Looking for some great movies about friendship to watch with your mates this weekend?
There are a ton of friendship-themed films you can enjoy together. The challenge is finding the best ones!
Fortunately, we have gathered the 39 best movies about friendship that can bring you and your best buds closer together.
Let’s check them out!
1. Frances Ha
Whoever said that black-and-white films are no longer entertaining hasn’t seen Frances Ha. Directed by Noah Baumbach and starring Greta Gerwig (also a co-writer), this award-winning film has captured the hearts of thousand viewers—movie critics included—with its wonderful cinematography and outstanding storyline.
It is considered to be one of the most “colorful” monochromatic movies of all time.
Frances Ha tells the story of a 27-year-old dancer in New York who is struggling with her career and relationships, yet who remains enthusiastic about her dreams and aspirations. She has a best friend named Sophie, but, due to Sophie’s desire to relocate, they have to go their separate ways.
Along the was, Frances meets several people who eventually play important roles in her life.
Gerwig gives a magnificent performance in this film, and anyone watching can relate to what it is like living in a world full of challenges and unfortunate events. She also emphasizes her character’s growth and portrays how important it is to be surrounded by great people in order to achieve happiness and success.
We highly recommend this movie if you are looking for something great to watch with your friends this weekend.
2. Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids is an award-winning comedy with a star-studded ensemble cast including Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Bryne, Melissa McCarthy, Ellie Kemper, and Wendi McLendon-Covey. It is considered one of the best comedy films of all time and is notable for having a unique and remarkable screenplay that revolves around friendships, relationships, and happiness.
The main story is about two women—Annie (Wiig) and Helen (Bryne)—who are competing for the bride’s friendship and attention. Being the bride’s best friend, Annie is asked to be the maid of honor.
However, due to a series of unfavorable circumstances and Annie’s problems getting in the way, the bride has second thoughts and chooses Helen to become the leader of the bridesmaids.
Annie feels betrayed, so she alienates herself from everyone. Megan, one of the bridesmaids, comes to comfort Annie and give her advice about how she can be more responsible and take control of her life.
Annie finally gets back on her feet, reconciling with everyone and fixing everything she messed up.
This movie may be a comedy, but it is also so much more than that. It teaches us that, no matter who we are or where we stand, our true friends will always be there to give us strength and warmth. We may have differences, but that is precisely why we complement and support each other so well.
3. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is based on Ann Brashares’ 2001 novel of the same name. It stars America Ferrera, Blake Lively, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel under the direction of Ken Kwapis and screenplay of Delia Ephron and Elizabeth Chandler.
Critics have called it an “iconic story of friendship, family, loyalty, and acceptance.”
The movie follows four best friends who find a pair of pants that strangely fits each of them perfectly, even though they are different sizes. They spent their summer taking turns using the pants and learning valuable lessons about friendship and their relationships with other people.
Ultimately, they all learn that what matters most is the love and support they have for each other.
We recommend this movie to teens and adults who are looking for a classic friendship film. However, parental guidance may be needed for younger viewers since some of the scenes contain sensitive topics such as sex and suicide.
4. Thelma & Louise
Thelma & Louise is a legendary movie and considered the “landmark of feminist films.” It was even registered in 2016 by the United States Library of Congress as a “culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant” movie. It garnered several nominations from three awards bodies, winning Best Original Screenplay from both the Academy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
The story is about two friends—Thelma and Louise—who want to take a break from their lives, so they go on a weekend getaway. While on the road, they encountered a series of incidents that turn their lives upside down.
These include meeting a rapist they accidentally kill in self-defense, coming across a handsome young thief who takes all their money, and eventually ending up on the edge of a cliff after being pursued by police officers.
Ultimately, the bond between the two main protagonists is so strong that they decide to die together instead of spending the rest of their lives in regret and dissatisfaction.
These two friends are able to break free like they have always wanted to, even if they have to sacrifice their lives in the process.
5. Now and Then
Now and Then is about four childhood friends who recount the story of their childhood in the summer of 1970. There are four major characters—Samantha, Roberta, Chrissy, and Teeny—all of whom have distinct characteristics and circumstances.
