Best Trippy Movies

From Christopher Nolan, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elliot Page, Ken Watanabe
Rated PG-13

Inception is a 2010 science fiction heist thriller film written and directed by Christopher Nolan. It follows a group of thieves who utilize a technology that allows them to enter into the subconscious minds of their victims in order to steal their secrets. Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) is the leader of the team, which also includes Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Ariadne (Ellen Page). The mission is to implant an idea in the mind of a businessman in order to end a corporate war. However, their mission is complicated by the presence of Cobb's enemy, Mal (Marion Cotillard), and Cobb's own guilt as a result of a tragedy in his past. As the team embarks on their mission, they must also face the reality of their own subconscious minds, which threaten to derail their plans. In the end, the team is able to complete their mission, setting in motion a series of events that will have a profound impact on the lives of everyone involved.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino, Rumi Hiiragi
Rated PG

Spirited Away is an award-winning animated fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and released in 2001. The film follows Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who, while moving to a new town with her parents, stumbles into a strange spirit world and is forced to take a job in a bathhouse for the gods in order to save her parents from being turned into pigs. As she works in the bathhouse, she encounters a variety of magical and mythical creatures, makes friends with the mysterious Haku, and discovers a connection to the spirit world that she never knew existed. Along her journey, Chihiro must face her fears, survive the trials of the spirit world, and ultimately fight for her freedom and the freedom of those around her.

From Ron Fricke, starring Balinese Tari Legong Dancers, Ni Made Megahadi Pratiwi, Puti Sri Candra Dewi, Putu Dinda Pratika
Rated PG-13

Samsara is a visually stunning documentary film by renowned director Ron Fricke. The film is a non-narrative voyage through spiritual and universal themes of birth, death, and rebirth. It is an exploration of the human experience, which is shown through the use of stunningly beautiful imagery, both natural and man-made, juxtaposed with traditional and modern cultures, beliefs, and rituals from around the world. The film's score—a combination of music, vocal chants, and sound effects—contributes to its sweeping, meditative tone. Samsara is an immersive experience that encourages viewers to reflect upon their place in the world and contemplate the interconnectedness of life.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter
Rated G

"2001: A Space Odyssey" is a 1968 science fiction masterpiece by director Stanley Kubrick. The film follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer, HAL 9000, and the discovery of a mysterious black monolith that seems to have a profound effect on human evolution. The film portrays a journey of discovery, in which a team of astronauts, led by Dr. Dave Bowman, uncover the meaning of the monolith and the secret of humanity's place in the universe. Along the way, they encounter various themes such as artificial intelligence, extraterrestrial life, and the power of technology. The film is considered to be one of the greatest science fiction films of all time and is a timeless classic.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke
Rated R

A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 dystopian crime film directed, produced and written by Stanley Kubrick, based on Anthony Burgess's novel of the same name. Set in a near-future England, the film follows Alex, a young man who is a member of a violent gang of "droogs”. After committing a series of heinous crimes, Alex volunteers for a psychological experiment that attempts to reform him and make him a model citizen. The experiment is a success, but it has a devastating side-effect: Alex is unable to feel any emotion other than fear. As he finds himself trapped in a chilling world where his every move is monitored, he struggles to find his own sense of humanity. The film is a philosophical exploration of morality, free will, and the dangers of absolute power.

From Godfrey Reggio, starring Edward Asner, Pat Benatar, Jerry Brown, Johnny Carson
Rated Not Rated

Koyaanisqatsi (1982) is a philosophical documentary film directed by Godfrey Reggio and produced by Francis Ford Coppola. With no dialogue or narrative, the film examines the rapid deterioration of human life and its effect on the environment. It is divided into eight sections and uses both slow-motion and time-lapse photography to depict a world in chaos. Through the juxtaposition of modern landscapes and technology with ancient and natural settings, viewers are challenged to consider the consequences of disconnecting from the environment and the consequences of our modern lifestyle. The film reflects on the notion of "life out of balance" and suggests that humankind must find a way to regain its harmony with the environment. The film's title, Koyaanisqatsi, is a Hopi word meaning "life out of balance".

