Best Movies to Watch While High: A Genre Guide

When you’re looking to enjoy a movie with a different perspective, whether you’re just chilling or exploring new creative heights, picking the right film can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to the best movies to watch while high, organized by genre to help you find the perfect match for your mood.

Comedy

1. Pineapple Express (2008)
   Year: 2008
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 6.9
   Synopsis: Two stoners accidentally get mixed up in a drug lord’s schemes. What’s good: A hilarious blend of action and comedy with unforgettable performances.
   Question: How does the combination of comedy and action keep you entertained in this film?
2. Superbad (2007)
   Year: 2007
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: High school friends set out to have one last epic party before graduation. What’s good: Known for its witty humor and relatable coming-of-age moments.
   Question: What scenes in Superbad do you find most relatable or funny?

Animated

1. Fantasia (1940)
   Year: 1940
   Age Rating: G
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A series of animated segments set to classical music. What’s good: Features mesmerizing visuals and music that create a dreamlike experience.
   Question: How does the combination of classical music and animation enhance your viewing experience?
2. Adventure Time: The Movie (2018)
   Year: 2018
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 8.4
   Synopsis: Finn and Jake embark on a wild adventure to save the world from an evil force. What’s good: Offers a quirky, imaginative story with vibrant animation.
   Question: What aspects of Adventure Time’s world-building stand out to you?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

1. The Big Lebowski (1998)
   Year: 1998
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: A laid-back slacker gets caught up in a complex kidnapping case. What’s good: Famous for its eccentric characters and unique plot twists.
   Question: How does the film’s offbeat humor influence your enjoyment of the story?
2. Doctor Strange (2016)
   Year: 2016
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.5
   Synopsis: A neurosurgeon learns about magic and alternate dimensions after a car accident. What’s good: Known for its stunning visual effects and mind-bending concepts.
   Question: How do the visual effects in Doctor Strange contribute to the film’s magical atmosphere?

Psychological Thriller

1. Inception (2010)
   Year: 2010
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 8.8
   Synopsis: A thief who enters dreams to steal ideas is given a chance at redemption. What’s good: Features complex narratives and stunning visuals that challenge perception.
   Question: What aspect of the dream worlds in Inception do you find most intriguing?
2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
   Year: 2004
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.3
   Synopsis: A couple undergoes a procedure to erase each other from their memories. What’s good: Known for its inventive storytelling and emotional depth.
   Question: How do the film’s unique narrative structure and emotional themes impact your experience?

Experimental/Artistic

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
   Year: 1968
   Age Rating: G
   IMDB Rating: 8.3
   Synopsis: An epic journey through space that explores human evolution and artificial intelligence. What’s good: Offers a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience.
   Question: How do the film’s visuals and minimal dialogue enhance its overall impact?
2. Enter the Void (2009)
   Year: 2009
   Age Rating: NC-17
   IMDB Rating: 7.2
   Synopsis: Follows a young American drug dealer in Tokyo through a neon-soaked, hallucinatory journey. What’s good: Known for its vibrant, immersive visuals and unconventional storytelling.
   Question: What elements of Enter the Void’s visual style stand out to you?

Comedy

3. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: The misadventures of a hotel concierge and his protege amidst a European hotel’s grand intrigue. What’s good: Features whimsical visuals and quirky humor.
   Question: How does Wes Anderson’s unique style enhance the comedy and charm of this film?
4. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 6.6
   Synopsis: A group of counselors at a summer camp faces hilarious challenges on the last day of camp. What’s good: Known for its absurd humor and star-studded cast.
   Question: What are your favorite moments of absurdity in this film?

