Top 5 Films That Inspire You to Travel

Sometimes a film captures your imagination. You forget the plot and lose yourself in the location. It’s hard not to watch Angels & Demons without thinking’ “I want to go to Rome” for example (partly because there’s not much else to the film). Deep down we all want to be able to echo Rutger Hauer’s monologue in Blade Runner, “I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe…”

Here at Economy Car Hire, we’ve picked our top 5 films that inspire you to travel. See what you think, if you don’t know why we’ve chosen them then watch them!

The Beach (2000) – Ko Phi Phi Leh, Thailand

For many people, this film was what they dreamed their gap year would be. It appeals to our dreams of a perfect world where we can do whatever we want. But perfection doesn’t last and everything comes crashing down. The scenery is stunning and has done wonders for the Phi Phi islands, though development has been an issue in recent years.

Synopsis:

Backpacker Richard sets off with 2 friends to discover a secluded island. Upon arrival they find a commune existing with Thai drug farmers.

The Thin Red Line (1998) – Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands

Terrence Malick’s big screen adaptation of James Jones’ 1962 novel of the same name. Forget the blood and death, we’re looking at the scenery and this film has it all. OK, the majority of it was filmed in Queensland, but we don’t care. The cinematography is perhaps the greatest ever recorded and draws you to the islands.

Synopsis:

US Marines land on the island of Guadalcanal which is occupied by the Japanese. The battle for survival leads each man to question their mortality and morality.

In Bruges (2008) – Bruges, Belgium

It’s in Belgium. I have to confess, I love this film. From the moment I saw it I wanted to be In Bruges myself. I’m not sure if it’s because Brendan Gleeson is in it or because Colin Farrell is fantastic as Ray or simply the city itself.

The film locations are brilliantly chosen to show off the city’s medieval history. From the canals and Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce Hotel to the Belfry and everything in between, it entices you to visit the Venice of the North.

Synopsis:

Two gangsters are ordered to hide out In Bruges after a hit goes wrong. Ken is pleased at the chance to sightsee, whilst Ray wants to find the nearest pub.

The Talented Mr Ripley (1999) – Various Locations, Italy

The Amalfi coast, need we say more? Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, the Amalfi is home to a number of excellent hotels and restaurants. Other locations include Naples, Rome, and Venice and the film captures the feel of 1950’s Italy perfectly.

Synopsis:

Tom Ripley is hired by a wealthy businessman to travel to Italy and rescue his son Dickie from a life of idleness. Ripley discovers that Dickie has everything he himself longs for and begins to crave a similar lifestyle for himself.

Into The Wild (2007) – Various Locations, USA

Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless and directed by Sean Penn, Into the Wild is an inspirational and sometimes depressing tale of isolation, youth, and self-realisation. This film really makes you want to throw some clothes in a rucksack and just hit the open road.

Into The Wild was filmed throughout the US with Oregon, Georgia, and Alaska featuring prominently. It’s Alaska that steals the show though with stunning mountain ranges providing a backdrop that emphasises his isolation.

Synopsis:

McCandless sets of on a journey across the US with the ultimate aim of reaching Alaska where he intends to live in the wild and spend time with nature far away from the distractions of the modern world.

Think We’ve Missed Something Out?

If you feel we’ve missed an obvious choice, leave a comment below. Alternatively, if you’re more of a book person, check out our top books to inspire you to travel. Or if you’re inspired by real life, have a look at our top women explorers.

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