The main story of their childhood revolves around the death of a boy named Dear Johnny. Due to their curiosity about how the boy died, they made a pact to discover the true story behind his death.
While in the process of investigating his death, however, they each have their own problems to deal with, and ultimately develop a sense of independence and self-reliance. They also discover that they have a number differences. However, due to their solid bond, they are able to remain strong and intact.
Although the movie was highly criticized for being overly similar to Stand by Me, a film with a similar storyline, it still received praise from others and eventually developed a cult following. We recommend this movie for friends since the moral of the story is all about trust and loyalty.
6. Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion
Romy White and Michele Weinberger have been friends since high school. Although unsuccessful and living a very simple life together in California, they were happy and satisfied with how their lives have turned out. Everything changed, however, upon the news of their upcoming high school reunion.
The two main women decide to fake their careers and lifestyle to impress their former classmates. They tell everyone that they are the inventors of “Post-its” and that they have been living a life full of success and pleasure.
However, things get complicated when one of their classmates reveals that they are lying because the real inventor was Arthur Fry.
Starring Mira Sorvino as Romy and Lisa Kudrow as Michele, this one-of-a-kind friendship film tells the story of how best friends can turn out to be actual soul mates and partners for life. It also teaches us that although two people may be dependent on each other, they can still live their own independent lives as long as they keep their love and support for each other intact.
7. Beaches
Beaches is a 1988 film directed by Garry Marshall, starring Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey. It is based on Iris Rainer Dart’s novel bearing the same name that was published in 1985. It initially garnered negative feedback from movie critics, but ultimately gained commercial success and became a box office hit.
The story is about two childhood friends—C.C. and Hilary—who first met on a beach in Atlantic City. Over time, they were able to build a strong relationship and eventually become best friends. C.C. becomes an actress-singer, while Hilary becomes an heiress and lawyer.
Although their worlds are very different, they still support each other through all of their difficulties and differences.
The ending is a bit sad, however, as one of the friends dies and the other has to say goodbye.
If you are looking for something that can make you laugh and cry at the same time while holding hands or cuddling with your best girlfriend, then this movie might be a great fit.
8. Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is one of the most powerful movies ever made—not just because of the friendship between the main characters, but also because of the individual strengths and capabilities they have. The entire movie is a masterpiece, from the performance of the actors to the cinematography, storyline, writing, and directing.
The movie is loosely based on a non-fiction book of the same title written by Margot Lee Shetterly. It is about three gifted, African-American women who are mathematicians working for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) during the Space Race. Both the book and the movie tackle prejudice against color and gender.
The story emphasizes equality and teaches us that discrimination is nothing compared to determination and perseverance. No matter who we are or where we came from, we can succeed as long as we have the will and determination to do so.
Hidden Figures touches on a very sensitive topic in American history, and is one of the most celebrated films in recent times. We recommend checking out this film with your best buddies to learn the value of friendship and fighting for what you know you know you deserve in life.
9. Waiting to Exhale
Waiting to Exhale is yet another story about four women—Savannah, Robin, Bernadine, and Gloria—who are bonded by fate and friendship. This film is most appropriate for adults since it is in the romance genre. It is based on Terry McMillan’s 1992 novel of the same name.
In the story, all four women have troubles with their romantic relationships. Savannah is a mistress who seems to have fallen too deeply in love with her married lover. Robin is also a mistress who is tired of being one.
Bernadine is a housewife who gave up her lifelong dream for her husband. Finally, Gloria is a single mother who found out that her husband is gay.
The bond between the four main characters is as strong as if they were family. They frequently gather together to listen to each other’s problems and support one another. In the end, they all find their happy endings, even if some of them don’t end up finding the right man.
This movie teaches us that our true friends will always be there, through thick and thin. We celebrate life with them, and we also cry and share the pain of loss and failure with them. Our friends may have different stories than us, but our bond is strong enough to keep us connected.
10. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
The Perks of Being a Wallflower received worldwide acclaim due to its outstanding screenplay and direction. It is originally a novel created by Stephen Chbosky in 1999, but was adapted into a film and written and directed by Chbosky himself in 2012. The movie stars Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller.
The movie follows the story of a boy named Charlie (Lerman) who has suffered from clinical depression since he was young. After being discharged from a mental health care hospital, he starts his new life by entering high school as a freshman.
Since he has always been shy and aloof, he has difficulties making friends at first. But after meeting Sam (Watson) and Patrick (Miller), he starts to gain confidence and strength.
This movie was well received by critics because it increases awareness of mental health issues. In addition to its various awards and acknowledgments, a lot of psychology experts commended the film for depicting what it is like to live with depression and providing commentary on how people should treat patients with depression.
We recommend this movie not just for friends who want to improve their relationships with each other, but also for those who want to learn more about mental illness.
11. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
If you are in for a comedic film that is also a bit of a tragedy, then this movie will likely give you the feels. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is a bit underrated, but is an excellent film about friendship and life. Starring Thomas Manne, Olivia Cooke, and RJ Cyler, this movie can make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your life all at the same time.
The plot revolves around Greg (Manne), an aloof kid who is tasked with keep his dying childhood friend company. Rachel (Cooke) has leukemia and is about to undergo chemotherapy, so her parents want things to be easier for her, and provide her with a friend.
Greg introduces his co-worker Earl (Cyler) to Rachel, and the three form a friendship that will last a lifetime.
While Rachel is undergoing treatment, Greg and Earl decide to create a documentary film for her. They gather everyone who knows her (and even people who don’t!) to create a message that would lift her spirits. Greg ensures the viewers and Rachel that she will not die, as she will keep on fighting for her life.
This movie has a sad ending, because Rachel ultimately does die. Nonetheless, it provides a great deal of hope to everyone who is suffering from a life-threatening disease because of the care and support that Greg gives Rachel throughout her battle.
12. The Intouchables
The Intouchables is a French comedy-drama film starring François Cluzet and Omar Sy, directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano. It became the second biggest box office hit in France in 2011 and the most viewed French film in the world until Lucy in 2014. It also received numerous nominations and won the César Award for Best Film.
The story is about an aristocratic quadriplegic millionaire named Philippe who becomes friends with an ex-convict caregiver named Driss. Driss initially only wants Philippe’s signature so he can receive his unemployment benefit from Social Security, but Philippe chooses Driss and hires him immediately.
Driss rejects the job at first, since he only wants the signature, but eventually accepts the job, not knowing that he is about to change the life of Philippe and those around him in a very unusual manner.
We recommend this movie if you are looking for a feel-good film that also tugs at your heart strings. It will make you realize that the best people are sometimes hidden in places where we least expect them. It also teaches the importance of not judging other people based on first impressions or their past.
13. The Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is a classic film from the 1980s. The Library of Congress even registered it in the National Film Registry as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” It is listed as one of the best movies of all time by Empire, The New York Times, and Entertainment Weekly.
The story is about five students at Shermer High School who meet for the first time in detention. Each of them come from different backgrounds—a popular girl, a jock, a rebel, a nerd, and an outcast.
While in detention, they start to learn that they all have things in common, and this creates a bond between them. They discover that, although they come from different social groups, they are still just teens who have problems at home, in school, and with life in general.
The Breakfast Club is a teen coming-of-age movie that never gets old. It maintains its relevance no matter what generation you are from.
14. Dead Poets Society
Dead Poets Society is about a group of senior high school students who discover the real meaning of life through the teachings of their brilliant teacher, John Keating (Robin Williams). As an English teacher, Keating motivates and inspires his students through poetry and philosophy. Little does he know that he will also have a large impact on the lives of these students.
Many people say that Dead Poets Society is one of Robin Williams’ best movies. The film achieved significant commercial success upon its release and received a host of accolades. Some of its awards include the BAFTA Award for Best Film, the César Award for Best Foreign Film, and the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
We highly recommend this film, especially for those who enjoy poetry and philosophy. It is a true classic. From the performance of Williams and the rest of the cast to the applicable life lessons that the film conveys, it is truly a masterpiece.