Animated

3. Waking Life (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: A young man explores philosophical conversations and dreamlike scenarios in a series of interconnected vignettes. What’s good: Features unique rotoscope animation and deep existential dialogues.
   Question: How does the film’s animation style affect your perception of its philosophical themes?
4. The Lego Movie (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: An ordinary Lego figure discovers he is the key to saving the universe from a tyrannical leader. What’s good: Offers a fun, imaginative adventure with clever humor and vibrant animation.
   Question: How does the creative use of Lego characters and worlds contribute to the film’s charm?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

3. The Fifth Element (1997)
   Year: 1997
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: A futuristic cab driver teams up with a mysterious woman to save Earth from an impending cosmic threat. What’s good: Known for its colorful, imaginative world and action-packed plot.
   Question: What aspects of the film’s futuristic setting do you find most intriguing?
4. The Holy Mountain (1973)
   Year: 1973
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A mystical journey through bizarre and symbolic imagery to reach spiritual enlightenment. What’s good: Features surreal visuals and a unique narrative style.
   Question: How does the surreal nature of the film influence your interpretation of its themes?

Psychological Thriller

3. Donnie Darko (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.0
   Synopsis: A troubled teenager experiences strange visions and explores time travel after narrowly escaping a freak accident. What’s good: Known for its eerie atmosphere and complex storyline.
   Question: How do the film’s mysterious elements and psychological depth enhance your viewing experience?
4. Black Swan (2010)
   Year: 2010
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.0
   Synopsis: A ballerina struggles with her dual role in a production, leading to psychological unraveling. What’s good: Features intense performances and a gripping psychological narrative.
   Question: What elements of psychological tension in the film stand out to you?

Experimental/Artistic

3. Spirited Away (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 8.6
   Synopsis: A young girl navigates a magical world to save her parents who have been transformed into pigs. What’s good: Offers enchanting animation and a rich, imaginative world.
   Question: How does the film’s magical setting enhance its storytelling?
4. The Fall (2006)
   Year: 2006
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A stuntman tells a fantastical story to a young girl in a hospital while they both face their own struggles. What’s good: Known for its stunning visuals and emotionally resonant storytelling.
   Question: How do the film’s visually striking scenes impact your connection to the story?

Action/Adventure

1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
   Year: 2015
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, a woman rebels against a tyrannical leader with the help of a drifter. What’s good: Features high-octane action and visually arresting sequences.
   Question: How does the film’s relentless pace and stunning visuals influence your enjoyment of the action?
2. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010)
   Year: 2010
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.5
   Synopsis: A young man must defeat his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes to win her heart. What’s good: Combines comic book aesthetics with fast-paced action and humor.
   Question: How does the film’s unique visual style contribute to its overall appeal?

Mystery

1. The Usual Suspects (1995)
   Year: 1995
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.5
   Synopsis: A group of criminals is brought together for a heist, leading to unexpected revelations. What’s good: Known for its intricate plot and iconic twist ending.
   Question: How does the film’s complex narrative structure affect your experience?
2. Oldboy (2003)
   Year: 2003
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.4
   Synopsis: A man seeks revenge after being imprisoned for 15 years without explanation. What’s good: Offers a gripping and intense storyline with a shocking twist.
   Question: How does the film’s intense storyline impact your viewing experience?

Comedy

5. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
   Year: 2004
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.2
   Synopsis: A 1970s news anchor struggles with the arrival of a female colleague. What’s good: Features absurd humor and a memorable cast.
   Question: What’s your favorite funny moment or character in this film?
6. Hot Fuzz (2007)
   Year: 2007
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A London cop is transferred to a seemingly perfect small town that hides dark secrets. What’s good: Combines witty humor with action-packed thrills.
   Question: How do the film’s blend of comedy and action enhance your enjoyment?

Animated

5. The Triplets of Belleville (2003)
   Year: 2003
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: An elderly woman and her loyal dog rescue her kidnapped grandson from a bizarre circus. What’s good: Offers unique animation and a charming, wordless narrative.
   Question: How does the film’s distinctive animation style affect your viewing experience?
6. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
   Year: 1988
   Age Rating: G
   IMDB Rating: 8.2
   Synopsis: Two sisters move to the countryside and discover magical creatures. What’s good: Features heartwarming storytelling and beautiful animation.
   Question: How does the film’s gentle pace and magical elements make it a relaxing watch?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

5. Brazil (1985)
   Year: 1985
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A bureaucrat in a dystopian future dreams of escaping his dreary life. What’s good: Known for its surreal visuals and satirical take on bureaucracy.
   Question: How do the film’s surreal elements contribute to its commentary on society?
6. Cloud Atlas (2012)
   Year: 2012
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.4
   Synopsis: Interconnected stories span across different time periods and genres, exploring the impact of actions across time. What’s good: Features a complex narrative with visually stunning sequences.
   Question: How does the film’s structure affect your understanding of its themes?

