There's something inherently fascinating about the interactions between strangers. These films delve into the unexpected encounters, the mysteries, and the connections that can form when two people who've never met before cross paths. From heartwarming tales to thrilling adventures, this collection showcases the magic of human interaction and the stories that unfold when strangers meet.

Before Sunrise (1995)
Description: This film captures the essence of a chance encounter between two strangers, Jesse and Céline, who meet on a train and decide to spend a night together in Vienna. Their conversations and the bond they form over the course of one night make this film a perfect fit for our theme.
Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days, and many of the scenes were improvised by the actors, Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy.


The Straight Story (1999)
Description: Alvin Straight, an elderly man, embarks on a journey to reconcile with his estranged brother. Along the way, he meets various strangers who help him, showcasing the kindness of humanity.
Fact: This was David Lynch's only film to receive a G rating from the MPAA.


Lost in Translation (2003)
Description: Two lost souls, Bob and Charlotte, find solace in each other's company in Tokyo, forming a bond that's both fleeting and profound. Their interactions as strangers in a foreign land make this film a poignant addition to our list.
Fact: The famous whisper at the end of the film was improvised by Bill Murray, and only Scarlett Johansson knows what he said.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: Walter Mitty, a daydreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure to find a missing negative, meeting strangers who help him find his true self along the way.
Fact: The film's ending was changed from the original script to provide a more uplifting conclusion.


The Terminal (2004)
Description: Viktor Navorski, played by Tom Hanks, finds himself stuck in JFK Airport due to a coup in his homeland. His interactions with the airport staff and fellow travelers, all strangers to him, create a unique narrative of human kindness and resilience.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: Chris Gardner's journey from homelessness to success is marked by encounters with strangers who offer him help, hope, and inspiration.
Fact: The film's title misspells "Happiness" as "Happyness" to reflect a real-life sign Chris Gardner's son made for his daycare center.


Into the Wild (2007)
Description: Christopher McCandless abandons his possessions to live in the Alaskan wilderness, encountering various strangers who impact his journey and his understanding of life.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where McCandless traveled, including the bus where he lived.


The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Description: Three estranged brothers travel across India, encountering various strangers who influence their journey of self-discovery and reconciliation.
Fact: The film was shot on location in India, and Wes Anderson used real-life train stations and landscapes for authenticity.


The Visitor (2007)
Description: A lonely professor's life changes when he finds a couple living in his New York apartment. Their unexpected encounter leads to a deep connection, exploring themes of identity and belonging.
Fact: The film was shot in 24 days, and Richard Jenkins was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.


The Intouchables (2011)
Description: A wealthy aristocrat hires a young man from the projects to be his caregiver, leading to an unlikely friendship between two strangers from vastly different worlds.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in France, becoming the second most successful French film of all time.
