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Best Movies for Critical Thinking: Top Picks to Challenge Your Mind

In today’s fast-paced world, movies have become an essential source of entertainment and learning, providing viewers with thought-provoking stories that challenge their intellect. One of the many subgenres of films that cater to this need is the category of movies for critical thinking. These films captivate audiences by presenting complex narratives that delve into unique philosophical concepts, moral dilemmas, and intricate character developments. A compelling critical thinking movie will often challenge perception and reality, encouraging viewers to reflect on the nature of humanity and the universe.

Such movies encompass a range of genres, from mind-bending dramas to thrilling science fiction. Critical thinking films often explore multi-layered philosophical themes and beliefs, offering distinct perspectives on the human condition and providing valuable insights into how we perceive the world around us. Ultimately, these movies aim to inspire audiences to think critically and question their pre-existing assumptions about life, society, and existence.

Key Takeaways

• Critical thinking movies span various genres, offering complex narratives that promote intellectual engagement.
• These films often explore philosophical themes and beliefs while challenging common perceptions of reality.
• Through captivating stories, critical thinking movies encourage viewers to reflect on their own understanding of humanity and the universe.

Understanding Critical Thinking

Definition and importance.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze information objectively and make a reasoned judgment. It involves evaluating the validity of arguments, identifying biases, and considering different perspectives to make informed decisions. Critical thinking is essential in various areas of life, as it helps individuals to solve problems, make better choices, and foster deeper understanding.

The importance of critical thinking cannot be overstated. It enables critical thinkers to navigate complex situations, think creatively, and approach new challenges with confidence. It equips individuals to discern truth from falsehood, judge the credibility of sources, and differentiate between reliable and misleading information. By fostering critical thinking skills, people become more adept at reasoning, problem solving, and effective communication.

Relation with Movies

Movies can be a potent tool for promoting critical thinking. They offer diverse settings, complex characters, and intricate storylines that stimulate the mind and encourage viewers to engage with thought-provoking content. Many movies drive viewers to analyze the narrative, events, and character motivations, pushing them to exercise their critical thinking abilities.

Films like Inception and A Beautiful Mind challenge viewers to employ critical thinking by exploring complicated storylines and themes. These movies encourage audiences to deconstruct the elements of the plot, evaluate the motivations and actions of characters, and critically assess the impact of choices made within the story. By engaging with complex narratives, viewers develop a deeper understanding of the world portrayed in the film and enhance their own critical thinking skills as they explore various perspectives and theories.

Critical Thinking in Dramas

Forrest gump.

Forrest Gump is a captivating drama that takes viewers on an emotional journey through the life of its titular character, played by Tom Hanks. Set in America, the movie follows Forrest Gump, a man with a low IQ, as he navigates various real-life historical events and situations. Through his innocent yet profound perspective, the film encourages viewers to critically examine themes such as acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation.

The character of Forrest Gump teaches us invaluable lessons about resilience, empathy, and determination, challenging the audience’s critical thinking abilities while presenting a heartfelt story. This thought-provoking movie serves as a right of passage for those seeking a deeper understanding of life’s complexities.

Good Will Hunting

Good Will Hunting is another remarkable drama that fosters critical thinking. The film revolves around a young, self-taught mathematics prodigy, Will Hunting, portrayed by Matt Damon, who faces the challenges of living in a tough, working-class environment in America. The movie delves into real-life issues of identity, relationships, and personal growth while presenting an enthralling story of brilliance, vulnerability, and human connection.

As the protagonist navigates through the intricacies of life and academia, the audience is encouraged to examine their own understanding of success, potential, and self-worth. Through Will’s journey to confront his past and pursue his extraordinary talent, Good Will Hunting provides an excellent opportunity for viewers to reflect and engage their critical thinking skills.

Exploring Philosophy and Beliefs through Movies

The Matrix is a groundbreaking science fiction film that invites audiences to question their beliefs about reality. The movie centers on the character of Neo, played by Keanu Reeves, who discovers that his entire world is actually a simulated reality called the Matrix. Throughout the film, themes of fate, free will, and the nature of reality are explored in a compelling narrative. As it portrays a world where nothing is what it seems, The Matrix challenges viewers to critically examine their own beliefs and assumptions about the world around them.

The Truman Show

Another film that delves into the world of illusions is The Truman Show . This unique story captures the life of Truman, an unwitting participant in a reality TV show that is, unbeknownst to him, centered around his every move. As Truman starts to unravel the truth about his artificial world, the film delves into philosophical questions about the nature of existence, the role of the media in shaping our perceptions, and the importance of personal freedom. With its thought-provoking concepts, The Truman Show encourages critical thinking in the exploration of reality and the human experience.

Cloud Atlas

Cloud Atlas is an ambitious film that takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through multiple time periods, exploring the interconnectedness of human lives across time and space. With its complex narrative structure and a wide range of characters, the film delves into themes of reincarnation, interconnectedness, and the impact of individual actions on the greater world. By weaving together seemingly disparate storylines, Cloud Atlas prompts viewers to contemplate the deeper connections that bind humanity together, inviting them to reflect on their own beliefs and philosophies about the nature of existence and the impact of individual choices on the world.

Movies that Challenge Perception and Reality

Inception is a groundbreaking film that delves into the world of dreams and the manipulation of the human mind. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this psychological thriller introduces us to the concept of dream-sharing and dives deep into the complexities of the subconscious. The film follows a group of skilled professionals, led by Dom Cobb (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), who specialize in extracting ideas from people’s minds through shared dreaming. Inception challenges our perception of reality in unique ways, pushing the boundaries of film storytelling and leaving viewers questioning the nature of their own dreams and realities.

Being John Malkovich

Being John Malkovich is a quirky, surreal, and thought-provoking film directed by Spike Jonze. The story centers on a puppeteer, Craig Schwartz (played by John Cusack), who discovers a mysterious portal in his office that allows people to enter the mind of actor John Malkovich. This bizarre premise raises intriguing philosophical questions about identity, ego, and the nature of reality. As the film unfolds, the lines between the real world, the fantasy world, and the life of John Malkovich blur together, challenging our preconceived notions of perception and self-awareness.

Shutter Island

Shutter Island is a suspenseful psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the novel by Dennis Lehane. The film revolves around two U.S. Marshals, Teddy Daniels (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) and Chuck Aule (played by Mark Ruffalo), who are sent to investigate the disappearance of a prisoner from an isolated mental institution on Shutter Island. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover disturbing truths and confront the terrifying reality that their own sanity is at stake. The film is filled with twists and turns, constantly shifting the viewer’s perception of what is real and what isn’t, while exploring the complexity of human consciousness and the power of the mind.

These movies provide audiences with engaging and fascinating narratives that challenge our grasp on reality and perception. Through their thought-provoking storylines and inventive filmmaking techniques, Inception, Being John Malkovich, and Shutter Island inspire critical thinking and ignite our curiosity about the world around us.

Critical Thinking in Time and Space Movies

Predestination.

Predestination is a fascinating take on time travel, centered on the concept of a temporal agent who tries to prevent crimes before they happen. The movie keeps viewers on their toes, exploring themes of fate, free will, and identity. The protagonist’s journey through various time periods challenges the audience to think critically about the nature of time and the consequences of attempting to control it.

Interstellar

Directed by Christopher Nolan, Interstellar is a thought-provoking space odyssey that plays with complex theories of time, space, and the future of humanity. The plot follows a team of astronauts who travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity as Earth is on the verge of collapse. The movie stretches the boundaries of science fiction with ideas about black holes, time dilation, and artificial intelligence. The viewer is encouraged to think critically about humanity’s role in the cosmos and the potential consequences of tampering with the fabric of time and space.

2001: A Space Odyssey

Regarded as a masterpiece of science fiction, 2001: A Space Odyssey delves deep into themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the search for extraterrestrial life. The movie’s enigmatic presentation of past, present, and future leaves viewers questioning the true nature of reality and human existence. The audience is introduced to HAL 9000, an artificial intelligence system that develops a malfunction with disastrous consequences. This storyline provokes questions about the ethical development and application of AI technology, pushing the viewer to think critically about the relationship between humans and advanced technology.

Movies Encouraging Reflection on Self and Humanity

Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a thought-provoking film that delves into the concept of human memory and emotions. Starring Jim Carrey, this movie portrays the desire to erase painful memories in order to move on from a failed relationship. As the story unfolds, it offers a profound look into the soul, highlighting how memories define who we are and help us grow. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and evaluate the importance of embracing both joyful and sorrowful moments in life.

Life of Pi is a visually stunning and deeply contemplative film that centers around a young man named Pi, who finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger following a shipwreck. As he navigates the challenges of survival, the movie delves into themes of spirituality, faith, and the human will to live. The story provides an opportunity for viewers to examine their beliefs, question reality, and consider the role of storytelling in the perception of truth. Through Pi’s journey, Life of Pi offers insights into the complexities of human nature and encourages reflection on the evolution of our convictions and values.

Contagion is a gripping thriller that depicts the spread of a highly contagious and deadly virus. While the primary focus of the movie is on the epidemic and the race to find a cure, it offers a sobering exploration of human behavior in the face of a global crisis. The fear and panic exhibited by characters serve as a reminder of the fragility of society and the importance of cooperation and compassion in times of adversity. Examining the responses of individuals, government agencies, and the media, Contagion triggers discussions on ethics, social responsibility, and the resilience of the human spirit in the midst of chaos.

Critical Thinking in Thriller Movies

Primer is a mind-bending science fiction thriller that leaves viewers questioning the nature of time and the consequences of playing with it. The movie’s complex narrative structure and attention to scientific detail encourage critical thinking in the audience. Directed by Shane Carruth, Primer tells the story of two engineers who accidentally discover time travel and grapple with the ethical implications of their newfound power. The film challenges viewers to think critically about the role that technology plays in our lives, as well as the potential dangers and moral dilemmas associated with scientific advancement.

Memento is another example of a psychological thriller that inspires critical thinking. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film follows the story of Leonard, a man suffering from short-term memory loss, as he tries to unravel the truth about his wife’s murder. The movie is structured in such a way that it mimics Leonard’s disjointed memory, with scenes unfolding in reverse order. This unique storytelling technique engages viewers on a deeper level and promotes critical thinking by forcing them to piece together the narrative on their own. Memento also raises questions about the reliability of memory and the lengths people will go to create a sense of meaning in their lives.

V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta is a thought-provoking thriller that explores themes of political oppression, resistance, and personal freedom. Set in a dystopian future where Britain is ruled by a totalitarian regime, the film follows the mysterious anarchist ‘V’ and his quest to dismantle the fascist government. Directed by James McTeigue and featuring performances from Hugo Weaving and Natalie Portman, this movie challenges viewers to critically assess the role of government, the importance of individual liberties, and the true meaning of freedom.

Throughout these thriller films, notable actors such as Hugh Jackman and Brad Pitt have portrayed characters experiencing paranoia and the consequences of difficult choices. Directors like Darren Aronofsky have also contributed to the genre, crafting narratives that leave audiences questioning their understanding of reality and the human psyche. These movies prompt viewers to engage in critical thinking as they navigate intricate plotlines, consider ethical dilemmas, and grapple with philosophical questions.

Appreciating Movies as Art and Stories

Cinema has long been revered as both an art form and a means of storytelling. It provides a unique platform that combines visuals, sound, and narrative to convey powerful messages and evoke emotions. Throughout time, different genres and styles have emerged to challenge audiences’ perspectives, offering thought-provoking experiences.

One exceptional example of artistic storytelling is the film The Lion King . This animated classic transcends its medium by delivering a rich, thought-provoking tale that delves into themes like family, leadership, and the circle of life. The film’s visually stunning animation and evocative score also demonstrate how the art of cinema can elevate a story to new heights.

In recent years, the exploration of artificial intelligence in movies has sparked critical thinking and raised ethical questions. For instance, Ex Machina is a visually captivating and intelligent science fiction film that delves into the complexities of human-like AI. The movie invites viewers to ponder the implications of creating and interacting with such technology, as well as the potential consequences that may arise.

When it comes to appreciating movies as art, the attention to detail in cinematography, sound design, and character development is vital. These elements work cohesively to create an immersive experience that allows the viewer to engage with the story. For instance, beautifully shot landscapes and meticulously curated sets often transport audiences to different worlds, while carefully crafted characters elicit empathy and spark debate.

Moreover, understanding the theme or underlying message of a film further enhances the appreciation of movies as both art and story. These themes can range from societal issues such as poverty or discrimination to existential topics like the value of memories or the nature of time. By paying attention to the intent and vision of the filmmakers, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork and its significance.

In conclusion, the art of cinema offers a unique platform for telling thought-provoking stories that challenge and inspire the audience. By appreciating the artistic elements and themes present in movies, viewers can engage in critical thinking and find meaning in the stories shared on the big screen. [url=” https://www.theodysseyonline.com/movies-for-critical-thinkers “]

Educational and inspirational movies play a significant role in fostering critical thinking skills among audiences. These films challenge the viewer’s perspectives and encourage them to analyze complex situations or ideas. By stimulating intellectual curiosity, these movies serve as a valuable addition to educational resources.

Inception, for example, is a well-known critical thinking movie that involves puzzling concepts and intricate storytelling. It pushes the viewers to delve deep into their thought process and keep up with the movie’s intricate plot. Another great example is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, a romantic science-fiction film that utilizes a nonlinear storyline to promote critical thinking by constantly challenging the viewers’ beliefs.

Empowering movies such as Good Will Hunting and Forrest Gump also instigate critical thinking while evoking themes of acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation. These must-watch critical thinking movies demonstrate the power of human resilience in overcoming personal and societal obstacles.

Finally, the benefits of critical thinking are not restricted to fictional movies alone. Films like Queen of Katwe, based on true stories of perseverance, showcase the value of strategic thinking and problem-solving skills through engaging chess games .

In summary, the captivating world of movies offers a vast array of films that foster critical thinking while providing audiences with thought-provoking and gratifying experiences. Whether they are fictional stories, biographical dramas, or even documentaries, these movies effectively serve as both educational and inspirational resources in today’s world.

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21 Mind-Bending Movies That Make You Think Deeply

by Mateo · Jul 1, 2023 · 29 Comments

As humans, we have been telling stories since the beginning of time. Stories help us to understand important ideas and make sense of the world around us.

Stories are the fabric of our lives: our lives begin and end with a story. Each relationship in our life is a story, every dream, every experience is a story. Life itself is one big story composed of many smaller stories,  and every atom dancing is telling us its story.

It’s no surprise that we’ve fallen in love with movies: they perfectly embody stories. And stories can be powerful. We watch movies to find a sense of relief from our daily responsibilities, to experience excitement and intrigue, and to even feel our humanity again by letting them touch our hearts.

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But films can also help us grow as individuals. They can encourage us to question our lives, to awaken to endless possibilities and help us to understand where we’re heading as a society. Most people are familiar with popular thought-provoking movies like The Matrix , Inception , Donnie Darko , Moon , V for Vendetta , Mulholland Dr. , Memento , Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Fight Club .

There are also plenty of other movies out there that are just as thought-provoking but not as well known. These movies are obscure because they lacked big budgets and therefore couldn’t hire as many actors. But in this obscurity, these movies preserved their souls, and the artistic visions behind each film stayed intact without being influenced by the masses.

Here are some of the best little-known cryptic and mind-bending movies out there.

21 Mind-Bending Movies That Make You Think

Prepare to question everything you know!

By the way, if you do decide to watch any of the movies below by clicking on the links, you’ll be supporting our work through the small affiliate fees we receive. We appreciate your support. :)

1. Upstream Color (2013)

Description: A man and woman are drawn together, entangled in the life cycle of an ageless organism. Identity becomes an illusion as they struggle to assemble the loose fragments of wrecked lives.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: It’s a sensual experience of poetic ideas; modern disconnection, biophysical insecurity, and existential doubt.

Watch the movie here !

2. TiMER (2009)

Description: When implanted in a person’s wrist, a TiMER counts down to the day the wearer finds true love. But Oona O’Leary faces the rare dilemma of a blank TiMER. Her soul mate – whoever and wherever he is – has yet to have a TiMER implanted. Staring down the barrel of thirty and tired of waiting for her would-be life partner to get off the dime, Oona breaks her own rules and falls for Mikey, a charming and inappropriately young supermarket clerk with a countdown of four months.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: If a clock could count down to the moment you meet your soul mate , would you want to know?

Watch the movie here!

3. Coherence (2013)

Description: On the night an astronomical anomaly passes close to the Earth, eight friends at a dinner party start experiencing strange and mysterious events. Soon it becomes clear that nothing and no one are what they appear to be.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: It explores the physics concept of Schrodinger’s Cat , and forces the question of whether we truly know what we’re capable of.

5. Primer (2004)

Description: While tweaking their current project, two young engineers accidentally discover that it has some highly unexpected capabilities – ones that could enable them to do and to have seemingly anything they want. Taking advantage of this unique opportunity is the first challenge they face. Dealing with the consequences is the next.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  What do you want when you can have anything? And if you have everything, what do you do?

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6. Frequencies (2013)

Description: What if physics determined the laws of attraction? In a parallel world where human frequencies determine luck, love, and destiny, Zak, a young college student, must overcome science in order to love Marie, who emits a different frequency than his own. In an attempt to make their love a reality, Zak experiments on the laws of nature, putting in danger the cosmic equilibrium of fate and everything he holds dear.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: Are human conditions, actions, relationships determined by fate, free will, or a combination of both? At any rate, if it we cannot control it – should we care?

7. Waking Life (2001)

Description: A boy has a dream that he can float, but unless he holds on, he will drift away into the sky. Even when grows up, this idea recurs. After a strange accident, he walks through what may be a dream, flowing in and out of scenarios and encountering various characters. People he meets discuss science, philosophy and the life of dreaming and waking. The protagonist gradually becomes alarmed that he cannot awake from this confusing dream.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: What if you gradually become aware that you are walking through life in a dream state, but could not wake up from this confusing dream?

8. Extracted (2012)

Description: A scientist invents a technique to enter people’s memories deep within their subconscious mind when it is in its most vulnerable state. When he is tasked with entering a heroin addict mind who is a convicted criminal to see whether he committed murder, the scientist is faced with his most dangerous and risky memory extraction ever.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: How far is too deep into the darkness of another’s unconscious mind?

9. Open Your Eyes (1997)

Description: A once handsome playboy, César finds himself in a mental facility and can’t remember why. All he can remember is meeting the love of his life for one day, and then getting into a car accident which left his face horribly disfigured. But the pain of becoming physically undesirable may help him to find the truth.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: Where does reality end and fantasy begin?

10. I Origins (2014)

Description: Dr. Ian Gray, a molecular biologist is studying the evolution of the eye. He finds his work permeating his life after a brief encounter with an exotic young woman who slips away from him. As his research continues years later with his lab partner Karen, they make a stunning scientific discovery that has far reaching implications and complicates both his scientific and spiritual beliefs. Traveling half way around the world, he risks everything he has ever known to validate his theory.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: Which is right, science or faith, chance or destiny?

11. The Congress (2013)

Description: More than two decades after catapulting to stardom with The Princess Bride, an aging actress (Robin Wright) decides to take her final job: preserving her digital likeness for a future Hollywood. Through a deal made with her loyal agent, her alias will be controlled by the studio, and will star in any film they want with no restrictions. In return, she receives healthy compensation so she can care for her ailing son and her digitized character will stay forever young. Twenty years later, under the creative vision of the studio’s head animator, Wright’s digital double rises to immortal stardom. With her contract expiring, she is invited to take part in “The Congress” convention as she makes her comeback straight into the world of future fantasy cinema.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie is a dystopian political story exploring the ideas of ageism in Hollywood and the soullessness of digital life.

12. Predestination (2014)

Description: A Temporal Agent is sent on an intricate series of time-travel journeys designed to prevent future killers from committing their crimes. Now, on his final assignment, the Agent must stop the one criminal that has eluded him throughout time and prevent a devastating attack in which thousands of lives will be lost.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: It’s an elegant study of the human self-identity.

13. The Frame (2014)

Description: Two strangers find their lives colliding in an impossible way. Alex is a methodical cargo thief working for a dangerous cartel. Sam is a determined paramedic trying to save the world while running from her past. Suddenly and mysteriously, Alex and Sam’s lives crash into each other and the fabric of reality is ripped from underneath their feet. Taking on the very root of fate, destiny, and their own existence, Alex and Sam race through a maze of an ever-changing universe while being pursued by a demonic man determined to erase the world.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: What if you could re-write the script that life has handed you and create something much more beautiful?

14. 2046 (2004)

Description: A writer works on a novel about a mysterious train that leaves for a place called 2046 every once in a while. Everyone who boards that train has the same intention – which is to recapture their lost memories. It is said that in 2046, nothing ever changed. Nobody knows for sure if it was true, because nobody who went there had ever come back – except for one person. This person had been there but he chose to leave. He wanted to change.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  How does a memory dictate the way you live your life?

15. Under the Skin (2013)

Description: A mysterious woman seduces lonely men in the evening hours in Scotland. Events lead her to begin a process of self-discovery.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie is a darkly captivating exploration of identity, normality and otherness.

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16. Another Earth (2011)

Description: On the night of the discovery of a duplicate Earth in the Solar system, an ambitious young student and an accomplished composer cross paths in a tragic accident.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie is a meditation on the infinite possible variations that a human life can take; it sparks the brain and moves the heart.

17. Enter The Void (2009)

Description:  Oscar is a heavy drug user who lives in colorful Tokyo, and his sister Linda is a stripper. Having constant traumatic flashbacks from childhood from drug-induced hallucinations, Oscar is eventually shot by the police. After they shoot him, he floats above his body and observes life: his sister’s sorrow, the rooms in a hotel, and even life at a molecular level.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie is an astonishing trip through life, death, and the universally wonderful and horrible moments between. Is there an afterlife?

18. Robot & Frank (2012)

Description: Set in the near future, Frank, a retired cat burglar, has two grown kids who are concerned that he can no longer live alone. They are tempted to place him in a nursing home until Frank’s son chooses a different option. Against Frank’s wishes, his son buys him a walking, talking humanoid robot programmed to improve his physical and mental health.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie is a light exploration of aging, dementia and the humanist potential of technology.

19. Exam (2012)

Description: Shown into a windowless examination room, eight candidates have reached the final stage of selection for a prestigious job at a mysterious corporation. There is one question before them and one answer is required. If they try to speak to the armed guard by the door they will be disqualified. If they leave the room for any reason they will be disqualified. If they spoil their papers they will be disqualified. As the clock ticks down, they must figure out what the company expects of them.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: How far are we prepared to go to secure the ultimate job?