Psychological Thriller

5. Hereditary (2018)
   Year: 2018
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.3
   Synopsis: A family deals with disturbing secrets and supernatural occurrences after a tragic death. What’s good: Known for its intense atmosphere and unsettling scenes.
   Question: How does the film’s psychological tension affect your viewing experience?
6. The Machinist (2004)
   Year: 2004
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: An industrial worker suffering from insomnia starts to unravel his own sanity. What’s good: Features a gripping psychological journey with a standout performance.
   Question: How does the film’s portrayal of mental deterioration impact your perception of the character?

Experimental/Artistic

5. The Lobster (2015)
   Year: 2015
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.1
   Synopsis: In a dystopian society, single people must find a mate within 45 days or face transformation into animals. What’s good: Offers a darkly humorous and unique take on relationships and society.
   Question: How does the film’s unusual premise influence your engagement with its story?
6. Holy Motors (2012)
   Year: 2012
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.1
   Synopsis: A man travels through Paris in a limousine, adopting various personas and roles. What’s good: Features a surreal and visually imaginative narrative.
   Question: How do the film’s shifting roles and settings impact your experience of its story?

Action/Adventure

3. The Nice Guys (2016)
   Year: 2016
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.4
   Synopsis: A private eye and an enforcer team up to investigate the case of a missing girl. What’s good: Known for its witty dialogue and action-packed sequences.
   Question: How does the film’s humor and action blend together to create an entertaining experience?
4. Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: A young recruit joins a secret spy organization and faces off against a global threat. What’s good: Features stylish action and a fun, modern twist on spy tropes.
   Question: What elements of the film’s action sequences and spy humor do you enjoy most?

Mystery

3. The Others (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: A woman and her children living in a dark, old house begin to suspect they are not alone. What’s good: Known for its eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot.
   Question: How does the film’s use of suspense and atmosphere contribute to its overall impact?
4. Zodiac (2007)
   Year: 2007
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: The search for the Zodiac Killer in San Francisco during the late 1960s and early 1970s. What’s good: Features a gripping true-crime narrative with strong performances.
   Question: How does the film’s detailed portrayal of the investigation affect your engagement with the story?

Comedy

7. Ghostbusters (1984)
   Year: 1984
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A group of scientists becomes ghost hunters to save New York City from supernatural threats. What’s good: Combines clever humor with iconic supernatural elements.
   Question: What’s your favorite scene that blends comedy with supernatural elements?
8. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
   Year: 2001
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: A dysfunctional family reunites after years of estrangement to deal with their eccentricities. What’s good: Features quirky characters and a distinct visual style.
   Question: How does the film’s unique character development influence your enjoyment?

Animated

7. Coraline (2009)
   Year: 2009
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 7.7
   Synopsis: A young girl discovers a parallel universe with sinister undertones and must find a way back to her real world. What’s good: Known for its dark fantasy elements and intricate stop-motion animation.
   Question: How does the film’s eerie atmosphere enhance your experience of its story?
8. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)
   Year: 2016
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A young boy uses his magical guitar to embark on a quest to find his lost family. What’s good: Features stunning stop-motion animation and a heartfelt story.
   Question: What aspects of the film’s visual style and narrative resonate with you?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

7. The Matrix (1999)
   Year: 1999
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.7
   Synopsis: A computer hacker learns about the true nature of reality and joins a rebellion against machines controlling humanity. What’s good: Known for its groundbreaking special effects and philosophical themes.
   Question: How does the film’s depiction of virtual reality impact your understanding of its themes?
8. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
   Year: 2006
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.2
   Synopsis: A young girl in post-Civil War Spain discovers a mysterious labyrinth and a mythical faun. What’s good: Offers a darkly enchanting story with beautiful, haunting visuals.
   Question: How does the film’s blend of fantasy and historical context affect your experience?

