On Monday, March 23, the UAE saw heavy showers hit the scene. And as predicted, when rain falls, roads are waterlogged, work from home is permitted, and officials urge everyone not to go outside unless necessary. Once again, life takes a slow shift indoors as the skies turn grey. But grey weather doesn’t need to be a grey mood. With the forecast predicting rain till Friday, now is the perfect time to set up a home theatre and indulge in movies that wrap you up like a blanket. Heartfelt stories, immersive performance, cinematography that makes every frame a painting, and narratives that stick with you long after the credits, in a time when we look for a brief moment of escapism, these movies do just that while never forgetting to stay grounded in their production and storytelling.
Clouds of Sils Maria (2014)
Starring Juliette Binoche, Kristen Stewart, and Chloë Grace Moretz, Clouds of Sils Maria follows the story of an A-list star, Maria Enders (played by Binoche), who owes her success to a play she acted in 20 years ago. Now invited to star again in the play’s revival, we watch her come to terms with her personal and professional insecurities. A meta-film on bits of Binoche’s life as well as on themes of identity and ageing, the heavy subject matter is contrasted with the stunning cinematography of the Alps and grounded with the interpersonal dynamics of the three leads.
Eternity (2025)
A rom-com merged with supernatural fantasy, Eternity is a story where souls in the afterlife have a week to decide where to spend eternity. Within this world, we follow Joan, who is in the middle of a twisted love triangle between the man she spent her life with and her first love who died young. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Miles Teller, and Callum Turner, this movie is filled with whimsical, funny moments but also scenes that tug at the heartstrings. At its core, it’s a film that reflects on life, what we make of it, and how we remember it.
Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
An animated fantasy film based on the novel of the same name, Kiki’s Delivery Service follows a 13-year-old witch named Kiki, who sets up a flying courier service in a bustling port town. For fans of animation, this film is ripe with little details that immerse you in this world. An allegory to burnout and the subsequent depression that follows it, this film is a sobering reminder to slow down in life. The sound design also adds to the charming nature of the film as tight, tense moments are cut with silence, while the whimsical, magical moments are complemented with ‘80s pop music
Past Lives (2023)
The directorial debut of Celine Song, if you haven’t caught this movie during its hype, then it’s time to catch it now! Based on the story of two childhood friends who reconnect after 20 years, it’s a heartfelt romantic drama that tackles themes of relationships and lost loves. In its simple plot, the film explores human emotion from subtle body language to harrowing moments of silence. Known to hit close to home for many, don’t forget the tissues for this one.
Sentimental Value (2025)
This year’s Oscars winner for Best International Feature Film, Sentimental Value focuses on the complex nature of family dynamics, generational trauma, and the power of art within it all. Exploring the story of two sisters reuniting with their estranged father, a renowned filmmaker, the film follows how they navigate their relationship as adults. Within this plot is incredible cinematography and filmmaking techniques that balance artistry with reality. With each scene feeling lived in and each dialogue all too relatable for some, this film is a slow burn, filled with layers, and a contemplative watch.
Sometimes I Think About Dying (2023)
Another film marked by incredible sound design! Sometimes I Think About Dying is a dark rom-com following the story of Fran, a depressed and isolated woman, who makes a connection with her new coworker. Starring Daisy Ridley and Dave Merheje, this film is chock-full of wit, quirky moments, and unapologetically vulnerable. It’s a slow, subtle film that holds a visual aid to the realities of depression.
The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)
Starring Irish actors Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, The Banshees of Inisherin follows the story of Pádraic and Colm, two lifelong friends. When Colm suddenly ends the friendship, Pádraic sets out to repair the damage by any means necessary. Set on a remote island off the coast of Ireland, the film’s themes are accompanied by visually stunning scenery. Capturing Irish folklore and an allegory to the Irish civil war, this film is equal parts funny, poignant, and thought-provoking.
Train Dreams (2025)
Based on the novella of the same name, Train Dreams is a period drama following the life of Robert Grainier, a logger and railroad worker. Going through his life, we see unexpected depth and beauty contrasted with a rapidly changing America of the early 20th Century. Stunning scenes of nature are to be expected here, while the film itself is lyrical. A hauntingly realistic portrayal of life, the film isn’t bound by antagonists or action-heavy plots, but is set on the themes of love, loss, tragedy, and perseverance. A slow burn that creates a portrait of hope, this film is extremely calm in nature, becoming something we need during these current times.
