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For most people, going to the movies is an enjoyable activity that allows them to escape from life’s realities and indulge in the on-screen lives of actors and actresses. Many women can attest to having spent a night on the couch with a pint of ice cream in hand watching “chick flicks” after a break up in an effort to cope with their troubles. Men generally opt for action-packed thrillers that provide them with the adrenaline rush that they seek out in real life. Cathartic films in particular appeal to wide audiences and can help combat depression, as they allow us to identify with the protagonist on a personal level and express emotion throughout the trials of their journey. Controversial films such as Pretty Woman bring to light legitimate and real issues like prostitution to the forefronts of society. While many were quick to consider the film sexist for depicting the life of a stereotypical helpless and dependent woman, others felt that it did a social justice by exposing the nature of gender inequality, and the invisible social and economic barriers that impede women from receiving adequate educational and professional opportunities on a large scale.
It is safe to say that watching movies can be therapeutic for both adults and children. Movies have the ability to change our attitude, how we think and feel, and even our values. Seeing how others live their lives on the big screen can help us view things from a different perspective and become more understanding of other people, ultimately broadening our knowledge of the world around us.
Much like dreams, movies provoke philosophical thoughts and questions about our lives that we may have failed to ever consider. By relating to the protagonist, we create personal representations of the events in the film and interpret them according to our own lives. When we learn to immediately recognize these movie-induced emotions, we can further analyze them and find answers to some of the questions that have arisen as a result of the film. Moreover, comparing ourselves to the characters allows us to reflect on our actions and perhaps determine how to better handle a similar situation in the future. Additionally, movies give couples the opportunity to discuss and address concepts and issues that are relevant to them, ultimately allowing for enhanced communication.
Recent notable films Cesar Chavez and Selma do an extraordinary job at depicting the power of individuals who have the conviction to take strides towards a more equal and positive society, and allow us to relive our nation’s history in both its glory and hardship.
We have also seen inspirational films such as McFarland USA, and others that linger in the minds of those who saw them, such as The Theory of Everything and Whiplash. Many can relate to feeling deceived and betrayed, and how unpredictable those feelings can be as displayed in Wild Tales.
If you have already seen Still Alice, you may have come to learn about the devastating reality of dementia and the great impact it has not only on the person who is suffering from it, but their family as well.
Each of these films evoke emotion, and serve as a source of inspiration and practical ideas for their audiences.
As previously mentioned, children also use movies as part of their learning and growing experience, and there are several positive films out there to choose from when considering a movie for your child. For example, the movie HOME touches on family values, the importance of friendship, learning from others, respect of other cultures, fighting for what is important, not losing faith and the significance of exuding love in everything that we do. If you haven’t seen it yet, go with the family!
So, next time you’re bored on a Friday night, take a trip to the movies with your loved ones, and stir up a good conversation about it afterwards and reflect on what it has taught you. If you feel that you and your partner have hit a dull patch in terms of communication, a good movie might be all it takes to ignite that spark through discussion. Most importantly, always keep in mind that children can learn a lot from a positive and educational movie.