20. The Machine (2013)

Description: Two computer programmers fall in love as they create the first-ever piece of self-aware artificial intelligence, designed to help humanity. But things go terribly wrong when the British Government steals their breakthrough and teaches it to become a robotic weapon.

Why It’s Thought Provoking:  This movie raises interesting questions regarding A.I technology that is becoming ever more present in our world. How will artificial intelligence impact our lives?

21. The Nines (2007)

Description: Gary, an actor who plays a cop on television, burns his ex-girlfriend’s things, then he drinks and drives, uses crack, and crashes his car. Sobering up in jail, Gary is placed under house arrest by the watchful eye of a cheery and tough-minded woman called Margaret. She moves him into the empty house of a writer who’s away in Canada. There, Gary meets Sarah, an attractive and seemingly-willing neighbor. As his friendship with Margaret blooms, strange things begin to happen: he finds notes that he doesn’t remember writing, he hears noises, and he seems to bump into himself in the kitchen. Two remaining chapters reveal what’s going on.

Why It’s Thought Provoking: Alternately funny and unsettling, this movie is like a riddle where the answer is the question: “How does it all add up?”

Watch these movies and let me know what you think! You’re new favorite movie might just be in this list.

Are there any movies that make you think that I haven’t mentioned here? Comment below and let me know.

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About Mateo

Mateo is a spiritual educator, guide, entrepreneur, and co-founder of one of the most influential and widely read spiritual websites on the internet. Born into a family with a history of drug addiction and mental illness, he was taught about the plight of the human condition from a young age. His mission is to help others experience freedom, wholeness, and peace in all stages of life. [Read More]

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There doesn’t seem to be a movie #4????  😕 

It’s not a movie but tales from the loop is an amazing t.v series.

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The 75 Best Intellectual Movies, Ranked

No matter what kind of movies you're into, we can all agree intelligent movies can be a nice change of pace becuase they're movies that make you think. Regardless of genre, these types of movies will give us moviegoers more than simple entertainment—they make us think, opening our eyes to things we may not have previously considered. Simply put, smart and clever movies can evoke emotion within viewers and actually have something to take away once the credits roll. In most other cases, we're simply captivated for a couple hours before turning the TV off or leaving the theater and moving on to something else.

Whether a movie incorporates social commentary or offers perspective different than most of our own, intelligent movies stand the test of time and often go down as the greatest movies of all time. From intelligent sci-fi films to thought-provoking dramas , there's a smart movie out there for everyone, and then some. For instance, consider the mind-bending Inception  or the ever-interesting Matrix, not to mention classics like Forrest Gump and Alien . These movies don't just bring sheer entertainment to the silver screen, but they also make us think—maybe even more than we'd like to. Regardless, the intelligent movies to follow cover a broad range of genres and subjects, and ultimately add to the entire experience.  But which one is the best intellectual movie of them all? Vote up your favorite intelligent movies to help them reach the top of the list.

If you're feeling smart and want to test your intelligence, check out some of the popular films below. Of course, also be sure to vote up the best intelligent movies , vote others down. And if you like these movies, check out our list of great movies about smart people .

The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption , a true magnum opus of the cinematic world, delves deep into the themes of hope, friendship, and survival. With the masterful performances of Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, one is transported to the dreary confines of Shawshank prison, weaving a tale that expertly touches the human psyche, making it a cherished benchmark in intelligent filmmaking.

• Dig Deeper... Behind The Scenes Of 'The Shawshank Redemption,' And The Making Of An Unlikely Classic
• # 1 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 1 of 66 on Movies You Wish You Could Still Watch for the First Time

The Green Mile

The Green Mile , another brainchild of Stephen King's genius, melds together the diverse elements of the supernatural and the somber gaze into the lives of death row inmates. Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan captivate the audience with their poignant portrayal of characters living in a dog-eat-dog world yet searching for redemption and miracles.

• # 29 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 24 of 126 on The 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
• # 15 of 379 on The Best Movies Of The 1990s

Good Will Hunting

Good Will Hunting , a gem crafted by and starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, showcases the intricacies of life and interpersonal relationships. The insightful dialogue, woven in with profound themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, is brilliantly punctuated by the prodigious performance of the late Robin Williams.

• Dig Deeper... 12 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From The Making Of 'Good Will Hunting'
• # 84 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
• # 197 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Saving Private Ryan

Saving Private Ryan drops the viewer directly into the harrowing beaches of Normandy and explores the burdens of war and the distinction between right and wrong. Its visceral battle scenes cannot overshadow the powerful message embodied by Tom Hanks and his crew: in times of conflict, the light of humanity still flickers.

• Dig Deeper... This Virginia Town’s Massive Single-Day Loss During WWII Inspired 'Saving Private Ryan'
• # 9 of 50 on The Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
• # 1 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is a bittersweet pill to swallow with Jack Nicholson's exceptional portrayal of a man inadvertently placed in a mental institution. Shedding light on society's subjugation of individuality, this film utilizes impeccable character development to pull the viewer into an enthralling exploration of the human psyche.

• Dig Deeper... Movies That Won Best Picture at the Oscars and Golden Globes
• # 342 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 5 of 96 on The Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture

Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump , an iconic American classic starring Tom Hanks, takes audiences on a profound journey through life's joys and sorrows. With its intelligent humor and penchant for tugging at heartstrings, this movie deftly displays how one can overcome adversity regardless of the hand life has dealt.

• Dig Deeper... 20 Crazy Behind-the-Scenes Facts About Forrest Gump
• # 5 of 50 on The Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
• # 103 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time

The Sixth Sense

The Sixth Sense , a psychological thriller woven with equal parts of poignancy and terror, brings forth the extraordinary acting talents of both Bruce Willis and a young Haley Joel Osment. This film showcases masterful storytelling techniques and subtle allusions that challenge the audience to connect the dots hidden beneath the surface.

• Dig Deeper... Behind The Scenes, ‘The Sixth Sense’ Was A Weird Underdog Story
• # 14 of 50 on The Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
• # 4 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time

The Usual Suspects

The Usual Suspects , a tantalizing whodunit, grips the audience with its complex narrative structure, following the enigmatic stories of a motley crew of criminals. With Kevin Spacey leading the cast, this brilliant film keeps you guessing while exploring themes of power, deception, and manipulation.

• # 7 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
• # 326 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 8 of 66 on Movies You Wish You Could Still Watch for the First Time

The Matrix , a groundbreaking science fiction film, effortlessly tackles questions of existence and reality through the impressive performances of Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, and Carrie-Anne Moss. This masterpiece provides an intelligent commentary on humanity's melding with technology, forever altering the landscape of futurist storytelling.

• Dig Deeper... 33 Things You Didn't Know About 'The Matrix' Trilogy
• And Deeper... 15 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Original 'Matrix' Film
• And Deeper... 11 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'The Matrix' That Made Us Say 'Whoa'

Back to the Future

Back to the Future melds the excitement of science fiction with a relatable coming-of-age tale, making it a standout 80s hit. Michael J. Fox's delightful portrayal of a teenager trying to preserve his timeline strikes the right chords, while the film poses intriguing questions regarding individual choices and their impacts on history.

• Dig Deeper... Surprising Facts You Didn't Know About Back to the Future
• # 3 of 113 on The 100+ Best Movies About High School
• # 1 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

Fight Club , a polarizing gem, wrestles with themes regarding consumer culture, self-discovery, and nihilism. Anchored by Edward Norton and Brad Pitt’s magnetic on-screen chemistry, this cerebral journey leaves a thought-provoking aftertaste, forcing viewers to grapple with their own perceptions of identity and social constructs.

• Dig Deeper... 'Fight Club' Fan Theories That Just Might Be True
• And Deeper... 20 Surprising Facts You Didn't Know About Fight Club
• # 8 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time

A Beautiful Mind

A Beautiful Mind , a poignant exploration of the human mind's complexities, follows the life of the brilliant yet tortured mathematician John Nash, portrayed by Russell Crowe. This biographical drama demonstrates the beauty that can emerge from even the ugliest corners of one's soul, amidst the spiral of mental illness.

• Dig Deeper... 'A Beautiful Mind' Left Out A Lot About The Life And Relationships Of John Nash
• And Deeper... Movies That Won Best Picture at the Oscars and Golden Globes
• # 472 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

The Departed

The Departed , a gripping crime thriller, shows the worlds of law enforcement and organized crime colliding to disastrous ends. With an all-star ensemble led by Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson, this gritty shoot-'em-up exemplifies masterful storytelling, entwining complex characters, and lingering ethical dilemmas.

• Dig Deeper... All The Evidence Matt Damon's Character In The Departed Is Secretly Gay
• # 239 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 13 of 96 on The Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture

Inception , a cerebral behemoth of a film, challenges our understanding of reality while mesmerizing us with stunning visuals and complex plotlines. Leonardo DiCaprio navigates dreams within dreams, entangling the audience in a high-stakes race against time, leaving viewers questioning the depths of their own subconscious.

• # 14 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
• # 320 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 47 of 115 on 50+ Movies That Need Sequels

Gladiator , an epic historical drama, portrays the unwavering search for justice and the indomitable human spirit, all embodied in Russell Crowe's pugnacious portrayal of Maximus. The film's power lies not only in its breathtaking battle sequences but also in its portrayal of themes like honor, betrayal, and love.

• Dig Deeper... 14 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From ‘Gladiator’
• # 19 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time

Dead Poets Society

Dead Poets Society , a timeless coming-of-age tale, allows the audience to experience the eclectic teaching style of an impassioned English teacher, embodied perfectly by Robin Williams. It beautifully illustrates the importance of inspiration, creativity, and nonconformity, proving that words hold the power to change—sometimes even save—one's life.

• # 13 of 113 on The 100+ Best Movies About High School
• # 71 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 327 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

The Martian

The Martian , an intelligent, yet surprisingly light-hearted film, exhibits the unique ability of humans to adapt to the most inhospitable of situations. Matt Damon, trapped on Mars, exudes resilience and determination while the audience is treated to an enthralling blend of hard science fiction, humor, and human perseverance.

• # 58 of 369 on The Best Movies Based On Books
• # 1 of 15 on 15 Mars Movies That Prove The Red Planet Is Even More Dangerous Than It Looks
• # 7 of 75 on 25+ Great Movies That Have A Ticking Clock

Catch Me If You Can

Catch Me If You Can serves as a masterful cat and mouse chase, painting the portrait of an ingenious con man portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, with Tom Hanks hot on his heels. This film uses wit, charm, and intelligence to delve deep into the themes of identity and deception, and the human desire for connection.

• Dig Deeper... Don't Miss These 15 Movies Like 'Catch Me if You Can'
• And Deeper... Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'Catch Me If You Can'
• # 203 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day , a brilliantly crafted philosophical comedy, features the inimitable Bill Murray as a weatherman caught in a time loop. Delighting the audience with its wit, the film cleverly explores themes of self-improvement, the human condition, and the journey towards enlightenment.

• # 72 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 31 of 702 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 18 of 379 on The Best Movies Of The 1990s

The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight , an epic tale of heroism pitted against anarchy, showcases Christian Bale's much-lauded portrayal of Batman and Heath Ledger's mesmerizing performance as the Joker. By exploring profound themes of power, morality, and the consequences of vigilante justice, this film breathes new life into the superhero genre.

• Dig Deeper... Gaping Plot Holes You Won't Be Able To Unsee In The Dark Knight
• And Deeper... Why Batman Begins Is Better Than The Dark Knight
• # 30 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

The Truman Show

The Truman Show , an existential satire, presents Jim Carrey as a man unknowingly living in a fabricated reality. An intelligent take on themes of surveillance, privacy, and the nature of reality, this film captivates the audience with its wit and insight about the human desire for control.

• Dig Deeper... Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'The Truman Show'
• # 382 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 98 of 126 on The 100+ Grossest Movies Ever

The Imitation Game

The Imitation Game , a captivating biographical drama, illuminates the life and contributions of an oft-overlooked genius, Alan Turing, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. This film highlights the groundbreaking work done during World War II while delving deep into themes of love, isolation, and the pursuit of intellectual freedom.

• # 100 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
• # 36 of 240 on The 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
• # 6 of 22 on The Least Accurate Movies About Historical Figures

Shutter Island

Shutter Island , a mind-bending psychological thriller, weaves an intricate web of intrigue and delusion with masterful performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo. The film unpacks the fragility of one's psyche and reality, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the plot twists and turns.

• # 6 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
• # 71 of 369 on The Best Movies Based On Books
• # 17 of 53 on The Best Movies Where The Bad Guy Wins

Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures uncovers the untold true story of African American female mathematicians who played pivotal roles in NASA's space race. This powerful film, driven by the outstanding performances of Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, delves deep into themes of discrimination, perseverance, and the triumph of the human spirit.

• # 13 of 240 on The 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
• # 3 of 89 on The Greatest African American Biopics
• # 51 of 468 on The Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked

Alien , a horrifyingly brilliant amalgamation of science fiction and horror, features Sigourney Weaver as a strong, resourceful protagonist in a terrifying battle for survival. The film feeds off human fears of the unknown, while expertly building tension and exploring the darker depths of space exploration.

• Dig Deeper... 43 Surprising Facts You Didn't Know About 'Alien'
• And Deeper... Making 'Alien' Was Even More Horrific Than The Final Product
• # 155 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Platoon , a harrowing portrayal of the Vietnam War, aces the depiction of the grim reality faced by soldiers on both sides. With superb performances by Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, and Willem Dafoe, this film delves into themes of dehumanization, the futility of war, and the haunting impact of unseen perils.

• # 4 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
• # 59 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta , a politically charged and riveting take on rebellion, stars Hugo Weaving as a revolutionary seeking justice. Amid its dramatic, larger-than-life story, the film also examines themes of power, oppression, and the human spirit's indomitable pursuit of freedom.

• # 437 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 14 of 165 on The 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
• # 68 of 369 on The Best Movies Based On Books

Erin Brockovich

Erin Brockovich , a stirring drama of perseverance against all odds, features Julia Roberts as a crusader for justice. This compelling true story shines a light on corporate malfeasance while exploring themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the never-ending fight to make the world a better place.

• # 16 of 240 on The 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
• # 23 of 90 on The 85+ Most Inspirational Movies Of All Time
• # 79 of 469 on The 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever

Memento , a mind-bending psychological thriller from Christopher Nolan, contorts human memory and linear storytelling. Guy Pearce's performance leaves viewers questioning their own recollection and understanding as the film deftly navigates themes of memory, identity, and the fallibility of human perception.

• # 33 of 253 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
• # 746 of 772 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 77 of 126 on The 100+ Grossest Movies Ever

Toy Story , a beloved and groundbreaking animated classic, takes the audience on a delightful journey to a world where toys come to life . With intelligent humor, unforgettable characters voiced by Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, and a touching exploration of themes such as friendship, loyalty, and change, the film has forever shaped the landscape of animation.

• Dig Deeper... 31 Interesting Things You Didn't Know About Toy Story
• And Deeper... The Best 'Toy Story' Characters In The Whole Series, Ranked
• # 4 of 50 on The Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
• Entertainment
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Want to feel smart, but don't want to read an actual book? Check out these lists of movies, TV shows, and other forms of entertainment that will get your mind wheels spinning.

Screen Rant

15 movies that really will make you think.

Here are 15 movies that are guaranteed to inspire heated discussion in your friend group, as well as a healthy amount of head scratching.

Occasionally a movie comes along that burrows into your brain and stays with you long after you leave the theater. These are the types of movies that demand repeat viewings, frequent discussions, and in depth analysis. While many movies are content to just be disposable entertainment (and there’s nothing wrong with those movies in small doses), we here at Screen Rant occasionally want a movie that will really make us think.

We’ve put together a list of movies that stay with you long after the final credits roll. Some of the films on this list are speculative sci-fi, some are psychological thrillers, and some are just remarkably intelligent, well thought-out comedies or romances. Whatever the genre, these are the movies that left us scratching our heads (in a good way!) If you’re looking for a movie to discuss with your friends, this list is a great place to start. Here are 15 Movies That Really Will Make You Think .

15. Ex Machina

This fascinating little thriller from last year picked up some very positive buzz during its theatrical run, and went on to land a surprising win for Best Visual Effects in the 2015 Academy Awards. Ex Machina tells the story of a Caleb, a young computer programmer (Domhnall Gleeson) who wins a contest to visit the CEO (Oscar Isaac) of his company in his remote cabin in the woods. Once there, he learns he will be participating in a Turing Test administered by the CEO himself, to determine if Caleb can distinguish a new artificially intelligent robot (Alicia Vikander) from a real human.

This thriller plays it’s cards close to its chest. For most of the film, we can tell something is slightly off with the eccentric CEO and his bizarre test, but we’re not quite sure who to trust. The twisty plot and dialogue heavy script also raises fascinating questions dealing with what it means to be human, and the ethics of creating a “life”. The shocking ending leaves viewers questioning who was right all along, and what comes next for the characters. Written and directed by Sunshine scribe Alex Garland, Ex Machina is a thought provoking thriller you don’t want to miss.

14. The Fountain

Darren Aronofsky’s The Fountain struggled to make it to theaters, then was met with a shrug when it finally arrived. Originally intended as a starring vehicle for Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett, the film languished when the stars pulled out. Aronofsky replaced them with Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz, and slashed the $70 million budget down to a sparse $35 million. The film that was released may be just a shadow of it’s former self, but it still holds the power to captivate and perplex audiences.

The loose, rambling plot wanders over time and space, focusing on a conquistador searching for the Tree of Life, a doctor trying to save his wife from cancer, and an astronaut adrift in space and hallucinating. The different characters are all played by Weisz and Jackman, and it is just as insane and confusing as all of that sounds. But repeat viewings are extremely rewarding for viewers. There are lots of thematic elements to dive into and discuss, and the open-to-interpretation ending will leave you perplexed and wanting to dig deeper.

13. Shutter Island

Shutter Island is considered a lesser Scorsese film, which, granted, is still head and shoulders above most other filmmakerss output. But Shutter Island deserves better than its lukewarm reception implies. The film is a wonderful genre exercise from a brilliant storyteller, and its twists and turns are endlessly entertaining, even after repeat viewings.

Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo play two Federal Marshals assigned to investigate a disappearance on the titular island, an asylum for the criminally insane. This spooky, single location premise sets the stage for thrilling story twists and complex plotting. While the final twist does somewhat diminish what came before it, the brilliant storyline that precedes it is completely worth your time. DiCaprio is at the top of his game as a stranded Marshal questioning his sanity, and fantastic supporting turns from Ben Kingsley and Max Von Sydow heighten the paranoia and claustrophobia. Shutter Island is the type of movie you want to rewatch the second it’s over.

12. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

What if you had the ability to erase all past memories of a former lover? Would you do it? This is the question that Michel Gondry, using a script written by Charlie Kaufman seeks to answer. In the process, the film explores the idea of memory, love, and how we color past memories based on present experiences. These are fascinating and complex ideas for a romantic drama to tackle, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind weaves them together with a heartbreaking poignancy.

A remarkable and understated Jim Carrey plays Joel, a man who chooses to erase all memories of his former girlfriend Clementine (Kate Winslet) after he learns that she’s undergone the same procedure. In the process however, he learns that maybe holding onto painful memories is part of being human. Kaufman’s nuanced and tender script honestly explores the highs and lows of being in love, with a sometimes uncomfortable frankness. The movie asks us what it means to be human and to be in love. We can’t ask much more from a romantic drama.

11. Stranger than Fiction

Stranger than Fiction has an immediately interesting and engaging premise: what if, one day, you started hearing a narrator recounting every event of your life, real time? Even worse, what if that narrator started predicting your quickly approaching death?

Will Ferrell stars as the man who begins to hear his own life’s narration, and sets out to break free of the path fate has chosen for him. It’s a deliciously clever idea for a film, and the movie pulls it off with an open-hearted sweetness that is impossible to not like. Ferrell’s scenes with his crush, played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, are especially tender. Watching the movie, it’s hard not to begin thinking about your own life. Are you forging your own path, or are you simply going along with the path fate has laid out for you? These are heavy questions for a comedy to tackle, but director Marc Forster pulls it off with aplomb. This is a comedy that will make you think about your own life, and the story that’s being written about you.

10. Black Swan

Darren Aronofsky makes his second appearance on this list with Black Swan . This Oscar nominee stars Natalie Portman as a dedicated ballet dancer named Nina living in New York City, who begins to feel her reality crumbling around her as a rival dancer (Mila Kunis) joins her troupe.

Black Swan follows the conventions of many psychological thrillers, making us question the reliability of our protagonist as events around her become more and more surreal. But Darren Aronofsky never descends into cliche or self parody. The total control he displays over his story is impressive. Through skilled cinematography and tour-de-force performances from Portman and Kunis, we become totally invested in the Nina’s story. We experience the terrors that Nina experiences first hand, and like her, we question what’s real and what’s in her mind. In our eyes, Kunis’ character becomes more and more devious, and by the time we’ve reached the final ballet dance, our fears have culminated in a horrifying spectacle that literalizes the movie’s title. Aronofsky loves to allow his audiences to connect the dots on their own, and Black Swan absolutely leaves us doing just that.

9. Barton Fink

Barton Fink may contain one of the best final shots in cinematic history. For those who haven’t seen the Coen Brothers’ brilliant fourth film, we won’t spoil it here, but we will say that the shot remains in your mind for days afterwards.

Barton Fink follows the titular playwright (John Turturro) as he is sent to Hollywood to write his first screenplay. Once there, he meets his mysterious hotel neighbor, played by John Goodman. As with most Coen movies, things around Fink quickly devolve into absurd madness, leaving Fink and the audience questioning their own existence.

The Coens are masters of open-to-interpretation plots. You can argue for days about the “meaning” behind Inside Llewyn Davis , No Country for Old Men , or Miller’s Crossing . Barton Fink may be our favorite of theirs though. From the playful jabs at Hollywood culture, to the nightmarish, fiery hotel sequence, this movie shows two master filmmakers in complete and total control of their craft. Barton Fink is one movie that, once you’ve seen it, never truly leaves your mind.

8. 2001: A Space Odyssey

One of the most famous thought-provoking movies ever made, 2001: A Space Odyssey still holds the power to captivate and perplex viewers nearly fifty years after it’s initial release. The movie acts as a blank slate for Stanley Kubrick to project his insecurities, his musings, and his philosophies onto. Entire books have been written on the film. That’s how you know you’ve created a movie that really makes people think.

