As the days grow longer and flowers begin to bloom, it’s only right to watch films that match the vibrant energy of the spring season. From pastel-bathed period dramas to sun-drenched psychological thrillers, spring is a time for warmth, renewal and sometimes even a hint of unease. Whether capturing the optimism of new beginnings or the eerie beauty of nature, the following films are perfect for the season of growth. From visually stunning horror in “Midsommar” to the gentle pastoral rhythms of “Little Women,” these movies offer a range of tones for every springtime mood.
“Midsommar” (2019)
Spring movies are not always bright and breezy. Sometimes, they are haunting, surreal or reflective of how renewal can also be unsettling. One film that leans into the darker side of the season is “Midsommar.”
Directed by Ari Aster, this horror film uses the brightness and lushness of Swedish spring festivals to create an eerie and unforgettable film. Set almost entirely in the day, “Midsommar” contrasts spring’s natural bloom with a rising sense of unease, offering a chilling exploration of community, ritual and emotional unraveling. The vivid floral imagery and endless sunny landscapes create a unique experience unmistakably tied to the season.
Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel bursts with life, optimism and the bittersweet transition into adulthood. Following the March sisters through changing seasons, the film captures spring’s spirit of rebirth, creativity and new beginnings. Soft sunlight, blooming gardens and moments of joy and sorrow highlight the emotional rhythms of growth that mirror the season outside.
“Call Me By Your Name” (2017)
Set against the sunny backdrop of rural northern Italy, Luca Guadagnino’s film embodies the sensory richness of spring and early summer. The story unfolds slowly, drawing viewers into a world and landscape of discovery, transformation and fleeting beauty. Every frame feels warm and lush, capturing the heightened emotions that often accompany times of personal awakening.
“Portrait of a Lady on Fire” (2019)
Céline Sciamma’s visually stunning film paints a slow, quiet picture of connection and self-discovery. Set on a remote island where windswept beaches and muted natural tones dominate, the movie mirrors the subtle beginnings of spring beneath the surface. The patient storytelling and emphasis on delicate moments evoke the quiet shifts that define both nature’s growth and human emotion.
A classic story of literal and metaphorical renewal, Agnieszka Holland’s adaptation of “The Secret Garden” celebrates the transformative power of nurturing both the earth and the soul. As the characters work to bring a hidden garden back to life, viewers are treated to a visual tribute to springtime. The film’s gentle pace and hopeful message make it an ideal watch for anyone seeking a sense of wonder and optimism.
“My Neighbor Totoro” (1988)
Hayao Miyazaki’s “My Neighbor Totoro” captures the pure magic and innocence of spring through the eyes of two young sisters discovering a new home in the countryside. The film is a whimsical celebration of nature’s power, overflowing with blooming landscapes, gentle rain showers and towering trees. The depiction of wonder, exploration and emotional healing makes it a perfect choice for welcoming the season.
Spring is a season of contradictions: bright yet fleeting, tender yet powerful. These films embrace the complexities of the season, offering stories that are as fresh and layered as the world coming back to life outside.
