Let’s face it: You’re in your mid-20s, and life’s a whirlwind. You’re juggling a fledgling career, navigating the tricky waters of adulthood, and trying to remember if you actually like kale or just think you should. While your nights might be filled with endless scrolling through streaming platforms, the only thing harder than deciphering your boss’s cryptic emails is picking a movie.
While we can’t you clear up your inbox, we can make selecting a movie a little easier. Here are five necessary movies that will not only entertain but also give you the sense of satisfaction you need this weekend. (Editor’s note: Check the content rating before hitting play!)
1. Everything Everywhere All at Once (Netflix and Hulu)
If you thought multiverse-chaos was just for comic book nerds, think again. This cinematic rollercoaster, directed by the Daniels, is like Inception on a sugar high with a side of existential crisis—perfect for your own quarter-life meltdown. Michelle Yeoh stars as a laundromat owner who gets sucked into a wild adventure across multiple dimensions. Each universe is zanier than the last, taking you on a bizarre, artistic trip. It’s absurd, emotional, and action-packed—just like your 20s.
2. Palm Springs (Hulu)
Imagine being stuck at a wedding, but instead of your ex making a scene, you’re caught in a time loop. Sounds horrific, right? But in Palm Springs, it’s actually a hilarious and heartwarming scenario. Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti play two wedding guests reliving the same day over and over again. It’s like Groundhog Day but with better hair and more relatable quarter-life crises. This movie will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even appreciate the endless Zoom meetings just a little bit more.
3. Lady Bird (Max)
If you haven’t seen Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird, seriously, what are you waiting for? Saoirse Ronan stars as Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, a Sacramento teen with big dreams and a turbulent relationship with her mom. It’s a coming-of-age story that hits all the right notes, capturing the awkwardness of high school and the bittersweet transition to adulthood. Laurie Metcalf’s portrayal of Lady Bird’s mother is so painfully real, you’ll want to call your mom and tell her you love her—or at least text her a heart emoji.
4. The Worst Person in the World (Hulu)
This Norwegian gem, directed by Joachim Trier, isn’t just another indie flick with subtitles—it’s a relatable deep dive into the messiness of your 20s. Renate Reinsve gives a knockout performance as Julie, a woman navigating love, career changes and existential dread. It’s raw, funny and heartbreakingly beautiful, making you feel seen in ways your therapist never could. Plus, it’s a great excuse to seem cultured at your next dinner party. “Oh, you haven’t seen The Worst Person in the World? It’s a must-watch.”
5. C’mon C’mon (Amazon Prime)
Sometimes you need a movie that’s a bit like a warm hug—comforting and real. Enter C’mon C’mon, directed by Mike Mills. Joaquin Phoenix stars as Johnny, a radio journalist who unexpectedly ends up caring for his young nephew. This beautifully shot black-and-white film is a tender exploration of family and connection, featuring an adorable kid who will melt your heart faster than a popsicle in July. It’s reflective without being pretentious, perfect for a Friday night in when you need some feels.