The now iconic opening scene featuring apes worshipping at the altar of a giant space monolith has acted as a cultural touchstone since the movie premiered in 1968. The movie then employs the most famous smash cut of all time, as we transition from a thrown bone to a space ship floating through the cosmos. In the harrowing third act, we join two astronauts as they attempt to reason with the terrifyingly logical onboard computer, HAL. The film climaxes in a trippy and surreal adventure through space and time. These disparate plot threads are interwoven together seamlessly. Thematic elements arise, leaving us pondering the universe and our place in it as humans. This is heady stuff, and it’s one of our favorite “thinky” movies ever made.

7. The Master

The Master , like most later Paul Thomas Anderson features, is a movie that almost dares you to like it. With The Master , the famously cerebral filmmaker offers a movie with almost no satisfying narrative tricks. Anderson almost defiantly refuses to conform to dramatic conventions. The result is a beautiful, messy, frustrating masterpiece.

Joaquin Phoenix turns in a career best performance as the animalistic Freddie Quell, a former soldier looking for purpose in his meandering, miserable life. Phillip Seymour Hoffman offers that purpose in his new cult/religion, where he takes Quell under his wing as a new convert/project. The movie really dives into the notion of religion, while never feeling preachy or judgemental. While supposedly based on L. Ron Hubbard and the Church of Scientology, Anderson avoids specific criticisms, instead focusing on the relationship between two men. Freddie Quell and Lancaster Dodd complete each other in ways that go beyond merely teacher and student. The Master is a romance between two troubled, lost men. It’s a fascinating, complex, mysterious film that begs to be watched multiple times.

6. 12 Monkeys

Movies dealing with time travel are always going to be thought provoking. The mechanics of time travel, and the physical ramifications of it, are so fascinating to humans that scientists have entire schools of thought on the theoretical ramifications of it. One of the most brilliant explorations of the results of time travel is Terry Gilliam’s deliriously trippy 1995 film, 12 Monkeys .

Bruce Willis stars as a convict who is chosen for a time travel mission sometime in the 2030s. The purpose of the mission is to gather information about a devastating plague that is released in the 1990s. Once back, he crosses paths with a manic mental patient played by Brad Pitt. The film really pushes the audience to question the merits of time travel, and examine the ramifications of twisting space and time in your own favor. Featuring one of Brad Pitt’s best performances, the film is an insane, trippy adventure through space and time. Ultimately, the movie reinforces the idea of fate and the unshakeable nature of time. There’s so much thought-provoking material to unpack in this film, a new series premiered on SyFy in 2015 to further dive into this fascinating universe.

5. Mulholland Drive

Mulholland Drive is infamous for it’s “thinkiness.” The movie is so dense and mysterious, director David Lynch even released a series of hints to help viewers unpack the film as they watch it. He has assured viewers that all the clues are there to unravel the mystery of the film, if they pay enough attention.

The “answer” to the movie is obviously less important than the journey of attempting to reach that answer. In that respect, Mulholland Drive is undisputably a classic. Director Lynch tells the story of recent LA transplant Betty (Naomi Watts) as her life descends into a nightmarish landscape. Lynch’s control over the camera keeps us grounded even as the events of the film become more bizarre and outlandish. The famous diner sequence is a masterclass in sustaining and releasing tension, resulting in one of the scariest moments in any movie, horror or otherwise. The brilliance of Mulholland Drive only reveals itself more and more upon each subsequent viewing. If you haven’t yet experienced this American classic, rent it as soon as possible, and prepare to ponder it for weeks afterward.

4. Being John Malkovich

It’s nothing short of a miracle that a movie as unflinchingly weird as Being John Malkovich was produced by a major studio and released into theaters. Spike Jonze’s singularly bizarre vision was made during a time of studio shake-ups in the late 90s, resulting in several offbeat and experimental films to be released, including David O. Russell’s Three Kings and Paul Thomas Anderson’s Boogie Nights . While many of these films are now recognized as the classics they are, Jonze’s story of a sadsack loser who learns he can inhabit the body of actor John Malkovich stands out as one of the most unapologetically weird, cerebral movies ever released.

John Cusack stars as that sadsack loser, who finds a portal in a building that leads directly into John Malkovich’s head. This insane plot then leads to mistaken identities, morally questionable sex acts, and a surreal dream sequence. In the meantime, the movie explores the nature of celebrity, identity, and personality. It’s heady, brilliant, unwieldy stuff, and Jonze handles it with grace.

The third and last Darren Aronofsky feature on this list, Pi is a high point for Aronofsky in terms of cerebral weightiness. The fact that this is Aronofsky’s first feature film as a director is frankly astounding. The themes at play in this bizarre, surrealist movie are profound, and Aronofsky juggles them with the dexterity of a veteran filmmaker.

The loose plot follows a loner played by Sean Gullette as he attempts to unravel the mysteries surrounding the eternally fascinating number pi. His paranoia heightens as he is beset with government officials interrogating him about his research. The movie descends into black and white anarchy, resulting in some of the most grotesque imagery featured outside of a David Lynch film. Lynch is clearly a major influence on the young Aronofsky, and this black and white tribute to that famed filmmaker is a respectable, cerebral enterprise in its own right. After seeing the movie, you’ll never look at 3.14 again the same way.

Christopher Nolan is a polarizing filmmaker, but no one can say he’s not ambitious. With Memento , he attempted to tell a detective story starting from the middle and working it’s way to the beginning. That’s fairly complex for a relative newcomer filmmaker. The fact that the result is a gripping and engaging neo-noir thriller, let alone coherent at all, is astonishing.

The story follows the amnesiac Leonard (Guy Pierce) who is unable to generate new memories. He is on a mission to track down his wife’s killer, so he must tattoo the clues he learns on his own body. This high concept plot would be enough for most filmmakers, but Nolan also makes the bold choice to present the movie in non-linear fashion, to better replicate for the audience the sensation that Leonard must experience at all times. That is, short vignettes of scenes, told in reverse order, so that we never know exactly what is going on at the top of the scene, just like Leonard. This is an ambitious and clever concept that results in a shocking payoff. While Memento may not be perfect, it does invite lengthy analysis and discussion. Nolan is never content merely presenting a story to an audience. He forces us to engage with the film, and to draw our own conclusions. With Memento , he did just that.

Does anyone really understand Primer ? One of the most notoriously complex and confusing films ever released, Primer is the quintessential example of a movie that really makes you think. It’s no surprise that Shane Carruth, the man who directed this independent feature on a palty $7,000 budget, holds a college degree in mathematics, and previously worked as an engineer. The screenplay shows an absolute refusal to talk down to the audience, speaking in realistic terms about lofty scientific concepts.

Carruth himself stars as a man who stumbles into an accidental means of time travel. The resulting story is told in non-linear fashion, making it nearly impossible to completely decipher the actual timeline of events. Watching it, you’re constantly wondering which timeline you’re in, and at what point in time the events before you are unfolding. None of this takes anything away from the enjoyment of the film, however. The movie is like a Rubix cube, begging to be rearranged and puzzled over. Audiences cannot watch Primer impassively. It requires full attention and deep analysis. And, if you have it, a degree in theoretical physics wouldn’t hurt either.

What are some of your favorite movies to puzzle over and discuss? Let us know your favorite movies that make you think in the comments below.

20 Best Existentialist Movies That Will Make You Reevaluate Life

For a healthy dose of dread.

Movies have a kind of power that few other art forms possess. They can make you laugh, cry, bite your nails in suspense, or look away in fear. Sometimes, a few very special films can present fascinating themes of profound philosophical value that will make a reevaluation of one's way of thinking about life itself necessary. Some of these films are generally agreed to be better than the others, but their exploration of deep universal themes is always complex.

Existentialism films have been around for quite some time, exploring narratives where characters are confronted with the absurdity of existence , the burden of freedom, and the question of how to create meaning in their lives. When done right, existentialist movies like Solaris and The Truman Show can stay in the mind forever, leaving a message that leads one to live life in a different way.

20 'Like Someone in Love' (2012)

Directed by abbas kiarostami.

Iranian auteur Abbas Kiarostami 's final masterpiece, the French-Japanese production Like Someone in Love is among the most underrated examples of existentialism in film. Set in the bustling streets of Tokyo, the movie follows sociology student Akiko ( Rin Takanashi ), who is also a high-end sex worker. When she's sent to the elderly former professor Takashi ( Tadashi Okuno ), she's surprised at how he's more interested in dinner and conversation than sex.

Akiko's story may not seem like an existential one at first glance, but a closer look at Kiarostami's subtle approach to her narrative highlights the protagonist's feeling of being trapped and ashamed . Viewers are forced to watch Akiko's burden of loneliness as she struggles to reach out to her grandmother. In the end, the movie delicately examines self-discovery and identity. – Hannah Saab

Rent on Apple TV

19 'Stranger than Fiction' (2006)

Directed by marc forster.

A criminally underrated comedy film , Stranger than Fiction follows an IRS auditor named Harold Crick ( Will Ferrell ) who lives a mundane life. One day, he begins to hear a bizarre voice that seems to be narrating his life story. As he tries to uncover the source of the narration, he learns that he's a character in a book that's bound to end at some point.

While billed as a gut-busting comedy, Stranger than Fiction is also among the most dread-inducing existential movies . As Harold attempts to fight back against his predetermined fate, viewers are forced to question their own predictable daily routines and even the very concept of free will. The film is not usually commended as the extraordinary dramedy that it is, but its thought-provoking narrative definitely makes it worthy of more praise. – Hannah Saab

stranger than fiction

Rent on Amazon

18 'Melancholia' (2011)

Directed by lars von trier.

Anyone looking for a good dose of existential dread needn't look further than Melancholia . This apocalyptic film revolves around the relationship between two sisters, Justine ( Kirsten Dunst ) and Claire ( Charlotte Gainsbourg ). When a mysterious planet threatens to collide with Earth, the sisters' already strained relationship is challenged. It's far too depressing a movie for many viewers, but those able to stomach it are in for an unforgettable experience.

The movie is one of the best ever about mental illness , exploring the various reactions people can have to depression and mortality. Melancholia 's artful slow sequences evoke an almost visceral fear and understanding that death is never truly far away , but the only constant certainty in life. The film's message about acceptance and the value of connection makes the uniquely subtle sci-fi elements hit hard. – Hannah Saab

Melancholia

Two sisters find their already strained relationship challenged as a mysterious new planet threatens to collide with Earth.

Watch on Hulu

17 'Sideways' (2004)

Directed by alexander payne.

Based on Rex Pickett 's eponymous 2004 novel, Sideways is a road trip film unlike any other. It's centered on two men in their forties, Miles ( Paul Giamatti ) and Jack ( Thomas Haden Church ), who go on a wine-tasting trip to California. Along the way, audiences learn about Miles' struggles as a failed novelist and Jack's anxieties about getting married.

One of the great films where "not much happens" , most of Sideways is just two middle-aged men finding purpose and adventure in their lives through wine (just not Merlot) and sex. Their flaws, fears, desires, and need for purpose are brilliantly spliced into drunken conversations and funny mishaps on their road trip, its relatable existential themes slowly bubbling toward the surface. – Hannah Saab

16 'Anomalisa' (2015)

Directed by charlie kaufman.

Writer-director Charlie Kaufman has existentialist themes in pretty much every single one of his films, but rarely as strongly as in Anomalisa , the story of a middle-aged man called Michael ( David Thewlis ) who struggles with crossing the gap between the self and the other. In his world, everyone speaks with an identical voice ( Tom Noonan ), until a unique woman voiced by Jennifer Jason Leigh comes into his life.

A stop-motion work of art that proves animation isn't just for children , Anomalisa is full of Kaufman's typical surrealistic idiosyncrasies . It's a powerful film about loneliness, the difficulty of connecting with others, and the crushing weight of subjectivity, which audiences immediately responded to. Anomalisa thus got a Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination, the only R-rated movie to ever do so.

Watch on Kanopy

15 'The Great Beauty' (2013)

Directed by paolo sorrentino.

The Great Beauty is a gorgeous art drama that follows Jep Gambardella ( Toni Servillo ), a 65-year-old seasoned journalist and theater critic who spends his days attending the social events of Rome and appreciating its beauty and history. Jep begins to have a crisis after his 65th birthday, though, and looks beyond mindless parties and mundane activities to find "the great beauty."

This award-winning movie is one of the highest-rated Italian films on IMDb . Yet, The Great Beauty is rarely cited alongside other existential films, but it should be. Jep's growing discontent with his social circle, questions about his own identity, and incredible search for meaning in the absurdity of the everyday encapsulate a version of the existential journey most people must eventually take. – Hannah Saab

Watch on Max

14 'Fight Club' (1999)

Directed by david fincher.

Fight Club is a cult classic that needs no introduction. It tells the story of an unnamed protagonist known only as the Narrator ( Edward Norton ), who lives with insomnia and depression. His life changes when the anarchic soap salesman Tyler Durden ( Brad Pitt ) talks him into starting an underground fight club with him.

While it may not be the most subtle or nuanced existentialist movie, Fight Club offers powerful commentary on consumerist culture and alienation , aided by visceral twists and turns. The message ends up becoming a question about whether "the things you own end up owning you." Coupled with an explosive ending, the movie inspires existential dread and a reevaluation of one's place in the consumerist world.

13 'Synecdoche, New York' (2008)

Charlie Kaufman's directing debut might just be his most ambitious work to date. In Synecdoche, New York , a theater director (played by Philip Seymour Hoffman in one of the best acting performances of the 21st century ) struggles with his work and the women in his life as he tries to create a life-size replica of New York as part of his new play.

Synecdoche , no doubt one of the best existentialism movies of the 21st century, presents the heartbreak brought by failure in capturing the entire scope of life through art. Endlessly complex and analyzable, Kaufman's masterpiece shows the poignant relationship between life and death , and how inherent to human nature it is to want to leave a legacy behind. While definitely best suited for audiences that enjoy head-scratchingly bizarre films, it's a must-see for anyone who enjoys philosophical movies.

Synecdoche, New York

12 'birdman' (2014), directed by alejandro g. iñárritu.

Another one of the great examples of existentialism in pop culture, the multi-awarded modern masterpiece Birdman is a film that showcases the flaws of fame . Made to look like it's all one long unbroken shot, it's centered on Riggan Thomson ( Michael Keaton ), a Hollywood has-been known for his titular superhero role, who is now trying to prove his worth as a thespian with a Broadway play.

Frantic, stressful, and strangely relatable despite Birdman 's very specific characters , it's impossible not to feel what the protagonist does as he tries and fails to rebuild relationships, revive his career, and deal with the difficulties that come with the artist life. Of course, Riggan's perspective is unique as a faded actor, which only makes his entire ordeal more interesting. – Hannah Saab

Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

11 'waking life' (2001), directed by richard linklater.

Waking Life is a mind-boggling animated film that should never be excluded when discussing existentialist movies. This experimental animated film follows the ethereal experience of an unnamed young man who meets all sorts of people on a surreal journey, each imparting important bits of knowledge from their respective fields and personal experiences.

Its stunning rotoscoped trippy visuals only serve to emphasize the heaviness, range, and depth of subjects it covers in a way that's both enthralling and easy to follow. Viewers can expect to think about topics like free will, consciousness, the value of dreams, and the meaning of life over the course of Waking Life , presented in the kind of down-to-earth way that Richard Linklater's filmography tends to be characterized by. – Hannah Saab

Waking Life

10 'wild strawberries' (1957), directed by ingmar bergman.

Swedish director Ingmar Bergman is known for sensitively and poignantly dealing with dark existentialist themes that most filmmakers don't dare to touch. Wild Strawberries , one of his best works, sees an elderly professor ( Victor Sjöström ) confront the voidness of his existence after leading a life of coldness and apathy.

The film beautifully portrays the pain of loneliness and the journey of correcting one's mistakes, as well as the implications of aging with a fascinating senior character as its protagonist . It reminds viewers about the good things in life and the importance of spiritual growth, with a kind of deep emotional relatability that only Bergman was capable of in his time .

9 'The Truman Show' (1998)

Directed by peter weir.

Everyone remembers their first existential crisis, that weird moment when they first started to wonder whether there was more to life than they originally thought. In The Truman Show , Truman Burbank (played by Jim Carrey in one of his greatest works ) has a whole other kind of crisis as he begins to discover that for his entire life, he has unknowingly been the star of a reality show.

At once a beautiful coming-of-age and an idiosyncratic dramedy, The Truman Show has two core concerns in its narrative : On the one hand, the ubiquity of surveillance in mass media and the control it holds over people's lives; on the other, a scathing existentialist satire that ponders on concepts like free will and the quest for identity. There aren't many movies that inspire viewers to wake up to new views of reality, but this one surely does.

The Truman Show

Watch on Hoopla

8 'Solaris' (1972)

Directed by andrei tarkovsky.

Andrei Tarkovsky , one of cinema's greatest poets and philosophers, dove deep into what it means to be human across his entire filmography, but rarely with as big a focus on existentialism as in Solaris . Based on Stanislaw Lem 's seminal novel of the same name, this is a sci-fi film about a psychologist sent to a space station orbiting a mysterious planet, in order to discover what's driving its crew mad.

One of Tarkovsky's most complex and thematically rich works, Solaris deals with philosophy and love as one and the same : Love makes people more human, and so does philosophy. The film celebrates life and nature, and it asks the question of whether existence is possible without human interaction. Typically regarded as one of the best sci-fi movies of all time , Solaris is an obligatory watch for fans of the genre.

Watch on Criterion

7 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (2022)

Directed by daniel kwan and daniel scheinert.

Multiverses are the new big thing nowadays; and in the midst of this new sensation, the Daniels ' award-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once (the first-ever film to win six above-the-line Oscars) came out. An infinitely complex and ambitious sci-fi dramedy, the movie shows a middle-aged Chinese immigrant ( masterfully played by Michelle Yeoh ) on a mission to save reality by connecting with the lives she could have led in other universes.

The film tackles countless intricate themes like nihilism, love, generational trauma, and parenthood, to name but a few. Everything Everywhere All at Once is hilarious, incredibly emotional, and profoundly thought-provoking . The movie argues that if we're already here in this massive and senseless world, we might as well face it with kindness and positivity.

Everything Everywhere All at Once

Watch on Amazon Prime

6 '8½' (1963)

Directed by federico fellini.

Wonderfully directed and written by perhaps the greatest Italian auteur in history, Federico Fellini , 8½ sees a film director played by Marcello Mastroianni creatively barren at the peak of his career, looking for refuge in his memories and fantasies. It's one of those surrealistic movies that leave you scratching your head in delightful confusion after the credits roll, and it's always a treat to re-watch.

Dynamic, visually stunning, incredibly meta, and weird like few of its kind, the movie was called "the best film ever made about filmmaking" by the famous critic Roger Ebert . It's about art, about fractured consciousness, and about what makes life worth living.

5 'The Seventh Seal' (1957)

Another legendary film by director Ingmar Bergman, The Seventh Seal is an important work of art that depicts the journey of a disillusioned knight ( Max von Sydow ) who comes back from the Crusades in the 14th century to find devastation in his community. Soon, he meets the personification of Death ( Bengt Ekerot ), one of the best representations of the Grim Reaper in media, and plays chess with him in an attempt to find out the purpose of his life and faith.

Despite being almost 70 years old, the film has held up incredibly well and is worth watching today. The protagonist's search for meaning in the face of chaos, violence, and death gives the movie an atmosphere of existential dread. As with any great masterpiece, it doesn't directly answer any of the questions it poses, instead inviting audiences to contemplate those ideas themselves. It's usually agreed to be not just one of Bergman's best, but one of the best films of all time in general .

4 'Ikiru' (1952)

Directed by akira kurosawa.

Legendary director Akira Kurosawa , one of the greatest Japanese filmmakers , was no stranger to existentialist themes in his movies, but few of them are quite as life-changing as Ikiru (which means "to live"). It's a film about a bureaucrat trying to find the meaning of life after discovering that he's dying of cancer, with a groundbreaking second half that is bound to surprise even the most seasoned cinephiles.

Aside from being absolutely heartbreaking and yet beautifully life-affirming, Ikiru is a moving contemplation of mortality and a reaffirmation that one's life holds whatever meaning one wants it to hold . It's the kind of story that makes viewers want to go out into the world seeking to be better people, thanks to a level of emotional power that very few other films hold.

3 'Stalker' (1979)

In the world of Tarkovsky's classic movie Stalker , without a doubt one of the best in the sci-fi genre , faith has disappeared and people don't believe in anything. In this spiritually barren environment, a man guides a writer and a professor through an area known as the Zone, in search of a room that grants one's innermost desire.

In this film, Tarkovsky depicts the importance of faith, spirituality, human connections, and how all those things intersect . It's a celebration of philosophy and of the arduous but ultimately rewarding path to transcendence, characterized by Tarkovsky's typical deliberate pacing and keen eye for some of the most gorgeous scenes in any film of this kind.

2 'Apocalypse Now' (1979)

Directed by francis ford coppola.

One of the best war movies of all time , Apocalypse Now is a timeless classic and a masterpiece. Set during the Vietnam War, the film follows Captain Willard ( Martin Sheen ), who is given a top-secret task up the Nung River to track down and kill the rogue Colonel Kurtz ( Marlon Brando ). In the process, Willard begins to understand precisely why Colonel Kurtz has started his own cult-like murderous group deep in the jungle.

While it may not be the first thing viewers think of when considering existentialism, Apocalypse Now is so much more than a war film. Apocalypse Now is a surreal, disturbing, and hallucinatory voyage into the dark heart of the jungle , as well as an unsettling trip into the worst of humanity. It will make audiences contemplate the unimaginable horror individuals are truly capable of given an inhuman context like war.

Apocalypse Now

Rent on YouTube

1 '2001: A Space Odyssey' (1968)

Directed by stanley kubrick.

Stanley Kubrick is considered by many the single greatest filmmaker in history; and watching 2001: A Space Odyssey , which also happens to be widely considered Kubrick's best work , it's not hard to see why. In this two-and-a-half-hour-long sci-fi epic, king among movies about existentialism, humanity finds a mysterious object buried in the Moon and sets off to find its origin with the help of the world's most advanced computer, HAL 9000 ( Douglas Rain ).

With minimal dialogue, 2001 tells a rousing story spanning millennia. It's an intimidating but also inspirational evaluation of the human condition in relation to the infinity of time and space. Kubrick reminds viewers that in the grand scheme of things, humanity still has a long way to go in awakening its spirit and consciousness . 2001 is considered one of the most ambitious, beautiful, and memorable films ever made, a reputation that it has rightfully earned.

2001: A Space Odyssey

NEXT: Iconic Mind-Boggling Movies You Have to Watch Twice

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52 Movies That Are So Clever They'll Have You Thinking For Days

All these films will stay with you long after they've finished playing.