Psychological Thriller

7. Fight Club (1999)
   Year: 1999
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.8
   Synopsis: An insomniac office worker forms an underground fight club that spirals into a radical movement. What’s good: Features a provocative narrative with intense psychological themes.
   Question: How does the film’s exploration of identity and society impact your perception of the characters?
8. Memento (2000)
   Year: 2000
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.4
   Synopsis: A man with short-term memory loss uses notes and tattoos to hunt for his wife’s killer. What’s good: Known for its innovative narrative structure and psychological depth.
   Question: How does the film’s non-linear storytelling affect your engagement with the mystery?

Experimental/Artistic

7. Eraserhead (1977)
   Year: 1977
   Age Rating: NC-17
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A man struggles with his new life as a father in a nightmarish industrial landscape. What’s good: Features a surreal and disturbing atmosphere with unique visual style.
   Question: How does the film’s surreal quality impact your experience of its themes?
8. The Holy Mountain (1973)
   Year: 1973
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A mystical journey through bizarre and symbolic imagery to reach spiritual enlightenment. What’s good: Features surreal visuals and a unique narrative style.
   Question: How do the film’s shifting roles and settings impact your experience of its story?

Action/Adventure

5. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
   Year: 2011
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: A SWAT team must fight their way through a high-rise building controlled by a ruthless crime lord. What’s good: Known for its intense action sequences and choreography.
   Question: How do the film’s action sequences and pacing affect your excitement?
6. Jurassic Park (1993)
   Year: 1993
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: Scientists bring dinosaurs back to life and face unforeseen consequences on a remote island. What’s good: Features groundbreaking special effects and thrilling adventure.
   Question: What aspects of the film’s dinosaur effects and suspenseful moments stand out to you?

Mystery

5. The Sixth Sense (1999)
   Year: 1999
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: A young boy communicates with spirits and seeks help from a child psychologist. What’s good: Known for its chilling atmosphere and iconic twist ending.
   Question: How does the film’s twist ending change your perception of the story?
6. Shutter Island (2010)
   Year: 2010
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.2
   Synopsis: A U.S. Marshal investigates a psychiatric facility after a patient goes missing. What’s good: Features a gripping plot with psychological twists and atmospheric tension.
   Question: How does the film’s psychological complexity and setting contribute to its suspense?

Comedy

9. Superbad (2007)
   Year: 2007
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: Two high school friends set out to enjoy one last party before graduation, leading to a series of hilarious mishaps. What’s good: Features a blend of raunchy humor and heartfelt moments.
   Question: What’s your favorite funny incident that unfolds during the characters’ wild night?
10. Step Brothers (2008)
    Year: 2008
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 6.9
    Synopsis: Two middle-aged, childish men become stepbrothers and clash hilariously as they navigate their new family dynamics. What’s good: Known for its absurd humor and over-the-top performances.
    Question: How do the film’s comedic exaggerations enhance its humor?

Animated

9. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
   Year: 2009
   Age Rating: PG
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A clever fox must outwit three farmers to provide for his family while dealing with his wild nature. What’s good: Offers unique stop-motion animation and witty dialogue.
   Question: How does the film’s stop-motion style contribute to its charm?
10. Soul (2020)
    Year: 2020
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 8.0
    Synopsis: A middle school music teacher embarks on a journey in the afterlife to rediscover his passion for life. What’s good: Features a thought-provoking story with beautiful animation.
    Question: How does the film’s exploration of life and the afterlife impact your emotional experience?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

9. Minority Report (2002)
   Year: 2002
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.6
   Synopsis: In a future where crimes are predicted before they happen, a police officer is accused of a future murder. What’s good: Known for its suspenseful plot and futuristic concepts.
   Question: How does the film’s exploration of pre-crime technology affect your view of its narrative?
10. Spirited Away (2001)
    Year: 2001
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 8.6
    Synopsis: A young girl navigates a magical world to save her parents who have been transformed into pigs. What’s good: Offers enchanting animation and a rich, imaginative world.
    Question: What elements of the magical world do you find most captivating?

