Here Are the 15 Best Movies to Watch During a Long Flight

Flying can feel like a slog, with cramped seats and endless hours to kill. A good movie can make all the difference, turning a long flight into a chance to escape into a story. Whether you want a laugh, a thrill, or something to tug at your heart, the right film can keep you hooked without needing a big screen or perfect sound. We’ve rounded up 15 movies that are perfect for plane rides, chosen for their engaging plots, easy-to-follow action, and ability to shine even on a tiny seat-back screen.

These picks span genres, from light comedies to gripping thrillers, ensuring there’s something for every mood. They’re entertaining, don’t demand too much brainpower, and won’t make you blush if your neighbor glances at your screen. Each one is a solid choice to make those hours in the air fly by. Let’s dive into the list, starting with some feel-good vibes and moving to high-energy action.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Released in 1988, ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ is a heartwarming animated gem from Studio Ghibli. It follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside and meet a gentle forest spirit named Totoro. The story’s cozy vibe and lush visuals make it a soothing watch, perfect for calming flight nerves. Its simple plot and bright colors hold up on small screens, keeping you immersed without overwhelming you.

This film’s charm lies in its blend of innocence and subtle depth. The sisters’ adventures feel magical yet grounded, offering a comforting escape at 30,000 feet. It’s family-friendly, so no awkward moments if someone’s peeking at your screen. Plus, at 86 minutes, it’s just the right length for a shorter flight.

My Dinner with Andre (1981)

‘My Dinner with Andre’, released in 1981, is a unique film centered on a long conversation between two friends, played by Wallace Shawn and André Gregory. They discuss life, spirituality, and the human experience over dinner, creating a thought-provoking yet easy-to-follow story. Its dialogue-driven format works great on a plane, where headphones can make every word clear.

The movie’s strength is its ability to engage without flashy visuals or complex plots. You’re drawn into the characters’ ideas, making it feel like you’re eavesdropping on a fascinating chat. At 110 minutes, it’s ideal for a medium-length flight, keeping you absorbed without feeling heavy.

The Fugitive (1993)

Hitting screens in 1993, ‘The Fugitive’ stars Harrison Ford as a doctor wrongly accused of his wife’s murder. This fast-paced thriller follows his desperate quest to clear his name while being chased by a relentless U.S. Marshal. Its tight plot and constant action make it a perfect plane movie, grabbing your attention from takeoff to landing.

The film’s clear storyline and intense chase scenes don’t lose impact on a small screen. Ford’s charisma carries the 130-minute runtime, ensuring you stay glued to the action. It’s thrilling without being gory, so you won’t worry about nearby passengers catching a glimpse.

Hit Man (2023)

Released in 2023, ‘Hit Man’ is a sharp romantic comedy with a crime twist. Glen Powell plays a professor moonlighting as a fake hitman for undercover stings, only to fall for a woman who hires him. The mix of humor, romance, and light suspense makes it a fun, breezy watch for any flight.

Directed by Richard Linklater, this film delivers witty dialogue and a feel-good vibe that’s easy to enjoy in a cramped plane seat. Its 115-minute runtime fits nicely into most flights, and the lighthearted tone ensures no awkward moments. It’s a fresh pick that keeps you smiling.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

‘Little Miss Sunshine’, out in 2006, is a quirky comedy about a dysfunctional family on a road trip to a kids’ beauty pageant. Packed with heart and humor, it follows their chaotic journey and personal growth. Its colorful characters and tight pacing make it a great in-flight escape.

The film’s mix of laughs and touching moments feels just right at 30,000 feet. At 102 minutes, it’s short enough to finish on most flights, and its universal appeal means no one nearby will raise an eyebrow. It’s a crowd-pleaser that lifts your mood.

North by Northwest (1959)

This 1959 Hitchcock classic, ‘North by Northwest’, stars Cary Grant as a man mistaken for a spy, leading to a thrilling cross-country chase. Its sharp pacing and iconic scenes, like the crop-duster chase, keep you hooked. The clear visuals and straightforward plot shine on small screens.

At 136 minutes, it’s a bit longer but perfect for a transatlantic flight. The mix of suspense, romance, and wit makes it a timeless choice. It’s engaging without being too intense, so you can relax while staying entertained, even with turbulence.