BuzzFeed Staff, UK

We asked members of the BuzzFeed Community to tell us what movies actually make them think , you know, the ones that stay in your head for days long after they've finished. Here are some of their best answers.

1. requiem for a dream (2000).

"It shows in graphic detail the harshness of addiction and the lengths that people will go to in order to get a kick. At the same time is forces you, well, forced me, to evaluate the relationship with my parents and how I often take them for granted. It also shows us how even the most sensible and respectable people can change just like that. I’ve seen this film many times and each time it sticks with me for days afterwards. A brilliant piece of cinema."

Submitted by murrays4e7b54973 .

"Such an intense movie. It shows in graphic and unflinching detail the dangers of addiction and forces you to stop and examine what you have in life. Definitely one of the most memorable films I’ve seen."

Submitted by kezzygill .

2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

"I think about it a lot and I find the premise is easily transferred to all relationships in life. The heartache of losing someone or even the opposite, of hating someone and wanting to erase them from your minds? Really relatable, and Joel's regret of his choice to erase Clementine? All really heart-wrenching."

Submitted by James Robert, Facebook.

"OK, this is so cheesy but my husband and I were going through an awful time, really bad. I watched Eternal Sunshine and it was just like a light came on. I knew then and there I'd spend all my days making memories with my one good and bad and I didn't want it any other way. [We've] been together 19 years and married [for] 12 [now], I still get butterflies."

Submitted by Manda Rose Blair, Facebook.

3. Predestination (2014)

"Thought about it for ages then forced others to watch it just so I could discuss it all with them. The multi-layers of WTF still roll around my head now."

Submitted by Natasha Field, Facebook.

"It will mindfuck you."

Submitted by alisyadriana .

4. Being John Malkovich (1999)

"Spike Jonze’s Being John Malkovich is the ultimate headfuck…and probably the most original film ever made."

Submitted by joachimz .

5. Life of Pi (2012)

"This one really made me think. I mean, the ending – the cryptic ending – about the animals on the boat… I guess it was just left open for the viewer to interpret. Idk. That movie made me think about life differently and how I would act if I were in that position."

Submitted by Pooingpony .

6. Donnie Darko (2001)

"Seriously, BuzzFeed, Donnie Darko is my all-time favourite film. It's not just the music or the way it’s filmed, it’s the feeling you get from watching it. It’s impacted on me so much, I’m thinking about getting my first tattoo in homage to this film."

Submitted by alicep4f5640555 .

" Donnie Darko and Ender's Game are two movies that I can constantly watch and they still raise new questions. ... Donnie's forced to choose between himself and his loved ones, while Ender's unknowingly forced to choose between his race and another. They really force you to think about morals and idea of playing god."

Submitted by Nubia Jade Brice, Facebook.

7. Contagion (2011)

"It won’t be bombs that wipe us out, it’ll be a disease."

Submitted by y48ad3d274 .

8. The Karate Kid (2010)

"It's essentially the story of a child being bullied and standing up to him. Very relatable for so many people. Also, the scene with Mr Han and the car speaks volumes about beating yourself up over your mistakes and learning to move past them and grow as a person. Beautifully made and a story well-told. :)"

Submitted by Lucy Thorpe, Facebook.

9. Equilibrium (2002)

"In this film, most people find the regime normal and think think they have freedom and are safe. This is a total illusion created by propaganda. This makes me wonder if my own sense of freedom and safety is an illusion and how much propaganda is used in my country."

Submitted by tessaderoon1964 .

10. Interstellar (2014)

" Interstellar makes you realise how insignificant our planet is in the universe, and how exciting and terrifying the universe is. The physics behind it all is true which makes this movie even more powerful. Despite possibly being hard to follow at some points, it all makes sense in the end. The cinematography and visual effects are stunning, and combined with Hans Zimmer’s score makes for a very visually satisfying and emotional movie!"

Submitted by holly007 .

11. The Truman Show (1998)

" The Truman Show was the last film that made me think. Not only is it fantastic but it ponders the question whether we are being watched and how realistic it reflects on modern society through the paparazzi and reality shows like Big Brother and [ Keeping Up With ] the Kardashians ."

Submitted by Niall Hassett, Facebook.

"The first time I watched that film I was convinced my life wasn’t real. It made me question everything. Pretty much messed with my head!"

Submitted by kyliematthews88 .

12. Exam (2009)

"Considering there are only nine actors and it's shot in a single room, it's one of the best-crafted, best-acted films I've ever seen. 'Eight candidates enter a room to secure a highly sought-after job with a prestigious company.' My life was changed. Seriously. It's right up there with Shutter Island , Inception , and Shawshank Redemption . Maybe even better."

Submitted by Freya Teesdale, Facebook.

13. The Matrix (1999)

"It made me ask myself questions like: What is reality? Is everything destined? Does luck exist? Do things happen randomly or do they always mean something or happen for a reason?"

14. Looper (2012)

"There is one part where a man's body is falling apart, literally, that messes with your mind."

Submitted by alexn4b0c82857 .

15. Ex Machina (2015)

" Ex Machina explores the boundaries of human and artificial intelligence through an intimate Turing test. It will really melt your brain and make you think for days about metaphysical philosophical questions."

Submitted by Siri Skotvedt, Facebook.

"This has to be the only movie where I have not predicted the ending, and how the ending happened really fucked me over. It really does make you think about what makes a human, human."

Submitted by chibaby612 .

16. Breaking the Waves (1996)

"A film I can never forget. As someone who has a habit of being nice too often, highlighting the perils of selflessness is haunting! I'm not sure I can watch it again."

Submitted by Tracy Morter, Facebook.

17. Metropolis (1927)

"Fritz Lang’s Metropolis is still the ultimate film about class struggle and the need for mediation and compromise in society. For a silent film it is incredibly harrowing, thought-provoking, and suggestively sexual. A huge inspiration for many music videos, notably by Madonna and Lady Gaga."

18. V for Vendetta (2006)

"It’s all about a right-wing government controlling the British population via fear, and a vigilante called V’s fight to expose it all. It makes you think, because there’s so many parallels with what is actually going on in British society today."

Submitted by clairedorym .

" V for Vendetta . Especially in today’s political climate, it makes you think about your place in society and what you will stand for…or against."

Submitted by courtneeeyj .

19. Eden Lake (2008)

"I haven’t been the same since."

20. Cloud Atlas (2012)

" Cloud Atlas was perfection!!! A wonderful message about unity and seeing similarities rather than differences, and the score is just too good. It's like it's too good. That film is a slightly more hopeful and lovely visual companion to the book."

Submitted by Emily E.M. Crawford, Facebook.

21. Never Let Me Go (2010)

" Never Let Me Go is a fantastic film. It makes you question the realities of existence and your approach to loving someone in your life. Very moving, I absolutely recommend."

Submitted by lizziem4c5e1947d .

22. The Prestige (2006)

" The Prestige by Christopher Nolan. About magicians in the late 1800s/early 1900s. The non-linear narrative and plot makes you want to work out what's happening before it's all revealed – definitely a film you don't want to take your eyes off."

Submitted by caitlinbott .

" The Prestige fucked me up long after I finished watching it – I had to rewatch the ending three times to actually realise what the hell was going on. I mean, it’s an excellent film (hello, Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman – it’s bound to be awesome) but I totally didn’t expect that ending…"

Submitted by eliseeharveyy .

23. Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)

"Even though It is obvious that Jane is unstable and jealous, this movie is heartbreaking because you are watching a woman who could never grow up. The only thing that is helping her get through life is drinking heavily and dreaming these crazy fantasies of when she becomes a star again. She is stuck in the present and is realising that her career is long over, and she has no idea how to move forward."

Submitted by leonharris18 .

24. Memento (2000)

"It’s so crazy. A mystery thriller about a man who suffers from short-term memory loss. But the movie alternates between colour and black-and-white sequences, and the black-and-white proceed in chronological order and the colour go to reverse chronological order. It puts you in the shoes of the main character so you never know any more than he does and you really have to focus to know what the heck is going on. (It’s really good though.)"

Submitted by katieh49136638a .

25. Performance (1970)

"It's full of conflicting surreal images about gender and sex, power and submission. The way it combated and challenged the gender inequality of the '60s (much of which is still prominent now) through magical realism and body swapping camera tricks is just amazing. Plus it’s grounded in one of the best London gangster tales told in film, lampooning subtly the homoerotic tendencies of those Kray-like men. Not to mention Mick Jagger, James Fox, and Jorge Luis Borges all rolled into one. That film makes me question new things with every watch!"

Submitted by m4b1f251fc .

26. The Social Network (2010)

"I've only ever seen it once, but it has stuck with me since that one viewing, and I continually keep wondering about how one person could change the world so quickly (Facebook really did take the world by storm)."

Submitted by Becky Martin, Facebook.

27. Gone Baby Gone (2007)

"I don’t want to spoil the ending but I was really torn on who was right at the end. I thought about it for days after seeing it."

Submitted by Ohhitscarly .

28. Possession (1981)

"It’s not exactly a horror film, or a suspense film, or a psychological thriller. It’s one of the most moving (yes, I mean that) and visceral portrayals of the last stages of a relationship. It says a lot about mental illness, as well, and throughout the film the ominous presence of the Berlin Wall adds a political dimension to the film. I discover new layers to this film every time I watch it."

Submitted by study .

29. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)

"Ben Whishaw is amazing, and it also features Dustin Hoffman, Alan Rickman, and Rachel Hurd-Wood. It's an incredibly interesting concept and the visual artistry is strikingly gorgeous."

Submitted by Julie Gear, Facebook.

30. Girl, Interrupted (1999)

"A film that is so close to today’s mental health issues. For me I could relate to this film a lot."

Submitted by sarahb4f5574bd7 .

31. Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

"Absolutely amazing movie and however you interpret the ending it’s still extremely powerful!"

Submitted by t44b54bc68 .

32. The Beach (2000)

"It explores the depth of the human mind and the concept of paradise, and how it is unattainable. Richard (Leo DiCaprio) slowly unravels and becomes detached from society whilst living in a supposed utopia, until he is barely recognisable in his hysteria. It's fantastic and also Leo is damn fine."

Submitted by Charlotte Farrar, Facebook.

33. Thirteen (2003)

"Nikki Reed as Evie made me realise that maybe all those popular girls in school were fighting just as many, if not more demons, than the troubled, weird kids. It's beautiful, but at the same time heart-wrenching and brutally honest. Holly Hunter's performance is also something to behold."

Submitted by Lauren Parsons Jones, Facebook.

34. Amélie (2001)

"Watching it always makes me contemplate about what it would be like to see the world through someone else’s perspective and how even the smallest decisions can have huge impacts on our lives. Existential, yet refreshing."

Submitted by claudsab .

35. Before I Go to Sleep (2014)

"The thought of waking up and forgetting everything every day scared the crap out of me."

Submitted by beccal48e89b7ff .

36. The Fountain (2006)

"It really made me think about death and how I view it and how I’ll deal with it if ever I had foreknowledge of it. It truly is a heartbreaking film, but also one of hope and although I’m not religious I took a certain spirituality away from the film."

Submitted by MattyAlf .

37. American Beauty (1999)

"Even though it could be argued that this movie is a bit of a downer, I still find the evolution of Kevin Spacey's character compelling, sad, and also hilarious throughout. Each time I watch this film I'm left feeling moved and reminded to really live my life and not just let it sail by."

38. Being There (1979)

"It is a relatively unknown film, but it was so clever. How could a character who has spent his life isolated from the world navigate so well when he had to? And the Jesus metaphor at the end was extremely thought-provoking."

Submitted by Erin Sanders, Facebook.

39. Inception (2010)

"Because, really, where the hell's Leo at the ending? Still dreaming or what?"

Submitted by Annisa Rahma Bachrie, Facebook.

"Aside from the beautiful cinematography and the haunting soundtrack, the 'waiting for a train' quote has always really stuck with me – the only thing that matters is being with the people you love."

Submitted by jacquesk3 .

40. The Skin I Live In (2011)

"It's in Spanish so be prepared for subtitles if you aren't fluent, but it's one of the most incredible mindfuck movies I've ever seen. I watched it high the first time and couldn't sleep that night, I kept replaying it over and over again and spent hours on the internet reading everything I could get my hands on about it. It's not my favourite movie of all time, but I consider it the best film I've ever seen. Not to mention it's quite possibly Antonio Banderas's best role to date."

Submitted by Emily Brouwer, Facebook.

41. Eat Pray Love (2010)

"I watched it when I was completely lost about what to do in pursuing my future goals. I was at complete breaking point with mental health and being in a place I couldn't find my way out of. But somehow watching Julia Roberts explore all the emotions of being alone and being OK with that gave me the guts to cancel the negativity in my life and explore the world in which we don't allow ourselves to see. Still one of my favourite films, it kinda also saved me."

Submitted by Paige Stainsby, Facebook.

42. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

"Not only does the film have incredible cinematography and direction, but it also has a great story and the ending is just a total mindfuck which left me thinking about it for days."

Submitted by Clear1996 .

43. The Virgin Suicides (1999)

"In a somber way, it always reminds me of the fragility of life, in the same way that American Beauty does. It makes me value the little things a lot more and view my life in a much more open way."

Submitted by arewethereyeti .

44. We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)

"It addresses the age-old question of nature versus nurture, as you try and figure out if Kevin’s mum despises him because he is evil, or if he is evil because his mum despises him. Because it doesn’t pick a definite side, it leaves you thinking about it for weeks after viewing it. The book is even better."

Submitted by jellyment .

45. Natural Born Killers (1994)

"Just so awesome. Really makes you think about the media's influence and also the minds of these killers."

Submitted by CoralFang .

46. Gone Girl (2014)

" Gone Girl stuck with me for quite a while. I hadn’t read the book so I had no idea what was going to happen, which made it better."

Submitted by D75 .

47. Shutter Island (2010)

"I had to watch that movie more than I watched Inception . It's the only movie where I actually researched and tried to figure out what the ending meant. I recommend it to any living person. I never am surprised by the endings of movies but this just raised my expectations for movies even further. Leo was amazing in this one."

Submitted by fatimahfghazig .

48. The Usual Suspects (1995)

" The Usual Suspects and its amazing twist had me amazed for days."

Submitted by marthaj4b4ecca41 .

49. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

"It portrays mental illness in a raw and hauntingly beautiful way that leaves you thinking about it for days. It’s accurate and acted brilliantly. It gives an insight into the minds and thoughts of so-called 'crazy' people and shows that they are capable of love just like the rest of us."

Submitted by elizabetha435bf178d .

50. Where the Wild Things Are (2009)

"This film made me think about how much of a rollercoaster our emotions are as children and how our imaginations are a means to escape the reality of these feelings."

Submitted by ellalucyrosem .

51. Room (2015)

"It makes you appreciate the little things in life, especially as it is from the POV of a 5-year-old boy."

Submitted by l4d17ebbd0 .

52. The Butterfly Effect (2004)

"It’s just crazy to think that by doing one thing different, it could take your life down a completely different path. Makes me sit and wonder 'what if...'"

Submitted by ashleynffcw .

Note: Submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Top 7 Movies To Put Your Critical Thinking Skills To Work

Last Updated on February 7, 2022 by Editorial Team

From understanding what your friend is upset about to giving a logical explanation about a recent incident to even identifying real and fake news, many situations that life throws us in can be overcome and understood well by critical thinking. This complex notion is the capacity to think clearly and rationally and form a logical relationship between concepts, subjects, and ideas. 

The ability to analyze and solve problems, creative thinking, great communication, and empathy comes with a person’s potential to think critically and intensely. But this is not something that can be taught theoretically in school or by books. A child needs practical learning to understand the basics of critical thinking and later exercise it in real life. 

A lot of learning about different skills comes from daily activities , games, and even movies. Movies teach us a lot of life and life skills, critical thinking being one of them. This article will be all about such movies which promote critical thinking and enable the individual to indulge and practice attributes like self-evaluation, drawing conclusions, creativity, emotional intelligence, and much more. 

Movies & Critical Thinking

When individuals are exposed to new information, they need to carefully and logically find out how this information relates to what they already know. Similarly, whenever a movie makes an individual aware of a certain emotion, feeling, or attribute, they begin to think consciously about it and try to fit it in their library of attributes.  

Once in a while, a clever movie comes in and plays with an individual’s mind, which in turn helps promote critical thinking. There lies suspense and twists at every stage of a good survival and thrilling movie, which compel the audience to use their mind critically. Fortunately enough, nature endows each individual with intrigue and vision that can be further enhanced if we indulge in the movies that make us question and think hard over our existing beliefs and notions. 

How do movies help in critical thinking?

Film or movies are an effective educational tool. Films can help individuals better comprehend and empathize with the life experiences of other persons by providing diverse views in compelling and emotional ways. 

Individuals learn to investigate, evaluate, synthesize, and understand using the movies and their plots as catalysts. Movies serve as a training tool for survival skills and real-world situations. Above all, movies are becoming a great medium to impart skills that help children think critically to solve problems. 

List of Movies for critical thinking 

1.  eternal sunshine of the spotless mind (2004).

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a romantic science-fiction film that questions all our beliefs. Being a psychological drama with a nonlinear storyline, this movie promotes critical thinking because of the unique plot. Having had memories removed to get rid of the traumatic past, this movie fills in the mind with many emotions and questions, which builds the various attributes of critical thinking.

2. Life of pi (2012)

Life of Pi is one movie that challenges our thoughts and helps us face the real world. Being an adventure drama film, this movie by Ang Lee centers around an Indian adolescent who tells a novelist about how he survives a shipwreck and ends up adrift in the pacific ocean. This aspect of the movie brings awareness to the audience. Life of Pi shows the struggle of the teenager to save his life, which induces the various attributes of critical thinking in the individual.  

3. Forrest gump (1994)

Forrest Gump is a comedy-drama film based on a kind guy who impacts numerous historical events in the United States in the 20th century. This movie is complex but will play with the strings of your heart. Promoting aspects like loyalty, appreciation, and honesty, Forrest Gump is perfect for adolescents as this will make them think hard and learn a lot.  

4. Good will hunting (1997)

Being an American Psychological drama, this film about a 20-year-old will change your life for good. The movie teaches you to break down the barriers and inspires you to fight the demons inside. This story about an unappreciated genius will persuade you to think emotionally and logically question your life and teachings. 

5.  Equilibrium (2002)

Starring Emmy Watson and Taye Diggs, this movie is an American science fiction that edifies an individual’s potential for creative expression. The movie revolves around how residents need to undergo daily medication to keep their emotions at bay, making their emotional intelligence more powerful. The way characters regulate their behavior makes the viewer more sensitive towards morals and society in general. All these aspects of the movie ultimately work towards the critical thinking of an individual.

6. Inside out (2015)

Set in the mind of an 11-year-old, this movie deals with strong emotions that we face daily. These feelings of anger, fear, disgust help the protagonist and give out plenty of inculcating moments. The movie teaches the viewers a lot about happiness, leaving a powerful message which challenges emotions and teaches them not to suppress them but rather express them. 

7. Moneyball (2011)

This American biographical film is based on a true story that is about Oakland Athletic’s former manager. Few movies enable the viewer to think out-of-the-box, and this is one of them. It shows the unique way of building a team and builds critical thinking attributes like teamwork and decision making. 

Wrapping up

Although movies cannot be used as a primary method of teaching attributes, skills, and abilities, they work perfectly as they push us to think intensely and build new qualities, such as critical thinking. These movies can be added to the class activities, and later the teacher can also host a debate, which will be even more beneficial for the student. These movies can also be given as homework for holidays, and later the teacher can discuss them in class to understand whether the child has comprehended the plot well. Movies are often looked at as a source of entertainment, but very few give out life lessons and make the individual more aware of their feelings, likes, dislikes, and so much more.

An engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor and animal rights activist. In more than 5+ years of my online teaching experience, I closely worked with many students struggling with dyscalculia and dyslexia. With the years passing, I learned that not much effort being put into the awareness of this learning disorder. Students with dyscalculia often misunderstood for having  just a simple math fear. This is still an underresearched and understudied subject. I am also the founder of  Smartynote -‘The notepad app for dyslexia’, 

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10 must watch movies for critical thinkers, movies challenge and improve people's intellect..

Every now and then, a powerful movie comes along and challenges our thoughts and beliefs. Some movies grow up with us, and help us face the real world. People learn from films and, often, they bring awareness to viewers. Here are seven powerful movies that will definitely have an impact on your life.

1. Girl Rising

Girl Rising profiles 9 young girls who dare to dream of getting an education. It depicts the incredible influence education has on girls and the unstoppable human perseverance. Although these girls face educational barriers their male counterparts do not, this film examines how educating girls can help end poverty, forced marriage, domestic slavery, lack of access to healthcare, discrimination, and gender discrimination and violence. Girls are the future.

2. The Boy In The Striped Pajamas

I highly recommend you read the book first, but if you go into this movie cold then prepare to cry. This movie tells a story of the holocaust from the perspective of two 8-year-old boys for a friendship. This movie will make you realize the importance of history and learning from the past. Although your heart will rip apart, the movie

3. Forrest Gump

This is another movie that will pull at your heart strings, but in a good way. Forrest Gump is a complex movie, which ties in themes of acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation. Watching this movie is essentially a right of passage before maturity.

4. Good Will Hunting

Ah, if young Matt Damon isn't reason enough to change your life then I don't know what is. However, this movie is about breaking down your own barriers and fighting your inner demons. If you need inspiration for motivation then look no further than the floppy haired, young, misguided Matt Damon.

5. The Great Gatsby

Redford or Leo? Who is the true Gatsby? I'll let you decide which movie is better, but personally, I'm a fan of the original (I still love you, Leo). If you ever took a high school English class then your teacher probably forced "The Great Gatsby " on you, but when you watch this movie, after reading the book, it can be oddly relatable. Sure, not everyone is a mysteriously wealthy man who throws parties, but unrequited love? Well anyone can relate to that feeling. "The Great Gatsby" takes you on a fantastical journey and yet is somehow also quite sobering. In the real world, there isn't always a happy ending.

6. Lee Daniels' The Butler

Cecil works as a butler in the White House, as the title implies, and he gets a front row seat to see the presidents change America. This movie gives you a glimpse into history, and shows you what America is built on.

7. Silver Linings Playbook

Silver Linings Playbook brings mental health awareness to the foreground. This breakthrough movie teaches about redemption. Although you may not have experience with mental illness in your own life, this movie has themes about dealing with dysfunctional situations and the art of perseverance. Plus, Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper are everywhere , so why not see them some more?

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25 beatles lyrics: your go-to guide for every situation, the best lines from the fab four.

