Movies About Change

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on the 1982 Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. The film stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary. During his time at the prison, he befriends a fellow inmate, Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman), and finds himself protected by the guards after the warden begins using him for his money laundering scheme. After years of planning, Andy escapes from Shawshank, ultimately seeking redemption and a new life. The film was a box office success and has since become a cult classic. It has been highly acclaimed by critics, who praised the performances of Robbins and Freeman, as well as the story and Darabont's direction. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Robbins, and won a number of awards for its technical aspects.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley, Caroline Goodall
Rated R

Schindler's List is a 1993 American epic historical drama film directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg and written by Steven Zaillian. The film is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand mostly Polish-Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. It stars Liam Neeson as Schindler, Ralph Fiennes as SS officer Amon Göth and Ben Kingsley as Schindler's Jewish accountant Itzhak Stern. The film follows Schindler's efforts to protect his Jewish workers from Nazi persecution during World War II. Schindler's List was released on December 15, 1993, and was a critical and commercial success, making it the highest-grossing film of 1994 and winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. It was also the first Best Picture winner to be nominated in all four Academy Award categories for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Sally Field
Rated PG-13

Forrest Gump is a 1994 comedy-drama film directed by Robert Zemeckis, based on the 1986 novel of the same name by Winston Groom. It stars Tom Hanks as the title character, an Everyman from Alabama who witnesses, and in some cases influences, some of the defining events of the latter half of the 20th century in the United States. The story depicts several decades in the life of Forrest Gump, a naive and slow-witted yet kind-hearted man from Alabama who consistently finds himself in the middle of historical events despite limited intellect or wealth. The story includes Forrest's experiences with the Vietnam War, his relationship with Jenny (Robin Wright), and his experiences running a successful business. The movie was praised for its visual effects, and won multiple awards, including six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Visual Effects, Best Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

From Roberto Benigni, starring Roberto Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, Giorgio Cantarini, Giustino Durano
Rated PG-13

Life Is Beautiful is a 1997 Italian film directed by Roberto Benigni. The film follows the story of Guido Orefice, an Italian Jewish man living in the Tuscan town of Arezzo during the 1930s and 1940s, and his struggle to protect his son, Giosuè, from the horrors of the Holocaust. To keep Giosuè from understanding the terrible truth of the time, Guido creates a game for the two of them, convincing Giosuè that the concentration camp they have been sent to is an elaborate game. Guido uses his wit and humor to comfort Giosuè and keep him safe throughout the Holocaust, while also facing the danger of being discovered. Through his sacrifice, Guido's love for his son shines through and in the end, he and Giosuè are reunited and able to start a new life together.

From Directors: Fernando Meirelles, Kátia Lund, starring Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino, Matheus Nachtergaele, Phellipe Haagensen
Rated R

City of God is a 2002 crime drama film directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund. Set in the Cidade de Deus favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the film follows the life of Rocket, a young boy who dreams of becoming a photographer, while living in the midst of the violent drug trade and gang wars that overwhelm the city. Over the course of 13 years, the story follows Rocket, who develops a keen eye for capturing the turbulent events that shape the city, and his friend Li'l Zé, who rises to become the most feared drug lord in the city. Together, the two must confront the harsh realities of the place they call home. The film is a gritty and violent portrait of life in Rio de Janeiro, and is widely acclaimed for its powerful and gripping storytelling.

From Michael Curtiz, starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains
Rated PG

Casablanca is a 1942 romantic drama set during World War II, directed by Michael Curtiz and starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. The film follows the story of Rick Blaine, a cynical expatriate living in the Moroccan city of Casablanca, as he helps a pair of desperate lovers escape from the Nazis. Along the way, he must confront his own broken past and conflicted loyalties. With an iconic soundtrack and unforgettable performances, Casablanca has become an iconic classic of cinema, often cited as one of the greatest films of all time.

From Tony Kaye, starring Edward Norton, Edward Furlong, Beverly D'Angelo, Jennifer Lien
Rated R

American History X is a 1998 American drama film starring Edward Norton and Edward Furlong. It tells the story of two brothers from Venice, California, who become embroiled in a neo-Nazi skinhead gang following the death of their father. Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton) is the leader of the gang and his younger brother Danny (Edward Furlong) is seduced by their ideology. The film explores both the nature of racism and its effect on the lives of those affected by it. Derek is sent to prison for manslaughter and, while there, he has an epiphany and changes his views on racism. Upon his release, he tries to prevent Danny from going down the same path, while also trying to distance himself from his old lifestyle and the neo-Nazi gang. The film highlights the power of redemption and its ability to transform people’s lives.