15. Miss You Already
Miss You Already is the story of two best friends who stand by each other through thick and thin. The storyline is quite common, but it is still a great movie thanks to Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette’s superb acting skills. The screenplay has a solid script that gives the movie a powerful impact on the lives of those who watch it.
The plot revolves around Milly’s (Collete) fight against breast cancer and Jess’s (Barrymore) pregnancy. At the exact time that Milly’s world is falling apart, Jess becomes pregnant, making it hard for her to share the good news with her friend. A lot of misunderstandings result, but ultimately the two reconcile before Milly’s death. Jess then realizes that no one can ever compare to her best friend.
This heartbreaking movie is one that you should watch with your BFF. It will make you realize that it is important to cherish every moment you have with your loved ones. You never know what life has in store for you, so it is best to savor the moments with your friends and family while they last.
16. Girl, Interrupted
Girl, Interrupted is based on the true story of Susanna Kaysen, who gets admitted to a psychiatric facility for 18 months after a suicide attempt. The movie took home a lot of awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of the anti-social Lisa Rowe who has sociopath tendencies. Winona Ryder is remarkable, too, and does justice to Susanna Kaysen’s bipolar role.
The movie is more of a psychological drama than a feel-good film, as it portrays a number of different kinds of mental illnesses and what it means to live with them. However, we still consider it to be a wonderful movie about friendship and meeting people because of the strong bond between the main characters, despite their unusual environment.
This movie teaches us that friendship knows no bounds and does not discriminate. It can happen even in the most unexpected circumstances, so we should embrace it when it presents itself. Friendship is not just about love and care, but also support and respect. Friends may fight sometimes, but when everything’s over and done, the bond still remains.
17. Pitch Perfect
Pitch Perfect is about an all-girl a cappella group named The Barden Bellas from the fictional Barden University. It features an ensemble cast, including Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Skylar Astin, Anna Camp, Ester Dean, and many more. It was a big-time sleeper hit—a film that wasn’t successful at first, but ultimately became a top-grossing release.
The friendships portrayed in this film are ones that take time to develop. At first, the group is a mess, since they can’t seem to overcome their differences. Through music and constant training, however, they are able to accept each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which helps them find the harmony that’s been missing in their group.
This movie tells us that even if people have different tastes and preferences in life, they can still form a strong bond. In fact, people can use these differences to support and complement each other. Friends don’t all have to be exactly alike, as long as they are committed to each other.
18. Clueless
Starring Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash, and Brittany Murphy, this movie about friendship is a retelling of Jane Austen’s 1815 novel titled “Emma.” It is, however, applied in a modern-day setting with tons of emphasis on love and friendship.
Clueless is one of the most beloved films of all time, particularly among teens and young adults. It tells the story of three girls with different beliefs and personalities, but who share a close friendship. It also shows how strong bonds between people can prevent miscommunication, regardless of the circumstances.
It is unlikely that you haven’t already watched this movie, since it has developed a cult following over the years. But whether you have watched it or not, grab your girlfriends and enjoy a fun movie night!
19. Booksmart
Oprah Daily calls Booksmart “one of the best depictions of teen girl friendship we’ve ever seen on screen.” It is the story of Molly (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy (Kaitlyn Dever), who share a friendship that transcends space and time. It depicts the strength of the female bond.
Director Olivia Wilde is highly praised for the way she was able to illustrate what it feels like to be a teenager. Wilde dared to challenge people’s expectations of teen girls—prim, proper, and lady-like—and turned the tables by introducing us to two strong ladies who did not care at all about how the world viewed them.
What we love most about this movie is how it tackled sexuality. The teen years are a time when love often blossoms and kids start to wonder about whether they like girls or boys.
In this movie, Amy is openly gay. Although she has a very supportive best friend and parents, she still struggles to sort out her preferences.
We recommend Booksmart for teens and teens-at-heartwho are looking for a feel-good movie about friendship. If you are a parent, you can suggest it to your kids who are perhaps going through the same phase.
