Planning any trip is stressful, to say the least. Picking the perfect itinerary and packing a curation of cute outfits while still being able to zip up your suitcase feels like an impossible feat. When the day finally comes to put on your airport fit and board your flight, you’re ready for some actual relaxation. But now comes the next decision: in-flight entertainment. Especially during longer flights, I can’t help but constantly check the flight tracker when I get bored. But as a self-proclaimed movie buff, I’m here to tell you that the cure-all to your in-flight boredom is finding a good, engaging movie (or two) to watch. I’m drawn to certain movies for longer flights, ones that keep me locked into the story and make hours feel like nothing.
Many flights will have a curated movie selection for you to choose from, and as a frequent flyer, I can vouch that many of the films below are often available. But if there’s one you’re passionate about watching, look into in-flight wifi deals or download films from their platforms to your own devices. So without further ado, here’s my list of the absolute best movies to watch on your next jet-set:
1. Caught Stealing
If you missed this big blockbuster release in theaters last year, in-flight mode is the perfect time to play catch up. Caught Stealing is such a fun ride and is full of shocks, twists, and action sequences that are easy to follow along—even over those loud engine hums or mid-flight announcements. The stakes are quite high, the pacing is tight, and the characters will give you a lot more questions than answers here. But it’s definitely a watch that will make it feel like you’re running through New York in a cat-and-mouse chase scene instead of twisted up in your economy seat.
2. Crazy, Stupid, Love
One of the most iconic rom-coms in the history of the genre (fight me), Crazy, Stupid, Love is basically the gold standard of “I’ve seen this movie before but will happily watch it again” airplane movie. As someone who’s loved Emma Stone movies since Superbad, something about seeing her and a bunch of stunning A-list faces fall in love with each other feels like home away from home. It’s the kind of feel-good watch that makes flying feel slightly more romantic than it actually is, and is easy to dip in and out of without losing the plot when the snack cart rolls by.
3. Lost in Translation
Sofia Coppola’s Tokyo-set Lost in Translation feels tailor-made for airplane mode. It’s slow, dreamy, and the cinematic equivalent of getting lost in the clouds, while you’re literally doing so at thirty thousand feet. At just over a 100-minute runtime, it’s long enough to feel immersive, but short enough to keep your sanity intact between end credits on that long flight. And because it’s also a movie about feeling a little untethered in a foreign place—and the unexpected comfort of the people you meet there—this one pairs perfectly with the vibe of going somewhere new.
4. Barbie
With its lavish pinks, immersive dream houses, and peak adolescence vibes, it’s impossible not to get sucked into the world of Barbie. Its lighthearted, nostalgic energy keeps you safe from crying hysterically and blowing snot rockets next to the stranger in 34B (unless you’re deep in that one monologue scene). Instead, you’ll get so lost in its playful and candy-coated vibes you won’t even realize how much time has passed by the time you reach your destination.
5. The Martian
The Martian is a high-intensity plane movie pick that will definitely keep you hooked, but it’s also sprinkled with just enough feel-good moments—thanks to Mark Watney’s (Matt Damon) humorous trauma response—to make it feel like a comfort watch. At 2 hours and 31 minutes, The Martian is long enough to chew through a serious chunk of that flight time without ever feeling like a slog. Somehow, watching Damon stranded with nothing but potatoes and duct tape makes that delayed beverage service feel a bit more trivial, too.
6. Send Help
This new plane crash movie is ironically such a good in-flight watch if your go-to bite of entertainment chooses chaos. It’s not currently available to rent or stream, but if you’re flying on one of the big airlines, they definitely have it in their library (thanks, Southwest). I watched this one on a flight recently, going in thinking it would be an utter cliché, but was pleasantly surprised by the depth this mild horror comedy had in store. Don’t worry, your flight will (obviously) be fine—but watching Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien survive a plane crash together on a remote island is the perfect airplane snack.
