What Do Our Favorite Movies Say About How We Should Live Our Lives?

Movies have always been a very important part of my life: a source of joy when I was sad, a means of sparking curiosity about new topics, and even a way to make new friends (what could be more fun than discovering a movie you have in common with a stranger?). The truth is that there’s a delightful magic in fiction: it transports us to the most remote and fascinating corners of reality.

But when we think of cinema, we see ourselves only as spectators—passive characters in those plots and the fascinating people we see on screen. Yet what truly makes us love a movie is the humanity behind it: the way those characters live their lives to the fullest, filled with identity and determination.

In the following lines, we’ll unravel a bit of this charm of movies and how we can bring it into our own lives.

What Do You Like About Your Favorite Movies?

There are many things that can captivate us when we watch a movie: the special effects, the romance, the way a character acts, or even the beauty of the setting. But how can we know why we really like all of that?

My tip is simple: think about your five favorite movies—what do they have in common? If you can identify that, you already have the answer to your first question.

If you really like a character, can you figure out why? Maybe they always have a quick answer, or they’re kind, or particularly confident. How can you adopt that?

If you’re a big fan of period drama, for example, maybe what you’re looking for is a bit of the old-fashioned formality of the past and a few extra layers of clothing. How about having afternoon tea with your friends, gossiping in old-fashioned language, or wearing a simple petticoat under your everyday skirt?

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How Can You Incorporate This Into Your Life?

A few months ago, I watched Ocean Waves (a short, almost-forgotten Studio Ghibli film), and I was enchanted by the effortless way the characters lived their lives. I was particularly struck by a scene where the protagonist was in Tokyo for the first time and began wandering around the city, just looking at maps. He simply wasn’t afraid of getting lost, and that’s what allowed him to truly get to know the place.

The next day, I went to my favorite library. Instead of taking my usual route and coming back the same way, I decided to wander around. I took the time to get to know the streets and corners, every shop and tree on the sidewalk. It was liberating.

The moment you realize what truly fascinates you in the movie, the application should come naturally. Don’t set too many expectations; think about the situation and let your feelings be your guide. The idea is for it to be spontaneous—that’s where all our little, unexpected joys come from.

Making Everyday Life a Little More Whimsical

If you like fantasy movies, children’s films, or even the classic “Manic Pixie Dream Girl” trope, this one’s for you.

Bring a little magic into your daily life: give names to objects in your home, find a signature accessory, create fun nicknames for your friends, cook while listening to music, start a garden, choose a new favorite coffee shop, and turn it into your sensory sanctuary.

Everyday life doesn’t have to be boring and monotonous—and certainly doesn’t have to be the same for everyone.

Go on Side Quests

Go to the dentist with your best friend, take a walk around your neighborhood, volunteer at a local organization to help your community. Take a train to an unknown place, follow a stray cat. Get out of your comfort zone and see life from new perspectives. Turn your daily life into your new favorite movie.