By Andrés Muñoz
Seeking a classic movie to watch? Several of the following films have won multiple Academy Awards, and others have deeply resonated with me for one reason or another. They all transcend the ages.
Here is my list of 10 must-watch movies that will change your life.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
This drama stars Will Smith as homeless man Chris Gardner, who struggles to provide for his child while pursuing his dream of becoming a stockbroker. It is a testament to the human spirit. He meets all types of challenges with sheer grit and determination for the sake of his son, inspiring us all.
Above all, “The Pursuit of Happyness” is a father-son film. Will and Jayden Smith are spectacular in their respective roles. The basketball scene is the most beautiful moment apart from the final scene.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Russell Crowe delivers an iconic performance as John Nash, a mathematician grappling with schizophrenia in the late 1950s. The film talks about mental illness with sensitivity, and we root for Crowe’s character throughout the film.
“A Beautiful Mind” was a hit on the festival circuit and won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. One of my favourite scenes is the speech at the film’s end; it’s truly wonderful.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Also set in the 1950s, “Dead Poets Society” explores the lives of a group of teenagers in a conservative private school. Robin Williams delivers one of his most famous performances as an unconventional English teacher, John Keating, who inspires his students to think critically and question authority.
Keating’s groundbreaking teaching methods challenge the status quo and serve as a springboard for young men’s imaginations. An absolute classic.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
One of the greatest war films ever made. Period.
“Saving Private Ryan” follows a group of U.S. soldiers led by Captain Miller (Tom Hanks) on a dangerous mission to safely bring home Private James Ryan (Matt Damon).
Steven Spielberg’s cinematographer, Janusz Kamiński, gives us that rugged wartime look that many movies will replicate. The first 30 minutes are absolute carnage, showing the invasion of Normandy in full detail.
Spirited Away (2001)
My love for Hayao Miyazaki’s films stems from here. “Spirited Away” shows a girl named Chihiro, who must rescue her parents from a mysterious spirit world. This was the first hand-drawn, Japanese anime and non-English animated film to win Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
I love that this film is loaded with symbolism and themes like courage, friendship, and self-discovery. I have seen several Miyazaki films but always return to Spirited Away.
Interstellar (2014)
This is Christopher Nolan’s exploration into the depths of space. The film follows a group of astronauts on a dangerous mission to find a new home for humanity.
As usual, Nolan’s complex storytelling and blending of scientific concepts with emotional storytelling are key factors in “Interstellar.” The visuals are out of this world, and Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack is nothing short of mesmerising. One of my favourite scenes is when Anne Hathaway’s character talks about love and dimensions.
The Truman Show (1998)
What would you do if you discovered that your entire life is a reality television show? Starring Jim Carrey, “The Truman Show” is a satire on the media-centric nature of our world, highlighting the invasion of privacy and the manipulation of reality for entertainment.
Released over 25 years ago, the film covers several contemporary themes, such as privacy, identity, and the search for meaning.
The Terminal (2004)
Steven Spielberg takes us to JFK Airport with the tale of Viktor Navorski, played by Tom Hanks, a man stranded in an airport after his country ceases to exist due to a coup. “The Terminal” is a charming story where, at first, you feel lonely and displaced as Navorski struggles to make things work for him in the airport.
However, you also learn about the importance of human connection, with Stanley Tucci delivering an outstanding performance as the film’s antagonist.
Schindler’s List (1993)
Yes, I have a soft spot for Steven Spielberg. “Schindler’s List” tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of over 1,100 Jews during the Holocaust.
Janusz Kamiński knocks it out of the ballpark by shooting in black and white, and the performances by Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes and Ben Kingsley are for the ages. Add a John Williams score, and you have seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Whiplash (2014)
Starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons, “Whiplash” makes you question how far you are willing to go when pursuing perfection. The film explores the complex relationship between a demanding music teacher and his ambitious young student in a jazz academy.
At its heart, this fast-paced film is a raw tale of what it takes to achieve greatness.
These 10 must-watch movies will stir your emotions and bring thrills. What other titles do you recommend? Let us know in the comments section below!