20. 9 to 5
9 to 5 is a 1980 comedy film starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. Directed by Colin Higgins and written by Patricia Resnick, it is the story of three women who dream of throwing out their sexist and egotistical boss, Frank Hart (played by Dabney Coleman).
The idea for the film came from one of Jane Fonda’s friends who formed an organization of working women. She found the members’ stories interesting and set about creating a film that depicted the real-life stories of women who struggle in their 9-to-5 lives, yet still thrive with the help of their fellow working women.
In an article by People that listed 15 reasons why 9 to 5 is still worth watching, even after so many years, it says that “women are better off helping each other.” We absolutely agree, an think that this movie is a must-watch for working adults.
The problems presented by the movie are still relevant today, especially for the working class. But with the help of friends and workmates, life becomes more fun and interesting, despite any struggles in the workplace.
21. Mean Girls
Mean Girls is a star-studded movie with Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Lacey Chabert, and Amanda Seyfried taking on the lead roles. It is the story of a girl named Cady who leaves her comfort zone and enters the “real world” for the first time.
The movie tackles real and plastic friendships. Real friendship is demonstrated through the bond between Janis (Lizzy Caplan), Damian (Daniel Franzese), and Cady, while plastic friendship is illustrated in the characters of Regina (McAdams), Gretchen (Chabert), Karen (Seyfried), and Cady. Basically, the movie is all about what real and true friendship should be.
Mean Girls is a fun, feel-good movie to share with your friends on a Friday night. It has just the right amount of comedy, drama, and fun for a wonderful time with your besties.
22. The First Wives Club
The First Wives Club is a movie about friendship and female empowerment. Directed by Hugh Wilson and based on Olivia Goldsmith’s novel of the same name, it stars Diane Keaton, Bette Midler, and Goldie Hawn as three women seeking revenge on their ex-husbands who left them for other women.
The film had mixed reviews from movie critics. Some commended it for being stunning and bold, while others found the focus on revenge to be unappealing. If there is one thing that makes this movie interesting, however, it is the power of friendship. The main characters all share a bond that transcends the bounds of time.
We recommend this movie for adult friends who haven’t seen each other in a long time.
23. Steel Magnolias
Steel Magnolias is a 1989 comedy-drama film starring Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Daryl Hannah, and Dolly Parton. It is an adaptation of Robert Harling’s play that bears the same name, with the main plot revolving around a dying girl and her friends. The story is partly based on the life of Harling’s sister, who died due to complications from type 1 diabetes.
What this movie teaches us about friendship is that there is no use in trying to hide things from your friends. No matter what you say or do, they will see right through you. They know when you have problems and they will be there to solve them with you.
The title of the movie is said to be a symbol of both toughness and delicateness. Just like the characters in the movie, you and your friends can be as delicate as a magnolia flower but also be as tough as steel.
24. Girls Trip
Girls Trip has a powerhouse cast including Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, Queen Latifah, and Jada Pinkett Smith. The storyline is written by Tracy Oliver and Kenya Barris, who based the script on their personal experiences. The movie follows the story of four friends who go on a trip to New Orleans after many years of not being able to see each other.
According to reviews, if you want to learn about black female friendship, then this is the movie to watch. Although it has the typical premise of friends going on a vacation to have a fun time, it also has other elements to consider. In addition the stars of the movie are great alone and even better together.
For girls and women who are looking for a movie that captures their rowdy behavior during a girls’ trip, you might find this movie highly relatable. We suggest watching it with your friends on or before a scheduled out-of-town trip.
25. Toy Story
You likely grew up watching the Toy Story franchise, so you are probably familiar with the story of Andy, Woody, Buzz, and the whole gang—and you will undoubtedly agree that it is far more than mere story about toys secretly talking to each other.
Toy Story teaches us many things, the most important of which is friendship. Once you watch this animated film, you will learn that the best of bonds sometimes arise from the most unimaginable circumstances. Look at how Woody and Buzz became each other’s best friends, even though they didn’t get off to a good start.
Just like the friendship that Andy shares with his toys and the friendship that each of his toys has with each other, real friends are always for keeps. Friends will always be there for you, no matter how long it has been since you’ve seen each other. Even when you part ways, you know that you will always be in each other’s hearts and minds.
