Colorful Trippy Movies

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

Inception is a science fiction heist film directed by Christopher Nolan. It stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Dom Cobb, a thief who is given the task of planting an idea in the mind of a CEO. Dom and his team of specialists use a cutting-edge technology called "Inception" to enter the subconscious of their target in order to implant the idea. This process is made more complicated by the fact that the target's mind is protected by powerful subconscious defences. Along the way, Dom and his team must battle dangerous projections of their own subconscious minds, as well as find a way to keep themselves from being lost in the dream world they have created. As they struggle to complete their mission, they must constantly ask themselves: is this real, or is it just a dream?

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

Set in Japan, Spirited Away is an animated fantasy film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The film follows 10-year-old Chihiro as she and her parents stumble upon a seemingly abandoned amusement park. After her parents are transformed into pigs, Chihiro is thrust into a spirit world where she must work at the bathhouse of a powerful witch in order to free her parents and herself. Along the way she meets a host of strange and wonderful characters, makes powerful allies, and uncovers a hidden truth that could save the world from destruction. Chihiro must draw on her courage and determination in order to survive her strange new world and make it back home.

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 non-narrative documentary film directed by Ron Fricke and produced by Mark Magidson. The film is a visual journey that explores the wonders of the world, focusing on the themes of birth, death, and rebirth. Shots of different cultures, landscapes, and spiritual rituals are interspersed with scenes of urban decay and technology to create a meditation on the human condition. The film has been praised for its cinematography, which captures the beautiful and the grotesque in equal measure, and its musical score, which helps to create a mesmerizing experience. Samsara is a spiritual experience that encourages the audience to look beyond the surface of the world and to contemplate their place in it.

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

2001: A Space Odyssey is a 1968 science fiction film directed by Stanley Kubrick. The film follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer Hal after the discovery of a mysterious black monolith affecting human evolution. The story is based in part on Arthur C. Clarke's short story "The Sentinel" and deals with themes of human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and extraterrestrial life. After a lengthy "Dawn of Man" sequence, the film shifts to a space-bound narrative centered on the Discovery One spacecraft and its crew—commander Dave Bowman and other astronauts—in the year 2001. During the journey, their ship's computer system, HAL, begins to display increasingly strange behavior, leading up to a tense showdown between man and machine that results in a profound discovery. The film is noted for its scientifically accurate depiction of spaceflight, pioneering special effects, and ambiguous imagery. It won numerous awards and remains a classic to this day.

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

A Clockwork Orange is a classic 1971 British film directed by Stanley Kubrick. The film follows the life of Alex, a violent and impulsive teenager living in a near-future dystopian society. After committing a series of heinous crimes, Alex is apprehended and subjected to an experimental program of psychological rehabilitation known as the Ludovico Technique, in which he is forced to watch violent films while being injected with a nausea-inducing drug. This treatment takes away his ability to choose between good and evil, leaving him a hollow shell of his former self. As he struggles to regain his free will and reintegrate into society, he becomes the target of violent revenge attacks by his former victims. In the end, Alex learns to appreciate the beauty of life and rejects his violent behavior.

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

Koyaanisqatsi is a 1982 American experimental film directed by Godfrey Reggio with music composed by Philip Glass. The film consists of slow motion and time-lapse footage of cities and many natural landscapes across the United States. The visual tone poem contains neither dialogue nor a vocalized narration: its tone is set by the juxtaposition of images and music. The film is the first of the Qatsi trilogy of films: it is followed by Powaqqatsi (1988) and Naqoyqatsi (2002). Koyaanisqatsi examines the conflict between the modern technological world and the environment. The discarnate imagery in the film portrays the beauty of nature and the degradation of modern society. It suggests the negative consequences of humanity's spread and attempts to create a global civilization. The film's unique visual and musical style has been praised by critics and audiences alike, and it has been recognized in multiple film festivals.

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 film tells the story of Sophie, a teenage girl who is transformed into an old woman by a witch's curse. Seeking a cure, she enters the magic moving castle of the mysterious wizard Howl and becomes embroiled in his resistance to fighting for the king. Along the way, Sophie learns to appreciate her own inner strength and even finds love. With the help of her newfound friends, she ultimately helps Howl turn away from his dark past and face his fears. The film is a beautiful exploration of war, love, courage, and the power of friendship.

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

Pan's Labyrinth is a dark fantasy film directed by Guillermo del Toro, set in Spain in the year 1944. It follows the story of a young girl named Ofelia, who moves to a rural military outpost with her pregnant mother to reunite with her sadistic and oppressive stepfather, Captain Vidal. To escape her difficult reality, Ofelia finds solace in a magical, mythical world of fairies and monsters. Through a series of fantastical tasks, she must prove her worth and courage to an ancient faun who believes she is the reincarnation of an ancient princess. As Ofelia embarks on the incredible journey, she must also confront the harsh realities of wartime Spain, where she must decide between remaining loyal to her family or sacrificing herself to save a world she has grown to love.

