Movies & Series: The Magic of Little Things

Movies and TV series often take us on incredible adventures. But they also have another power: they can teach us a lot about life!

They show us that even in times of downness, there is still magic to be found in the little things of everyday life. A shared smile, a tiny victory or just a moment of tranquility can brighten our day.

So, next time you're binge-watching a movie or TV show, keep your eyes peeled!

Take the time to enjoy the calm

In many movies and TV shows, you see characters enjoying the moments when nothing is happening. Like watching a beautiful sunset, listening to the birds sing, or just spending time with family over a meal. These simple moments remind us that it's important to slow down and enjoy the little pleasures in life.

For example, heroine Liz Gilbert embarks on a journey of self-discovery through Italy, India and Indonesia in the film. " Eat Pray Love » . During her stay in India, she spent time in an ashram where she learned meditation and mindfulness. These moments of calm and reflection allowed her to reconnect with herself and find inner peace.

Or in the TV series "Chernobyl", even in times of nuclear disaster, some characters find moments of comfort in camaraderie. For example, scientists and workers battling the aftermath of the accident sometimes share meals together. Thus finding a brief respite from the horror of the situation.

Celebrate every small victory

Often, characters celebrate the small successes of everyday life. Like overcoming a personal problem or even just finding comfort in a difficult situation. It should remind you that every little victory counts and deserves to be celebrated.

In "Friends", for example, the characters are super happy whenever they achieve something, even if it's very small. Like Joey getting a small role in a play or Monica cooking a perfect meal. They are always there to support each other, no matter what.

In "The Office", the guys and girls in the office are always there to celebrate the small victories. Pam fixing a computer problem or Michael receiving a compliment for his speech, it's always a celebration with applause and smiles. These moments of joy add a touch of lightness to the usually chaotic atmosphere of the office. It's as if even in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, they find time to support each other and share moments of happiness.

Another place, another atmosphere. In "Brooklyn Nine-Nine", it's a celebration for every small victory! Solving a pen theft or making a joke that makes everyone laugh triggers an explosion of joy at the police station. The cops there are like a big family that celebrates every success, big or small, with shouts of joy and triumphant gestures. These joyful and festive moments show that even in a police station, there is always room for a little happiness and camaraderie. That's what makes the series so enjoyable to watch!

Finding Magic in the Ordinary

Movies and TV shows can turn ordinary moments into magical ones. Whether it’s a moving melody or a captivating story, these works reveal that beauty can be found everywhere, even in the simplest things.

In "Amélie Poulain", Amélie finds magic in every little detail of everyday life. She does simple things to make other people's days more special: arranging meetings between strangers or revealing people's dreams through clues. She shows you that even small actions can have a big impact on others.

Or take one of my favorite movies, " Forrest Gump " by Robert Zemeckis. The main character, Forrest, finds magic in the simplest moments of everyday life. Despite his limited intelligence, Forrest lives an extraordinary life by enjoying the little things. Like running through the fields, fishing with his best friend Bubba, or simply listening to the stories of the people he meets on his bench. Aka “Life is like a beautiful box of chocolates” 😉

Human relationships are essential

In many movies and series, you can see that relationships with others are really important for one's own happiness. Friends, family, sweetheart, these relationships bring joy and support in good times as well as in bad.

In "Friends" (yes again, no I'm not a fan at all ^^), friendship is at the heart of each episode. The characters are always there for each other, no matter what happens. Their mutual support shows how important human relationships are for your happiness. Moreover, the episode entitled "The One Who Remembers" (S10E11) is a good summary of it. In this episode, the friends remember some of the highlights of their friendship through flashbacks from different periods of their lives. These memories reflect the ups and downs they have been through together, thus strengthening the deep bonds that unite them. This episode highlights the importance of friendship and constant presence for each other, even through the ups and downs of life.

Or for example in "Untouchables", a film by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, the unlikely friendship between Philippe, a paralyzed aristocrat, and Driss, a young man from the suburbs, shows that human relationships can be incredibly strong. Despite their differences, they become friends and this makes their lives happier and more fulfilling.

Not counting the series "Modern Family". Or here, the value of family ties is explored through the different branches of the Pritchett-Dunphy family. The members of this blended family find support, love and happiness in each other, through their ups and downs or challenges of daily life.

Finding Comfort in Routine

Sometimes movies and series highlight the comfort and stability that daily routine can bring.

In series like "Gilmore Girls", you see how the characters find happiness in small, everyday traditions. Like having coffee together in the morning or watching a movie with the family in the evening. These simple moments become reassuring landmarks in the hectic lives of each of the characters.

Other decor. In "The Big Bang Theory", the series features a group of geeky friends and their adventures in the field of science and technology. Despite their differences and eccentricities, the characters find comfort in their daily rituals. Among others, board game nights, meals in the university cafeteria, or sci-fi movie marathons.

