Into the Wild, 2007
Directed by Sean Penn and starring Emile Hirsch, Into the Wild is the moving true story of Christopher McCandless, a man who breaks away from modern society to fulfil his dream of a life of freedom in the wilderness. McCandless takes refuge in the Alaskan wilderness and, during this daring adventure, he relishes the beauty and faces the challenges of living in nature, while engaging in a deep questioning of his self and the meaning of life.
A standout among travel movies, Into the Wild captivates audiences with its breathtaking landscapes, impressive soundtrack and powerful story. An inspiring masterpiece for nature lovers and free-spirited travelers, the film also offers a critical perspective on the despairs of modern life and the consumption-based system.
A must-see for travel enthusiasts, Into the Wild reminds us of the beauty of being in touch with nature and attempting to live on our own terms.
The Motorcycle Diaries, 2004
Second on our list of travel movies is The Motorcycle Diaries. Directed by Walter Salles and starring Gael García Bernal, Rodrigo de la Serna, Mia Maestro and Rodrigo de la Serna, The Motorcycle Diaries is an impressive biopic about Ernesto “Che” Guevara and Alberto Granado’s 1952 motorcycle trip across South America. The film tells the story of how Guevara, a medical student, witnessed the continent’s poverty, inequality and exploitation on this unforgettable journey – a catalyst to becoming a revolutionary.
More than just a travel movie, The Motorcycle Diaries is the account of Che Guevara’s adventure, a turning point in the formation of his political and social outlook. The film takes the viewer on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia and Venezuela, while telling Guevara’s story.
Standing out as an inspiring film recommendation for travelers, The Motorcycle Diaries also emphasizes the importance of exploring diverse cultures, gaining new experiences and seeing the world from different perspectives.
Eat Pray Love, 2010
We continue our movie recommendations for travelers with Eat Pray Love from 2010. Directed by Ryan Murphy and starring Julia Roberts, Eat Pray Love is an inspiring film about Elizabeth Gilbert, an American woman who, feeling lost after her divorce, embarks on a spiritual journey to Italy, India and Indonesia. The film focuses on Gilbert’s redefinition of herself and her dreams as she discovers a different way of life in each destination.
The film offers an antidote to the stress and burnout of modern life, inviting the viewer to embark on their own inner journey.
A great watch for both travel and self-improvement enthusiasts, Eat Pray Love’s message is clear: There is a world inside everyone waiting to be discovered, and sometimes the only way to discover this world is to dare and set out.
Up, 2009
We continue our list of must-see movies for travelers with an animated film. Directed by Pete Docter and Bob Peterson and voiced by Edward Asner, Up tells the story of Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old who fulfills his dream of tying his house to hundreds of balloons and flying to South America. In this emotional and adventurous animated movie, Carl unexpectedly takes 8-year-old scout Russell along for the ride and together they embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Worthy of being counted among travel movies, Up deftly explores concepts such as friendship, family and courage – and the importance of following your dreams.
In addition to animation fans and those looking for a family-friendly movie, Up is ideal for those who need a heartwarming story.
The Beach, 2000
We continue our list of travel movies with 2000’s The Beach. Directed by Danny Boyle and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Beach is a movie filled with suspense and adventure. The protagonist, Richard, travels to a mysterious island in Thailand to establish a utopian commune; while Richard believes he has found the perfect life on the island, he is forced to confront the dark secrets and brutal realities of the commune.
In addition to depicting a gripping story about the dark side of human nature, The Beach is a feast for the eyes with its idyllic beach and jungle settings.
Note: Some scenes contain violence and substance abuse and may not be suitable for audiences of all ages.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona, 2008
We continue our list of must-see movies for travel lovers with a passionate romantic comedy. Directed by Woody Allen and starring Scarlett Johansson, Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, Vicky Cristina Barcelona tells the story of two American friends who go to Spain for a summer vacation and meet a talented artist and his wife.
The film is set in the enchanting atmosphere of Barcelona and confronts the viewer with themes of love and passion, friendship and betrayal. The meeting of Vicky, a sensible young woman with traditional values, and her free-spirited friend Cristina, with the artist Juan Antonio and his unstable ex-wife María Elena, presents a compelling story.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona, entering the list of must-see films for travelers set in Barcelona, is an unmissable production for anyone curious about the city and interested in the works of Woody Allen.
Seven Years in Tibet, 1997
The last movie on our list of movie recommendations for travelers is from the 1990s. Focusing on a monk’s journey to spiritual enlightenment, Seven Years in Tibet captivates audiences with the mesmerizing landscapes of Tibet. Directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud and starring Brad Pitt, the film tells the true story of Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer, who escaped from a prison camp in 1939 and took refuge in Tibet, where he lived as a monk in a Buddhist monastery for seven years.
Harrer’s discovery of Buddhism and his journey to spiritual enlightenment during his time in the monastery are revealed in an extraordinary narrative. Harrer’s friendship with the monks, the unique discipline of monastic life, and the rich Tibetan culture give the film a special depth.
