55 Best Movies to Watch on a Plane

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Finding the perfect airplane movie for a long-haul flight is no joke. You’re stuck in a metal tube for hours, squished between strangers, and just trying to stay sane. The wrong movie? It can make time crawl. But the right one? It’s like a little escape at 30,000 feet.

Good inflight entertainment is a lifesaver. It keeps you busy, helps you relax, and before you know it, they’re announcing the descent. But let’s be real: not all movies are made for planes. You want something that’s easy to follow (no complicated plots here), entertaining (to distract from the cramped seat), and, most importantly, doesn’t leave you cringing during awkward scenes when the person next to you peeks at your screen.

Luckily, I’ve done the homework for you. Here’s a list of the 55 best movies to watch on a plane – some are old, others brand new. Sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!

Top 15 Feel-Good Movies to Lift Your Spirits

Sometimes, you just need a little sunshine on a long flight. These feel-good gems are perfect for keeping your spirits high, even when the turbulence hits. They’re light, uplifting, and full of heartwarming moments.

1. The Intern

IMDb Score: 7.1
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

An unlikely friendship between a retired gentleman (Robert De Niro) and a stressed-out CEO (Anne Hathaway). It’s sweet, funny, and the kind of movie that leaves you smiling for hours.

2. Julie & Julia

IMDb Score: 7.0
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Cooking, blogging, and Meryl Streep as Julia Child. Need I say more? This great movie is like comfort food for your soul.

3. Paddington 2

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A charming bear, a quirky family, and some of the most feel-good scenes ever filmed. Paddington will remind you that kindness really does go a long way.

4. Chef

IMDb Score: 7.3
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A food truck, father-son bonding, and mouthwatering dishes. Don’t blame me if this one makes you crave Cuban sandwiches mid-flight.

5. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

IMDb Score: 7.3
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

Dreamy visuals and a heartwarming story about stepping out of your comfort zone. Perfect inspiration for anyone traveling to find themselves.

6. Hunt for the Wilderpeople

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A rebellious kid, a grumpy guardian, and an epic adventure in the New Zealand bush. Equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.

7. Little Miss Sunshine

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

A dysfunctional family on a chaotic road trip to a beauty pageant. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe feel a bit better about your own family dynamics.

8. Crazy Rich Asians

IMDb Score: 6.9
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A glittering rom-com full of love, laughs, and jaw-dropping fashion. Constance Wu’s standout performance brings heart to this romantic comedy.

9. Mamma Mia!

IMDb Score: 6.5
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

ABBA songs, a Greek island, and Meryl Streep dancing. This one’s an instant mood-lifter, no matter how many times you’ve seen it.

10. Yesterday

IMDb Score: 6.8
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Imagine a world where you’re the only one who remembers The Beatles. It’s fun, feel-good, and filled with iconic songs.

11. We Bought a Zoo

IMDb Score: 7.1
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

Matt Damon stars in this feel-good story about a family starting over by running a zoo. Heartwarming and uplifting.

12. The Greatest Showman

IMDb Score: 7.5
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

A musical extravaganza based on the life of P.T. Barnum. The catchy soundtrack will stay with you long after the flight.

13. The Proposal

IMDb Score: 6.7
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds star in this hilarious rom-com about a fake engagement that turns into something real. Perfect for laughs and swoons.

14. Love Actually

IMDb Score: 7.6
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

With a cast that includes Hugh Grant, this romantic comedy brings warmth and charm to your small screen. An all-time classic filled with interconnected love stories that will make your heart melt.

15. Enchanted

IMDb Score: 7.0
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

A Disney princess lands in modern-day New York City. This mix of fairy tale and real-world chaos is pure fun.

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Best Action & Adventure Movies to Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat

Long flights can feel endless, but these action-packed and adventurous picks will make time fly. Get ready for thrill, excitement, and edge-of-your-seat moments—without leaving your seatbelt on the plane!

16. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

IMDb Score: 7.5
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

This one’s a wild ride from start to finish. Stunning visuals, jaw-dropping stunts, and nonstop action in a dystopian desert. Trust me, your heart will be racing. Action films don’t get better than this.

17. The Martian

IMDb Score: 8.0
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

Stranded on Mars? No problem for Matt Damon, who turns potatoes into survival gold. This one’s thrilling, clever, and surprisingly funny—perfect for keeping you entertained at 30,000 feet.

18. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

IMDb Score: 7.7
Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+.

Tom Cruise doing crazy stunts, espionage, and heart-pounding action sequences. It’s impossible not to enjoy this one.

19. Ocean’s Eleven

IMDb Score: 7.7
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

This clever heist movie feels like a classic film with a modern twist. It is a movie with George Clooney and Brad Pitt, and a plan so smooth you’ll want to watch it twice. It’s fun, clever, and endlessly entertaining.

