The Spirit of Freedom: What to Watch When You Can’t Go Out but Still Want to Travel

Day by day, events are moving faster, and now a week of quarantine restrictions is being introduced.

We decided to look after those already missing travel and share a selection of films that will remind you of places you have explored or take you somewhere new. They are united by a shared spirit of freedom and the splendour of nature. Browse our list and suggest your own picks in the comments—let’s take our minds off reality for a while, since it is not bringing much good news.

The films were selected to showcase a variety of countries where they were filmed. We hope you enjoy our choices.

The first film we recommend is “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”. Released in 2013, it quickly found its fans. Perhaps it is the story of an ordinary office worker embarking on a journey far beyond anything he ever imagined. The film takes us to New York—especially its city centre—as well as the strikingly contrasting landscapes of Iceland and Greenland. Much has been written about the magnificent, rugged nature of these places, but they are certainly worth seeing through Walter’s eyes. The blend of humour, fantasy, breathtaking scenery and, of course, romance will pleasantly surprise you. Ben Stiller’s performance also makes you genuinely root for the protagonist.

Now it is time to take a break from northern beauty and discover the charm of India in “The Darjeeling Limited”. This is definitely a film for lovers of the country and for anyone who wants to see India on screen without endless dancing and predictable plots. Life as it is, seasoned with American humour, gorgeous colourful imagery, Indian character and touches of the work of Satyajit Ray, to whom director Wes Anderson dedicated the film.

“Hector and the Search for Happiness” is a rather unconventional film about becoming saturated with life’s comforts. While many viewers may relate to the travel motivation of a successful, accomplished man, the film’s central thread is the search for happiness itself. Its many engaging moments and different countries create a vivid mix of emotion, philosophy, humour and everyday situations. It is especially worth watching if you enjoy Simon Pegg’s performances.

For a closer look at Latin America, watch “The Art of Travel”.

It echoes the previous film in its story of someone suddenly changing their life. In this case, however, he feels that everything is going wrong and wants to escape his circumstances. This is where the real adventure begins. Colombia, Panama, Peru, Bolivia and Nicaragua; impenetrable jungles and the Uyuni Salt Flat. You will experience every hardship, danger, discovery and emotion alongside the main character, Conner Layne. It is a chance to admire nature and observe people. Do not expect action—everything feels close to reality, but no less engaging for it.

The human desire to understand oneself and reach a goal is explored in “Tracks”. Although many have commented on the mismatch between the actress and the leading role, the film is well worth watching. It takes viewers into the Australian desert. Stunning cinematography, desert landscapes, touching moments and the trials faced by a young woman draw you in and make you think—especially when you know the film is based on real events. That makes what happens feel even more immediate. Leaving the world behind beneath the scorching sun to find new friends and test your limits: would you endure such trials? Think about it as you watch.

And finally, Russia’s vast landscapes in the film “Territory”. An adventure spirit is certainly present here, but the film is primarily an evocation of the 1960s. This remake of the 1978 film, based on a novella by Oleg Kuvaev, may appeal to more than just older viewers. Excellent scenery, a strong cast and icy expanses create a thrilling sense of infinity and beauty. Watch it.

Another film about Russia is “In the Forests of Siberia”. It has the same sense of scale, but this time through the eyes of a European traveller. Did he find what he was looking for? Whose paths crossed with his? And how does an outsider perceive a Russian reality unfamiliar even to many Russians? Find the answers in this French adventure film by Safy Nebbou.

And to finish, a serious film: “The Salt of the Earth”, a view of the world through the eyes of photographer Sebastião Salgado. Not everyone will watch this film to the end. But those genuinely interested in observing life without embellishment will experience powerful emotions. Only a true professional could portray it this way. This is his biography, every line of which reaches the heart and makes you reflect on how our planet works. It is no wonder the film received numerous awards and was nominated for an Oscar. After watching it, you may see the world around you differently.

If you have already seen any of these films, share your thoughts in the discussion to help others decide what to watch.