There is little Edinburgh does better than moody (and unpredictable) weather– grey drizzling skies, sudden downpours, sheets of mist obscuring Arthur’s Seat. I’m not a fan of having freezing fingers and toes, but it doesn’t have to be depressing! So, grab your duvet, a cuppa, maybe a friend, and let the weather do its thing. Here are some film recommendations to keep you company.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Robin Williams shines in his passionate portrayal of a teacher at a prestigious New England boarding school. His unconventional teaching methods transforms the lives of his students, inspiring them to embrace poetry, art, literature; that which captures the beauty of life. A mix of introspection, self-discovery, and youthful glee, humanities students will feel personally vindicated by this one.
In the Mood for Love (2000)
If you’re in the mood for romance, consider watching this achingly beautiful one. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, it explores how two neighbours grow closer as they suspect their spouses of having an affair. Lingering shots full of intimacy and nuance will leave you enveloped in their unspoken longing and sombre restraint.
Knives Out (2019)
This humorous whodunnit is set against the backdrop of a fancy Gothic estate, but the real star of the show? Chris Evans’ chunky cable-knit sweater. The film doubles as a masterclass in how to stay fashionable as the weather takes a turn for the worse.
The Witch (2015)
It’s never too early for spooky season! Instead of banking on cheap jump scares, this period piece (set on a remote 17th century farm) burns slowly with the religious paranoia of a family being plagued with terrifying incidents, before erupting in insanity. It’s not your average horror film with heaps of gore but is worth a shot if you want something different!
Shutter Island (2010)
In this mind-bending psychological thriller, Leonardo DiCaprio plays a US Marshal investigating the disappearance of a patient at a remote asylum. A storm rumbles on relentlessly, blurring the lines between reality and madness. Its haunting atmosphere and tragic twists will linger with you long after it ends, and subsequent rewatches will leave you with a new perspective each time. The less you know going in, the better!
Dark Waters (2019)
The gloomy visuals of this legal thriller reflect its themes of corporate greed and environmental destruction. Despite the terror of this being based on a true story, lawyer Robert Bilott’s (played by Mark Ruffalo) relentless pursuit of justice makes for an ultimately satisfying end, as well as hope that the world is not completely doomed.
Photo by Vishnu Prasad on Unsplash