Naarm/Melbourne-based indie-rock artist Jacob Fitzgerald has returned with his vibrant single 'Sophia' – co-produced by the artist himself alongside Alex Walker. Today, he shares his top 5 comfort movies with us. Does your favourite make the list?
1. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
"I’m a sucker for a romantic comedy. I like a breezy, 90-minute flick to keep me entertained and optimistic about life. When it comes to comfort movies, ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’ takes my number one spot!
It's like stepping into a world of laughter and romance that never fails to lift my spirits. What sets this film apart for me is its timeless charm. It’s full of witty banter, clever humour, and visual nostalgia for a time where a romantic NYC love story dominated the globe. I’ve watched this movie so many times I’m almost certain I could recite the script word for word. Maybe it’s just my crush on Kate Hudson, or my addiction to the McConaughey drawl, but regardless, 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days' has carved its place as my cinematic comfort blanket, offering solace and smiles whenever I need it."
2. Shanghai Noon
"'Shanghai Noon' is my hidden gem, and my go-to for the perfect blend of action, comedy, and a touch of Western charm. It’s one of those films that I vividly remember seeing for the first time. My 7-year-old self couldn’t believe I was witnessing a mash-up of martial arts and gunslinging cowboys!
Since then, the only other person I know who has seen it is my pal/lead guitarist extraordinaire, Rick Hollywood! The fish-out-of-water scenario, the well-choreographed action sequences, coupled with the endearing camaraderie between Chan and Wilson, make each rewatch an enjoyable escape into a world where laughter and friendship triumph over adversity."
3. Back to The Future
"A timeless classic that wraps you in a warm blanket of nostalgia and adventure. I find the ingenious combination of sci-fi, comedy and 80s charm to be a recipe for perfection. Michael J. Fox's Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd's iconic Doc Brown form an unforgettable duo that transcends generations. This movie is an all-round win in our house. If the soundtrack is heard through the walls, my housemates aren’t far behind me in sitting on the couch. We even have a movie poster hanging in our lounge room to honour the Zemeckis classic.
What makes 'Back to the Future' my comfort movie is probably more due to the fact it’s an escape from modern reality than anything else. I’m a little sci-fi geek and there’s just something about an old film that contributes to the cosy familiarity. Whether it's the enchanting concept of rewriting history or the enduring theme of family bonds, the movie has an appeal that always resonates with me."
4. Tarzan
"I grew up on 'Tarzan'. I was hooked as a child and was constantly taking my shirt off and running around like a wild man doing the classic Tarzan roar. I even broke my collarbone whilst trying to swing from a treehouse replicating my favourite jungle hero. My imagination has always gotten the best of me. Seeing a movie that combines breathtaking animation, a heart-warming narrative, and an unforgettable soundtrack at such a young age really sticks with someone. ‘Son of Man’ by Phil Collins even made my Spotify wrapped last year!
For me, the film's magic lies in its universal themes of identity, acceptance, and love. Tarzan's journey from an orphaned baby raised by gorillas to discovering his human roots is a captivating narrative that tugs at the heartstrings."
5. 10 Things I Hate About You
"'10 Things I Hate About You' is not just your typical teen romance; it's got this wholesome '90s aesthetic that I can't get enough of. Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger? Iconic. The fact that the story is based on a Shakespeare play with a modern twist is hilarious and totally genius.
Maybe it’s my Australian patriotism that enjoys seeing our own Heath Ledger singing on the soccer field and lighting cigarettes with Bunsen burners, or maybe it’s just a blast from the past that never gets old. The movie nails the ups and downs of teenage life, and the longing to fall in love with the “it girl”. A tale I was all too familiar with!
I watched this film for the first time as a teenager. I think I may have even studied it for a school assignment! But for me, the enjoyment comes from a place of simplicity and serves as a cheeky throwback to a time in my life where, I too, was chasing the coolest girl in school. It didn’t work – so I just had to write songs about it instead."
To celebrate the release, Jacob Fitzgerald will be opening for The Struts (UK), alongside performing with both Pacific Avenue as part of Great Southern Nights and Jack Botts during his National Tour. In the live arena, Jacob has sold out multiple hometown headline shows and has shared the stage with Fergus James, The Delta Riggs, The Rions, John Floreani (Trophy Eyes), Selfish Sons, Loose Bricks, The Good Love and Chasing Ghosts.
LIVE SHOWS
Tickets available via jacobfitzgerald.com
WED 28 FEB | MAX WATT'S, NAARM/MELBOURNE VIC*
SAT 9 MAR | OXFORD ART FACTORY, EORA/SYDNEY NSW**
FRI 22 MAR | HOWLER, NAARM/MELBOURNE VIC***
SAT 23 MAR | DOWNTOWN SHEPPARTON, KANNY-GOOPNA/SHEPPARTON***Supporting The Struts*Supporting Pacific Avenue**Supporting Jack Botts***
FOLLOW JACOB FITZGERALD
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | TIKTOK | TRIPLE J UNEARTHED
SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC | AMAZON MUSIC | SOUNDCLOUD | YOUTUBE | WEBSITE