Seven films to help you escape

With the November shutdown and talk of Christmas restrictions, you could be forgiven for wanting a good dose of escapism right now.

If that’s you, here’s our guide to the best films to watch when you’re feeling fed up and want a break from it all:

North by Northwest (1959)

Preserved by the United States Congress as a film of cultural significance, Hitchcock’s 1959 spy caper has been dazzling moviegoers for much of the past century, currently holding an enviable 99 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. And quite frankly, its praises have been sung more than enough.

Having said that, it’s worth noting that this classic sparkles just that little bit more during lockdown. Perhaps it’s the cocksure dialogue and constant high-glamour (you certainly can’t imagine Cary Grant lazing around in his pyjamas on furlough), or perhaps it’s the constant ducking and diving to evade those clueless authorities, but watching it back provides the perfect antidote to the dreariness of lockdown.