By the way, here are the Amazon links for Toy Story 2, Toy Story 3, and Toy Story 4. Watch the whole series while you’re at it!
26. Stand By Me
Stand By Me is a coming-of-age tale set in the 1950s. Four friends set out to try to find a missing boy and run into obstacles during the entire journey. They are slowed down and discouraged by older, teenage boys trying to beat them to the find. They also are their own worst enemies and deal with constant disagreement and fighting within their group.
This movie deals with friendships, teasing, bullying to some degree, and learning how to overcome one's inner demons. The boys learn a lot about each other as well as themselves. By banding together and staying strong throughout their long journey, they are able to achieve their goals and feel good about themselves and what they're able to accomplish.
With an all-star cast of young actors such as River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Will Wheaton, Jerry O' Connell, and Kiefer Sutherland, you can't go wrong enjoying this movie about friends being brought closer together through adversity and a common goal.
27. Back to the Future
Back to the Future is set in the mid-80s with the incredible Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd teaching us that the best friendships aren't always within your same peer group. You can often be the best of friends with younger or older people. Sometimes the age difference can span decades.
The story begins with Marty McFly (Fox) helping Dr. Emmett Brown (Lloyd) with his time machine experiment. Doc has built a time machine out of a DeLorean car and Marty is accidentally transported back to 1955, where Doc had intended to travel.
Marty finds himself stuck in 1955 without any plutonium to fuel his return trip home.
Marty figures that the only way to get back to 1985 is to befriend Doc in 1955. However, he runs into his mother and father as teenagers and sets off a series of events that will negatively affect him and Doc in 1985.
The story progresses as Marty becomes friends with his future father, George, and helps him win the hand of his mother, Lorraine. It's also wonderful to see the bond of friendship between Marty and Doc, despite their age differences. This is my favorite movie of all time.
28. Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Ferris Bueller's Day Off is a story about a teenager named Ferris (Matthew Broderick) who decides to take a day off from school. Set in the Chicago area, Ferris convinces his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) to come along with him.
Cameron is not thrilled with the idea of skipping school or even leaving his house but reluctantly agrees to go with Ferris and his girlfriend Sloan.
Most of the movie is a cat and mouse-type adventure of Ferris and his friends, staying one step ahead of Principal Rooney and Ferris' older sister Jeannie. Rooney does not want to be made a fool of, and Jeannie finds it unfair that her brother gets away with so much.
By the end, the friendship of the three main characters is strengthened and they've had one heck of an adventure together.
29. American Pie
American Pie is a raunchy, teenage comedy about four friends who make a pact to lose their virginity before the end of their senior year of high school. The four friends couldn't be more different, yet they are the best of friends.
The friend group is comprised of Kevin, the average Joe with a girlfriend, Oz, the handsome athlete, Jim, the studious, awkward kid, and Finch, the uptight hipster type, who can't use the bathroom at school.
The friends try their best throughout the school year to progress with the ladies toward their goals, with hilarious results that follow. We meet other incredibly funny characters, such as Michelle, the bank geez, Nadia, the beautiful foreign exchange student, Stiffler, the hyperactive jock-jerk, and, of course, Stiffler's mom.
Again, this movie is definitely raunchy and not for the faint of heart. But you'll see many examples of amazing friendships while laughing yourself to tears. This one is not one to watch though with your small children.
30. Superbad
Speaking of raunchy teen movies, Superbad hits the same level as American Pie and maybe even surpasses it. Starring the hilarious Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, and Seth Rogen, Superbad is one of the earliest and funniest movies written by Seth Rogen.
He was originally supposed to play the part of Jonah's character, Seth, but was too old by the time they finally got this move into production.
The story follows 3 friends, Seth, Evan, and Fogle (known as McLovin') as they plot to hook up with some girls at a big party being thrown by the girl Seth likes. Jules invites them and asks them to bring alcohol, a task they take very seriously.
They devise a well-thought-out plan and put the plan into motion. But so many things go wrong.