7. The Outfit
If seat-gripping entertainment is your ideal plot for making the time fly by, The Outfit is an underrated hidden gem that’s an ideal in-flight thriller. The story unfolds almost entirely inside a single tailor shop, and is full of tension that will make you forget you still have five hours of flight time left. The plot follows an expert tailor working for the Irish mob in 1930s Chicago, and is a movie where every conversation feels loaded, and every small move matters like your life depends on it. It also features Dylan O’Brien and Zoey Deutch, people!
8. Jurassic World Rebirth
Something about action movies just works on planes. You can tune into the movement and still follow the plot—even if you miss a line of dialogue or two when the flight attendants interrupt you with an announcement about tray tables. In Jurassic World Rebirth, the dinosaurs are running, people are screaming, helicopters are hovering, but you don’t really need to be locked in—the action does all the heavy plot lifting. Something to keep you (and the person diagonally from you) entertained, assuming the five-year-old behind you is also pro-dinosaur.
9. Clueless
Sometimes, on a flight, I don’t want to think or do anything. Rather, I want to get lost in something easy and comforting while I am far away from my couch. Clueless is one of those instant-classic, feel-good bites that gives you that cozy, nostalgic warmth despite the uncomfortable, upright airplane chair. It’s endlessly quotable, absurdly fun, and perfectly light entertainment to enjoy between ginger ale sips.
10. Crazy Rich Asians
Those who get it, get it. Crazy Rich Asians has amassed a cult-following as the go-to movie to watch on a plane, and for good reason. It’s a classic rom-com wrapped in designer fabric and ideal if you want a movie that’s both swoon-worthy and visually stunning. You’ll find yourself completely transported to a world of private jets, couture gowns, and family drama that’s way juicier than yours. You might even find yourself looking up “How to play Mahjong” after watching (new hobby unlocked?).
11. Us
If you’re feeling brave, Jordan Peele’s Us is inventive and unsettling in all the best ways. Lupita Nyong’o gives a jaw-dropping dual performance in a story that’s as much about identity and class as it is about creepy doppelgängers with scissors. It’s perfect if you like your horror with a bit of realistic social commentary. Just don’t be surprised if the shadows in the cabin start feeling extra…shadowy.
12. Interstellar
It only feels right to include a few movies that actually involve air travel. Interstellar is the space movie that makes you think twice about the concept of time itself and our own reality. It’s visually stunning, and deeply philosophical—all set to a Hans Zimmer score that makes you feel like you’ve literally ascended from Earth. Clocking in at nearly 3 hours, it’s ideal for passing serious flight time. Bonus points for crying quietly while thinking about quantum physics.
13. Catch Me If You Can
Although I’m happy to watch any young Leonardo Dicaprio film, Catch Me If You Can is the perfect in-flight movie that takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from excitement to anxiety. Young Leo plays a teenage con artist in this based-on-a-true-story crime movie, with Tom Hanks playing the FBI agent chasing him down in a never-ending game of cat and mouse. It’s entertaining from beginning to end and a great way to channel some energy for your next destination.
14. Arrival
Because who doesn’t love a little sci-fi escape? If you’re in the mood to stare out the window and contemplate your place in the universe, look no further. Arrival isn’t your typical alien movie, so don’t let that turn you away. It’s a beautiful slow burn, with Amy Adams delivering a quiet powerhouse of a performance. The story unfolds like a puzzle, blending science fiction with deeply real human questions—perfect for a long flight when your brain’s ready to wander.
15. Ocean’s Eight
A team of badass women pulling off the ultimate con for some serious bling—what more could you want? This all-female spin on the Ocean’s franchise is pure entertainment, with Sandra Bullock leading a ridiculously star-studded crew (Rihanna, Cate Blanchett, Sarah Paulson…Need I say more?) in a high-stakes Met Gala heist. It’s a wild ride beginning to end and perfect for making airplane time feel like a dream.
16. Black Swan
If you’re ready to disappear into a dark, artistic spiral for two hours, put Black Swan on your in-flight watch list. Natalie Portman’s Oscar-winning performance as a professional ballerina will keep your eyes glued to the screen and fully engaged in what could possibly happen next. Watch as things quickly unravel for a desperate performer who is willing to do anything to stay in the spotlight.