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make

The End- Abbey Road, 1969

The sun is up, the sky is blue, it's beautiful and so are you

Dear Prudence- The White Album, 1968

Love is old, love is new, love is all, love is you

Because- Abbey Road, 1969

There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be

All You Need Is Love, 1967

Life is very short, and there's no time for fussing and fighting, my friend

We Can Work It Out- Rubber Soul, 1965

He say, "I know you, you know me", One thing I can tell you is you got to be free

Come Together- Abbey Road, 1969

Oh please, say to me, You'll let me be your man. And please say to me, You'll let me hold your hand

I Wanna Hold Your Hand- Meet The Beatles!, 1964

It was twenty years ago today, Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play. They've been going in and out of style, but they're guaranteed to raise a smile

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-1967

Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see

Strawberry Fields Forever- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Can you hear me? When it rains and shine, it's just a state of mind

Rain- Paperback Writer "B" side, 1966

Little darling, it's been long cold lonely winter. Little darling, it feels like years since it' s been here. Here comes the sun, Here comes the sun, and I say it's alright

Here Comes The Sun- Abbey Road, 1969

We danced through the night and we held each other tight, and before too long I fell in love with her. Now, I'll never dance with another when I saw her standing there

Saw Her Standing There- Please Please Me, 1963

I love you, I love you, I love you, that's all I want to say

Michelle- Rubber Soul, 1965

You say you want a revolution. Well you know, we all want to change the world

Revolution- The Beatles, 1968

All the lonely people, where do they all come from. All the lonely people, where do they all belong

Eleanor Rigby- Revolver, 1966

Oh, I get by with a little help from my friends

With A Little Help From My Friends- Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, 1967

Hey Jude, don't make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better

Hey Jude, 1968

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away. Now it looks as though they're here to stay. Oh, I believe in yesterday

Yesterday- Help!, 1965

And when the brokenhearted people, living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.

Let It Be- Let It Be, 1970

And anytime you feel the pain, Hey Jude, refrain. Don't carry the world upon your shoulders

I'll give you all i got to give if you say you'll love me too. i may not have a lot to give but what i got i'll give to you. i don't care too much for money. money can't buy me love.

Can't Buy Me Love- A Hard Day's Night, 1964

All you need is love, love is all you need

All You Need Is Love- Magical Mystery Tour, 1967

Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly. all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise.

Blackbird- The White Album, 1968

Though I know I'll never lose affection, for people and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more

In My Life- Rubber Soul, 1965

While these are my 25 favorites, there are quite literally 1000s that could have been included. The Beatles' body of work is massive and there is something for everyone. If you have been living under a rock and haven't discovered the Fab Four, you have to get musically educated. Stream them on Spotify, find them on iTunes or even buy a CD or record (Yes, those still exist!). I would suggest starting with 1, which is a collection of most of their #1 songs, or the 1968 White Album. Give them chance and you'll never look back.

14 Invisible Activities: Unleash Your Inner Ghost!

Obviously the best superpower..

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

1. "Haunt" your friends.

Follow them into their house and cause a ruckus.

2. Sneak into movie theaters.

Going to the cinema alone is good for your mental health , says science

Considering that the monthly cost of subscribing to a media-streaming service like Netflix is oft...

Free movies...what else to I have to say?

3. Sneak into the pantry and grab a snack without judgment.

Late night snacks all you want? Duh.

4. Reenact "Hollow Man" and play Kevin Bacon.

America's favorite son? And feel what it's like to be in a MTV Movie Award nominated film? Sign me up.

5. Wear a mask and pretend to be a floating head.

Just another way to spook your friends in case you wanted to.

6. Hold objects so they'll "float."

"Oh no! A floating jar of peanut butter."

7. Win every game of hide-and-seek.

Just stand out in the open and you'll win.

8. Eat some food as people will watch it disappear.

Even everyday activities can be funny.

9. Go around pantsing your friends.

Even pranks can be done; not everything can be good.

10. Not have perfect attendance.

You'll say here, but they won't see you...

11. Avoid anyone you don't want to see.

Whether it's an ex or someone you hate, just use your invisibility to slip out of the situation.

12. Avoid responsibilities.

Chores? Invisible. People asking about social life? Invisible. Family being rude? Boom, invisible.

13. Be an expert on ding-dong-ditch.

Never get caught and have the adrenaline rush? I'm down.

14. Brag about being invisible.

Be the envy of the town.

But don't, I repeat, don't go in a locker room. Don't be a pervert with your power. No one likes a Peeping Tom.

Good luck, folks.

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned..

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

1. The importance of traditions.

Sometimes traditions seem like a silly thing, but the fact of it is that it's part of who you are. You grew up this way and, more than likely, so did your parents. It is something that is part of your family history and that is more important than anything.

2. How to be thankful for family and friends.

No matter how many times they get on your nerves or make you mad, they are the ones who will always be there and you should never take that for granted.

3. How to give back.

When tragedy strikes in a small town, everyone feels obligated to help out because, whether directly or indirectly, it affects you too. It is easy in a bigger city to be able to disconnect from certain problems. But in a small town those problems affect everyone.

4. What the word "community" really means.

Along the same lines as #3, everyone is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand when you need one in a small town and to me that is the true meaning of community. It's working together to build a better atmosphere, being there to raise each other up, build each other up, and pick each other up when someone is in need. A small town community is full of endless support whether it be after a tragedy or at a hometown sports game. Everyone shows up to show their support.

5. That it isn't about the destination, but the journey.

People say this to others all the time, but it takes on a whole new meaning in a small town. It is true that life is about the journey, but when you're from a small town, you know it's about the journey because the journey probably takes longer than you spend at the destination. Everything is so far away that it is totally normal to spend a couple hours in the car on your way to some form of entertainment. And most of the time, you're gonna have as many, if not more, memories and laughs on the journey than at the destination.

6. The consequences of making bad choices.

Word travels fast in a small town, so don't think you're gonna get away with anything. In fact, your parents probably know what you did before you even have a chance to get home and tell them. And forget about being scared of what your teacher, principle, or other authority figure is going to do, you're more afraid of what your parents are gonna do when you get home.

7. To trust people, until you have a reason not to.

Everyone deserves a chance. Most people don't have ill-intentions and you can't live your life guarding against every one else just because a few people in your life have betrayed your trust.

8. To be welcoming and accepting of everyone.

While small towns are not always extremely diverse, they do contain people with a lot of different stories, struggle, and backgrounds. In a small town, it is pretty hard to exclude anyone because of who they are or what they come from because there aren't many people to choose from. A small town teaches you that just because someone isn't the same as you, doesn't mean you can't be great friends.

9. How to be my own, individual person.

In a small town, you learn that it's okay to be who you are and do your own thing. You learn that confidence isn't how beautiful you are or how much money you have, it's who you are on the inside.

10. How to work for what I want.

Nothing comes easy in life. They always say "gardens don't grow overnight" and if you're from a small town you know this both figuratively and literally. You certainly know gardens don't grow overnight because you've worked in a garden or two. But you also know that to get to the place you want to be in life it takes work and effort. It doesn't just happen because you want it to.

11. How to be great at giving directions.

If you're from a small town, you know that you will probably only meet a handful of people in your life who ACTUALLY know where your town is. And forget about the people who accidentally enter into your town because of google maps. You've gotten really good at giving them directions right back to the interstate.

12. How to be humble.

My small town has definitely taught me how to be humble. It isn't always about you, and anyone who grows up in a small town knows that. Everyone gets their moment in the spotlight, and since there's so few of us, we're probably best friends with everyone so we are as excited when they get their moment of fame as we are when we get ours.

13. To be well-rounded.

Going to a small town high school definitely made me well-rounded. There isn't enough kids in the school to fill up all the clubs and sports teams individually so be ready to be a part of them all.

14. How to be great at conflict resolution.

In a small town, good luck holding a grudge. In a bigger city you can just avoid a person you don't like or who you've had problems with. But not in a small town. You better resolve the issue fast because you're bound to see them at least 5 times a week.

15. The beauty of getting outside and exploring.

One of my favorite things about growing up in a rural area was being able to go outside and go exploring and not have to worry about being in danger. There is nothing more exciting then finding a new place somewhere in town or in the woods and just spending time there enjoying the natural beauty around you.

16. To be prepared for anything.

You never know what may happen. If you get a flat tire, you better know how to change it yourself because you never know if you will be able to get ahold of someone else to come fix it. Mechanics might be too busy , or more than likely you won't even have enough cell service to call one.

17. That you don't always have to do it alone.

It's okay to ask for help. One thing I realized when I moved away from my town for college, was how much my town has taught me that I could ask for help is I needed it. I got into a couple situations outside of my town where I couldn't find anyone to help me and found myself thinking, if I was in my town there would be tons of people ready to help me. And even though I couldn't find anyone to help, you better believe I wasn't afraid to ask.

18. How to be creative.

When you're at least an hour away from normal forms of entertainment such as movie theaters and malls, you learn to get real creative in entertaining yourself. Whether it be a night looking at the stars in the bed of a pickup truck or having a movie marathon in a blanket fort at home, you know how to make your own good time.

19. To brush off gossip.

It's all about knowing the person you are and not letting others influence your opinion of yourself. In small towns, there is plenty of gossip. But as long as you know who you really are, it will always blow over.

Grateful Beyond Words: A Letter to My Inspiration

I have never been so thankful to know you..

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

You have taught me that you don't always have to strong. You are allowed to break down as long as you pick yourself back up and keep moving forward. When life had you at your worst moments, you allowed your friends to be there for you and to help you. You let them in and they helped pick you up. Even in your darkest hour you showed so much strength. I know that you don't believe in yourself as much as you should but you are unbelievably strong and capable of anything you set your mind to.

Your passion to make a difference in the world is unbelievable. You put your heart and soul into your endeavors and surpass any personal goal you could have set. Watching you do what you love and watching you make a difference in the lives of others is an incredible experience. The way your face lights up when you finally realize what you have accomplished is breathtaking and I hope that one day I can have just as much passion you have.

SEE MORE: A Letter To My Best Friend On Her Birthday

The love you have for your family is outstanding. Watching you interact with loved ones just makes me smile . You are so comfortable and you are yourself. I see the way you smile when you are around family and I wish I could see you smile like this everyday. You love with all your heart and this quality is something I wished I possessed.

You inspire me to be the best version of myself. I look up to you. I feel that more people should strive to have the strength and passion that you exemplify in everyday life.You may be stubborn at points but when you really need help you let others in, which shows strength in itself. I have never been more proud to know someone and to call someone my role model. You have taught me so many things and I want to thank you. Thank you for inspiring me in life. Thank you for making me want to be a better person.

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life..

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Don't freak out

This is a rule you should continue to follow no matter what you do in life, but is especially helpful in this situation.

Email the professor

Around this time, professors are getting flooded with requests from students wanting to get into full classes. This doesn't mean you shouldn't burden them with your email; it means they are expecting interested students to email them. Send a short, concise message telling them that you are interested in the class and ask if there would be any chance for you to get in.

Attend the first class

Often, the advice professors will give you when they reply to your email is to attend the first class. The first class isn't the most important class in terms of what will be taught. However, attending the first class means you are serious about taking the course and aren't going to give up on it.

Keep attending class

Every student is in the same position as you are. They registered for more classes than they want to take and are "shopping." For the first couple of weeks, you can drop or add classes as you please, which means that classes that were once full will have spaces. If you keep attending class and keep up with assignments, odds are that you will have priority. Professors give preference to people who need the class for a major and then from higher to lower class year (senior to freshman).

Have a backup plan

For two weeks, or until I find out whether I get into my waitlisted class, I will be attending more than the usual number of classes. This is so that if I don't get into my waitlisted class, I won't have a credit shortage and I won't have to fall back in my backup class. Chances are that enough people will drop the class, especially if it is very difficult like computer science, and you will have a chance. In popular classes like art and psychology, odds are you probably won't get in, so prepare for that.

Remember that everything works out at the end

Life is full of surprises. So what if you didn't get into the class you wanted? Your life obviously has something else in store for you. It's your job to make sure you make the best out of what you have.

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The Life Strategies Playbook & Mentoring Program

The Best Movies to Learn Strategic Thinking

Newsletter #4 - strategic saturdays.

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“this subscription newsletter serves a demographic of highly intelligent readers, deep thinkers, life hackers, game theory strategists, preppers, entrepreneurs, and survivalists. i especially focus on those with a passion for ideas, critical thinking, self-awareness, healing, the arts, personal development, and a desire to understand the world around them., readers of my posts are usually tired of being patronized elsewhere by fact-less, opinionated know-nothings, misinformation, conspiracy theories, and fake news., “films can give us knowledge about strategizing. strategic knowledge is power, with wisdom it brings meaning, contentment, and happiness”.

This newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts, and bonuses, and to become part of my Inner Circle please become a paid subscriber. (Sign up at the end of this newsletter)

On a personal note:  Please excuse grammatical errors, typos, repetition, and any general nonsense, and such in this post. I am getting a bit older now, and I have about 20,000 pages of information that must get published before I leave the mortal coil. I simply write and publish more than my humble editors are able to correct. If you find enough errors you are welcome to contact me about being an editor of my work.

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Before you read todays article on strategic thinking you may wish to read the Introduction to this series. Click below…

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A 4-Minute Read

The best strategists treat life like it is a game to be won! Though there are many books and articles available about strategic thinking, game theory, and game-thinking strategies, it is, at times, challenging to integrate these concepts intellectually, and apply the information through rational thinking, memorization, or rote learning. In my experience, game-based thinking needs to be absorbed, until it is automatic. One way to do this is to dedicate time, daily, to observing sports, watching films and television shows, reading books, and dissecting how specific plays, moves, or narratives succeed or fail. I often watch biographical documentaries about extraordinary people.

Think of a great performer – the tap dancer Savion Glover, a master guitar player like Jeff Beck, an entertainer like Lady Gaga, or the rapper JZ.  How can their talents create the perfection, speed of play, and performance that they present? They do not just dance, sing, play the guitar, or rhyme. They have embraced the art form, and it has embraced them as well. Game-thinking at its most effective, is very much like any of these art forms.

Whatever media or sport you use to get in the flow of game-based thinking, the outcome (end-game) here is to see how critical elements in problem-solving are applied successfully and how media can illustrate practical ways to solve different types of problems.

In my own experience, and from speaking with skilled game-thinking strategists, I have concluded that the easiest way to learn these skills is through a concept called modeling.

When you model a specific behavior, you are absorbing and repeating certain ideas and actions. One way to do this is through self-hypnosis - using visual, auditory, and kinesthetic psychological "implants." This takes place as we observe and absorb certain patterns in action - by finding, and modeling the behavior of uniquely talented individuals, and through the gamer plot points presented in specific books, television shows, online videos, and films.

Here is a list of my favorite films illustrating concepts drawn from applied game-thinking strategies, and game theory –all applicable to understanding Game-thinking, traditional game theory, and HAGT (Harrison’s Applied, Game-based Thinking).

•  A Beautiful Mind  - A biographical film of the life of    Nobel Prize -winning mathematician John Forbes Nash, Jr.  inspired by the book by  Sylvia Nasar .  Nash's work and ideas are central in much of game theory.  The film was acclaimed and won the best picture at the Academy Awards. It does take liberties with the facts of Nash's life. It is the film that piqued my interest in game theory and game thinking

•  Lincoln Lawyer -  This is an American  legal thriller  film adapted from the  novel of the same name  by  Michael Connelly ,

• In the Name of the Father - Set in the "Troubles" in the North of Ireland, it illustrates the Prisoner’s Dilemma* .

• Rebel Without a Cause –  Presents the “ Chicken Game. *

• Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb -  One of the best films representing The Hawk-Dove Game*. The director of the film, Stanley Kubrick, read an article by Noble Prize-winning Game Theorist Thomas Schelling that included a description of the Peter George novel Red Alert, and conversations between Kubrick, Schelling, and George eventually led to the 1964 movie. The film is one of the best cinematic illustrations of various concepts in Game Theory.

• Reservoir Dogs -   One of the best films illustrating a Truel* meaning a duel  or competition among three opponents, in which players can fire on or attempt to eliminate one another while surviving themselves.

• The Warriors -  A film illustrating The Stag Hunt Game*.

• Waking Ned (Also known as Waking Ned Devine) -  One of the best movies showing The Ultimatum Game*.

• Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan –  Explores the Kobayashi Maru (a Lose-Lose Game*) used among Star Trek fans to describe a no-win scenario, a test of one's character or a solution that involves redefining the problem and managing an impossible situation gracefully. This is one of the best films illustrating a Lose-Lose Game*.

• Donnie Darko -  A bit more complicated than other films, this one integrates elements of a specific type of lose-lose situation called a Catch 22. It also includes aspects of Quantum Game Theory .

• Sophie’s Choice –  This is a problematic situation, known as a Cornelian Dilemma * (CD), essentially a lose-lose game. This is a situation in which the player is forced to choose between two courses of action. Each is mutually exclusive and will cause a negative consequence on the player or someone close.

• The Dark Knight -  One of the best films illustrating plot devices using classic game theory. The game-based plot devices included are the prisoner’s dilemma, the cornelian dilemma , and The Pirate Game. The Pirate Game is a more sophisticated version of the Ultimatum Game.

• The Usual Suspects –  This entire film is a simple game structure piled high with layers of deceit, twists, cheating, cognitive biases if every variety, and violence before pulling out the rug from underneath when we learn that the payoff* wasn’t what we expected - A zero-sum, simultaneous, imperfect information game.

• Eye in the Sky: This 2015 military game theory thriller explores mixed strategies, decision-making, and the ethical challenges of drone warfare. A multinational team, works on the capture mission against terrorists in Nairobi. The group, which are linked together by video and voice systems, debate different strategies designed to achieve a goal while reducing collateral damage. As a decision finally realized some variable in the game space changes requiring new discussion on the best course of action and who needs to make the final decision on acting against the terrorists, knowing that no matter what, there will be some collateral damage.

• House of Games -  A  heist - thriller film  built around many different elements of game theory. It features mid games, gambling, and con men. One of the treats is that its cast includes Ricky Jay, one of the world’s greatest magicians.

•The Spanish Prisoner –  This neo-noir suspense film . The film is premised around a story of corporate espionage conducted through an elaborate confidence game . In spite of the film's title, the actual plot includes only superficial similarities to the  Spanish Prisoner  scam though there is, nonetheless much game-thinking here.

• The Game –  An American  mystery   thriller about a wealthy investment banker who is given a mysterious gift-the chance to participate in a complex Life Game. As the lines between the banker's real life and the game become more uncertain it all takes on a surreal quality.

•  The Last Casino  -  Loosely based on the activities of the MIT Blackjack Team.  Three students and a professor use a counting cards* technique to “beat” a Casino in Canada.

• The Imitation game  – A somewhat inaccurate American  historical drama  based on the biography Alan Turing: The Enigma  by  Andrew Hodges  (which was previously adapted as the stage play and BBC drama  Breaking the Code ). It explores the real-life British  cryptanalyst   Alan Turing , a gay man who was destroyed by the government he may have helped save.

   To be specific, Turing de-crypted German intelligence codes for the British government during the  Second World War  and is considered by many to be the “father” of the modern computer.

• Crazy Rich Asians – In this game-theory based comedy, an Asian-American economics professor must use game theory to outwit, wealthy, adversarial zero-sum players to outwit outdated Chinese tradition, hierarchy, n competitiveness, to find romance, love, and happiness.

•  Molly’s Game - Based on the real-life experiences of Molly Bloom, a former world-class skier who ran the most exclusive, high-end poker game in the world for over a decade. It is one of the purest applied game theory films ever made. Every flawed move here has significant consequences. The right to life plot includes; A-listers, Hollywood Stars, the Russian Mafia, the Jersey Mob, the IRS, the FBI, and that's just for starters.

•  Searching for Sugar Man - This 2012 documentary film of a South African cultural phenomenon. It details the efforts of two  Cape Town  fans in the late 1990s to find out whether the rumored death of American musician  Sixto Rodriguez  was true, and if not, to discover what had become of him. Rodriguez's music, which had virtually no success in the United States, was more popular in South Africa than Elvis. Yet, little was known about him in that country.

•  The Boxer -  The plot is built around the ending of the troubles in Northern Ireland. It explores the dynamics of a win-lose game player who has chosen to become a win-win player. The challenge is that he must now contend with those still committed to a win-lose scenario, and violently so.

The Takeaway

If you watch these films as if you are taking a course in strategic thinking, and you take notes as you ask yourself…

·         what is the desired outcome?

·         who are the players?

·         what are the rules of engagement?

·         Are there cheaters….etc.

By doing this, in time, you may become a skilled, game-based strategist!

——————————————————————————

Author:  Hey there. My name is Lewis Harrison, and I created this newsletter. I am a futurist, professional strategist, transformational coach, teacher, and professional problem solver. I am a proponent of entrepreneurism and also a writer and seminar leader. The author of over twenty books, and numerous self-improvement, business success, prepper, and personal development courses, I am the former host of a talk show on NPR Affiliated WIOX91.3 FM.

If you are interested in directly studying strategic thinking with me drop me an email at [email protected], and let’s start a conversation.

For more great articles, videos, advanced prepper tips, spiritual wisdom, and life hacks please upgrade to a paid subscription at the Self Improvement Inner Circle (Part of the Life Strategies Playbook) .

Just click below the arrow to learn more….

Ready for more?

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, critical thinking.

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In the press materials for “Critical Thinking,” producer Carla Berkowitz drops this line about her reaction to reading the true story that inspired the film: “The image and story was haunting and I felt like I had a quantum shift in my perception of chess and who plays it.” The who in question are five Miami-area Black and Latino men who, along with their teacher, Mr. Martinez, brought back to their underprivileged Florida neighborhood the U.S. National Chess Championship. This happened in 1998. The film chronicles the loving camaraderie of the players and the events leading up to their victory.

In that same press release, acclaimed writer and actor John Leguizamo , who plays Martinez and also directs, states that he wanted to make this film because there were very few representations of Latin people on-screen when he was growing up. He also mentioned that the book The Bell Curve  harmfully depicted people of color as being mentally inferior due to our genetics. I wondered if, like me, Leguizamo grew up in an environment where the Black and brown people he knew played chess, so that it wouldn’t seem unusual nor an anomaly that they did. Because Berkowitz’s statement really made me consider what exactly the standard issue chess player was supposed to look like.

Chess has appeared in a lot of movies, from Boaz Yakin ’s “ Fresh ” to Steven Zaillian ’s “Searching for Bobby Fisher” to 2016’s superb Mira Nair film, “ Queen of Katwe .” I even remember it being prevalent in a crappy Gary Coleman TV movie about a smart Black kid. The game always carries the same symbolic qualifier: the person who plays it has a mental capacity for strategy and is intelligent. Chess is often employed to teach life lessons in these movies, to the point where it has become a cliché that just so happens to be used differently depending on who’s playing it. This difference is something that I admit often sticks in my craw, so I found myself wrestling a bit with this movie even though it seemed to be addressing my concern.