Psychological Thriller

9. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
   Year: 1991
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.6
   Synopsis: A young FBI trainee seeks the help of an imprisoned cannibal to catch another serial killer. What’s good: Features intense psychological tension and iconic performances.
   Question: How does the film’s psychological interplay between characters enhance its suspense?
10. Oldboy (2003)
    Year: 2003
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.4
    Synopsis: A man is imprisoned for 15 years without explanation and seeks revenge upon his release. What’s good: Known for its intense and twist-filled plot.
    Question: How does the film’s shocking twist impact your view of the story?

Experimental/Artistic

9. The Fountain (2006)
   Year: 2006
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.2
   Synopsis: A story spanning over a thousand years follows a man’s quest for immortality and his search for the Tree of Life. What’s good: Features visually stunning and emotionally resonant storytelling.
   Question: How does the film’s nonlinear narrative affect your understanding of its themes?
10. Enter the Void (2009)
    Year: 2009
    Age Rating: NC-17
    IMDB Rating: 7.2
    Synopsis: A drug dealer in Tokyo experiences a psychedelic journey through life, death, and the afterlife. What’s good: Known for its vibrant and immersive visual style.
    Question: How does the film’s psychedelic style influence your perception of its narrative?

Action/Adventure

7. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
   Year: 2015
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, a woman rebels against a tyrannical leader with the help of a drifter. What’s good: Features high-octane action and visually arresting sequences.
   Question: How does the film’s relentless pace and stunning visuals influence your enjoyment of the action?
8. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 8.0
   Synopsis: A group of intergalactic misfits bands together to protect a powerful orb from falling into the hands of a villain. What’s good: Combines humor, action, and a memorable soundtrack.
   Question: How does the film’s blend of humor and action contribute to its appeal?

Mystery

7. Gone Girl (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 8.1
   Synopsis: A man becomes the prime suspect in the disappearance of his wife, leading to media frenzy and dark revelations. What’s good: Features a gripping narrative with unexpected twists.
   Question: How do the film’s twists and turns affect your engagement with the story?
8. The Game (1997)
   Year: 1997
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.8
   Synopsis: A wealthy banker’s life is turned upside down when he participates in a mysterious game that blurs reality. What’s good: Known for its suspenseful plot and unexpected developments.
   Question: How does the film’s exploration of reality and deception impact your experience?

Comedy

11. What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
    Year: 2014
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.6
    Synopsis: A mockumentary about a group of vampire roommates trying to navigate modern life. What’s good: Combines clever humor with supernatural elements in a unique format.
    Question: How does the film’s mockumentary style affect your enjoyment of its comedic moments?
12. The Big Lebowski (1998)
    Year: 1998
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.1
    Synopsis: An easygoing man gets caught up in a complex kidnapping plot due to a case of mistaken identity. What’s good: Features offbeat humor and memorable dialogue.
    Question: What’s your favorite quirky character or moment from this film?

Animated

11. WALL·E (2008)
    Year: 2008
    Age Rating: G
    IMDB Rating: 8.4
    Synopsis: A lonely waste-collecting robot embarks on a space journey that ultimately decides the fate of mankind. What’s good: Known for its touching story and stunning animation.
    Question: How does the film’s silent, robot-centric storytelling enhance its emotional impact?
12. Inside Out (2015)
    Year: 2015
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 8.1
    Synopsis: The inner emotions of a young girl navigate her life when her family moves to a new city. What’s good: Offers a creative look at emotions with vibrant animation and a heartfelt story.
    Question: How does the film’s portrayal of emotions as characters affect your view of personal feelings?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

11. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
    Year: 2004
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.3
    Synopsis: A couple undergoes a procedure to erase memories of each other from their minds, only to realize they still have feelings. What’s good: Known for its inventive narrative and emotional depth.
    Question: How does the film’s exploration of memory and relationships influence your understanding of love?
12. The Fifth Element (1997)
    Year: 1997
    Age Rating: PG-13
    IMDB Rating: 7.7
    Synopsis: A cab driver discovers a mysterious woman who is key to saving the world from a cosmic threat. What’s good: Features a colorful, imaginative vision of the future with thrilling action.
    Question: How does the film’s vibrant style and unique characters contribute to its entertainment value?

Psychological Thriller

11. Black Swan (2010)
    Year: 2010
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.0
    Synopsis: A ballerina’s quest for perfection leads her into a dark spiral of obsession and identity crisis. What’s good: Features intense psychological drama and a powerful performance.
    Question: How does the film’s portrayal of mental deterioration impact your view of the protagonist’s journey?
12. Prisoners (2013)
    Year: 2013
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.1
    Synopsis: A father takes matters into his own hands when his daughter and her friend go missing. What’s good: Offers a tense and gripping narrative with complex moral questions.
    Question: How does the film’s tension and moral ambiguity affect your engagement with the story?

Experimental/Artistic

11. The Holy Mountain (1973)
    Year: 1973
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A mystic journey through bizarre and symbolic imagery to reach spiritual enlightenment. What’s good: Features surreal visuals and a unique narrative style.
    Question: How do the film’s shifting roles and settings impact your experience of its story?
12. Dogville (2003)
    Year: 2003
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.0
    Synopsis: A woman on the run finds refuge in a small town, but her presence has unexpected consequences. What’s good: Known for its minimalist set design and powerful storytelling.
    Question: How does the film’s stage-like setting influence your perception of the characters and story?

Action/Adventure

9. John Wick (2014)
   Year: 2014
   Age Rating: R
   IMDB Rating: 7.4
   Synopsis: A retired hitman seeks revenge after a mobster’s son kills his dog. What’s good: Features intense action sequences and a stylish, sleek aesthetic.
   Question: How does the film’s action choreography and style enhance your enjoyment of the revenge plot?
10. Inception (2010)
    Year: 2010
    Age Rating: PG-13
    IMDB Rating: 8.8
    Synopsis: A team of thieves enters dreams to steal secrets and must perform an “inception” to plant an idea. What’s good: Known for its complex narrative and mind-bending visuals.
    Question: How does the film’s exploration of dreams and reality affect your understanding of its story?

Mystery

9. Knives Out (2019)
   Year: 2019
   Age Rating: PG-13
   IMDB Rating: 7.9
   Synopsis: A detective investigates the death of a wealthy crime novelist, uncovering family secrets. What’s good: Features a clever plot with a star-studded cast and sharp dialogue.
   Question: How does the film’s intricate plot and character dynamics influence your engagement with the mystery?
10. The Others (2001)
    Year: 2001
    Age Rating: PG-13
    IMDB Rating: 7.6
    Synopsis: A woman and her children living in a dark, old house begin to suspect they are not alone. What’s good: Known for its eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot.
    Question: How does the film’s use of suspense and atmosphere contribute to its overall impact?

Comedy

13. The Nice Guys (2016)
    Year: 2016
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.4
    Synopsis: Two mismatched private investigators team up to solve the case of a missing girl and a dead porn star. What’s good: Features witty dialogue and a fun, retro vibe.
    Question: How do the film’s comedic moments and dynamic between the leads enhance the story?
14. Tucker and Dale vs. Evil (2010)
    Year: 2010
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.5
    Synopsis: Two well-meaning hillbillies are mistaken for killers by a group of college students. What’s good: Offers a hilarious twist on the classic horror genre.
    Question: What’s your favorite moment of misunderstanding between the characters?