The side-splitting scenes are so funny, but it's the growth between friends who are changing throughout the movie as they prepare to be separated for the first time in their lives by college. The way they interact, have falling outs, and forgive each other to become close again makes for a movie deserving to be watched by any set of close friends.
31. A League of Their Own
A League of Their Own is a wonderful family movie that tells the tale of a women's baseball league. This is based on a true story when many of the regular major league players were off fighting in World War 2. The major league owners decided to bankroll a small women's league to entertain people and make money during the war.
Scouts are sent around the country to find talent and one of them discovers Dottie (Geena Davis). Dottie is beautiful, talented, and uninterested in playing in the league. Her sister Kit desperately wants to leave their small town and is told she'd be added to the draft if she can talk Dottie into playing. Dottie reluctantly agrees and they're on their way.
They meet their teammates after the draft and become close friends. They are coached by their alcoholic former-major league player Jimmy, who treats their league like it's a joke and is difficult to deal with. Once Dottie is recognized as one of the best players and becomes the face of the league, her sister gets jealous.
This leads to friction between the two and Kit is traded to a rival team. After Dottie's husband returns from the war, she retires from the team.
With stars like Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, and Rosie O'Donnell, A League of Their Own became a feel-good sports movie for the ages. If you are a fan of sports movies that are funny and touching and focused on the bonds of teammates and friendship, check it out.
32. I Love You, Man
I Love You, Man is a story about a man who doesn't really have any male friends. Peter, played by Paul Rudd, has just gotten engaged to his lovely girlfriend, Zoe, played by Rashida Jones. Upon discussing the wedding plans, they quickly realize that Peter doesn't have any male friends to be his groomsmen at the wedding.
He decides to try and meet new friends, which results in more awkwardness and brings him no closer to having anyone line up with him on his wedding day. He finally meets Sidney (Jason Segal), who attends one of Peter's open houses for free food and to meet ladies. Sidney is offbeat and brutally honest, and a friendship ensues.
Sidney helps Peter gain business by putting up a number of somewhat risqué and embarrassing billboards around town. Peter is angry about this and demands they be taken down. They have a falling out over this and Peter once again has nobody to be in the wedding with him.
They finally work things out in the end and have a wonderful wedding with Peter's new-found best friend, other new friends, and his lovely bride.
33. Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Fast Times at Ridgemont High is the quintessential early 80s teen movie about a number of groups of friends. Set mainly in the backdrop of the local mall, a high school, and first-job type places of employment (particularly stressful for Brad), the kids interact and their friendships are tested.
Mark and Stacy are high school sophomores who heed advice from their slightly older, more experienced friends. Mark has a crush on Stacy and is advised on how to handle asking her out by his friend Mike Damone. Stacy's friend Linda advises her to date older men and pushes her away from Mark and toward another older guy.
Stacy ends up dating a couple of older boys and even hooks up with Damone, which causes friction between him and Mark. Stacy's older brother, Brad takes her to get an abortion and comforts her after she confides she's pregnant.
Toward the end of the movie, she realizes that a nice guy like Mark is worth giving a chance to.
There are a number of other memorable characters. The stoner surfer guy, Jeff Spicoli, played by Sean Penn, who's tormented by his high school teacher Mr. Hand. Football player Charles Jefferson, played by Forest Whitaker.
A number of actors in their earliest roles appear as well, such as Eric Stoltz, Nicolas Cage, and Anthony Edwards. This is one of the best teen movies of the early 80s.
34. The Outsiders
Based on the novel by S.E, Hinton, The Outsiders features an all-star cast of some of the best young actors of the early 80s. The cast included C. Thomas Howell, Ralph Macchio, Emilio Estevez, Patrick Swayze, Tom Cruise, Matt Dillon, Rob Lowe, and Diane Lane.
The story follows the Greasers and the Socs. The Greasers are the poorer kids from the wrong side of the tracks, while the Socs are the wealthier kids from the nicer area of town. They appear to be enemies and get into fights with each other. Ponyboy (Howell) and Johnny (Macchio) get jumped by a few Socs at the beginning of the movie.