Notting Hill (1999)

‘Notting Hill’, released in 1999, is a romantic comedy starring Hugh Grant as a shy bookseller who falls for a famous actress, played by Julia Roberts. Their charming, awkward love story is funny and heartfelt, making it a perfect plane watch. Its light tone is ideal for a cozy flight.

The film’s 124-minute runtime suits medium to long flights, and its feel-good vibe ensures no awkward scenes. The humor and romance are easy to follow, even with distractions like cabin announcements. It’s a classic that leaves you in a great mood.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

Released in 2018, ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ is a vibrant rom-com about a woman meeting her boyfriend’s ultra-wealthy family in Singapore. Its dazzling visuals, humor, and romance make it a fantastic in-flight pick. The story’s energy pulls you in, even on a small screen.

At 120 minutes, it’s great for a medium-length flight. The mix of drama, laughs, and gorgeous settings keeps you engaged without feeling heavy. It’s a fun escape that won’t make you self-conscious if someone glances over.

Us (2019)

‘Us’, a 2019 horror-thriller by Jordan Peele, follows a family facing their sinister doppelgängers. Lupita Nyong’o’s stunning performance drives this creepy yet thought-provoking story. It’s a bold choice for a plane, but its gripping plot makes time fly.

The 116-minute runtime fits well on most flights, and the suspense keeps you locked in. It’s not overly gory, but the tension might make you jump, so maybe warn your seatmate. Perfect for those who want a thrill without too much gore.

Interstellar (2014)

‘Interstellar’, released in 2014, is a sci-fi epic about astronauts searching for a new home for humanity. Directed by Christopher Nolan, it blends stunning visuals with deep themes about time and survival. Its long runtime makes it ideal for cross-country or international flights.

Clocking in at 169 minutes, this film is a commitment, but its gripping story and emotional depth keep you hooked. The space setting adds a fun irony to watching it on a plane. It’s a thought-provoking escape that doesn’t need a big screen to impress.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

This 2002 film, ‘Catch Me If You Can’, stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a young con artist outsmarting the FBI, led by Tom Hanks. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it’s a fast-moving crime drama with charm and humor. Its engaging pace is perfect for a plane ride.

At 141 minutes, it suits longer flights, keeping you entertained with its cat-and-mouse game. The light tone and clever twists make it easy to follow, even with flight distractions. It’s a fun, stylish watch that feels just right in the air.

The Help (2011)

Released in 2011, ‘The Help’ is a drama about Black maids in 1960s Mississippi sharing their stories with a young writer. Starring Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, it balances heavy themes with humor and heart. Its emotional pull makes it a great in-flight choice.

The 146-minute runtime is perfect for longer flights, and its clear storytelling keeps you invested. It’s moving but not draining, with enough light moments to keep things comfortable. A powerful yet accessible film for a thoughtful plane ride.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

‘Silver Linings Playbook’, out in 2012, is a romantic dramedy about two people with personal struggles finding connection. Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence shine in this chaotic, heartfelt story. Its mix of humor and emotion is great for a plane’s confined space.

At 122 minutes, it fits nicely into most flights. The fast-paced dialogue and relatable characters keep you engaged, even with cabin noise. It’s a feel-good watch with just enough edge to keep things interesting without being too heavy.

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

This 1989 rom-com, ‘When Harry Met Sally’, explores whether men and women can stay just friends. Starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, it’s packed with witty banter and iconic scenes. Its light, talky vibe makes it a perfect plane companion.

Running at 96 minutes, it’s ideal for shorter flights. The humor and romance are easy to follow, and there’s nothing too risqué to worry about on a shared screen. It’s a classic that feels fresh every time you watch.

The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

Released in 2014, ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ is a Wes Anderson comedy about a quirky hotel concierge caught in a wild adventure. Its colorful visuals and sharp humor make it a delightful in-flight pick. The fast pace keeps you hooked, even on a small screen.

At 99 minutes, it’s perfect for shorter or medium flights. The whimsical story and charming characters create a fun escape, and its light tone ensures no awkward moments. A stylish, easy watch that brightens any trip.

Which of these movies will you pop on for your next flight, or is there another gem we should know about? Drop your picks in the comments!