Research Finds People Are Watching Tons of Nostalgic Movies During Quarantine
Nostalgic movies are suddenly the most comforting thing you can watch during COVID-19.
It's not an understatement to say the quarantine has been a drain on everyone's mental health. But without escapes like going to the movies and being with friends, things can get exhausting. That's why, with no real new movies coming out, people have been turning back the clock.
In fact, movies from the 90s are cleaning up right now.
And there's a medical reason for it. The New York Times recently investigated the whole thing.
Dr. Wing Yee Cheung is an associate professor in psychology at the University of Winchester in England.
"Research shows that conjuring nostalgia by watching old movies or taking up old hobbies is an effective way to cope with stress and anxiety," Cheung told the New York Times. It can lift people into better moods, boost confidence and inspire a sense of optimism"
That's good news, because I have been streaming content non-stop since this whole thing started.
Cheung pointed out that clinging to nostalgia and revisiting what's familiar helps us remember what feeling connected is like. Using that, we can find the motivation to keep getting up every day.
And this is not just one doctor chiming in. There are many that agree.
Dr. Lasana Harris is assistant professor of psychology at University College London. According to Harris, the boost of energy from nostalgic films can last up to a full day.
“It changes the narrative you’re constantly telling yourself—reminding yourself you do have people who love and care for you even if you haven’t had a hug in a while,” Harris told the Times.
Big streamers and even drive-in theaters are taking notice. Jurassic Park, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Hocus Pocus, The Goonies, and even The Karate Kid have been pulling in thousands of dollars in ticket sales via drive-ins and theaters that remain open.
Streamers have taken advantage by purposefully scheduling these kinds of movies. Highlighting them on their home pages. And even broadcast networks are getting in on it. CBS brought back the Sunday Night Movie!
And what about table reads for charity?
The Fast Times at Ridgemont High starring Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, and other celebrities kind of broke the internet for a few days. People not only enjoyed revisiting an old favorite, but they also marveled at the cast's chemistry and appreciated the scenes they released.
I guess what we are trying to say is, it's okay to look into the past while the present sucks so much. The future is bright, but feel free to take comfort where and when you need it.
We will get through this, even if it takes watching all of Friends again.
Let us know what you're streaming in the comments.
Source: New York Times