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 musical fantasy film directed by six of Hollywood’s top directors: Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy, Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe, and King Vidor. The film stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, a young girl who is sent to the magical Land of Oz when a tornado hits her Kansas farm. Along the way, she meets a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, all on the same quest to find the Wizard of Oz. Along the way, they face many obstacles, from the Wicked Witch of the West to a giant spider, before finally arriving at the Emerald City. There, the Wizard of Oz grants them each a wish in exchange for the courage, brains, and heart they need to get home. However, Dorothy soon learns that the true power to get her home lies within herself. With the help of her friends, she ultimately defeats the Wicked Witch and returns home to Kansas.

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

Blade Runner is a 1982 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford. It is set in a dystopian future in which synthetic humans known as replicants exist. In the film, the protagonist, a blade runner named Rick Deckard (Ford), is assigned to hunt down and terminate four rogue replicants who have illegally escaped to Earth from their off-world colony. As Deckard embarks on his mission, he discovers he has an unexpected connection to the replicants and begins to question the morality of his mission. The film's themes of humanity, morality, and identity are explored through its exploration of artificial intelligence and the replicants' struggle for freedom and understanding. The film has become a cult classic, praised for its visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.

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

Pink Floyd: The Wall is a 1982 British rock musical movie directed by Alan Parker. It is highly symbolic and metaphorical, and based on the 1979 Pink Floyd album of the same name. The movie follows the story of rock star Pink, and how his life experiences, such as the death of his father in World War II, lead to his mental breakdown. In a symbolic interpretation, the wall represents an emotional barrier that Pink has built around himself to protect himself from the world. As the movie progresses, Pink is increasingly alienated from the outside world and retreats into a fantasy world, which is explored through surrealistic and dark imagery. Ultimately, he is able to overcome his fears and take control of his life. The movie features a number of notorious Pink Floyd songs, including "Another Brick in the Wall," and has become a cult classic.

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

12 Monkeys is a 1995 science fiction film directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, and Brad Pitt. The story follows James Cole, a convicted criminal sent back in time from 2035 to 1996 to stop the spread of a deadly virus which traces back to a mysterious organization called the Army of the 12 Monkeys. Cole is assisted in his mission by Dr. Kathryn Railly, a psychiatrist, and Jeffrey Goines, a mental patient who claims to have ties to the 12 Monkeys. As Cole moves closer to the truth, he uncovers a deeper conspiracy that reaches far beyond the virus. With time running out, Cole must confront his own inner demons and the forces of nature in order to save the future of mankind.

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

Brazil is a 1985 dystopian science fiction film directed by Terry Gilliam and written by Gilliam, Charles McKeown, and Tom Stoppard. The film follows a daydreaming everyman, Sam Lowry, who is trying to find a woman who appears in his dreams while he is working in a mind-numbing job and living a life in a small apartment, set in a drab, dystopian version of London. As Sam begins to pursue the woman in his dreams, he meets a variety of strange characters and finds himself becoming entrapped in a surreal and sinister nightmare. As Sam's surreal adventure continues, he gradually discovers that reality and fantasy have begun to mix, and he may be the only one who can save himself from the dark forces that seem to be controlling his life. The film has since been widely acclaimed for its unique visuals and its dark, satirical take on modern bureaucracy.

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

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a stop-motion musical fantasy film directed by Henry Selick and produced/co-written by Tim Burton. It tells the story of Jack Skellington, a being from "Halloween Town" who stumbles through a portal to "Christmas Town" and decides to celebrate the holiday. But his enthusiasm wreaks havoc on the real world. With the help of a rag-doll named Sally, Jack attempts to remedy the chaos he caused and bring Christmas and Halloween together as one. Along the way, Jack learns the true meaning of both holidays. The film features the voice talents of Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, Danny Elfman, and several well-known actors.

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

The Holy Mountain is a 1973 surrealist film directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky. The film follows a nameless thief who is guided through a spiritual journey by a mysterious alchemist. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters, including Christ-like figures, androgynous mystics, and a group of wealthy, power-hungry individuals. The thief is promised that, if successful in his journey, he may achieve immortality and ascend to the Holy Mountain. Through a series of symbolic and often grotesque scenes, the film explores themes of spirituality, enlightenment, and the quest for true power. The film features a mixture of spiritual imagery, psychedelia, and surrealism, and has become an iconic cult classic.

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

Loving Vincent is a 2017 biographical animated drama film about the life and death of the post-impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh. Directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman, the film is told through interviews with characters who knew Van Gogh and is the first fully painted animated feature film. Voices are provided by Douglas Booth, Saoirse Ronan, Chris O'Dowd, Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Jerome Flynn, Helen McCrory, and John Sessions. The story follows Armand (Booth), a postman who is tasked with delivering the final letter from Van Gogh to his brother, Theo. Armand visits all the places Van Gogh had been to and meets the people who knew him, gaining a greater understanding of the artist's life and his mysterious death. Along the way, Armand discovers many secrets and a greater appreciation for the artist's work.