20. Catch Me If You Can

IMDb Score: 8.1
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Based on a true story, this cat-and-mouse game between a brilliant con artist (Leonardo DiCaprio) and an FBI agent (Tom Hanks) is endlessly engaging.

21. Dune: Part Two

IMDb Score: 8.5
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

A visually stunning epic set in a futuristic desert world. Political intrigue, breathtaking visuals, and an incredible score make this one unforgettable.

22. The Batman (2022)

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Max.

Robert Pattinson’s broody take on the iconic character delivers a gripping detective story with dark, atmospheric vibes. Action-packed and beautifully shot.

Plane aisle with empty seats, best movies to watch on a plane
The best movies to watch on a plane will make your time fly by.

Comedies That’ll Have You Laughing at 30,000 Feet

Sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine, especially up in the air. Here are some of the best movies to watch on a plane for a good chuckle.

23. Bridesmaids

IMDb Score: 6.8
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

A hilarious, chaotic ride through wedding drama, ridiculous situations, and an unforgettable food-poisoning scene. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, with just the right amount of heart.

24. The Grand Budapest Hotel

IMDb Score: 8.1
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

Quirky characters, colorful visuals, and Wes Anderson’s signature humor. It’s a delightful mix of absurdity and charm that’ll keep you entertained all the way.

25. Crazy, Stupid, Love

IMDb Score: 7.4
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

A mix of romance and comedy, with Ryan Gosling showing off his charm and Steve Carell navigating life after divorce. It’s sweet, funny, and totally relatable.

26. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

IMDb Score: 7.0
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Four teens get sucked into a video game, and chaos ensues. With Dwayne Johnson and Jack Black leading the laughs, it’s the perfect mix of action movie and comedy.

27. Superbad

IMDb Score: 7.6
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

A high school comedy about two best friends on a mission for one unforgettable night. It’s crude, it’s hilarious, and it’s full of nostalgia for anyone who remembers being a teen.

28. The 40-Year-Old Virgin

IMDb Score: 7.1
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Steve Carell stars as a sweet, awkward man navigating dating life with the help of his hilariously misguided friends. It’s outrageous and surprisingly heartwarming.

29. Mean Girls

IMDb Score: 7.1
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

An iconic teen comedy packed with sharp humor, unforgettable quotes, and a touch of high school drama. “On Wednesdays, we watch Mean Girls.”

30. The Hangover

IMDb Score: 7.7
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

A wild bachelor party in Las Vegas leads to absolute chaos. Outrageous and completely hilarious.

Popcorn on red background, best movies to watch on a plane

​​Drama and Classics for Thoughtful Viewers

Sometimes, you want a movie that makes you think, feel, and maybe even shed a tear (but not the ugly cry kind). These dramas and classics are perfect for a quiet, contemplative flight.

31. The Holdovers

IMDb Score: 7.9
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

A bittersweet story about a cranky teacher and a troubled student stuck together over winter break. It’s heartwarming and full of dry humor. Perfect for when you want a film with depth.

32. Jackie Brown

IMDb Score: 7.5
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Quentin Tarantino’s underrated gem. A clever heist, complex characters, and killer dialogue. It’s cool, stylish, and endlessly watchable.

33. Forrest Gump

IMDb Score: 8.8
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

The ultimate feel-good drama. Tom Hanks as Forrest takes you on a journey through history, love, and life’s unexpected twists. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe crave chocolates.

34. The Shawshank Redemption

IMDb Score: 9.3
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

A classic about hope and redemption. It’s inspiring, emotional, and one of those movies that stays with you long after the credits roll.

35. The Social Network

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

The gripping story behind the creation of Facebook. Sharp writing, great performances, and a reminder that even billionaires have drama.

36. The Wolf of Wall Street

IMDb Score: 8.2
Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+.

A larger-than-life story of excess, greed, and wild ambition. Leonardo DiCaprio delivers a powerhouse performance in this chaotic and entertaining journey through Wall Street’s darker side.

37. The Big Short

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A sharp, witty exploration of the 2008 financial crisis, told through the eyes of outsiders who saw it coming. Equal parts funny and infuriating, it’s a masterclass in storytelling.

38. Good Will Hunting

IMDb Score: 8.3
Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.

A powerful drama about a troubled math genius (Matt Damon) and his therapist (Robin Williams). It’s heartfelt, inspiring, and deeply relatable.

39. The Revenant

IMDb Score: 8.0
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Leonardo DiCaprio delivers an intense performance in this story of survival and revenge set in the American wilderness. Stunning visuals and gripping drama.

40. The Pursuit of Happyness

IMDb Score: 8.0
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Will Smith shines as a struggling father who refuses to give up on his dreams. It’s an emotional and uplifting story of perseverance.

Animated Movies for All Ages

Animated movies aren’t just for kids—they’re for anyone who wants a dose of fun, adventure, and heart. These picks are perfect for all ages, guaranteed to entertain whether you’re 3 or 93.