Unlike Zaillian’s film, which I guess answers my question of what a “standard issue” chess player is supposed to look like, the protagonists in the other films I’ve mentioned, and in “Critical Thinking,” are people of color whose economical circumstances are far from ideal. This tends to be the model when minorities are seen playing chess in films, which bends the cinematic chess player cliché toward making the ability to play the game the audience’s reason to offer empathy. Sure, they’re broke, probably in crime-ridden areas and may even do a crime or two, but see, they’re smart, so it’s OK to feel for them! This line of thinking has to do with who stereotypically plays chess and who does not.

Leguizamo’s Mr. Martinez speaks to this early in “Critical Thinking” by asking why chess is never associated with brown people despite a Latin man playing a major role in its evolution. “Why don’t you think we know about him?” he asks the students in his critical thinking class before delivering a great, pointed monologue that speaks about how history is taught in schools. The script by Dito Montiel has some sharp commentary about the education system, from what gets funded to the over-reliance on test scores to the differences between Martinez’s inner city school and the posh preppy institutions who fall victim to our heroes on the tournament circuit. There’s a bit more bite than you may be expecting, and the writing is just prickly enough to balance out the moments when the film dives headfirst into its tropes. And there are numerous tropes to swim in; not only is this a sports movie, it’s also an entry in the “Beloved Teacher” genre.

Our chess champion team is comprised of Sedrick Roundtree ( Corwin C. Tuggles ), Ito Paniagua (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.), Gil Luna ( Will Hochman ), Rodelay Medina (Angel Curiel) and later, Marcel Martinez ( Jeffry Batista ) who joins the team after dispensing a hustler’s ass-whipping in a speed chess match. Their dialogue is peppered with the language the PG-13 won’t allow but realism will. Martinez is often telling them “watch your mouth” in his class, even if, in his less guarded moments, he’s prone to occasional profanity. Leguizamo gets good performances from each of them, especially in moments where you really feel the bond between teammates, both in the tournaments and in the streets. When they tell each other that they’ve got each other’s backs, there’s a real emotional pull that emanates straight from the actors.

Though this is an inspirational movie, Leguizamo and Montiel never sugarcoat the dangers of the environment their characters inhabit. The potential for violence, temporary homelessness, crime, and police harassment are always hovering in the margins, sometimes even invading the safe space of Martinez’s class or the school. An early sequence that shockingly ends in violence shows how good Leguizamo is at quickly establishing the audience’s tie to a character. When Rivera (Dre C) is thrown into critical thinking class after a disciplinary problem (“my class is not detention!” Martinez yells at frenemy Principal Kesler [ Rachel Bay Jones ]), he immediately runs afoul of Ito. Rivera’s lack of response is due to Spanish being his primary language, which may also have something to do with the infraction that got him sent to this class. Martinez talks to him in Spanish, lectures Ito and all seems well.

Rivera is then brutally assassinated in broad daylight after accidentally bumping into another person on the street. The film is barely 15 minutes old when this happens, but it immediately establishes that “Critical Thinking” has no plans of abandoning reality for its feel-good message. That sense of realism extends to the way the characters bond with, rib, and defend each other. Additionally, Leguizamo plays Martinez as someone who understands the temptations and frustrations of his students’ world. He challenges them to do for themselves because he knows all too well that the system has no intention of lending a helping hand.

Like Nair does in “Queen of Katwe,” Leguizamo also blatantly refuses to impose on poverty any notions of shame or requests for pity. “Chess is the great equalizer,” Martinez tells his team as they navigate snooty tournament heads and appearances against challengers from much posher ‘hoods. Even when things get expectedly dire for some of the characters, “Critical Thinking” remains focused on the characters’ response to the situation, never once stripping them of their dignity for cheap emotional manipulation.

Of all the team members, Sedrick has the most detailed arc. He has a girlfriend, Chanayah ( Zora Casebere ), who is supportive and tougher than she looks, and a father ( Michael Kenneth Williams ) whose sole job here is to fill that chess movie trope of the angry guy who uses chess as a means of brutal domination. Williams is an always welcome presence, but I could have done without him. Still, there is one very good moment where he shows some growth, and his son makes a snide comment that he silently acknowledges as being right.

The chess scenes are good even if you know nothing about chess. I’ve been playing since I was five, so of course I wanted more detailed representations than Leguizamo provides. I found his classroom lessons and the team’s banter about moves fascinating, and every time I was given a good look at a chessboard, I got closer to the screen to investigate. And yet, despite its acknowledgement of my aforementioned issues, I still felt a little itchy watching “Critical Thinking.” I am always game for a movie that makes me reckon with my personal feelings and biases, and I’m glad this one exists because representation will always speak volumes. If nothing else, “Critical Thinking” reminds you what a chess player can look like.

Odie Henderson

Odie "Odienator" Henderson has spent over 33 years working in Information Technology. He runs the blogs Big Media Vandalism and Tales of Odienary Madness. Read his answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire  here .

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Film credits.

Critical Thinking (2020)

117 minutes

John Leguizamo as Mario Martinez

Rachel Bay Jones as Principal Kestel

Michael Kenneth Williams as Mr. Roundtree

Corwin C. Tuggles as Sedrick Roundtree

Jorge Lendeborg Jr. as Ito Paniagua

Angel Bismark Curiel as Rodelay Medina

Will Hochman as Gil Luna

Jeffry Batista as Marcel Martinez

Zora Casebere as Chanayah

• John Leguizamo
• Dito Montiel

Cinematographer

• Zach Zamboni
• Jamie Kirkpatrick
• Chris Hajian

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Critical Thinking

Where to watch.

Watch Critical Thinking with a subscription on Netflix, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

Strategic in delivering all the feels, Critical Thinking is a good old-fashioned underdog story that marks a winning directorial debut for John Leguizamo.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

John Leguizamo

Mario Martinez

Rachel Bay Jones

Principal Kestel

Michael Kenneth Williams

Mr. Roundtree

Corwin C. Tuggles

Sedrick Roundtree

Jorge Lendeborg

Ito Paniagua

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Critics reviews.

Critical thinking definition

Critical thinking, as described by Oxford Languages, is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement.

Active and skillful approach, evaluation, assessment, synthesis, and/or evaluation of information obtained from, or made by, observation, knowledge, reflection, acumen or conversation, as a guide to belief and action, requires the critical thinking process, which is why it's often used in education and academics.

Some even may view it as a backbone of modern thought.

However, it's a skill, and skills must be trained and encouraged to be used at its full potential.

People turn up to various approaches in improving their critical thinking, like:

• Developing technical and problem-solving skills
• Engaging in more active listening
• Actively questioning their assumptions and beliefs
• Seeking out more diversity of thought
• Opening up their curiosity in an intellectual way etc.

Is critical thinking useful in writing?

Critical thinking can help in planning your paper and making it more concise, but it's not obvious at first. We carefully pinpointed some the questions you should ask yourself when boosting critical thinking in writing:

• What information should be included?
• Which information resources should the author look to?
• What degree of technical knowledge should the report assume its audience has?
• What is the most effective way to show information?
• How should the report be organized?
• How should it be designed?
• What tone and level of language difficulty should the document have?

Usage of critical thinking comes down not only to the outline of your paper, it also begs the question: How can we use critical thinking solving problems in our writing's topic?

Let's say, you have a Powerpoint on how critical thinking can reduce poverty in the United States. You'll primarily have to define critical thinking for the viewers, as well as use a lot of critical thinking questions and synonyms to get them to be familiar with your methods and start the thinking process behind it.

Are there any services that can help me use more critical thinking?

We understand that it's difficult to learn how to use critical thinking more effectively in just one article, but our service is here to help.

We are a team specializing in writing essays and other assignments for college students and all other types of customers who need a helping hand in its making. We cover a great range of topics, offer perfect quality work, always deliver on time and aim to leave our customers completely satisfied with what they ordered.

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With lots of experience on the market, professionally degreed essay writers , online 24/7 customer support and incredibly low prices, you won't find a service offering a better deal than ours.

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Critical thinking, common sense media reviewers.

Underdog chess team defies odds but plays into stereotypes.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Positive themes of teamwork and defiance against t

Main characters are depicted as underdogs whose su

Frequent gun use. One character is abruptly shot a

Occasional kissing.

Frequent use of the words "f--k," "s--t," and "ass

Adults get drunk. Underage characters smoke cigare

Parents need to know that Critical Thinking is a fact-based drama about a high school chess team from an underserved community that defies the odds to make it to the U.S. National Chess Championship. Directed by and starring John Leguizamo, the movie has frequent swearing ("f--k," "s--t," etc.), underage…

Positive Messages

Positive themes of teamwork and defiance against the odds are prevalent. While it exposes some of the broken systems in public education, it fails to fully portray its teen characters' humanity, contributing to problematic stereotypes.

Positive Role Models

Main characters are depicted as underdogs whose success goes against everyone's expectations. Some show determination, but most play into stereotypes associated with Black and Latinx teens from under-resourced communities -- i.e., unmotivated, unintelligent jokesters. That makes it seem like their success is because of some paradoxical talent instead of their strength of character. Failure to see these kids' humanity contributes to their stereotyping, on-screen and off.

Violence & Scariness

Frequent gun use. One character is abruptly shot and killed. Another character is punched and strangled to death. Parents emotionally abuse children.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Frequent use of the words "f--k," "s--t," and "ass."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Adults get drunk. Underage characters smoke cigarettes. Drug dealing.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Critical Thinking is a fact-based drama about a high school chess team from an underserved community that defies the odds to make it to the U.S. National Chess Championship. Directed by and starring John Leguizamo , the movie has frequent swearing ("f--k," "s--t," etc.), underage cigarette smoking, drug dealing, punching, strangling, and gun violence that results in death. Parents emotionally abuse children. While positive themes of teamwork and overcoming challenges are prevalent, the movie's Black and Latinx teens are stereotypically depicted as unintelligent with little work ethic and their success as an anomaly. Rachel Bay Jones and Michael Kenneth Williams co-star. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

• Parents say

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

In CRITICAL THINKING, teacher Mr. T ( John Leguizamo ) oversees an unofficial detention hall at Miami Jackson Senior High School, where students are sent if they're deemed troublesome. Mr. T seizes the opportunity to start a chess team, all while navigating limited resources, a school with little faith in his students' abilities, and the stressors of his students' turbulent personal lives. When the team starts to succeed, the students come up with creative fundraisers to pay for travel and lodging at their competitions. But none of this is easy. One teen faces pressures at home from an emotionally abusive father who resents his son's talents. Another is pulled into dealing drugs to make ends meet. All the while, Mr. T is the loving, encouraging adult they crave.

Is It Any Good?

This drama is the classic story of an underdog team overcoming the odds and making it all the way; unfortunately, it falls back on stereotypical characterizations to tell its tale. The Miami Jackson team seems to be in this position because its members -- Black and Latinx teens from under-resourced communities -- have historically underestimated identities. The film plays on the biases that are often held about these identities by depicting the teens as shiftless and unfocused. They're careless in their fundraising efforts, they try to pass notes during tournaments, and they use the threat of physical violence to intimidate their opponents.

Their chess skills are an afterthought, making their success feel like an anomaly. And it certainly doesn't help that a White teen joins the team as they gain momentum and becomes their shining star -- teaching the other kids new chess moves and giving them vocabulary lessons. He's the only teen character whose background, personal life, and stressors aren't explored. So while Critical Thinking is diverse in its casting and exposes some of the broken systems in public education, it misses the mark in humanizing its characters. The failure to see these kids' humanity contributes to their stereotyping, on-screen and off.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about how Critical Thinking handles stereotypes and biases. Can media offer positive representations while still promoting stereotypical characterizations?

What does Critical Thinking teach viewers about student engagement and the importance of teaching things in a fun way?

What role does teamwork play in Critical Thinking ? Why is it an important character strength ?

Movie Details

• In theaters : September 4, 2020
• On DVD or streaming : September 4, 2020
• Cast : John Leguizamo , Rachel Bay Jones , Michael Kenneth Williams
• Director : John Leguizamo
• Inclusion Information : Latino directors, Latino actors, Female actors
• Studio : Vertical Entertainment
• Genre : Drama
• Topics : High School
• Character Strengths : Teamwork
• Run time : 117 minutes
• MPAA rating : NR
• Last updated : February 19, 2023

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

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Awesome Creative Thinking Films

• Movies or TV
• IMDb Rating
• In Theaters
• Release Year

1. The Elephant Man (1980)

PG | 124 min | Biography, Drama

A Victorian surgeon rescues a heavily disfigured man who is mistreated while scraping a living as a side-show freak. Behind his monstrous façade, there is revealed a person of kindness, intelligence and sophistication.

Director: David Lynch | Stars: Anthony Hopkins , John Hurt , Anne Bancroft , John Gielgud

Votes: 258,414

2. Fight Club (1999)

R | 139 min | Drama

An insomniac office worker and a devil-may-care soap maker form an underground fight club that evolves into much more.

Director: David Fincher | Stars: Brad Pitt , Edward Norton , Meat Loaf , Zach Grenier

Votes: 2,323,381 | Gross: $37.03M

3. Boogie Nights (1997)

R | 155 min | Drama

Back when sex was safe, pleasure was a business and business was booming, an idealistic porn producer aspires to elevate his craft to an art when he discovers a hot young talent.

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson | Stars: Mark Wahlberg , Julianne Moore , Burt Reynolds , Luis Guzmán

Votes: 282,010 | Gross: $26.40M

4. Blue Velvet (1986)

R | 120 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

The discovery of a severed human ear found in a field leads a young man on an investigation related to a beautiful, mysterious nightclub singer and a group of psychopathic criminals who have kidnapped her child.

Director: David Lynch | Stars: Isabella Rossellini , Kyle MacLachlan , Dennis Hopper , Laura Dern

Votes: 215,675 | Gross: $8.55M

5. Gandhi (1982)

PG | 191 min | Biography, Drama, History

The life of the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest.

Director: Richard Attenborough | Stars: Ben Kingsley , John Gielgud , Rohini Hattangadi , Roshan Seth

Votes: 240,187 | Gross: $52.77M

6. The Matrix (1999)

R | 136 min | Action, Sci-Fi

When a beautiful stranger leads computer hacker Neo to a forbidding underworld, he discovers the shocking truth--the life he knows is the elaborate deception of an evil cyber-intelligence.

Directors: Lana Wachowski , Lilly Wachowski | Stars: Keanu Reeves , Laurence Fishburne , Carrie-Anne Moss , Hugo Weaving

Votes: 2,052,735 | Gross: $171.48M

7. Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)

PG | 121 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Luke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader.

Director: George Lucas | Stars: Mark Hamill , Harrison Ford , Carrie Fisher , Alec Guinness

Votes: 1,449,387 | Gross: $322.74M

8. Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

PG | 124 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy

After the Rebel Alliance are overpowered by the Empire, Luke Skywalker begins his Jedi training with Yoda, while his friends are pursued across the galaxy by Darth Vader and bounty hunter Boba Fett.

Director: Irvin Kershner | Stars: Mark Hamill , Harrison Ford , Carrie Fisher , Billy Dee Williams

Votes: 1,379,523 | Gross: $290.48M

9. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

PG-13 | 178 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

A meek Hobbit from the Shire and eight companions set out on a journey to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron.

Director: Peter Jackson | Stars: Elijah Wood , Ian McKellen , Orlando Bloom , Sean Bean

Votes: 2,006,765 | Gross: $315.54M

All 3 films - the extended versions...

10. Snatch (2000)

R | 102 min | Comedy, Crime

Unscrupulous boxing promoters, violent bookmakers, a Russian gangster, incompetent amateur robbers and supposedly Jewish jewelers fight to track down a priceless stolen diamond.

Director: Guy Ritchie | Stars: Jason Statham , Brad Pitt , Stephen Graham , Vinnie Jones

Votes: 910,719 | Gross: $30.33M

11. The Graduate (1967)

PG | 106 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

A disillusioned college graduate finds himself torn between his older lover and her daughter.

Director: Mike Nichols | Stars: Dustin Hoffman , Anne Bancroft , Katharine Ross , William Daniels

Votes: 288,379 | Gross: $104.95M

12. Queen Margot (1994)

R | 161 min | Biography, Drama, History

Young Queen Margot finds herself trapped in an arranged marriage amidst a religious war between Catholics and Protestants. She hopes to escape with a new lover, but finds herself imprisoned by her powerful and ruthless family.

Director: Patrice Chéreau | Stars: Isabelle Adjani , Daniel Auteuil , Jean-Hugues Anglade , Vincent Perez

Votes: 18,992 | Gross: $2.02M

13. Two Hands (1999)

R | 103 min | Comedy, Crime, Thriller

A 19 year old finds himself in debt to a local gangster when some gang loot disappears and sets him on the run from thugs. Meanwhile two street kids start a shopping spree when they find the missing money.

Director: Gregor Jordan | Stars: Heath Ledger , Bryan Brown , David Field , Tom Long

Votes: 13,661

14. Citizen Kane (1941)

PG | 119 min | Drama, Mystery

Following the death of publishing tycoon Charles Foster Kane, reporters scramble to uncover the meaning of his final utterance: 'Rosebud.'

Director: Orson Welles | Stars: Orson Welles , Joseph Cotten , Dorothy Comingore , Agnes Moorehead

Votes: 465,901 | Gross: $1.59M

15. Koyaanisqatsi (1982)

Not Rated | 86 min | Documentary, Music

A collection of expertly photographed phenomena with no conventional plot. The footage focuses on the relationship between nature, humanity, and technology.

Director: Godfrey Reggio | Stars: Edward Asner , Pat Benatar , Jerry Brown , Johnny Carson

Votes: 41,470 | Gross: $1.72M

16. Alien (1979)

R | 117 min | Horror, Sci-Fi

The crew of a commercial spacecraft encounters a deadly lifeform after investigating a mysterious transmission of unknown origin.

Director: Ridley Scott | Stars: Sigourney Weaver , Tom Skerritt , John Hurt , Veronica Cartwright

Votes: 950,375 | Gross: $78.90M

17. As It Is in Heaven (2004)

Not Rated | 133 min | Comedy, Drama, Music

A famous international conductor returns to his small childhood town in Sweden for early retirement. He's asked to help with the church choir. He affects the lives of all in the choir.

Director: Kay Pollak | Stars: Michael Nyqvist , Frida Hallgren , Helen Sjöholm , Lennart Jähkel

Votes: 18,271 | Gross: $0.01M

18. Irreversible (2002)

Not Rated | 97 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

Events over the course of one traumatic night in Paris unfold in reverse-chronological order as the beautiful Alex is brutally raped and beaten by a stranger in an underpass tunnel.

Director: Gaspar Noé | Stars: Monica Bellucci , Vincent Cassel , Albert Dupontel , Philippe Nahon

Votes: 147,634 | Gross: $0.75M

19. The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)

NC-17 | 124 min | Crime, Drama

At Le Hollandais gourmet restaurant, every night is filled with opulence, decadence and gluttony. But when the cook, a thief, his wife and her lover all come together, they unleash a shocking torrent of sex, food, murder and revenge.

Director: Peter Greenaway | Stars: Richard Bohringer , Michael Gambon , Helen Mirren , Alan Howard

Votes: 41,736 | Gross: $7.72M

20. Schindler's List (1993)

R | 195 min | Biography, Drama, History

In German-occupied Poland during World War II, industrialist Oskar Schindler gradually becomes concerned for his Jewish workforce after witnessing their persecution by the Nazis.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Stars: Liam Neeson , Ralph Fiennes , Ben Kingsley , Caroline Goodall

Votes: 1,450,426 | Gross: $96.90M

21. Apocalypse Now (1979)

R | 147 min | Drama, Mystery, War

A U.S. Army officer serving in Vietnam is tasked with assassinating a renegade Special Forces Colonel who sees himself as a god.

Director: Francis Ford Coppola | Stars: Martin Sheen , Marlon Brando , Robert Duvall , Frederic Forrest

Votes: 710,063 | Gross: $83.47M

22. The Thin Red Line (1998)

R | 170 min | Drama, History, War

Adaptation of James Jones ' autobiographical 1962 novel, focusing on the conflict at Guadalcanal during the second World War.

Director: Terrence Malick | Stars: Jim Caviezel , Sean Penn , Nick Nolte , Kirk Acevedo

Votes: 199,580 | Gross: $36.40M

23. Wake in Fright (1971)

R | 109 min | Drama, Thriller

After a bad gambling bet, a schoolteacher is marooned in a town full of crazy, drunk, violent men who threaten to make him just as crazy, drunk, and violent.

Director: Ted Kotcheff | Stars: Donald Pleasence , Gary Bond , Chips Rafferty , Sylvia Kay

Votes: 13,958 | Gross: $0.05M

24. Children of Men (2006)

R | 109 min | Action, Drama, Sci-Fi

In 2027, in a chaotic world in which women have somehow become infertile, a former activist agrees to help transport a miraculously pregnant woman to a sanctuary at sea.

Director: Alfonso Cuarón | Stars: Julianne Moore , Clive Owen , Chiwetel Ejiofor , Michael Caine

Votes: 529,334 | Gross: $35.55M

25. Ben-Hur (1959)

G | 212 min | Adventure, Drama

After a Jewish prince is betrayed and sent into slavery by a Roman friend in 1st-century Jerusalem, he regains his freedom and comes back for revenge.

Director: William Wyler | Stars: Charlton Heston , Jack Hawkins , Stephen Boyd , Haya Harareet

Votes: 253,628 | Gross: $74.70M

26. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

R | 99 min | Crime, Thriller

When a simple jewelry heist goes horribly wrong, the surviving criminals begin to suspect that one of them is a police informant.

Director: Quentin Tarantino | Stars: Harvey Keitel , Tim Roth , Michael Madsen , Chris Penn

Votes: 1,088,027 | Gross: $2.83M

27. Game of Thrones (2011–2019)

TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Adventure, Drama

Nine noble families fight for control over the lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for millennia.

Stars: Emilia Clarke , Peter Dinklage , Kit Harington , Lena Headey

Votes: 2,283,772

28. The Hunt (2012)

R | 115 min | Drama

A teacher lives a lonely life, all the while struggling over his son's custody. His life slowly gets better as he finds love and receives good news from his son, but his new luck is about to be brutally shattered by an innocent little lie.

