19 movies that trigger our need for good friends

Friends are an essential part of life and make our sometimes gloomy, sometimes lonely life worth living. Cinema that showcases friendships in all its tough and glorious times makes us realize how important friends are. Some such movies even make us miss our existing friends or trigger our need to have those kinds of friends. In a world where toxicity is present all around us, a good film that makes our desire for good friends eminent is proof that the film has tugged exactly the right chords in our hearts. Here is a list of 19 movies that trigger our need for good friends.

19. The Sandlot (1993)

This 1993 movie, directed by David Mickey Evans, follows the story of a group of boys who bonded over their love for baseball. The movie takes us back to childhood, when making good friends was easier and those friendships were devoid of malice and ulterior motives. The Sandlot does trigger childhood memories of playing with friends during carefree summer vacations.

18. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

Directed by Ken Kwapis and based on Ann Brashares' novel of the same name, this movie tells the story of four best friends who share a pair of denim jeans that fits all of them despite having different body types. As they spend their summer apart, the pants travel among them, helping to maintain their bond and support each other through personal challenges. The movie captures female friendships with an authenticity that makes it appear relatable.

17. Thelma & Louise (1991)

This classic crime drama directed by Ridley Scott is one of the best depictions of female friendships. The movie follows the story of two women who decide to take a road trip that takes unexpected and dramatic turns. The challenges that they face in the movie make their bond stronger than before and watching it will surely make you miss your friends.

16. Harry Potter series (2001-2011)

Harry, Hermione, and Ron's friendship is one of the beloved friendships of the fictional world. From growing up together to fighting the evils of the magic world, their bond is something that remains unbreakable. While there were moments of doubt and insecurity it only made their bond stronger. Apart from waiting for our Hogwarts letters, watching Harry Potter can also trigger our need to have good friends like Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

15. The Breakfast Club (1985)

This film, directed by John Hughes, is set in a high school detention and brings together five teenagers from different social backgrounds who form unlikely friendships. As they open up to each other and share their struggles, they realize they have more in common than they thought. The movie highlights the importance of understanding and accepting one another, regardless of differences.

14. Stand by Me (1986)

Directed by Rob Reiner and based on Stephen King's story, this coming-of-age film follows four boys on a journey to find a missing body. While hiking and facing various challenges their friendship is tested and strengthened. This adventurous film captures the innocence and deep bonds of childhood friendships triggering our need to have such good friends.

13. The Intouchables (2011)

Directed by Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano, this film tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic man and his caregiver, an ex-convict. Their bond transcends social and economic barriers, bringing joy, laughter, and a new perspective on life to both. This heartwarming movie is sure to trigger the desire to have good friendships in life.

12. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)

Based on John Boyne's novel of the same name and directed by Mark Herman, this movie tells about an unlikely friendship formed in the backdrop of one of the darkest times of humanity, the Holocaust. It is a tale of friendship between a Nazi Officer's son and a Jewish boy in the concentration camp. Their innocent bond, formed across a barbed-wire fence, underscores the impact of friendship and human kindness, even in the darkest times.

11. Bend it Like Beckham (2002)

Directed by Gurinder Chadha, this sports-comedy movie follows two girls from different cultural backgrounds who bond over their love of soccer. As they pursue their dreams and navigate family expectations, their friendship provides support and encouragement. The movie celebrates the power of friendship to bridge cultural divides and inspire personal growth.

10. Frances Ha (2012)

Directed by Noah Baumbach, this film portrays the most honest side of friendships. It follows the life of Frances, played by Greta Gerwig, a struggling dancer in New York City, and her close friendship with her roommate Sophie (Mickey Summer). As they navigate the challenges of young adulthood and changing relationships, their bond remains a constant source of support and comfort. The beautiful portrayal of friendship in this movie reminds us of our own bonds formed throughout the years.

9. Dead Poets Society (1989)

Directed by Peter Weir, this is a heartwarming tale of forming new friendships. It follows a group of students who form a deep bond with their English teacher. Inspired by his teachings, they start to follow their passions and also support each other in their endeavors. The movie highlights the power of mentorship and friendships.

8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

Based on the novel of the same name and directed by Stephen Chbosky, this film follows Charlie, played by Logan Lerman, an introverted high school freshman who forms close friendships with a group of seniors. Through their support and shared experiences, he learns to cope with his past and embrace his identity. The film beautifully captures the importance of friendship in overcoming personal struggles and finding one's place in the world.

7. Bridesmaids (2011)

Directed by Paul Feig, this movie follows the ups and downs of a group of women preparing for their friend's wedding. They face many challenges in their friendship, from jealousy to misunderstandings but ultimately their friendship reigns over everything. The movie, in a humorous way, displays the struggles and how good friendships overcome those struggles.

6. Big Hero 6 (2014)

Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, follows Hiro, a young robotics prodigy, and his inflatable robot Baymax, who become close friends. Together with their group of friends, they form a superhero team to fight a mysterious villain. The movie highlights the importance of friendship, teamwork, and support in overcoming challenges triggering our desire to have good friends like them.

5. Toy Story (1995)

This beloved animated film follows the friendship between Woody, a cowboy doll, and Buzz Lightyear, a space ranger action figure. Despite their initial rivalry, they come to rely on each other and form a strong bond. The movie beautifully portrays the themes of loyalty, acceptance, and the enduring power of friendship by showing strong bonds among a group of toys.

4. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Directed by Frank Darabont, the movie follows Andy, played by Tim Robbins, a wrongfully committed banker, and his life in prison. during his term, he forms an unconventionally strong bond with Ellis Boyd Redding, played by Morgan Freeman. Their bond provides hope, strength, and solace in the harsh environment.

3. Forrest Gump (1994)

Forrest Gump was directed by Robert Zemeckis and is based on Winston Grooms' novel of the same name. The film follows the life of Forrest Grump, played by Tom Hanks, a kind-hearted man who forms deep bonds with various people throughout the movie. It's a tale of love and honesty in forming good friendships and how it can transform one's life.

2. The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

Directed by Martin McDonagh, this tragicomedy film captures the challenges of friendships. Set on a remote Irish island, this film explores the complex and evolving friendship between two lifelong friends. As they navigate personal conflicts and changing dynamics, their bond is tested in many ways. The movie highlights that there are bad days in good friendships too.

1. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Directed by the legendary director, Steven Spielberg, this classic sci-fi film follows the story of a boy Elliot, played by Henry Thomas, and his unlikely friendship with an alien who is stranded on Earth. As Elliott and his friends help E.T. find a way home, their bond transcends the boundaries of space and species. The movie beautifully captures the innocence, wonder, and strength of friendship showing us that friendship knows no boundaries.