Sometimes, the best way to prepare for the new school year isn’t through buying new textbooks, filling out calendars and planning class schedules. Often, the best way to prepare is by doing what you’ve been doing all summer — sitting back and relaxing.
It might feel like you’re not fully preparing for the year ahead, but watch some of these classic films and you’ll be ready for all things school.
Whether you’re still at home or moved into your new apartment keep sitting, keep the TV, bring out a fresh bowl of snacks and continue relaxing. You’ll be ready for the new semester in no time.
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
This film is educational on so many levels. It’s a great lesson in learning to ditch school and live life. But, it’s also a classic made perfect for the beginning of the school year.
When Ferris Bueller, played by Matthew Broderick, skips a day of school and takes his friends with him, his principal takes it upon himself to catch the friends in the act. Little does everyone know, Bueller is highly skilled at tricking everyone into thinking he’s a perfect student and son.
With a joy ride in a Ferrari, a sing along on a parade route and a day out in the big city, Ferris and his friends get in more trouble than they bargained for.
If you don’t watch a John Hughes directed film before school begins, then you haven’t really started the school year.
“Back to the Future”
This sci-fi back to school classic follows Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, as he travels back to the ‘50s. His cooky friend, a nearly-mad scientist, accidentally sends Marty back 30 years to his small California town.
There, Marty must fit in a go back to school as a regular 1950s teenager. However, he runs into his mother and father, who become his friends and tangle the web even further. If his teenage mother and father don’t fall in love the way the were supposed to, Marty might cease to exist.
Filled with school bells, 1950s sock hop music and a classic high school dance, this film is perfect for the new school year.
“Footloose”
Even if you don’t have the time to watch “Footloose” all the way through, the soundtrack alone will get you ready for the new semester.
When Ren McCormack moves from inner-city Chicago to a small Midwestern town, he feels more out-of-place in his new high school than ever. In his attempts to fit in and share what he knows best: dancing — Ren learns the small town of Beaumont does not allow dancing within city limits. Ren and his friends attempt to change that rule before their first big “dance,” which wouldn’t be complete without some actual dancing.
The entire “Footloose” playlist is the only thing you’ll need while moving into your new place or gathering your school supplies — as long as you don’t spend the whole time dancing.
“Good Will Hunting”
“Good Will Hunting” is the kind of underdog, feel-good movie that makes a new semester feel filled with possibilities.
Will Hunting is considered a genius, but he has a difficult time showing it. A janitor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Will comes across a difficult math equation on a chalkboard and solves it with ease. An MIT professor sees Will’s talents and hopes he’ll use his skills at the university outside being a janitor. Referred to a therapist, played by Robin Williams, to help Will through the transition, he finds companionship in his studies and mentors.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @Hailey_ann97