything can be achieved with the right amount of willpower.
Lost in Translation (2003)
If there’s one Bill Murray movie which I feel is constantly underrated, it is ‘Lost in Translation’. This film depicts a cultural clash between the Americans and the Japanese in a subtle, artistic way.
You find an aging movie star, Bob (played by Murray), and a conflicted beauty, Charlotte (played by Johansson), struggling in a purely metropolitan Far East Setting. Amidst the bright lights of Tokyo, both of the chance to meet up and immediately start sharing a meaningful bond. Then, together, they explore the loneliness which reverberates off of their predicament of being a stranger in a foreign land.
Letters to Juliet (2010)
Though a romantic comedy, this movie shows you some of the best panoramas of the lovely Italian countryside.
Amongst all of these is hidden a mystery. A young journalist named Sophie teams up with an English grandma and grandson. This is an endearing movie.
Totally worth the watch!
So, devote your upcoming weekend to these movies and start planning your vacation.