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Chieko Baishô, Takuya Kimura, Tatsuya Gashûin, Akihiro Miwa
Rated PG

Howl's Moving Castle is a 2004 Japanese animated fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows Sophie, a shy 18-year-old girl who is turned into an old woman by a witch's curse. In an effort to break the curse, Sophie embarks on a quest to find the powerful wizard Howl and his enigmatic moving castle. Along the way, she meets a variety of interesting characters and learns important life lessons. The film is filled with themes of courage, love, and loyalty, ultimately leading to a satisfying resolution. Along with its inspiring story, the film is acclaimed for its gorgeous visuals and captivating score.

From Guillermo del Toro, starring Ivana Baquero, Ariadna Gil, Sergi López, Maribel Verdú
Rated R

Pan's Labyrinth is an Academy Award-winning dark fantasy film, set in Spain during the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War. The story follows a young girl, Ofelia, and her pregnant mother who arrive at the home of her new stepfather, Captain Vidal, a tyrannical military officer. Ofelia soon discovers a mysterious labyrinth and embarks on a quest to discover its secrets, guided by a fairy-like creature she meets there. Along the way she encounters a number of creatures and struggles to choose between fulfilling her stepfather's orders and following her own destiny. In the end, Ofelia must confront her own mortality and make the ultimate sacrifice to protect her loved ones.

From Directors: Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy, Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe, King Vidor, starring Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr
Rated PG

The Wizard of Oz is a 1939 American musical fantasy film directed by Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy, Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe, and King Vidor. It follows the story of a young girl named Dorothy Gale, who is swept away to the magical land of Oz by a tornado. Along the way, she meets a scarecrow, a tin man, and a cowardly lion, who join her on a quest to find the Wizard of Oz, who they believe can help them get back home. On the way, they face many obstacles, including a Wicked Witch and her flying monkeys. Eventually, Dorothy learns that she had the power to return to Kansas all along, and after a series of adventures, she and her companions are granted their wishes. The film is known for its iconic use of Technicolor, imaginative characters and settings, and timeless music.

From Ridley Scott, starring Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos
Rated R

Blade Runner is a classic science fiction film from 1982, directed by Ridley Scott, based on the novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick. Set in a dystopian future, a blade runner (Harrison Ford) is tasked with hunting down and “retiring” a group of rogue replicants (bioengineered humanoids) who have escaped from an off-world colony and returned to Earth. Along the way, the blade runner confronts difficult questions about the nature of humanity and his own identity. The film was a critical and commercial success, and is now considered a classic of the science fiction genre.

From Alan Parker, starring Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson, Eleanor David
Rated R

Pink Floyd: The Wall is a psychological drama directed by Alan Parker and based on the 1979 concept album of the same name by the British rock band Pink Floyd. The story follows a rock star named Pink, who gradually descends into insanity. As Pink's mental state deteriorates, it is revealed that his psychological state is a result of the traumas he has experienced in his life, such as the death of his father in World War II, his oppressive schoolteacher, and his overbearing mother. The film follows Pink's journey through his insanity, showing how he interacts with others and how his mental health affects him. Throughout the film, Pink's mental state is symbolically represented by a wall that he builds around himself, in order to keep people out of his life and protect himself from the pain of his past. The film also explores themes of alienation, depression, and mental health.

From Terry Gilliam, starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt, Joseph Melito
Rated R

12 Monkeys is a 1995 sci-fi film directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, and Brad Pitt. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the film follows James Cole (Willis), a prisoner sent back in time to discover the source of a deadly virus that nearly wiped out humanity. Through the course of his journey, Cole discovers the true cause of the virus and its connection to a mysterious organization known as the Army of the Twelve Monkeys. Along the way, he meets a virologist (Stowe) and a mental patient (Pitt) who help him complete his mission. In the end, Cole is forced to confront his own inner demons and ultimately prevent the virus from ever being unleashed.

From Terry Gilliam, starring Jonathan Pryce, Kim Greist, Robert De Niro, Katherine Helmond
Rated R

Brazil is a 1985 dystopian sci-fi film directed by Terry Gilliam. It follows Sam Lowry, a low-level government employee, who is trying to find a woman he keeps having dreams about. Sam's quest leads him down a path of danger, paranoia and corruption and sends him on a surreal journey into a nightmarish world of bureaucracy. Along the way, he encounters a number of strange characters, including a tyrannical government and a mysterious terrorist organization. In the end, Sam discovers the truth about his dreams and the world in which he lives. Brazil is a darkly humorous and visually stunning exploration of a society crumbling under the weight of its own oppressive system.