Animated

13. The Lego Movie (2014)
    Year: 2014
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 7.7
    Synopsis: An ordinary Lego figure discovers he is the prophesied “Special” and must save the Lego world. What’s good: Combines clever humor with vibrant animation and a unique premise.
    Question: How does the film’s inventive use of Lego bricks enhance its storytelling?
14. Rango (2011)
    Year: 2011
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 7.2
    Synopsis: A chameleon becomes the sheriff of a small town in the desert and must face a series of challenges. What’s good: Known for its distinctive animation style and quirky humor.
    Question: How does the film’s unique visual style and humor impact your enjoyment?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy

13. Moon (2009)
    Year: 2009
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A man nearing the end of his three-year stint on the Moon starts to question his sanity and the nature of his work. What’s good: Features a thought-provoking story and a strong central performance.
    Question: How does the film’s isolation and psychological exploration affect your view of its themes?
14. Brazil (1985)
    Year: 1985
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A bureaucrat in a dystopian society becomes an enemy of the state after pursuing a dream of escaping his mundane life. What’s good: Known for its surrealist style and satirical commentary.
    Question: How does the film’s surreal atmosphere and social critique influence your understanding of its message?

Psychological Thriller

13. The Witch (2015)
    Year: 2015
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 6.9
    Synopsis: A family in 1630s New England encounters malevolent forces in the woods beyond their farm. What’s good: Offers a chilling, atmospheric horror with historical accuracy.
    Question: How does the film’s historical setting and slow-burn tension affect your view of its horror elements?
14. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
    Year: 1971
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 8.3
    Synopsis: A delinquent undergoes a controversial psychological treatment to reform his violent behavior. What’s good: Known for its provocative themes and striking visuals.
    Question: How does the film’s exploration of free will and conditioning impact your perception of its characters?

Experimental/Artistic

13. Enter the Void (2009)
    Year: 2009
    Age Rating: NC-17
    IMDB Rating: 7.2
    Synopsis: A drug dealer in Tokyo experiences a psychedelic journey through life, death, and the afterlife. What’s good: Features vibrant and immersive visuals with a unique narrative approach.
    Question: How does the film’s psychedelic visual style and narrative structure influence your experience?
14. Blue Velvet (1986)
    Year: 1986
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.7
    Synopsis: A college student uncovers a dark mystery in his small town involving a beautiful singer and a criminal underworld. What’s good: Offers a surreal and unsettling look at the hidden darkness in suburban life.
    Question: How does the film’s blending of mystery and surrealism affect your engagement with its story?

Action/Adventure

11. The Bourne Identity (2002)
    Year: 2002
    Age Rating: PG-13
    IMDB Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A man with amnesia discovers he has incredible combat skills and must uncover his identity while being pursued. What’s good: Features gripping action and a fast-paced plot.
    Question: How does the film’s action choreography and suspense keep you engaged?
12. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
    Year: 2014
    Age Rating: PG-13
    IMDB Rating: 7.9
    Synopsis: A soldier relives the same day of a brutal alien invasion over and over, trying to find a way to win the war. What’s good: Known for its inventive take on the time-loop genre and exciting action sequences.
    Question: How does the film’s time-loop concept influence your experience of its action and plot?

Mystery

11. The Invisible Man (2020)
    Year: 2020
    Age Rating: R
    IMDB Rating: 7.1
    Synopsis: A woman escapes from her abusive partner, who has become invisible and continues to terrorize her. What’s good: Offers a modern take on the classic monster story with intense suspense.
    Question: How does the film’s use of invisibility as a plot device affect your perception of the suspense?
12. The Third Man (1949)
    Year: 1949
    Age Rating: PG
    IMDB Rating: 8.1
    Synopsis: A writer investigates the mysterious death of his friend in post-World War II Vienna and uncovers a dark conspiracy. What’s good: Features a classic noir style with a famous zither score and intricate plot.
    Question: How does the film’s noir style and setting contribute to its mysterious atmosphere?

This guide provides a variety of options for different moods and preferences when watching movies while high. From comedies that will have you laughing out loud to visually stunning sci-fi adventures, there’s something here for every taste. Which genre or film are you most excited to explore?