Danielle Cuccio’s 5 Films to Make You Happy
We are not exactly known for being perpetually sunny and perky around here. We get a little edgy. We get a little sarcastic. We get a little, well, critical. But my friend Danielle Cuccio, who’s one of my favorite yoga instructors, simply radiates positivity. It’s evident as she works with students and helps clients through her health and well-being company, Cuccio Somatology, as well as on her blog, The Beauty Blender, where she shares favorite recipes, songs and Los Angeles destinations.
So I thought, who better to pick five movies to keep you happy during the holidays? It’s easy to get worn out this time of year, even if you’re having fun with friends and family. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressures of running around and making everyone else happy. It’s easy to get a little down. So here are Danielle’s suggestions for films to watch if you need to sit down and cheer up. There’s even a little curveball thrown in here for good measure.
Five Films That Make Me Happy
“Elf” (2003): Snuggle up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa! It’s quirky, silly to say the least and nothing makes me feel more in the holiday spirit. I laugh every single time. Santa, caroling and a very large elf: I love this comedic spin on a Christmas movie.
“Serendipity” (2001): A Christmas romantic comedy? Ugh, I am such a girl! John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale’s love story is romantic, keeps you on your toes and makes you want to go ice skating in Central Park right now! The ice skating scene in the snow is the perfect amount of cheesiness.
“Love Actually” (2003): A story of eight couples’ love stories set in London, just about a month before Christmas. The love stories, not all happy, give this romantic comedy a very honest and real-life feeling, connecting you to the characters even after the movie is over … until you watch it again next Christmas.
“Drive” (2011): I had to add this one after all of my jolly/happy movies. “Drive” is so not your feel-good, happily-ever-after movie, but makes me equally as happy. Two words: Ryan Gosling. That’s all.
“The Hundred-Foot Journey” (2014): I couldn’t remember the name of this movie for the life of me: “1,000 Feet …,” no. “1,000 Yards to …,” no. But the movie was amazing. Saw this one in the movie theaters with my boyfriend and we were both pleasantly surprised. One of the sweetest feel-good movies I have ever seen. Food, love and travel? My favorite things packed into one adorable movie? Yes, please! Definitely a feel-good flick that will make you hungry for all three!
Nice list. Good movies. Will have to see 100 Journey. In the meantime, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family, Christy. May you be surrounded with joy and love during this festive season and beyond.