From Directors: Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano, starring François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot
Rated R

The Intouchables is a French comedy-drama film starring François Cluzet and Omar Sy. It tells the story of a wealthy, physically disabled man, Philippe, who hires a young, good-hearted ex-convict, Driss, to be his caretaker. Despite coming from vastly different backgrounds, the two develop a close bond as Driss helps Philippe out of his shell and teaches him to live life to the fullest. Through their friendship, Philippe and Driss learn to look past their differences and find joy and meaning in life. Ultimately, the two become an unstoppable duo, and their story of friendship and acceptance has become an international sensation.

From Roman Polanski, starring Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann, Frank Finlay, Emilia Fox
Rated R

The Pianist is a 2002 biographical drama film directed by Roman Polanski and starring Adrien Brody. It is an adaptation of a autobiographical book by the same name, which was written by the Polish-Jewish pianist and composer Władysław Szpilman. The film tells the story of Szpilman's struggles to survive in Nazi-occupied Warsaw during World War II. After his family is sent to a concentration camp, Szpilman hides in the ruins of the city and endures incredible hardships to survive. Along the way, he is aided by a German officer who admires his musical talent, allowing him to continue living in the city. The film explores themes of persecution, war, morality, and the power of music. Ultimately, Szpilman is reunited with his family, and finds peace and solace in his music.

From Milos Forman, starring F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce, Elizabeth Berridge, Roy Dotrice
Rated R

Amadeus is a biographical period drama about the life of the great composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, directed by Milos Forman in 1984. It follows the rivalry between Mozart and the court composer Antonio Salieri, and the events which unfold after Salieri begins to resent and envy Mozart's genius and success. After unsuccessfully trying to ruin Mozart, Salieri eventually confesses to Mozart's murder, while Mozart dies in poverty and obscurity. The film also uses Mozart's music to tell the tale, using pieces such as the Marriage of Figaro, Requiem and Don Giovanni.

From Darren Aronofsky, starring Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Marlon Wayans
Rated R

Requiem for a Dream is a 2000 American psychological drama film directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, and Marlon Wayans. It is based on the 1978 novel of the same name by Hubert Selby Jr., with whom Aronofsky wrote the screenplay. The film tells the story of four people whose lives spiral out of control as they succumb to their addictions. Harry Goldfarb, an unemployed and addicted young man, and his aging mother, Sara, both become addicted to diet pills in an effort to improve their lives. Harry's best friend, Tyrone, and girlfriend, Marion, become addicted to heroin, with their dependency on the drug causing them to drift apart. As they descend into a world of addiction, their dreams of success, love, and self-fulfillment begin to disintegrate. The film is notable for its use of slow motion, dream-like imagery, and a mix of images and music to create a visceral, emotionally charged atmosphere. It has been widely praised for its unflinching exploration of addiction and the toll it takes on those affected by it.

From Thomas Vinterberg, starring Mads Mikkelsen, Thomas Bo Larsen, Annika Wedderkopp, Lasse Fogelstrøm
Rated R

The Hunt is a 2012 Danish drama film directed by Thomas Vinterberg and starring Mads Mikkelsen. It follows Lukas, a small-town kindergarten teacher who is falsely accused of a crime he did not commit. The accusation triggers a series of events that slowly begin to unravel his life. Lukas is ostracized by the small community he has grown up in, and struggles to prove his innocence. As the story progresses, Lukas is forced to confront the truth about his past and the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface of the small town. The film is a powerful exploration of the effects of accusation, judgement and ostracism on one man, and the lengths he must go to in order to restore his life and reputation.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke
Rated R

A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 dystopian crime film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on Anthony Burgess's 1962 novel of the same name. The film follows the violent exploits of 15-year old Alex and his gang of "droogs" as they terrorize the dystopian city of London. After Alex is arrested and convicted for murder, he agrees to take part in an experimental technique to "cure" him of his violent tendencies. The experimental therapy does not go as planned, leaving Alex in an even worse psychological state. As he struggles to survive the aftermath of the experiment, Alex must decide if the newfound morality he has gained is worth the cost of his freedom. The film explores themes of free will, morality, and the consequences of violence.

From Jean-Pierre Jeunet, starring Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus, Lorella Cravotta
Rated R

Amélie is a romantic comedy-drama about the eponymous Amélie Poulain, an innocent and naive girl in Paris with her own sense of justice. She decides to help those around her and, along the way, discovers love. After a childhood spent isolated from other people, Amélie’s life changes dramatically when she discovers a box of childhood mementos hidden behind a tile in her apartment. Inspired by the discovery, she decides to dedicate her life to bringing joy to all those around her. Through a series of adventures, she sets out to change the lives of those she encounters, such as her lonely, reclusive neighbor and a heartbroken young man. Her kind-hearted schemes also lead her to discover true love.