41. Moana

IMDb Score: 7.6
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

An adventurous young girl, a sassy demigod, and unforgettable songs. This Disney gem is full of heart and will have you humming “How Far I’ll Go” for the rest of your trip.

42. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

IMDb Score: 8.4
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A visually stunning, action-packed take on everyone’s favorite web-slinger. The story is fresh, fun, and proves that anyone can wear the mask.

43. The LEGO Movie

IMDb Score: 7.7
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.

Hilarious, creative, and surprisingly touching. With witty humor and catchy tunes (Everything is Awesome!), it’s an absolute joy from start to finish.

44. Finding Nemo

IMDb Score: 8.2
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

A classic Pixar adventure about a little fish with a big journey. It’s funny, heartwarming, and a perfect reminder to “just keep swimming.”

45. Encanto

IMDb Score: 7.2
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

A magical family with unique gifts, a mystery to solve, and catchy songs (“We Don’t Talk About Bruno”). This colorful film will brighten your flight with its heartwarming story.

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Top 10 Documentaries to Educate and Inspire

Sometimes, a flight is the perfect opportunity to learn something new or dive into a fascinating real-life story. These documentaries are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

46. Free Solo

IMDb Score: 8.1
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+.

Follow Alex Honnold as he attempts to climb Yosemite’s El Capitan without ropes. It’s breathtaking, nerve-wracking, and totally inspiring.

47. My Octopus Teacher

IMDb Score: 8.1
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A beautiful story about the bond between a filmmaker and an octopus. Stunning underwater visuals and a heartwarming lesson on connection with nature.

48. The Social Dilemma

IMDb Score: 7.6
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Ever wondered how social media impacts your daily life? This documentary is eye-opening and will have you rethinking your screen time.

49. 13th

IMDb Score: 8.2
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

This documentary’s exploration of racial inequality in the U.S. connects its subject matter to broader systemic issues. Eye-opening and deeply moving.

50. The Last Dance

IMDb Score: 9.0
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Relive Michael Jordan’s glory days with this gripping docuseries about his career and the legendary Chicago Bulls. Perfect for sports fans!

51. Jiro Dreams of Sushi

IMDb Score: 7.8
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

A quiet, inspiring look at perfection through the eyes of a Japanese sushi master. It’s about more than food—it’s about dedication and passion.

52. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

IMDb Score: 8.9
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix

The legendary naturalist reflects on his incredible life and issues a heartfelt call to save the planet. It’s moving and visually stunning.

53. Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy!

IMDb Score: 6.7
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Ever wondered about the psychology and tactics behind overconsumption? This documentary dives deep into the world of marketing tricks and consumerism traps.

54. Cowspiracy

IMDb Score: 8.1
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

A hard-hitting look at how the meat and dairy industries impact the planet. It’s informative, shocking, and might change the way you see your plate.

55. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things

IMDb Score: 6.7
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

Explore how living with less can lead to more happiness. A perfect watch for digital nomads or anyone seeking a simpler life.

Tips for Enhancing Your Inflight Movie Experience

Bring noise-canceling headphones

Airplane cabins are loud—engine hum, crying babies, snack carts clattering by. Noise-canceling headphones are a game-changer, letting you hear every line of dialogue and enjoy the soundtrack without cranking up the volume.

Download backups
Airline entertainment systems can be unpredictable. Your screen might freeze, or worse, the movie you want isn’t available. Download a few favorites onto your device before you fly. Better safe than sorry!

Use subtitles
Planes are noisy, no matter how good your headphones are. Subtitles can save the day when you’re trying to catch every word of that clever dialogue or punchline. Bonus: they’re great for watching movies in other languages, too!

👉 You might also find these articles interesting:
The 60 Best Travel Activities for Kids (Screen-Free)
The Best Age to Travel with Kids
How to Travel With a Toddler on a Plane
Thailand with a Baby – Family Travel Guide

Final Thoughts on the Best Movies to Watch on a Plane

Long flights can feel like a marathon, but the right movie can make them smoother. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh, an emotional journey, or an inspiring story, this list of the best movies to watch on a plane has something to match your mood.

Before you board, don’t forget to prepare: download a few titles, grab your favorite snacks, and settle in with noise-canceling headphones.

What’s your go-to inflight movie? What will you watch on your next flight? Share your favorites in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations! 

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

A woman standing with her chin up, facing forward, against a backdrop of houses and buildings.

Lulu

Hi, I’m Lulu.

I’m a German journalist, mum of two, wife, and Digital Nomad since 2019. My mission is to help families explore the world with their kids—whether it’s a short trip or a longer journey. On my blog, I share practical tips and insights about family travel to make your trips smoother!

If you have any questions, leave a comment or send me an email. I’d love to hear from you!

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