From Henry Selick, starring Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey
Rated PG

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a 1993 stop-motion musical dark fantasy film directed by Henry Selick and produced and conceived by Tim Burton. The film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the leader of Halloween Town, a fantasy world filled with monsters, ghouls, and goblins. After becoming bored with his yearly duties of scaring people in the "real world," Jack stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to try his hand at celebrating the holidays. However, his newfound enthusiasm for Christmas isn't shared by the other inhabitants of Halloween Town, and it's up to Jack and his rag-tag team of misfits to save the day. Along the way, they must battle the ominous Oogie Boogie and uncover the true meaning of Christmas.

From Alejandro Jodorowsky, starring Alejandro Jodorowsky, Horacio Salinas, Zamira Saunders, Juan Ferrara
Rated R

The Holy Mountain is an ambitious, surrealist, religious allegory directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky in 1973. It follows a mysterious Alchemist, who guides a pilgrim to the mythical Holy Mountain, where a group of powerful immortals live. These immortals, with the help of the Alchemist, attempt to ascend the mountain and reach enlightenment. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles and spiritual trials to test their resolve. The film is filled with religious and metaphysical themes, such as the cycle of life, death, and rebirth; and the power of faith and belief. It is also highly symbolic, with numerous references to Tarot cards and other occult symbolism. The film is a unique and truly bizarre experience, which is sure to stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

From Directors: Dorota Kobiela, Hugh Welchman, starring Douglas Booth, Jerome Flynn, Robert Gulaczyk, Helen McCrory
Rated PG-13

Loving Vincent is an animated biographical drama film directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman. It is the world's first fully oil painted animated feature film, which tells the story of the life and mysterious death of Vincent van Gogh. The film follows a young man named Armand as he travels around France to deliver the posthumous letter van Gogh wrote to his brother, Theo. Through his journey, Armand discovers secrets about the artist's life and death. The film is composed of over seventy-five thousand hand-painted oil paintings and follows the style of the artist's own work, combined with the animation to create a unique visual experience. The film stars Douglas Booth, Jerome Flynn, Robert Gulaczyk, Eleanor Tomlinson and Saoirse Ronan.

From Tarsem Singh, starring Lee Pace, Catinca Untaru, Justine Waddell, Kim Uylenbroek
Rated R

The Fall is an epic fantasy adventure film directed by Tarsem Singh. Set in the 1920s, it follows a Hollywood stuntman named Roy (Lee Pace) who is recovering from a near-fatal fall. He meets a young, imaginative girl named Alexandria (Catinca Untaru) who is a patient in the same hospital. Through their vivid imaginations, they embark on an epic journey of fantasy and adventure, as Alexandria brings to life his stories of five mythological heroes. As their relationship deepens, Roy finds himself increasingly enamored with Alexandria, and their adventures become intertwined with reality. Along the way, they confront challenges, explore a fantastical world, and ultimately, learn to believe in themselves.

From Mel Stuart, starring Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum, Roy Kinnear
Rated G

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is a 1971 musical fantasy film directed by Mel Stuart. It is an adaptation of Roald Dahl's 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The film follows young Charlie Bucket as he wins a contest along with four other children and is led by eccentric candy maker Willy Wonka on a tour of his magical candy factory. During the tour, the children face challenges, including the temptation of stealing Wonka's prized invention and a sinister factory worker, while discovering the secrets of the factory. The film features an array of songs composed by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, and stars Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka and Jack Albertson as Grandpa Joe. The film was a commercial success and received critical acclaim, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score and becoming a cult classic.

From René Laloux, starring Barry Bostwick, Jennifer Drake, Eric Baugin, Jean Topart
Rated PG

Fantastic Planet is a 1973 French/Czechoslovakian animated science fiction film directed by René Laloux and written by Laloux and Roland Topor. It is set in a future world where enslaved human-like creatures, called Oms, are kept as pets by an alien race of blue giants called the Draags. The story follows the adventures of an Om named Terr, who escapes from his captors and joins a group of other fugitive Oms. Together they struggle to survive and ultimately rebel against the Draags in an effort to gain their freedom. The film is noted for its surreal visuals, which were achieved through a combination of traditional animation techniques and painterly backgrounds inspired by the works of French artist Jean Giraud. It is considered a landmark of adult animation and has become a cult classic.