17. Hidden Figures
Looking for a movie that’s equal parts smart, heartwarming, and empowering? Hidden Figures delivers just that. It tells the true story of three brilliant Black women at NASA who helped launch John Glenn into orbit while battling the daily realities of racism and sexism. It’s just the right mix of serious and inspiring to leave you teary-eyed (in a good way) as you fold up your tray table.
18. Whiplash
If you’re boarding an early morning flight, or just need some energy for your activities after landing, Whiplash will give you the shot of adrenaline you need (after your morning coffee, of course). It’s gripping, explosive, and perfect for making time fly by. Miles Teller’s sweaty, desperate drumming will have you questioning every life choice you’ve ever made. Not exactly relaxing, but definitely unforgettable.
19. Cruella
It’s time to channel that main character energy mid-air. Cruella is a Disney origin story with Emma Stone absolutely owning the screen as the couture-clad antihero. It’s visually stunning and packed with energy, with just enough drama to keep things interesting but not too heavy for the in-flight mood. Plus, the fashion montages alone are worth the watch—just try not to envy her wardrobe too much while you’re rocking compression socks and a neck pillow.
20. The Help
No matter how many times I watch The Help, I’ll never, ever get tired of it. Set in 1960s Mississippi, this story dives into the lives of Black maids working for white families, telling their stories with powerful performances from Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. It balances heavy themes with character-driven moments and a few laugh-out-loud lines, making it ideal for long flights where you want something meaningful but not too emotionally draining.
21. Silver Linings Playbook
This one’s for when you’re in the mood for a little emotional turbulence—but, like, the romantic kind. This offbeat romantic dramedy stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence as two deeply flawed people trying to find their way. Here’s your headphone warning, because it’s got a whole lot of shouting. It’s the perfect blend of heartfelt and chaotic, which honestly matches the vibe of most flights.
22. The Parent Trap
Dramas and thrillers aside, maybe you just want something familiar and totally harmless. Lindsay Lohan shines in this beloved ’90s classic about long-lost twins swapping lives to reunite their parents. It’s so wholesome, and endlessly rewatchable—basically a cinematic safe space. Apologize in advance to your seatmates if you can’t help but quote along with the film.
READ NOW: The Everygirl’s Ultimate Travel Guide
23. Now You See Me
Be warned that this movie will in fact give you the urge to learn some magic tricks. Now You See Me follows a group of incredible magicians pulling off elaborate heists while outsmarting the FBI, full of twists that’ll make the flight feel way shorter. The cast has great chemistry, and the plot moves fast enough to keep you distracted from crying babies or shaky turbulence. If you have time, you can even follow up with the sequel, Now You See Me 2 for back-to-back excitement.
24. Shutter Island
This twisty thriller will have you second-guessing everything—including whether your seatmate is even real. Directed by Martin Scorsese, Shutter Island is intense and packed with enough mystery to keep your brain fully occupied until landing. If you’re into layered stories and dark psychological puzzles, this one’s a top-tier pick.
25. Harry Potter
If you’re buckled in for a long-haul flight, our favorite wizarding world will keep you from thinking about how sore you are from sitting down. Start with the nostalgic first movie for the feel-good vibes, and continue your Harry Potter binge as long as you need. All of the movies in the series have a running time of over two hours, so time will fly by as fast as that pesky golden snitch.
Want more travel recommendations and hacks? You’ll love these:
- 10 Game-Changing Hacks That Will Save You Money on Vacation
- 11 Personal Item Essentials I Never Fly Without
- This $30 Amazon Find Makes Economy Feel Like First Class
- These 6 Outfits Are the Secret To Staying Comfortably Chic on Travel Days
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.
Madigan Will, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.
Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach getaway, a fun-filled girls’ weekend, or a bucket-list trip overseas, we’re here to help you plan it all. We rounded up our favorite travel destinations, must-have travel gear, and sanity-saving hacks to bring you The Everygirl’s Ultimate Guide to Travel.