Johnny stabs and kills one of the Socs in self-defense to stop them from drowning Ponyboy. The two boys go on the run to avoid arrest and are met at their hideout by Dally (Dillon) who brings them food and a book to read.
While out driving, they return to their church hideout to find it on fire with children trapped inside. They heroically save the children, but Johnny is injured, suffering a broken back and burns. They return to town where Johnny is charged with murder in the stabbing of the Soc, and Ponyboy is threatened with being sent to a boy's home.
The Socs call for a rumble with the Greasers to avenge Bob's death, and the Greasers end up victorious.
The movie does an amazing job showing the bonds made between friends as well as gang-type groups. It deals with the tragedy of losing friends to early deaths and how that affects their social groups. This movie and the novel are both worth checking out.
35. The Goonies
The Goonies is an amazing 80s movie set in Astoria, Oregon. It follows a group of kids called “The Goonies” who are all about to have to move from their neighborhood as its being developed and turned into a golf course. Mikey is determined to find the legendary pirate ship of One-Eyed Willy, a story told to Mikey (Sean Astin) by his father. He is a natural leader and often talks his friends into continuing on.
As they set out to find this ship and the treasure it surely holds, they encounter a number of obstacles along the way. A recently escaped bank robber, Jake Fratelli, is holed up in an abandoned restaurant with his brother Francis and their mother, Ma Fratelli.
The Fratellis discover the kids' plan to find the treasure and follow them to steal it for themselves. One of the Goonies, Chunk, is captured by the Fratellis and befriends their larger, somewhat deformed brother, Sloth.
The Goonies end up finding the ship but get captured by the Fratellis. Chunk and Sloth show up to save the day, and the ship is accidentally launched when the Fratellis set off a booby trap. The kids are reunited with their parents and lament that they had no chance to grab any of the treasure.
They discover though that some of the jewels were still in Mikey's marble bag, and their homes are saved from the developers with enough money to pay them off. The movie is hilarious and full of many action scenes. The young cast featured Corey Feldman and Josh Brolin in addition to Sean Astin.
The Goonies is a highly entertaining movie about friendship and the lengths friends will go to in order to save each other and work toward a common goal.
36. Sex and the City
Sex and the City was originally a television series starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon. It started airing in 1998 and ended in 2004. The movie version was a continuation/spin-off released in 2008. As obviously stated in the title, the story focuses on social issues relating to sex and femininity.
We recommend this movie if you and your friends are looking for equal parts comedy and drama. You and your inner circle probably talk about sex and relationships a lot, so you will likely relate to the conversations in this film.
37. A Dog’s Purpose
This is actually one of our favorites on this list. Who said that only humans can be your best friends? As the saying goes, “A dog is a man’s best friend.” This is a movie about reincarnation, but each time the dog gets reincarnated, he finds a new place to stay and a new person to love and cherish forever.
We highly suggest checking out this film, particularly if you are looking for something cute, sweet, and funny. Watch it with your kids, the whole family, or your circle of friends.
38. The Sweetest Thing
The Sweetest Thing is the story of three best friends—one who just got heartbroken, one who is a divorce lawyer and serious about life, and one who is an interior designer and prefers things as they should be. This romantic comedy is equal parts laughter and friendship feels. If you have a group of friends with different personalities, you will surely enjoy watching this film together.
39. Someone Great
Who do you talk to after a break-up? Best friends, of course! Someone Great is a movie about moving on, but it is also movie about a friendship. Jenny (Gina Rodriguez), Blair (Brittany Snow), and Erin (DeWanda Wise) know exactly what it means to be “someone great” for each other. You won’t find this movie on any other platform, as it is a Netflix original. Call your girlfriends over for a Netflix night and dive in!
Conclusion
We hope that the list we provided above can help you pick the best films for you and your friends to enjoy on movie night. You can watch them alone too, of course, but we recommend watching them with your friends or family members so you have someone to share your feelings with. Happy watching!
Finally, if you want to increase your happiness and life satisfaction, then watch this free video that details the 7-minute habit for planning your day to focus on what's important.