From Richard Linklater, starring Ethan Hawke, Trevor Jack Brooks, Lorelei Linklater, Wiley Wiggins
Rated R

Waking Life follows a young man as he drifts through a dreamlike state in which he experiences a series of philosophical conversations and musings about the nature of reality, life, and existence. As he moves from one encounter to the next, he gradually realizes that he is dreaming and becoming more aware of his own dream state. The film is presented in an innovative rotoscope animation style, and features a variety of characters ranging from everyday people to famous philosophers and scientists. As the young man learns more about the dream world he inhabits, he is confronted with the ultimate question of what it all means, and the implications of his journey.

From Directors: James Algar, Samuel Armstrong, Ford Beebe Jr., Norman Ferguson, David Hand, Jim Handley, T. Hee, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske, Bill Roberts, Paul Satterfield, Ben Sharpsteen, starring Leopold Stokowski, Deems Taylor, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Corey Burton
Rated G

Fantasia is an animated Disney classic released in 1940. It features eight separate segments set to pieces of classical music performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra. The segments are “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice”, “The Rite of Spring”, “The Pastoral Symphony”, “Dance of the Hours”, “Night on Bald Mountain”, “Ave Maria”, “The Nutcracker Suite”, and “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice”. Each segment uses different animation styles and techniques to bring the music to life. The movie is considered a milestone in animation and is still popular today.

From Satoshi Kon, starring Megumi Hayashibara, Tôru Emori, Katsunosuke Hori, Tôru Furuya
Rated R

Paprika (2006) is a Japanese animated science fiction film directed by Satoshi Kon. It follows the story of four scientists who use a revolutionary machine to enter the dreams of people in order to help them work through psychological problems. When the machine is stolen, the scientists must track down the thief before he is able to use the device to bring dreams to reality in a catastrophic fashion. The film explores themes of technology, imagination, and identity, as well as the very nature of dreams and reality. Paprika is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the power of dreams and what happens when the boundaries between them and reality become blurred.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Joanna Cassidy, Charles Fleischer
Rated PG

Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a 1988 American fantasy neo-noir comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis. The film combines the genres of animation and live action to tell the story of a world in which cartoon characters and humans coexist. The film stars Bob Hoskins as a private detective, who is hired to solve a murder mystery involving Roger Rabbit and Maroon Cartoon Studios. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that the studio's owner, R.K. Maroon, is the one behind the crime and he is trying to frame Roger. With the help of Jessica Rabbit, Eddie Valiant, Benny the Cab, and the Toon Patrol, Eddie must prove Roger's innocence and expose Maroon before it's too late. The film's memorable blend of cartoon and live-action elements, along with its clever plotting and fast-paced action, have made it a classic in the animation genre.

From Tom Tykwer, starring Franka Potente, Moritz Bleibtreu, Herbert Knaup, Nina Petri
Rated R

Run Lola Run is a 1998 German film directed by Tom Tykwer. The film follows Lola, a young woman in Berlin, as she attempts to save her boyfriend, Manni, from his predicament with a gang of criminals. After Manni loses a large sum of money that was intended for a criminal transaction, he calls Lola in a panic and she must find a way to come up with the money in twenty minutes or he will be killed. Lola runs through the streets of Berlin to find a solution and the film follows three different scenarios, as each attempt ends in a different outcome. Throughout the course of the film, it becomes clear that every decision Lola makes has an impact, no matter how small, on the final outcome. In the end, Lola is able to save Manni, but the journey to get there involves taking a few risks, relying on luck, and the help of friends.

From Henry Selick, starring Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, John Hodgman, Jennifer Saunders
Rated PG

Coraline is a stop-motion animated film by director Henry Selick, released in 2009. The story follows Coraline, a young girl who moves into a new home with her parents and finds a secret door that leads her to a parallel world. In this world, Coraline finds a version of her family that is more attentive and loving, but she quickly realizes that this world is not all it seems. When Coraline refuses to stay in the new world, the other mother uses her dark magic to try to keep her there. Coraline must rely on her own courage and resourcefulness in order to save her family and escape from the other mother. Along the way, she is aided by the mysterious Cat, who helps her uncover the other mother’s secrets and find her way home. The film is a dark fantasy-adventure story that explores themes of identity and family.