21 Nostalgic Films and TV Series to Rewatch This Weekend

      There’s something about revisiting my cherished childhood movies that resonates with me time after time. My hopelessly romantic side can watch Annie and Hallie execute the ultimate twin switch in The Parent Trap on a loop, and yes, October 3 will forever be a national holiday thanks to Aaron Samuels. Experiencing these iconic cinematic moments is reminiscent of indulging in my favorite comfort foods. Instead of grilled cheese sandwiches, it’s monumental dance numbers, heart-wrenching love confessions, and daydreaming about dating a pop star.

      From whimsical adventures to charming love stories, this collection is brimming with nostalgic films and shows that practically shaped our upbringing. They make perfect companions for cozy nights when you seek that warm, comforting watch. Continue reading for 21 nostalgic movies and shows that will always hold a special place in our hearts.

      Nostalgic movies to revisit:

      1. Another Cinderella Story

      Available for rent on Amazon Prime

      First off, I owe a debt of gratitude to Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley for gifting us one of the most memorable dance-offs ever. This nostalgic treasure reinterprets the classic Cinderella tale in a contemporary context. It tells the story of Mary Santiago (Gomez), who trade glass slippers for dancing shoes. At the school’s masked ball, Mary dances with a newcomer (and my childhood crush), Joey, but before they can properly meet, she rushes home by midnight, leaving behind her distinctly 2000s Zune player.

      2. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

      Available to stream on Disney+

      This film imparted many lessons, most importantly, that Turkish delight was the most exotic dessert available, thanks to Edmond Pevensie. The narrative follows four siblings who discover a hidden wardrobe leading to the enchanting realm of Narnia. This fantastical film brims with mythical beings, unexpected heroes, and an unforgettable performance by Tilda Swinton as the White Witch. Since finding out that Greta Gerwig is set to reimagine this universe in 2026, I’ve enjoyed revisiting the early 2000s versions of the tale.

      3. Lemonade Mouth

      Available to stream on Disney+

      This movie made me regret quitting piano, just in case my classmates and I were also destined to form a band in some wildly fictional high school detention scenario. I recall watching it and singing “Determinate” on repeat for weeks after its release; it's one of those catchy tunes that pops into my head from time to time. This Disney classic follows five students who discover their musical talent while in detention, forming a band daring enough to take on their town's local rock group in a battle of the bands.

      4. Easy A

      Available to stream on Hulu

      I attribute my sassy and sarcastic side to Emma Stone's witty character, Olive Penderghast, who epitomized the spirit and spunk that certainly accompanied me into adulthood. This is a movie I can watch repeatedly without ever growing weary of it. The comedic timing remains impeccable, and the cast features beloved talents like Penn Badgley, Lisa Kudrow, and Stanley Tucci. The plot unfolds as Olive (Stone) tells a fib about losing her virginity, which leads to rumors spiraling throughout her high school, challenging her friendships and reputation in a chaotic and hilarious manner.

      5. The Princess Diaries

      Available to stream on Disney+

      “Me… a princess? Shut! Up!” I find myself quoting this iconic line whenever I indulge in my most diva-like antics. With its beloved cast of Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway, The Princess Diaries is a comfort film I can’t resist revisiting whenever nostalgia hits. Watching Mia Thermopolis (Hathaway) navigate an awkward, hilarious, and heartwarming crash course in becoming a princess—mentored by our literal queen, Andrews—is perfect for my ideal lazy evening.

      6. Almost Famous

      Available to stream on Paramount+

      Chronicling a teenage journalist touring with a rising rock band in the ‘70s, Almost Famous is the type of coming-of-age story that made me yearn to hit the road with a band of my own (I just needed to learn an instrument first). Embarrassingly, this movie introduced me to Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer,” and Penny Lane (Hudson) singing it on a bus remains one of the most iconic moments of my young adulthood—along with the lesson that one should never underestimate the power of a fur-collared coat.

      7. The Princess Protection Program

      Available to stream on Disney+

      I couldn’t resist including another Selena Gomez classic here, it’s just human nature. In case you’re unfamiliar with the plot, this film centers around a young and troubled princess (Demi Lovato) in need of protection amidst an attack on her kingdom. She finds herself relocated to a small town where Carter Mason (Selena Gomez) must teach her how to blend in. It’s filled