As term kicks in and the workload begins to pile up, we all find ourselves wanting to turn off for the day, snuggle up and enter into the joyous world of cinema. This term’s new Film & TV Editors have selected some of their cherished films to brighten even the darkest winter evenings. Witty characterisation, poignant dark humour and sumptuous cinematography — it’s impossible not to smile while immersing yourself in these films.

What’s in a Name? (2012)

This aptly titled film, written and directed by Alexandre de la Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, revolves around a discussion between soon-to-be father Vincent (Patrick Bruel) and his brother-in-law Pierre (Charles Berling) concerning the name of Vincent’s unborn baby. Set around the table at a Moroccan-inspired dinner party hosted by Vincent’s sister Elisabeth, nicknamed Babou (Valérie Benguigui), guests and hosts alike are horrified when Vincent reveals the name of the child. When it seems that no one can come to an amicable understanding, the situation takes a turn for the worse, eventually getting out of hand.

“Babou’s monologue is perhaps the jewel in the crown of the film... though the whole plot line glistens with comedic genius”

Old rivalries are unearthed, unspoken issues disclosed, and secrets let slip. Adapted expertly from a play by the same authors, What’s in a Name? will have your head in a spin, your sides aching from laughter, and your jaw on the floor, as you writhe in shock, and amusement. The late Valérie Benguigui is particularly charming as Babou, all at once concerned and clumsy, loving and reasonably level-headed. Her monologue is perhaps the jewel in the crown of the film — or indeed, the decorative pomegranate seed on top of the couscous. That said, the whole plotline glistens with comedic genius. It is a true feast, the crème de la crème of cinema’s comedy offerings.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

Jump into the Hoover family’s yellow camper van as they travel across America to take their youngest member Olive (Abigail Breslin) to the beauty pageant of her dreams. Joining you on the journey will be: a grandfather who refuses to act his age; a son trapped in adolescent angst; an uncle navigating his mental health difficulties; a father who ironically works as a motivational speaker; and a mother desperately attempting to hold this unconventional family unit together. Whilst it may not sound remotely positive, what ensues is a poignant piece about the importance of family as a means to find joy amidst the bleakness of reality.

Little Miss Sunshine is carried by its modestly sized cast as all actors provide their deeply flawed characters with an irresistible level of likeability. Throughout this, there is the ideal amount of dark humour to keep the viewer chuckling despite the heavier subject matter. Anarchic, unpredictable and surprisingly emotional, this film will leave you with a glimpse of sunshine.

The Young Girls of Rochefort (1967)

“Stunningly vivid cinematography, witty dialogue, stellar lyrics and a glorious jazz score”

The Young Girls of Rochefort is a colourful, amusing and bold celebration of life that is sure to uplift even the most solemn of viewers. Jacques Demy’s large-scale tribute to the Hollywood musical acts as a 1960s French alternative to La La Land, except with more humour, better musical numbers and less pompousness.

The story centres on twin sisters Delphine and Solange (Catherine Deneuve and Francoise Dorléac respectively) who embark upon a mission to find success and romance in the glamorous city of Paris. The film features stunningly vivid cinematography, witty dialogue, stellar lyrics and a glorious jazz score, amalgamating in a picture that is a feast for the eyes, ears and soul.