Some movies stay in your mind long after you finish watching them. The acting is realistic and the story leaves an imprint on your life. The characters are relatable, or teach you lessons you can use in your daily life. Here are some movies that had that effect on me. I hope you take the time to watch some of them and talk about them with your friends!
1. Green Book (2018)
A driver (Viggo Mortensen) and a pianist (Mahershala Ali) go on tour through the American South. Together, they experience so much. During the journey, they learn more about one another and the stereotypes that they stray from. Brilliant acting and story-telling!
2. Imitation Game (2014)
While trying to figure out the Enigma code during the war with Germany, Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) encounters many challenges, most of which have drastic consequences for his future. The ending is both invigorating and saddening. Hard work, discipline and struggle is shown throughout this film.
3. What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
Gilbert (Johnny Depp) has a lot of responsibilities for a young man. He takes care of his younger brother, Arnie (Leonardo DiCaprio), and his mother (Darlene Cates). He struggles to balance everything in his life, but things change drastically when Becky gets stuck in his small town.
4. Interstellar (2014)
Set in the future, Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) and his family have to make huge sacrifices in order to save humanity as a whole. Will their sacrifice be for nothing? Or, will it all be worth it because the his mission will be a success?
5. Good Will Hunting (1997)
Will Hunting (Matt Damon) has a unique life: he is a genius, but works as a janitor. But when he gets caught up in trouble, he has to make a tough decision that could effect the rest of his life. A very heart-felt movie that is told with humor and care.
6. Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Although all of the Harry Potter films are set in a fantasy world, their core is realistic and relatable. Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) has had a hard life, but when he meets new friends, Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson) at Hogwarts, his life changes forever. His teachers and mentors like Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane), Snape (Alan Rickman) and Albus Dumbledore (Richard Harris) also profoundly impact his life.
7. The Accountant (2016)
Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) is brilliant at math and works as an Accountant. Although his job seems normal at first, his life is far from ordinary. His hard past led him to where he is today, both the good and the bad.
8. Gifted (2017)
Mary (Mckenna Grace) is wickedly smart. Frank (Chris Evans), her uncle, becomes her primary caretaker and the situation quickly spirals out of their control. Through it all, their familial bond waves, but then strengthens again. It is so beautiful to watch because the acting is so precious. This movie truly expresses the power of family.
9. Dirty Dancing (1987)
Although this film is the oldest on this list, do not pass it up! It is a must-watch! When Baby (Jennifer Grey) first sees Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) from afar, she is intrigued by him. But their relationship is anything but predictable. They have ups and downs and face their differences. Hopefully soon they realize how much they actually have in common.
10. Shutter Island (2010)
This movie is a mind game. Just when you think you have everything figured out, you get thrown on your back and have to rethink everything you just watched. U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his partner (Mark Ruffalo) are on the cusp of figuring out a mystery when the island starts to deceive them, or so they think.
BONUS: Titanic (1997)
Well known for it’s romance and adventure, this film is so much more. A tale of dreams, conflicting classes and true friendship. Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) has a much different life than Rose (Kate Winslet), yet somehow they are perfect for each other. This movie exemplifies how much one decision, one encounter, can change your life.
I hope you enjoyed reading about some movies that left an impact on me. Maybe you will feel the need to watch some of these films and see what they have to offer. If you watch any of these films, let me know what you thought of them in the comments, or message me on Instagram! Some movies have drastically changed my life and I hope you find movies that do the same for you.
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Arianna xx
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Aloha Arianna 