#MonsoonMagic: 8 must-watch movies that feature iconic rain scenes

There's something truly magical about the rains (despite having to navigate waterlogged streets). It's mostly the cinematic allure that adds to the emotion and drama, drawing us to fall in love with the monsoon. Whether it's a romantic kiss in the rain or celebrating victory and freedom, the monsoon presents us with moments that linger in our hearts and minds. Despite the chill of the rain, all it takes is a mug of hot chocolate and these incredible movies to feel warm and fuzzy. Tune in for these heartwarming experiences!

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The monsoons are a season of hope for many, and this holds true for the protagonist of The Shawshank Redemption. *Spoiler* Andy's escape from prison, where he crawls through “five hundred yards of shit-smelling foulness,” gave viewers one of the most iconic scenes in cinema. He emerged from the sewage tunnel, stood up, removed his shirt, and threw his arms up to the sky, which was then followed by a heavy rain shower, representing the spirit of freedom. Although this scene is a spoiler, that is also on the film’s DVD cover, it is still one of the most memorable shots in cinema.

Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV

Lagaan (2001)

This movie wasn’t just about a cricket match between farmers and the British, but a stark reminder of the importance of rain to farmers. And the fact that the rain was saved for the very end of the film, is what makes it even more special. Watching the farmers wait in anticipation for the rain as they dance to the song, ‘Ghanan Ghanan’ only to be let down when the clouds pass by, is heartbreaking, to say the least. Facing yet another season of poor yield and increased debt, the cricket match becomes their only way out. And *spoiler alert* when they do finally win, the villagers of Champaran celebrate both their victory over the British as well as the onset of the rains.

Where to watch: YouTube

Spider-Man (2002)

“One kiss is all it takes..” go the lyrics of the Calvin Harris and Dua Lipa banger and that’s exactly what happened when our masked hero locked lips with Mary Jane in the rain. Spiderman hanging down from a web as Jane lowers his mask to kiss him has to be one of the most iconic kisses on screen. And the fact that it happened in the rain is what makes it so steamy and memorable. 

Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, SonyLiv, YouTube, Apple TV

Chameli (2003)

A lot can happen in one night, especially when two strangers take shelter from the pouring rain. This is a story about an unexpected friendship between a happy-go-lucky sex worker named Chameli and Aman, an investment banker who is grieving the loss of his pregnant wife. Despite coming from contrasting worlds, their conversations blur boundaries as they learn about and eventually help each other out. The rain plays an important role in the film, shifting the mood from complex to mysterious and flirty. Their friendship blossoms beautifully thanks to the rain showers. 

Where to watch: Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, SonyLiv, YouTube

The Notebook (2004)

The Notebook is touted as one of the most romantic films of all time, giving us the iconic rain scene where Ryan Gosling says, “I wrote you 365 letters—I wrote you every day for a year.” Nothing could prepare us for what was one of the most passionate kisses ever. The chemistry was truly palpable, so much so, that the actors ended up dating in real life. That’s what happens when you enjoy a rain-soaked kiss, and express your deepest feelings to your loved one.

Where to watch: Netflix, YouTube

Life in a... Metro (2007)

This film depicted four beautiful love stories and beautifully conveyed each's relationship with the rain. Set in Mumbai, the film accurately captured the spirit of the metropolis (what one calls the spirit of Mumbai), and how the rains bring people together, inspiring them to help each other. Despite the separate narratives, the film finds a way to tie them all together. The monsoon plays a significant role in the film, representing love, nervousness, butterflies, and of course, change as portrayed through the many songs (shoutout to Pritam and KK). It's exactly what makes Life in a... Metro a monsoon special (read as: essential). 

Where to watch: Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

Wake Up Sid (2009)

The rains can evoke a range of emotions and that includes helping you realise that you're in love. And that’s what the last scene of Wake Up Sid is all about. No matter how people feel about the monsoons, Marine Drive during the rains is a breathtaking sight! And if you need further proof, watching Sid hug Ayesha in the rain while ‘Iktara’ plays in the background is sufficient. 

Where to watch: Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video 

Tumbbad (2018) 

It was the rains that made this horror film such a visual masterpiece. Here, the rain isn't just a season but a cursed character in a town devoted to a forgotten deity. While one soaks in the red hues in the film, it is the rains that add doom and gloom to the narrative. The film's first assistant director, Ankit Kothari highlighted in interviews how rain sets the mood for the film. Interestingly, the film hardly used any artificial rain as it was shot in actual rain across four monsoons. This is what made the film feel so realistic in terms of the weather. 

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Lead image credits: Getty Images

Also read: Warm indulgent desserts for a cool, monsoon day 

Also read: Monsoons, through the lens of cinema