Director: Thomas Vinterberg | Stars: Mads Mikkelsen , Thomas Bo Larsen , Annika Wedderkopp , Lasse Fogelstrøm

Votes: 364,301 | Gross: $0.69M

29. Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

R | 118 min | Drama, Fantasy, War

In the Falangist Spain of 1944, the bookish young stepdaughter of a sadistic army officer escapes into an eerie but captivating fantasy world.

Director: Guillermo del Toro | Stars: Ivana Baquero , Ariadna Gil , Sergi López , Maribel Verdú

Votes: 702,934 | Gross: $37.63M

30. Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

PG | 115 min | Drama, Mystery

During a rural summer picnic, a few students and a teacher from an Australian girls' school vanish without a trace. Their absence frustrates and haunts the people left behind.

Director: Peter Weir | Stars: Rachel Roberts , Anne-Louise Lambert , Vivean Gray , Helen Morse

Votes: 41,031 | Gross: $0.23M

31. The Italian Job (1969)

G | 99 min | Action, Comedy, Crime

A comic caper movie about a plan to steal a gold shipment from the streets of Turin by creating a traffic jam.

Director: Peter Collinson | Stars: Michael Caine , Noël Coward , Benny Hill , Raf Vallone

Votes: 50,327

32. The Road (I) (2009)

R | 111 min | Drama, Thriller

In a dangerous post-apocalyptic world, an ailing father defends his son as they slowly travel to the sea.

Director: John Hillcoat | Stars: Viggo Mortensen , Charlize Theron , Kodi Smit-McPhee , Robert Duvall

Votes: 254,180 | Gross: $0.06M

33. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)

Approved | 178 min | Adventure, Western

A bounty hunting scam joins two men in an uneasy alliance against a third in a race to find a fortune in gold buried in a remote cemetery.

Director: Sergio Leone | Stars: Clint Eastwood , Eli Wallach , Lee Van Cleef , Aldo Giuffrè

Votes: 811,075 | Gross: $6.10M

34. Eraserhead (1977)

Not Rated | 89 min | Fantasy, Horror

Henry Spencer tries to survive his industrial environment, his angry girlfriend, and the unbearable screams of his newly born mutant child.

Director: David Lynch | Stars: Jack Nance , Charlotte Stewart , Allen Joseph , Jeanne Bates

Votes: 127,438 | Gross: $7.00M

35. Excalibur (1981)

PG | 140 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

Merlin the magician helps Arthur Pendragon unite the Britons around the Round Table of Camelot, even as dark forces conspire to tear it apart.

Director: John Boorman | Stars: Nigel Terry , Helen Mirren , Nicholas Clay , Cherie Lunghi

Votes: 67,153 | Gross: $34.97M

36. Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)

PG | 117 min | Comedy, Drama

Two minor characters from the play 'Hamlet' stumble around unaware of their scripted lives and unable to deviate from them.

Director: Tom Stoppard | Stars: Gary Oldman , Tim Roth , Richard Dreyfuss , Livio Badurina

Votes: 23,847 | Gross: $0.74M

37. Deliverance (1972)

R | 109 min | Adventure, Drama, Thriller

Intent on seeing the Cahulawassee River before it's dammed and turned into a lake, outdoor fanatic Lewis Medlock takes his friends on a canoeing trip they'll never forget into the dangerous American back-country.

Director: John Boorman | Stars: Jon Voight , Burt Reynolds , Ned Beatty , Ronny Cox

Votes: 119,236 | Gross: $7.06M

38. Pay It Forward (2000)

PG-13 | 123 min | Drama

A young boy attempts to make the world a better place after his teacher gives him that chance.

Director: Mimi Leder | Stars: Kevin Spacey , Haley Joel Osment , Helen Hunt , Jay Mohr

Votes: 123,883 | Gross: $33.52M

39. Sharky's Machine (1981)

R | 122 min | Action, Crime, Drama

Tom Sharky is demoted to vice after a bust goes terribly wrong. He and his team stumble across a mob murder tied to prostitution and government.

Director: Burt Reynolds | Stars: Burt Reynolds , Rachel Ward , Vittorio Gassman , Brian Keith

Votes: 6,724 | Gross: $35.61M

40. Rogue Trader (1999)

R | 101 min | Crime, Drama, History

The story of Nick Leeson, an ambitious investment broker who singlehandedly bankrupted one of the oldest and most important banks in Britain.

Director: James Dearden | Stars: Ewan McGregor , Anna Friel , Cristian Solimeno , Lorna Pegler

Votes: 10,664

41. The Last Picture Show (1971)

R | 118 min | Drama, Romance

In 1951, a group of high schoolers come of age in a bleak, isolated, atrophied North Texas town that is slowly dying, both culturally and economically.

Director: Peter Bogdanovich | Stars: Timothy Bottoms , Jeff Bridges , Cybill Shepherd , Ben Johnson

Votes: 52,372 | Gross: $29.13M

42. Wild at Heart (1990)

R | 125 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller

Young lovers Sailor and Lula run from the variety of weirdos that Lula's mom has hired to kill Sailor.

Director: David Lynch | Stars: Nicolas Cage , Laura Dern , Willem Dafoe , J.E. Freeman

Votes: 100,942 | Gross: $14.56M

43. Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)

R | 100 min | Drama

A sexually repressed woman's husband is having an affair with her sister. The arrival of a visitor with a rather unusual fetish changes everything.

Director: Steven Soderbergh | Stars: James Spader , Andie MacDowell , Peter Gallagher , Laura San Giacomo

Votes: 59,439 | Gross: $24.74M

44. Beyond the Valley of the Dolls (1970)

X | 109 min | Comedy, Drama, Music

Three girls come to Hollywood to make it big, but find only sex, drugs, and sleaze.

Director: Russ Meyer | Stars: Dolly Read , Cynthia Myers , Marcia McBroom , John Lazar

Votes: 12,030 | Gross: $2.66M

45. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

Approved | 123 min | Drama, Western

A senator returns to a Western town for the funeral of an old friend and tells the story of his origins.

Director: John Ford | Stars: James Stewart , John Wayne , Vera Miles , Lee Marvin

Votes: 82,279

46. Once (I) (2007)

R | 86 min | Drama, Music, Romance

A modern-day musical about a busker and an immigrant and their eventful week in Dublin, as they write, rehearse and record songs that tell their love story.

Director: John Carney | Stars: Glen Hansard , Markéta Irglová , Hugh Walsh , Gerard Hendrick

Votes: 121,266 | Gross: $9.44M

47. Inception (2010)

PG-13 | 148 min | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi

A thief who steals corporate secrets through the use of dream-sharing technology is given the inverse task of planting an idea into the mind of a C.E.O., but his tragic past may doom the project and his team to disaster.

Director: Christopher Nolan | Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio , Joseph Gordon-Levitt , Elliot Page , Ken Watanabe

Votes: 2,550,368 | Gross: $292.58M

48. Chattahoochee (1989)

R | 98 min | Biography, Drama

In 1955 Florida, a Korean vet has a breakdown and is incarcerated in a "maximum security" mental health prison, where patients are abused.

Director: Mick Jackson | Stars: Gary Oldman , Dennis Hopper , Frances McDormand , Pamela Reed

Votes: 2,422 | Gross: $0.26M

49. Santa Sangre (1989)

NC-17 | 123 min | Drama, Horror, Thriller

A former circus artist escapes from a mental hospital to rejoin his armless mother - the leader of a strange religious cult - and is forced to enact brutal murders in her name as he becomes "her arms".

Director: Alejandro Jodorowsky | Stars: Axel Jodorowsky , Blanca Guerra , Guy Stockwell , Thelma Tixou

Votes: 23,321

50. No Way Out (1987)

R | 114 min | Action, Crime, Drama

A coverup and witchhunt occur after a politician accidentally kills his mistress.

Director: Roger Donaldson | Stars: Kevin Costner , Gene Hackman , Sean Young , Will Patton

Votes: 45,944 | Gross: $35.51M

51. Camille Claudel (1988)

R | 175 min | Biography, Drama, History

Camille Claude impresses already-famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. He hires her as an assistant, but soon Camille begins to sculpt for herself and she also becomes his mistress. But after a while, she would like to get out of his shadow.

Director: Bruno Nuytten | Stars: Isabelle Adjani , Gérard Depardieu , Madeleine Robinson , Laurent Grévill

Votes: 7,395 | Gross: $0.20M

52. Barfly (1987)

R | 100 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

Based on the life of successful poet Charles Bukowski and his exploits in Hollywood during the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Director: Barbet Schroeder | Stars: Mickey Rourke , Faye Dunaway , Alice Krige , Jack Nance

Votes: 21,975 | Gross: $3.22M

53. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)

R | 152 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

A journalist is aided by a young female hacker in his search for the killer of a woman who has been dead for forty years.

Director: Niels Arden Oplev | Stars: Michael Nyqvist , Noomi Rapace , Ewa Fröling , Lena Endre

Votes: 223,333 | Gross: $10.10M

all 3 Swedish films...

54. Blow-Up (1966)

Not Rated | 111 min | Drama, Mystery, Thriller

A fashion photographer unknowingly captures a death on film after following two lovers in a park.

Director: Michelangelo Antonioni | Stars: David Hemmings , Vanessa Redgrave , Sarah Miles , John Castle

Votes: 67,635

55. The Prisoner (1967–1968)

TV-PG | 1,010 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi

After he resigns, a secret agent is abducted and taken to what looks like an idyllic village, but is actually a bizarre prison. He refuses to give his warders information while attempting to escape.

Stars: Patrick McGoohan , Angelo Muscat , Peter Swanwick , Peter Brace

Votes: 15,042

56. Jean de Florette (1986)

PG | 120 min | Comedy, Drama

A greedy landowner and his backward nephew conspire to block the only water source for an adjoining property in order to bankrupt the owner and force him to sell.

Director: Claude Berri | Stars: Yves Montand , Gérard Depardieu , Daniel Auteuil , Elisabeth Depardieu

Votes: 27,543 | Gross: $4.94M

57. Manon of the Spring (1986)

PG | 113 min | Drama

A beautiful but shy shepherdess plots vengeance on the men whose greedy conspiracy to acquire her father's land caused his death years earlier.

Director: Claude Berri | Stars: Yves Montand , Emmanuelle Béart , Daniel Auteuil , Hippolyte Girardot

Votes: 23,949 | Gross: $3.94M

58. Betty Blue (1986)

Unrated | 119 min | Drama, Romance

A lackadaisical handyman and aspiring novelist tries to support his younger girlfriend as she slowly succumbs to madness.

Director: Jean-Jacques Beineix | Stars: Jean-Hugues Anglade , Béatrice Dalle , Gérard Darmon , Consuelo De Haviland

Votes: 23,342 | Gross: $2.00M

59. In the Name of the Father (1993)

R | 133 min | Biography, Crime, Drama

An Irish man's coerced confession to an I.R.A. bombing he did not commit results in the imprisonment of his father as well. Meanwhile, a British lawyer fights to clear their names and free them.

Director: Jim Sheridan | Stars: Daniel Day-Lewis , Pete Postlethwaite , Alison Crosbie , Philip King

Votes: 187,089 | Gross: $25.01M

60. The Man Who Would Be King (1975)

PG | 129 min | Adventure, Drama, War

In 1880s India, two former British soldiers decide to set themselves up as Kings in Kafiristan, a land where no white man has set foot since Alexander the Great.

Director: John Huston | Stars: Sean Connery , Michael Caine , Christopher Plummer , Saeed Jaffrey

Votes: 52,027

61. Alfie (1966)

Unrated | 114 min | Comedy, Drama

An unrepentant ladies' man gradually begins to understand the consequences of his lifestyle.

Director: Lewis Gilbert | Stars: Michael Caine , Shelley Winters , Millicent Martin , Julia Foster

Votes: 15,828 | Gross: $18.87M

62. Easy Rider (1969)

R | 95 min | Adventure, Drama

Two bikers head from L.A. to New Orleans through the open country and desert lands, and along the way they meet a man who bridges a counter-culture gap of which they had been unaware.

Director: Dennis Hopper | Stars: Peter Fonda , Dennis Hopper , Jack Nicholson , Antonio Mendoza

Votes: 116,933 | Gross: $41.73M

63. Every Which Way But Loose (1978)

PG | 114 min | Action, Comedy

The San Fernando Valley adventures of trucker turned prize-fighter Philo Beddoe and his pet orangutan Clyde.

Director: James Fargo | Stars: Clint Eastwood , Sondra Locke , Geoffrey Lewis , Beverly D'Angelo

Votes: 30,038 | Gross: $106.00M

64. O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

PG-13 | 107 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama

In the deep south during the 1930s, three escaped convicts search for hidden treasure while a relentless lawman pursues them.

Directors: Joel Coen , Ethan Coen | Stars: George Clooney , John Turturro , Tim Blake Nelson , John Goodman

Votes: 330,799 | Gross: $45.51M

65. Mississippi Burning (1988)

R | 128 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

Two F.B.I. Agents with wildly different styles arrive in Mississippi to investigate the disappearance of some civil rights activists.

Director: Alan Parker | Stars: Gene Hackman , Willem Dafoe , Frances McDormand , Brad Dourif

Votes: 110,976 | Gross: $34.60M

66. Birdy (1984)

R | 120 min | Drama, War

After two friends return home from the Vietnam War one becomes mentally unstable and obsesses with becoming a bird.

Director: Alan Parker | Stars: Matthew Modine , Nicolas Cage , John Harkins , Sandy Baron

Votes: 24,926 | Gross: $1.46M

67. Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982)

R | 95 min | Drama, Fantasy, Music

A confined but troubled rock star descends into madness in the midst of his physical and social isolation from everyone.

Director: Alan Parker | Stars: Bob Geldof , Christine Hargreaves , James Laurenson , Eleanor David

Votes: 85,380 | Gross: $22.24M

68. Man Bites Dog (1992)

NC-17 | 95 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama

A film crew follows a ruthless thief and heartless killer as he goes about his daily routine. But complications set in when the film crew lose their objectivity and begin lending a hand.

Directors: Rémy Belvaux , André Bonzel , Benoît Poelvoorde | Stars: Benoît Poelvoorde , Jacqueline Poelvoorde-Pappaert , Nelly Pappaert , Hector Pappaert

Votes: 43,724 | Gross: $0.21M

69. The Omen (1976)

R | 111 min | Horror, Mystery

Mysterious deaths surround an American ambassador. Could the child that he is raising actually be the Antichrist? The Devil's own son?

Director: Richard Donner | Stars: Gregory Peck , Lee Remick , Harvey Stephens , David Warner

Votes: 132,457 | Gross: $4.27M

70. To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)

R | 116 min | Action, Crime, Drama

A fearless Secret Service agent will stop at nothing to bring down the counterfeiter who killed his partner.

Director: William Friedkin | Stars: William Petersen , Willem Dafoe , Jane Leeves , Cherise Bates

Votes: 39,333 | Gross: $17.31M

71. The General (1926)

Passed | 78 min | Action, Adventure, Comedy

After being rejected by the Confederate military, not realizing it was due to his crucial civilian role, an engineer must single-handedly recapture his beloved locomotive after it is seized by Union spies and return it through enemy lines.

Directors: Clyde Bruckman , Buster Keaton | Stars: Buster Keaton , Marion Mack , Glen Cavender , Jim Farley

Votes: 98,125 | Gross: $1.03M

72. West Side Story (1961)

Approved | 153 min | Crime, Drama, Musical

Two youngsters from rival New York City gangs fall in love, but tensions between their respective friends build toward tragedy.

Directors: Jerome Robbins , Robert Wise | Stars: Natalie Wood , George Chakiris , Richard Beymer , Russ Tamblyn

Votes: 121,172 | Gross: $43.66M

73. Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)

G | 106 min | Drama, History, Musical

Film version of the musical stage play, presenting the last few weeks of Christ's life told in an anachronistic manner.

Director: Norman Jewison | Stars: Ted Neeley , Carl Anderson , Yvonne Elliman , Barry Dennen

Votes: 29,909 | Gross: $24.48M

74. Grease (1978)

PG | 110 min | Comedy, Musical, Romance

Good girl Sandy Olsson and greaser Danny Zuko fell in love over the summer. When they unexpectedly discover they're now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance?

Director: Randal Kleiser | Stars: John Travolta , Olivia Newton-John , Stockard Channing , Jeff Conaway

Votes: 300,486 | Gross: $188.76M

75. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

R | 100 min | Comedy, Horror, Musical

A newly-engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and must seek shelter at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-n-Furter.

Director: Jim Sharman | Stars: Tim Curry , Susan Sarandon , Barry Bostwick , Richard O'Brien

Votes: 166,904 | Gross: $139.88M

76. Hair (1979)

PG | 121 min | Comedy, Drama, Musical

Claude Bukowski leaves the family ranch in Oklahoma for New York where he is rapidly embraced into the hippie group of youngsters led by Berger, yet he's already been drafted. He soon falls in love with Sheila Franklin, a rich girl but still a rebel inside.

Director: Milos Forman | Stars: John Savage , Treat Williams , Beverly D'Angelo , Annie Golden

Votes: 40,870 | Gross: $15.28M

77. Walk the Line (2005)

PG-13 | 136 min | Biography, Drama, Music

A chronicle of country music legend Johnny Cash 's life, from his early days on an Arkansas cotton farm to his rise to fame with Sun Records in Memphis, where he recorded alongside Elvis Presley , Jerry Lee Lewis , and Carl Perkins .

Director: James Mangold | Stars: Joaquin Phoenix , Reese Witherspoon , Ginnifer Goodwin , Robert Patrick

Votes: 265,819 | Gross: $119.52M

78. The Color Purple (1985)

PG-13 | 154 min | Drama

A tale spanning forty years in the life of Celie, an African-American woman living in the South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry.

Director: Steven Spielberg | Stars: Danny Glover , Whoopi Goldberg , Oprah Winfrey , Margaret Avery

Votes: 97,314 | Gross: $98.47M

79. Shine (1996)

PG-13 | 105 min | Biography, Drama, Music

Pianist David Helfgott, driven by his father and teachers, has a breakdown. Years later he returns to the piano, to popular if not critical acclaim.

Director: Scott Hicks | Stars: Geoffrey Rush , Armin Mueller-Stahl , Justin Braine , Sonia Todd

Votes: 56,697 | Gross: $35.81M

80. Children of the Revolution (1996)

R | 101 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

Few knew that Stalin spent his last night in the arms of a young Australian woman. Few still knew that their "love-child" brought Australia to the brink of civil war. Until now.

Director: Peter Duncan | Stars: Judy Davis , Sam Neill , F. Murray Abraham , Richard Roxburgh

Votes: 2,426 | Gross: $0.83M

81. A Passage to India (1984)

PG | 164 min | Adventure, Drama, History

Cultural mistrust and false accusations doom a friendship in British colonial India between an Indian doctor, an Englishwoman engaged to marry a city magistrate, and an English educator.

Director: David Lean | Stars: Judy Davis , Victor Banerjee , Peggy Ashcroft , James Fox

Votes: 20,848 | Gross: $27.19M

82. Dangerous Liaisons (1988)

R | 119 min | Drama, Romance

A scheming widow and her manipulative ex-lover make a bet regarding the corruption of a recently married woman.

Director: Stephen Frears | Stars: Glenn Close , John Malkovich , Michelle Pfeiffer , Swoosie Kurtz

Votes: 75,129 | Gross: $34.70M

83. The Ten Commandments (1956)

G | 220 min | Adventure, Drama, Family

Moses, raised as a prince of Egypt in the Pharaoh's household, learns of his true heritage as a Hebrew and his divine mission as the deliverer of his people from slavery.

Director: Cecil B. DeMille | Stars: Charlton Heston , Yul Brynner , Anne Baxter , Edward G. Robinson

Votes: 77,841 | Gross: $93.74M

84. The Falcon and the Snowman (1985)

R | 131 min | Biography, Crime, Drama

The true story of a disillusioned military contractor employee and his drug pusher childhood friend who became walk-in spies for the Soviet Union.

Director: John Schlesinger | Stars: Timothy Hutton , Sean Penn , Pat Hingle , Joyce Van Patten

Votes: 12,681 | Gross: $17.10M

85. A Knight's Tale (2001)

PG-13 | 132 min | Action, Adventure, Romance

After his master dies, a peasant squire, fueled by his desire for food and glory, creates a new identity for himself as a knight.

Director: Brian Helgeland | Stars: Heath Ledger , Mark Addy , Rufus Sewell , Shannyn Sossamon

Votes: 201,680 | Gross: $56.57M

86. 24 Hour Party People (2002)

R | 117 min | Biography, Comedy, Drama

In 1976, Tony Wilson sets up Factory Records and brings Manchester's music to the world.

Director: Michael Winterbottom | Stars: Steve Coogan , Lennie James , John Thomson , Paul Popplewell

Votes: 39,691 | Gross: $1.13M

87. Senna (2010)

PG-13 | 106 min | Documentary, Biography, Sport

A documentary on Brazilian Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna, who won the F1 world championship three times before his death at age 34.

Director: Asif Kapadia | Stars: Ayrton Senna , Reginaldo Leme , John Bisignano , Neyde Senna

Votes: 75,767 | Gross: $1.61M

88. Entourage (2004–2011)

TV-MA | 28 min | Comedy, Drama

Film star, Vince Chase, navigates the vapid terrain of Los Angeles with a close circle of friends and his trusty agent.

Stars: Kevin Connolly , Adrian Grenier , Kevin Dillon , Jerry Ferrara

Votes: 176,818

89. True Blood (2008–2014)

TV-MA | 55 min | Drama, Fantasy, Mystery

Telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse encounters a strange new supernatural world when she meets the mysterious Bill Compton, a southern Louisiana gentleman and vampire.

Stars: Anna Paquin , Stephen Moyer , Sam Trammell , Ryan Kwanten

Votes: 260,070

90. Avatar (2009)

PG-13 | 162 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy

A paraplegic Marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home.

Director: James Cameron | Stars: Sam Worthington , Zoe Saldana , Sigourney Weaver , Michelle Rodriguez

Votes: 1,386,272 | Gross: $760.51M

91. Requiem for a Dream (2000)

R | 102 min | Drama

The drug-induced utopias of four Coney Island people are shattered when their addictions run deep..

Director: Darren Aronofsky | Stars: Ellen Burstyn , Jared Leto , Jennifer Connelly , Marlon Wayans

Votes: 898,647 | Gross: $3.64M

92. Go (1999)

The aftermath of a drug deal as told from three different points of view.

Director: Doug Liman | Stars: Sarah Polley , Jay Mohr , Scott Wolf , Taye Diggs

Votes: 75,149 | Gross: $16.84M

93. The Last Valley (1971)

PG | 128 min | Adventure, Drama, War

During the Thirty Years' War of 1600s, a band of Protestant mercenaries peacefully coexist with German Catholic villagers in a hidden idyllic mountain valley untouched by war.