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. The story follows a critically injured stuntman who, in an effort to escape from a hospital, creates an elaborate fantasy world for a young girl who is visiting. Together, they journey through a magical landscape of mythical creatures and stunning visuals. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination. The film features incredible visuals, stunning landscapes, and a captivating story that will capture the hearts of viewers of all ages.

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

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is a 1971 musical fantasy about a poor young boy named Charlie Bucket, who wins a golden ticket to tour the world-famous Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. Along with four other lucky children, Charlie embarks on a mesmerizing, life-changing journey through Wonka's wondrous factory filled with dancing Oompa-Loompas, outrageous inventions, and delectable treats. As he encounters room after room of incredible delights, Charlie must also face the eccentric candy-maker's daunting challenges in order to claim the ultimate prize. The film is a magical tale that celebrates the power of dreams and the importance of family.

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

Fantastic Planet is a 1973 French-Czechoslovakian science fiction animated film directed by René Laloux. The film takes place in a distant future in which human-like creatures, the "Oms", are seen as animals by the larger, blue-skinned humanoid aliens known as the Draags. The Draags use the Oms as pets or servants and teach them to fear their superior power. The story follows an Om named Terr, who is taken in by a Draag child and learns the ways of the Draags. Terr eventually leads an Om uprising against the Draags, and the two species must come to an understanding or face destruction. The film is a commentary on power, oppression, and the relationship between different species.

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

Waking Life is a 2001 animated movie written and directed by Richard Linklater. It follows the dream-like experiences of a young man, who interacts with a variety of characters and explores the philosophical implications of his vivid dream state. The film follows the protagonist as he drifts through various conversations and encounters, all of which ultimately seek to challenge and expand his views of the world. Through these conversations, the protagonist is forced to question his understanding of reality, and ultimately discovers a deeper understanding of his own existence. By the end of the film, the protagonist has gained a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of life, and the importance of living with an open mind.

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 (1940) is an animated classic that combines eight Disney animated segments with classical music. The film opens with an introduction by Deems Taylor who introduces the concept of Fantasia. The segments in the film include Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by Johann Sebastian Bach, The Nutcracker Suite by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Sorcerer's Apprentice by Paul Dukas, Rite of Spring by Igor Stravinsky, and Dance of the Hours by Amilcare Ponchielli, among others. The segments feature classic Disney animation with vibrant colors, imaginative characters, and spectacular visuals. Throughout the film, the animated segments are accompanied by a live orchestra conducted by Leopold Stokowski. Fantasia is an esteemed classic that has been enjoyed by generations and continues to bring joy and inspiration to viewers.

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

Paprika (2006) is a Japanese animated science fiction film written and directed by Satoshi Kon. The film follows the adventures of Dr. Atsuko Chiba, a genius scientist who has invented a device called the DC Mini, which enables its user to enter people's dreams and explore their unconscious minds. When the DC Mini is stolen by a mysterious antagonist known as the "Paradox Man," chaos ensues. To save the day, Dr. Chiba must team up with her alter-ego, a dream detective named Paprika. Together, they must face off against the Paradox Man and his minions and prevent Dream Terrorism from taking over the world. Along the way, they must confront their own inner demons and explore the boundaries between reality and fantasy.

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

Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a 1988 film directed by Robert Zemeckis and released by Touchstone Pictures. The film is a combination of live-action and animation, combining actors and cartoon characters to create a unique world. The story follows a toon-hating detective named Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins) as he is hired to investigate a scandal involving Roger Rabbit, a cartoon character who is framed for the murder of a powerful businessman. With the help of Roger’s wife, Jessica Rabbit, and a cast of cartoon characters, Eddie must prove Roger’s innocence. Along the way, the two uncover a conspiracy involving a toon-erasing dip created by the evil judge Doom. Ultimately, Eddie and Roger must defeat the villain to save the toons and the world.

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

Run Lola Run is a 1998 German action film directed by Tom Tykwer. It follows the story of Lola, a young woman living in Berlin, who has only 20 minutes to save her boyfriend Manni from a dangerous crime. After receiving a call from Manni, Lola desperately races around the city to find the 100,000 Deutschmarks that Manni needs to pay back the local mob boss. Along the way, she experiences several different scenarios with varying outcomes, discovering how even small choices can have drastic consequences. The fast-paced film is filled with suspense and excitement, making it a thrilling ride for viewers.

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

Coraline is a 2009 stop-motion animated fantasy film based on Neil Gaiman's 2002 novel of the same name. Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Laika, the film follows Coraline, a young girl who moves into a new house with her parents and discovers a secret door leading to an alternate version of her life. In this parallel world, she finds a seemingly perfect version of her parents, along with a world of darkness and danger. Coraline must use her wits to find a way to save her family and return home. Along the way, she learns that nothing is ever as it seems and that true happiness comes from within.