The Beauty of Nostalgia

Some movies and series explore the beauty of nostalgia, showing you how memories and past experiences can bring joy in the present.

In "Stranger Things", for example, the characters immerse themselves in the 80s through music, video games and cultural references of the time. These moments of nostalgia allow them to reconnect with their childhood and find comfort in happy memories.

To return again to "La La Land". This romantic musical film takes us back to the golden age of Hollywood with its haunting music, elegant dancing and retro style. It immerses us in a bygone era while addressing the eternal themes of love and the American dream.

I could cite another perfect example with the film trilogy "Back to the Future". These films mix adventure, science fiction and 80s nostalgia. Following the time-traveling Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett Brown, they transport us to the past. All while celebrating friendship and adventure.

The magic of little surprises

But movies and series also sometimes show you how small, unexpected surprises can bring joy into your lives.

Let's take the example of"Toy Story". We discover the magic of little surprises through the adventures of Andy's toys. Each time they find a new toy box or meet a new companion, it is a source of excitement and happiness for them.

And isn't there a better example than the animated film? "Up" which tells the moving story of an old man, Carl Fredricksen. He sets out on an unexpected journey of adventure after receiving a surprise from his deceased wife. This little surprise in the form of an adventure notebook rekindles his spirit of adventure. Thus pushing him to undertake an extraordinary journey.

The value of small gestures of love

The value of small gestures of love and affection in your relationships with others can also be highlighted by certain films and series.

In movies like "Love Actually", You can see how simple gestures like writing a love letter or giving a homemade gift can have a huge impact on the relationships between the characters. These moments show that love and happiness are often found in the little things of everyday life.

Another series dear to my heart,"How I Met Your Mother". Here, the characters express their love through a variety of small gestures. A specific example can be found in the episode titled “The Best Burger in New York” (S04E02). In this episode, Marshall is desperate to find the best burger in New York, which he has only tasted once before. Ted, knowing how important this burger is to Marshall, accompanies him on his quest. Even though he must face various obstacles throughout their search. Eventually, Ted and Marshall find the famous burger. And this act of Ted shows his love and support for his friend, thus strengthening their friendship. These simple gestures strengthen the relationships between friends and couples throughout the series.

And we no longer mention the cult film "The Notebook", perfectly illustrating this point. In this romantic film, the characters Noah and Allie show their love for each other through simple but meaningful gestures. Like writing love letters or renovating an old house. These acts of affection show that even after years, love can be rekindled by small gestures of attention and tenderness.

The pleasures of discovery and adventure

Other films and series express the joys of discovery and adventure, showing how stepping outside one's comfort zone can bring happiness and excitement.

Let's take the great movie "Into the Wild" which tells the true story of Christopher McCandless. This young man who leaves his comfortable life to undertake a solo journey across the United States. During his journey, he discovers the beauty of the wilderness and the freedom of living without constraints. Highlighting the joys of exploration and self-discovery.

And finally we can also mention this Disney,"Moana". Which follows the courageous adventure of Moana, a young girl determined to save her people by searching for a legendary island. Her journey takes her across dangerous oceans, confronts mythical creatures and discovers her own inner strength, highlighting the joys of adventure and exploration.

The warmth of intergenerational bonds

Some films and series highlight intergenerational links. And thus show how relationships between different generations can bring happiness and wisdom. To return to the animated film "Up" Disney Pixar's The Elder Scrolls Online, we see how the bond between a young boy and an old adventurer grows through an unexpected adventure. These moments remind you of the importance of respecting and valuing the older people in your life. And of learning from their wisdom and experience. (So, moral of the story: enjoy your ancestors while they last).

Another movie with incredible actors Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins,"The Shawshank Redemption". Their characters, Andy and Red, develop a deep friendship while incarcerated in a prison. Despite the age difference and difficult circumstances, their relationship becomes an essential mutual support to face the trials of prison life.

The simplicity of community life

And finally, movies and series can simply show you the simple joys of living in community and sharing moments with others.

In movies like "Little Miss Sunshine", a dysfunctional family learns to support each other and find happiness in the little moments they share. For example, they sing together in the car on a road trip. These moments show that the strength of family bonds can bring joy. Even in the most difficult situations. These moments show that even when things are hard, being together can make things a little lighter and make us stronger.

Or let's take "Harry Potter". This iconic film series follows the adventures of Harry Potter and his friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Beyond the battles against the forces of evil, the films highlight the bonds of friendship between Harry, Ron and Hermione. As well as the solidarity of the wizarding community in its fight against the Dark Lord.

So, the next time you sit down to watch a movie or series, keep an eye out for those little moments of happiness hidden between the lines.

You might be surprised how these valuable life lessons can slip into your favorite entertainment! And realize that you can adapt them to your daily life, too.