Director: James Clavell | Stars: Michael Caine , Omar Sharif , Florinda Bolkan , Nigel Davenport

Votes: 3,581 | Gross: $0.25M

94. The Deer Hunter (1978)

R | 183 min | Drama, War

An in-depth examination of the ways in which the Vietnam War impacts and disrupts the lives of several friends in a small steel mill town in Pennsylvania.

Director: Michael Cimino | Stars: Robert De Niro , Christopher Walken , John Cazale , John Savage

Votes: 362,148 | Gross: $48.98M

95. O Lucky Man! (1973)

R | 178 min | Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

An ambitious coffee salesman has a series of improbable and ironic adventures that seem designed to challenge his naive idealism.

Director: Lindsay Anderson | Stars: Malcolm McDowell , Ralph Richardson , Rachel Roberts , Arthur Lowe

Votes: 8,790

96. Pulp Fiction (1994)

R | 154 min | Crime, Drama

More From Forbes

3 famous movies that get just about everything wrong about psychology.

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Despite their critical acclaim, many films tend to misrepresent key psychological concepts. Is your ... [+] favorite movie on this list?

Cinema can have a powerful influence on how we perceive the world around us. When it comes to psychology, however, Hollywood often takes creative liberties that lead to misconceptions and stereotypes. From exaggerated symptoms to romanticized portrayals of mental illness, some movies get it spectacularly wrong.

While these films might make for a good watch, they can inadvertently prompt viewers to take on a skewed view of psychology and mental health. By taking the time to learn the truths that inspire fiction, you can quickly discover that entertainment doesn’t always align with reality.

1. Girl, Interrupted (1999)

Girl, Interrupted is a film adaptation of Susanna Kaysen’s memoir, which recounts her experience of being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and her stay in a psychiatric hospital in the 1960s. While the film touches on important themes of mental health and self-discovery, it also misrepresents what BPD is like and how treatment works, creating a romanticized and somewhat misleading view of the condition.

Girl, Interrupted places its focus on the more dramatic, attention-grabbing aspects of BPD—impulsivity and sexual promiscuity—without truly exploring the broader range of symptoms that often accompany the disorder. In reality, research on BPD shows the disorder to be characterized by far more than what Girl, Interrupted suggests, such as:

• Profound fear of abandonment
• Identity disturbance
• Extreme mood swings
• Intense, unstable relationships
• Chronic feelings of emptiness
• Suicidal ideation and gestures

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However, the movie glosses over these less attractive symptoms, choosing instead to highlight moments that are “sexy” and exciting for audiences. These kinds of representations can create a skewed understanding of the disorder and its complexities.

Moreover, Girl, Interrupted suggests miraculous recoveries are possible in a relatively short amount of time. By the end of the film, Susanna Kaysen appears calm, composed and in control of her emotions. However, true recovery from BPD—which involves a long-term commitment to therapy, medication and consistent self-care—often takes years, and only then will symptoms gradually lessen.

For most people with BPD, however, complete remission is rare. By suggesting that recovery is quick and straightforward, the film risks giving audiences false hope or a simplistic view of the disorder, ignoring the real-life struggles and ongoing efforts many individuals with BPD face in their recovery process.

2. A Beautiful Mind (2001)

A Beautiful Mind is a highly acclaimed film based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Prize-winning mathematician who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Although the movie is a compelling narrative and a beautifully crafted story, the film centers on Nash’s hallucinations and delusions as a significant aspect of his schizophrenia. While hallucinations are often part of the condition, not everyone with schizophrenia experiences them to the same extent, or even at all.

The film’s portrayal of Nash’s vivid and intense hallucinations creates a brilliant dramatic effect, but it fails to represent the full spectrum of schizophrenia symptoms. In reality, research on schizophrenia shows the primary struggles are often disorganized thinking, diminished emotional expression and cognitive challenges—rather than extreme hallucinations or delusions alone.

Furthermore, cognitive neuroscientists criticize A Beautiful Mind for romanticizing the notion of “overcoming” mental illness through sheer willpower. Despite being an engaging and compassionate film, it reinforces several enduring myths about severe mental illness. The film links genius with madness, which suggests that Nash’s brilliance is somehow connected to his schizophrenia, and discounts his hard work and dedication. It also embellishes the healing power of romantic love by overemphasizing the role his relationship with his wife plays in his recovery.

While these themes make for a captivating story, they oversimplify the complexities of mental illness and can give a false impression of the real-life challenges faced by those with schizophrenia. While the film does address some of the harsh realities of psychiatric treatment, it largely overlooks the grueling and sometimes brutal aspects of mental health care during Nash’s era. By presenting a relatively sanitized view of schizophrenia and its treatment, the film can give a skewed perception of what it takes to manage the condition and the long-term impact it can have on individuals and their families.

3. Rain Man (1988)

Rain Man is a groundbreaking film that significantly contributed to raising awareness about autism and reducing the stigma surrounding it. Starring Dustin Hoffman as Raymond Babbitt, an autistic savant, the film brought attention to the challenges faced by individuals with autism and their families.

The film’s portrayal of a man with autism, who also had exceptional mathematical abilities and other savant skills, created a stereotype that has since been associated with the disorder. This exaggerated depiction of savant abilities has led to various unrealistic expectations about individuals with autism, reinforcing the notion that they all possess these rare skills.

While savant syndrome is indeed a rare condition in which a person with developmental disabilities demonstrates extraordinary abilities in specific areas—such as mathematics or music— research shows it is far from common among those with autism. Savant syndrome isn’t exclusive to autism either, and has been observed in various individuals with different developmental disabilities. Given this context, Rain Man contributed to a narrow view of what it means to be on the autism spectrum, as well as what it means to be a savant.

Despite its brilliance, the film inadvertently reinforced a mistaken dichotomy, and encouraged viewers to believe individuals with autism fall into one of two categories: either extraordinary savants, or “low-functioning” and completely socially inept—both of which perpetuate harmful and insensitive stereotypes regarding those on the autism spectrum.

In reality, a vast majority of people with autism do not fall under either of these labels, and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, careers and relationships—as do those who fall within the stereotyped categories. Sadly, portrayals like those in Rain Man can overshadow the diversity of abilities and behaviors that have long been observed and exhibited by those on the autism spectrum.

Do you fall for compelling but unsubstantiated information about psychology often? Take the Psychological Misconception Questionnaire to know better.

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Zack Snyder Still Hasn't Beaten His Best Rotten Tomatoes Score After 20 Years

Zack Snyder's career started off well, but 20 years later he's receiving his worst reviews yet.

• Despite early success with "Dawn of the Dead," Zack Snyder's reputation has declined with each film he directs.
• "Rebel Moon" is Snyder's worst-reviewed film, but remains popular on Netflix despite low critical scores.
• Snyder's writing may be the root of his critical issues, as films he wrote have been poorly received compared to those he didn't write.

Despite ranking as one of the most successful film directors of the past 20 years, Zack Snyder has never captured the critical glory of his feature debut, the remake of George A. Romero's Dawn of the Dead . More telling yet, the more movies Snyder directs, the worse his filmmaking reputation becomes. Case in point, Netflix's disastrously derivative sci-fi epic Rebel Moon , the poorest-reviewed film of Snyder's career to date.

Unlike Dawn of the Dead , which boasts a 76% certified fresh Rotten Tomatoes score , Rebel Moon - Part 2: The Scargiver holds an unthinkable 15%. Despite the awful reviews , Rebel Moon has remained among Netflix's most-watched movies since its April 23, 2024, premiere. Although it appears as if Snyder is critic-proof relative to his movie successes, it's hard to imagine the filmmaker being rewarded for continuing down a similar path. As such, it's worth looking back and wondering why Snyder has never been able to eclipse the critical success of his first feature and what may lie ahead for the director.

Dawn of the Dead (2004)

Dawn of the dead.

Before Zack Snyder became the IP Man for such big-budget blockbuster fare as Watchmen , Man of Steel , and Justice League , he began his directorial career with a different kind of built-in fanbase. After helming several music videos, Snyder had the bold idea to remake George A. Romero's Dawn of the Dead, often hailed as one of the best zombie movies ever . However, instead of making a beat-for-beat remake, Snyder's brilliant advancement of the material included turning the zombies from slow walkers into rapid-rabid runners that injected new energy into the movie.

Snyder also amplified the morbid sense of humor lacking in the original, and the movie was viewed as a reinvigorating rehash that deserves credit for pumping new life into the zombie craze in America that would lead to The Walking Dead and other horror shows. Dawn of the Dead struck a popular nerve among horror fans and critics, propping Snyder up as the next directorial wunderkind poised to overtake Hollywood. The film boasts a 76% Rotten Tomatoes Score and a 77% Audience Score, indicating its broad appeal. Unfortunately, Snyder has never seen such critical plaudits since, and the title Dawn of the Dead can be viewed, however cruelly, as a metaphor for his career from then on.

Snyder's Post-Dawn Career

In addition to receiving critical acclaim, Dawn of the Dead grossed over $100 million worldwide against a modest $26 million budget ( via Box Office Mojo ). With such success, Snyder naturally graduated to a bigger project for his follow-up. Adapting Frank Miller's period-action story 300 as his next movie, Snyder began a career pivot towards blockbuster comic book and graphic novel fare that would continue with the likes of Watchmen, Man of Steel, Dawn of Justice, and Justice League.

Although Snyder's big-budget superhero spectacles were financially successful enough, his work showed a steady decline in its critical reception. While Watchmen (65%) was slightly better than 300 (61%), Snyder's seesawing decline included Legends of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole (52%), Man of Steel (56%), Batman vs Superman - Dawn of Justice (29%), and Justice League (40%). Even though these were giant movie adaptations with bankable IP and built-in fanbases, Snyder was turning in mediocre results that, more often than not, showed a steady decrease in his directorial acumen. However, on closer inspection, the most fundamental problem with Zack Snyder's popular movies comes from the writing.

The Movies Written By Zack Snyder

Except for 300 , Snyder wrote none of the movies listed above. Stranger yet, the ones that Snyder has written have fared far worse among critics than the ones he didn't write. The trend began in 2011 with the release of Sucker Punch , a misogynistic, self-indulgent mess that holds an abysmal 22% Rotten Tomatoes Score. Snyder shares screenplay credit with Steve Shibuya, with the critics' consensus reading, "It's technically impressive and loaded with eye-catching images, but without characters or a plot to support them, all of Sucker Punch's visual thrills are for naught."

Following Sucker Punch , Snyder's failed first attempt to write and direct a wholly original movie, he went on to write three more features. Snyder wrote the sequel to 300, 300: Rise of an Empire , but handed directorial duties to Noam Murro. The film holds a lackluster 45% Rotten Tomatoes score. Although Snyder received story credit for Wonder Woman and Justice League , he wouldn't write another original screenplay until Army of the Dead in 2021. Although it took 17 years, the link between Dawn of the Dead and Army of the Dead is one of high entertainment value.

Zack Snyder's Original DCEU Plans

Co-written by Synder with Joby Harold and Shay Hatten, Army of the Dead is at its best when blending zombie apocalypse tropes with heist film tenets to create a chaotic morass of action, horror, and humor set in Las Vegas. It's almost as if Snyder returned to the drawing board, recaptured what worked so well in Dawn of the Dead to begin his career, and purposely sought to relive the critical triumph. Although Army of the Dead didn't receive as much critical praise as Dawn of the Dead , it remains Snyder's third-highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes (67%). Zack Snyder's Justice League is second, with 72%, another movie he did not write.

Rebel Moon Marks a Critical Low Point

Rebel moon - part two: the scargiver.

That brings Snyder's career up to date with the recent release of Rebel Moon , a critically panned 2-part sci-fi epic most critics claim is a naked Star Wars knock-off. Following the critical and commercial appeal of Army of the Dead , perhaps Snyder felt encouraged to write more original screenplays for himself to direct. Yet, instead of helming the sequel Army of Thieves , Snyder went full steam ahead with Rebel Moon , a mega-popular Netflix release that premiered on Netflix in December 2023 with the first installment, A Child of Fire .

Despite instantly shooting to the top of the Netflix charts, A Child of Fire was eviscerated by critics, earning a paltry 21% Rotten Tomatoes Score. The film's negative reception, which included the lack of an emotional core and coherent story, would seem to turn viewers off to the sequel, Rebel Moon: The Scargiver . On the contrary, The Scargiver debuted as the #1 Most Watched movie on Netflix when it was released on April 23, 2024. Despite its popularity among viewers, The Scargiver fared even worse among critics than A Child of Fire, earning a lowly 15% Rotten Tomatoes Score.

Given the steady decline in the critical perception of Zack Snyder's movies , it's worth wondering where the filmmaker goes from here. His upcoming slate includes directing Planet of the Dead and the Army of the Dead: Lost Vegas TV spin-off, projects he will presumably co-write based on his previous experience. Snyder is also attached to adapting Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead , which would be a major departure material-wise.

By returning to the realm " Of the Dead" , Snyder may know his best movie is still his first and is desperate to catch lightning in a bottle again. Of course, given the results, Snyder must also realize that, for the most part, his best movies are ones he does not write himself. As such, it will be interesting to see what Snyder does next. Stream Dawn of the Dead on Starz and Rebel Moon on Netflix.

CinemaBlend

Ryan Gosling's 2024 "I'm Just Ken" Oscars Performance

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Well folks, it happened. As the world has watched the 2024 Oscar winners crowned in real-time, the performances of the nominees for “Best Original Song” have kept the Ken-ergy up and running. And when it came time for Ryan Gosling to sing Barbie’s “I’m Just Ken,” the reactions from Margot Robbie and Billie Eilish were so hysterical, that it was almost better than the performance. Of course, their shocked and laughing faces mirrored what basically everyone was thinking before Gosling’s song and dance number at L.A.’s Dolby Theatre really got going. After Robbie, Greta Gerwig and Eilish's amazing reactions, the pink-suited singer took the stage with several of his co-Kens from the Barbie cast, including Kingsley Ben-Adir, Simu Liu, and Ncuti Gatwa, the Barbie theatrics really took off. And yes dear fans, the chant of “Can you feel the Ken-ergy?” was kept in the live show.

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Album review

On ‘The Tortured Poets Department,’ Taylor Swift Could Use an Editor

Over 16 songs (and a second LP), the pop superstar litigates her recent romances. But the themes, and familiar sonic backdrops, generate diminishing returns.

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By Lindsay Zoladz

If there has been a common thread — an invisible string, if you will — connecting the last few years of Taylor Swift’s output, it has been abundance.

Nearly 20 years into her career, Swift, 34, is more popular and prolific than ever, sating her ravenous fan base and expanding her cultural domination with a near-constant stream of music — five new albums plus four rerecorded ones since 2019 alone. Her last LP, “Midnights” from 2022, rolled out in multiple editions, each with its own extra songs and collectible covers. Her record-breaking Eras Tour is a three-and-a-half-hour marathon featuring 40-plus songs, including the revised 10-minute version of her lost-innocence ballad “All Too Well.” In this imperial era of her long reign, Swift has operated under the guiding principle that more is more.

What Swift reveals on her sprawling and often self-indulgent 11th LP, “The Tortured Poets Department,” is that this stretch of productivity and commercial success was also a tumultuous time for her, emotionally. “I can read your mind: ‘She’s having the time of her life,’” Swift sings on “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart,” a percolating track that evokes the glitter and adoration of the Eras Tour but admits, “All the pieces of me shattered as the crowd was chanting ‘more.’” And yet, that’s exactly what she continues to provide, announcing two hours after the release of “Poets” that — surprise! — there was a second “volume” of the album, “The Anthology,” featuring 15 additional, though largely superfluous, tracks.

Gone are the character studies and fictionalized narratives of Swift’s 2020 folk-pop albums “Folklore” and “Evermore.” The feverish “Tortured Poets Department” is a full-throated return to her specialty: autobiographical and sometimes spiteful tales of heartbreak, full of detailed, referential lyrics that her fans will delight in decoding.

Swift doesn’t name names, but she drops plenty of boldfaced clues about exiting a long-term cross-cultural relationship that has grown cold (the wrenching “So Long, London”), briefly taking up with a tattooed bad boy who raises the hackles of the more judgmental people in her life (the wild-eyed “But Daddy I Love Him”) and starting fresh with someone who makes her sing in — ahem — football metaphors (the weightless “The Alchemy”). The subject of the most headline-grabbing track on “The Anthology,” a fellow member of the Tortured Billionaires Club whom Swift reimagines as a high school bully, is right there in the title’s odd capitalization: “thanK you aIMee.”

At times, the album is a return to form. Its first two songs are potent reminders of how viscerally Swift can summon the flushed delirium of a doomed romance. The opener, “Fortnight,” a pulsing, synth-frosted duet with Post Malone, is chilly and controlled until lines like “I love you, it’s ruining my life” inspire the song to thaw and glow. Even better is the chatty, radiant title track , on which Swift’s voice glides across smooth keyboard arpeggios, self-deprecatingly comparing herself and her lover to more daring poets before concluding, “This ain’t the Chelsea Hotel, we’re modern idiots.” Many Swift songs get lost in dense thickets of their own vocabulary, but here the goofy particularity of the lyrics — chocolate bars, first-name nods to friends, a reference to the pop songwriter Charlie Puth ?! — is strangely humanizing.

Taylor Swift’s New Album Reviewed

For all its sprawl, though, “The Tortured Poets Department” is a curiously insular album, often cradled in the familiar, amniotic throb of Jack Antonoff’s production. ( Aaron Dessner of the National, who lends a more muted and organic sensibility to Swift’s sound, produced and helped write five tracks on the first album, and the majority of “The Anthology.”) Antonoff and Swift have been working together since he contributed to her blockbuster album “1989” from 2014, and he has become her most consistent collaborator. There is a sonic uniformity to much of “The Tortured Poets Department,” however — gauzy backdrops, gently thumping synths, drum machine rhythms that lock Swift into a clipped, chirping staccato — that suggests their partnership has become too comfortable and risks growing stale.

As the album goes on, Swift’s lyricism starts to feel unrestrained, imprecise and unnecessarily verbose. Breathless lines overflow and lead their melodies down circuitous paths. As they did on “Midnights,” internal rhymes multiply like recitations of dictionary pages: “Camera flashes, welcome bashes, get the matches, toss the ashes off the ledge,” she intones in a bouncy cadence on “Fresh Out the Slammer,” one of several songs that lean too heavily on rote prison metaphors. Narcotic imagery is another inspiration for some of Swift’s most trite and head-scratching writing: “Florida,” apparently, “is one hell of a drug.” If you say so!

That song , though, is one of the album’s best — a thunderous collaboration with the pop sorceress Florence Welch, who blows in like a gust of fresh air and allows Swift to harness a more theatrical and dynamic aesthetic. “Guilty as Sin?,” another lovely entry, is the rare Antonoff production that frames Swift’s voice not in rigid electronics but in a ’90s soft-rock atmosphere. On these tracks in particular, crisp Swiftian images emerge: an imagined lover’s “messy top-lip kiss,” 30-something friends who “all smell like weed or little babies.”

It would not be a Swift album without an overheated and disproportionately scaled revenge song, and there is a doozy here called “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?,” which bristles with indignation over a grand, booming palette. Given the enormous cultural power that Swift wields, and the fact that she has played dexterously with humor and irony elsewhere in her catalog, it’s surprising she doesn’t deliver this one with a (needed) wink.

Plenty of great artists are driven by feelings of being underestimated, and have had to find new targets for their ire once they become too successful to convincingly claim underdog status. Beyoncé, who has reached a similar moment in her career, has opted to look outward. On her recently released “Cowboy Carter,” she takes aim at the racist traditionalists lingering in the music industry and the idea of genre as a means of confinement or limitation.

Swift’s new project remains fixed on her internal world. The villains of “The Tortured Poets Department” are a few less famous exes and, on the unexpectedly venomous “But Daddy I Love Him,” the “wine moms” and “Sarahs and Hannahs in their Sunday best” who cluck their tongues at our narrator’s dating decisions. (Some might speculate that these are actually shots at her own fans.) “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived” is probably the most satisfyingly vicious breakup song Swift has written since “All Too Well,” but it is predicated on a power imbalance that goes unquestioned. Is a clash between the smallest man and the biggest woman in the world a fair fight?

That’s a knotty question Swift might have been more keen to untangle on “Midnights,” an uneven LP that nonetheless found Swift asking deeper and more challenging questions about gender, power and adult womanhood than she does here. It is to the detriment of “The Tortured Poets Department” that a certain starry-eyed fascination with fairy tales has crept back into Swift’s lyricism. It is almost singularly focused on the salvation of romantic love; I tried to keep a tally of how many songs yearningly reference wedding rings and ran out of fingers. By the end, this perspective makes the album feel a bit hermetic, lacking the depth and taut structure of her best work.

Swift has been promoting this poetry-themed album with hand-typed lyrics, sponsored library installations and even an epilogue written in verse. A palpable love of language and a fascination with the ways words lock together in rhyme certainly courses through Swift’s writing. But poetry is not a marketing strategy or even an aesthetic — it’s a whole way of looking at the world and its language, turning them both upside down in search of new meanings and possibilities. It is also an art form in which, quite often and counter to the governing principle of Swift’s current empire, less is more.

Sylvia Plath once called poetry “a tyrannical discipline,” because the poet must “go so far and so fast in such a small space; you’ve got to burn away all the peripherals.” Great poets know how to condense, or at least how to edit. The sharpest moments of “The Tortured Poets Department” would be even more piercing in the absence of excess, but instead the clutter lingers, while Swift holds an unlit match.

Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department” (Republic)

Inside the World of Taylor Swift

A Triumph at the Grammys: Taylor Swift made history  by winning her fourth album of the year at the 2024 edition of the awards, an event that saw women take many of the top awards .

‘The T ortured Poets Department’: Poets reacted to Swift’s new album name , weighing in on the pertinent question: What do the tortured poets think ?  

In the Public Eye: The budding romance between Swift and the football player Travis Kelce created a monocultural vortex that reached its apex  at the Super Bowl in Las Vegas. Ahead of kickoff, we revisited some key moments in their relationship .

Politics (Taylor’s Version): After months of anticipation, Swift made her first foray into the 2024 election for Super Tuesday with a bipartisan message on Instagram . The singer, who some believe has enough influence  to affect the result of the election , has yet to endorse a presidential candidate.

Conspiracy Theories: In recent months, conspiracy theories about Swift and her relationship with Kelce have proliferated , largely driven by supporters of former President Donald Trump . The pop star's fans are shaking them off .