Summer vacation is the time par excellence for disconnecting from the work routine and the time to find space for yourself by traveling, walking, going to the movies, trying new restaurants, reading books and watching movies. At SC Trade Center, we know the importance of taking care of the well-being of our professionals, so we have prepared a proposal of 5 books and 5 films ideal to enjoy this summer, disconnect and find inspiration. Whether you prefer a fascinating story to watch on screen, or a reading that transports you to other lives and realities, in this list you will find the proposal that will help you recharge your batteries and return to work with a new perspective.
Recommended movies to disconnect:
1. “La La Land” (2016)
Directed by Damien Chazelle, this film is a tribute to classic Hollywood cinema, with a romantic story and a captivating soundtrack. Starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, it follows the lives of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, who meet and fall in love while trying to achieve their dreams in Los Angeles.
2. “Amélie” (2001)
This French classic, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, follows the adventures of Amélie Poulain, a young Parisian girl with an overflowing imagination who decides to improve the lives of the people around her. With a unique visual style and an unforgettable soundtrack, Amélie is an enchanting and magical story that reminds us of the beauty of the little things in life.
3. “Call Me by Your Name” (2017)
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this film transports us in the Italian summer of the 1980s, with a story of love and personal discovery. Starring Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, it follows the relationship between Elio, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, an American student spending the summer with his family. The Italian landscapes, music and delicate direction make this film an immersive and emotional experience.
4. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013)
This film directed by Ben Stiller is an invitation to adventure and self-discovery. It follows the story of Walter Mitty, an ordinary man who works at a photography magazine and has a life full of daydreams. When a very important photograph goes missing, Walter embarks on an extraordinary journey to Iceland to find it. The story, which recreates amazing landscapes, reminds us of the importance of following our dreams.
5. “Chef” (2014)
Directed by Jon Favreau, this culinary comedy follows the story of a chef who rediscovers his passion for cooking in a food truck. Starring Favreau himself, the film shows how chef Carl Casper leaves his restaurant job behind to start over with a food truck, traveling around the United States and cooking delicious dishes. Sofia Vergara, John Leguizamo and Robert Downey Jr. round out the stars of “Chef” in a refreshing and lighthearted story about family, friendship and a passion for cooking.
Recommended books to enjoy during vacations:
1. Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist”
This modern classic follows the spiritual journey of a young shepherd named Santiago, who leaves his life in Andalusia to find a treasure hidden in the pyramids of Egypt. During his journey, Santiago learns valuable lessons about life, love and his own destiny. With its wisdom and simplicity, “L’Alquimista” is an inspiring and thought-provoking book about dreams and goals.
2. “The Watchman in the Rye Field” by J.D. Salinger
This classic novel follows the experiences of Holden Caulfield, a teenager exploring life and his identity in 1950s New York. With its introspective and critical tone, “The Watchman in the Rye Field” is an absorbing read capable of immersing you in another world to reflect on themes such as youth, loneliness and the search for meaning.
3. “The art of not being bitter about life” by Rafael Santandreu
This book offers practical advice and reflections on how to lead a full and happy life. Santandreu, a renowned Spanish psychologist, uses a pleasant and friendly language to explain how we can overcome our fears and worries, and live with greater serenity and joy. “El arte de no amargarse la vida” is an ideal read to find inspiration and well-being during the vacations, and to apply these lessons to everyday life.
4. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
This classic of American literature transports us to the jazz age with a story of luxury, love and tragedy. Set in the 1920s, the novel follows Jay Gatsby, a rich and mysterious man who organizes sumptuous parties in hopes of finding his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. With lyrical and evocative prose, “The Great Gatsby” is a engaging read that reflects on dreams and ambitions.
5. “Sàpiens: From Animals to Springs” by Yuval Noah Harari
This text is a fascinating exploration of the history of humanity, from its origins as a species to the present. Harari examines how Homo sapiens has managed to dominate the world, exploring aspects of biology, culture, and history. With a clear and accessible narrative, “Sàpiens” makes you see the world through different eyes and is an ideal read for those who want an enriching and stimulating summer read.
