Five movies on Netflix to take a much-needed study break
By Anna Gilstrap
College students are no strangers to anxiety; in fact, three out of four of us admit to regularly feeling stressed, according to a 2018 study published in the medical journal Depression and Anxiety. Time to escape and relax is necessary, and what better way than to hit pause on life and play a good movie on Netflix?
If this entertainment self-care piques your interest, PRSSA has got you covered with a few recommendations.
Dolemite is My Name
Starring Eddie Murphy as comedian Rudy Ray Moore, who in his struggles to make it big develops raunchy alter ego, “Dolemite is my Name” follows Moore’s success with his new stage personality and the process of translating Dolemite to the big screen. Murphy returns to his trademark foul-mouthed humor in this laugh-out-loud comedy guaranteed to put a smile on your face in the midst of the stressful semester. Bonus points for a supporting cast featuring Wesley Snipes, Keegan-Michael Key and Athens, Georgia native Tituss Burgess. One more Athens connectionーRudy Ray Moore once performed as Dolemite at 40 Watt Club.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
There’s no doubt we’re living through an age of superhero films, best seen in Marvel’s behemoth “Avengers: Endgame” earning $2.79 billion at the box office. “Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse.” This movie stands out among the rest with its engaging animated visuals, telling the story of a multiverse with multiple Spider-Mans all coming together to defeat the bad guys. Centered around high schooler Miles Morales, and also featuring the well-known Peter Parker (albeit, as an aging cynic rather than the bright-eyed photographer we’re used to seeing), “Spider-Verse” is a fun action-packed movie perfect for a little break from reality.
John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch
Technically a Netflix special and not a movie, this new work from comedian John Mulaney had to make the list. “John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch” is equal parts hilarious and profound, tackling topics from butter noodles to biggest fears through skits with a diverse group of kids and Mulaney himself. Appearances from celebrities such as Natasha Lyonne, Jake Gyllenhaal and Talking Heads’ David Byrne also add to the show’s enjoyment.
The Spectacular Now
This drama might not seem like an obvious choice for a relaxing study break, but there’s something about “The Spectacular Now” that makes it perfect for students at the University of Georgia: it was filmed entirely in Athens and directed by Athens native James Ponsoldt. Indulge in the romance portrayed charmingly by Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller, and see what iconic Athens locations you can spot (Helpful hints: the Zell B. Miller Learning Center, Bizarro-Wuxtry Comics, Toys, & Stuff and Redneck Beach, to name a few).
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Any list dedicated to taking a needed breather from school wouldn’t be complete without this ‘80s classic. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” features Matthew Broderick as Ferris, a high school student who fakes sickness one day to skip school. He proceeds to have the adventure of a lifetime in Chicago with his girlfriend and best friend at his side, dodging the consequences of his principal and parents along the way. Live vicariously through Bueller (Bueller, Bueller) as you take your day off, too.