From David Lean, starring Peter O'Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins
Rated Approved

Lawrence of Arabia is the epic 1962 film by director David Lean. It chronicles the life of T.E. Lawrence, a British Army lieutenant who successfully united and led the diverse, often warring, Arab tribes during World War I in order to fight the Ottoman Turks. Lawrence, who is played by Peter O'Toole, is a complex and mysterious figure that is driven to succeed in his mission at all costs. Along the way, he faces many challenges, including a personal search for identity and a clash of cultures. The film follows his journey from his humble beginnings in the British Army to his famous exploits in the desert. With stunning cinematography and an unforgettable score, Lawrence of Arabia remains one of the most acclaimed films of all time.

From Michel Gondry, starring Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Tom Wilkinson, Gerry Robert Byrne
Rated R

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a 2004 romantic science fiction comedy-drama film written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Michel Gondry. It stars Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet as Joel and Clementine, a couple who have their memories of their relationship erased. The film follows Joel as he discovers the process and attempts to stop it before all of his memories of Clementine are deleted. Throughout the film, the characters struggle to reconcile the difficulty of forgetting someone they love with the need for a fresh start. The film received critical acclaim and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay, Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Editing.

From Guillermo del Toro, starring Ivana Baquero, Ariadna Gil, Sergi López, Maribel Verdú
Rated R

Pan's Labyrinth is an otherworldly fable set against the backdrop of Franco-era Spain. Young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her pregnant mother (Ariadna Gil) travel to a rural military outpost commanded by her new stepfather, the sadistic Captain Vidal (Sergi Lopez). While her mother struggles with her pregnancy, Ofelia discovers a mysterious labyrinth and meets the faun Pan, who tells her that she is a legendary lost princess. In order to return to her kingdom, Ofelia must complete three dangerous tasks. Along the way, she clashes with Vidal while aiding a band of rebels in their fight against his tyrannical rule. Dark, visually stunning, and emotionally powerful, Pan's Labyrinth is an unforgettable tale of courage and resilience.

From Ron Howard, starring Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly, Christopher Plummer
Rated PG-13

A Beautiful Mind is a biographical drama film based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. The film follows John Nash's struggle with paranoid schizophrenia and his descent into the depths of mental illness. It follows his journey from his early days at Princeton University, to his eventual recovery with the help of his wife Alicia and his doctor, Rosen. Through his battle with his inner demons, he eventually finds the strength to win a Nobel Prize and reclaim his life. The film is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the resilience of the human mind.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Mortimer, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley
Rated R

Shutter Island is a psychological thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio as U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels, who is sent to investigate the disappearance of a patient from a hospital for the criminally insane located on the titular island. As Teddy and his partner, Chuck, investigate, they discover that the hospital's staff and inmates are hiding a sinister secret. As the truth begins to unravel, Teddy finds himself in a desperate struggle to escape the island, and unravel the puzzle of his own past. With an intense atmosphere and a complex plot, Shutter Island is an exciting journey as Teddy attempts to uncover the truth.

From Damián Szifron, starring Darío Grandinetti, María Marull, Mónica Villa, Diego Starosta
Rated R

Wild Tales is a dark comedy anthology film by director Damián Szifron. It is composed of six standalone stories that explore the extreme limits of human behavior driven by revenge, jealousy, and other dark emotions. Each story follows a different set of characters as they face the consequences of their actions in darkly comedic ways. The film's themes of revenge, justice, and the cyclical nature of violence are explored through a variety of scenarios, from a road-rage incident to a story of fraudulent inheritance. Ultimately, Wild Tales poses questions about morality and justice in a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred.

From Wes Anderson, starring Ralph Fiennes, F. Murray Abraham, Mathieu Amalric, Adrien Brody
Rated R

The Grand Budapest Hotel is a 2014 comedy-drama film written and directed by Wes Anderson, and starring Ralph Fiennes, F. Murray Abraham, Mathieu Amalric, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Jude Law, Bill Murray, Saoirse Ronan, Léa Seydoux, Jason Schwartzman, Tilda Swinton, Tom Wilkinson and Owen Wilson. The story follows Gustave H (Fiennes), a legendary concierge at a famous European hotel between the wars, and Zero Moustafa (Amalric), the lobby boy who becomes his most trusted friend. The story involves the theft and recovery of a priceless Renaissance painting and the battle for an enormous family fortune. Gustave and Zero are caught up in a struggle between the family of the deceased Madame D (Swinton) and an evil forces trying to take possession of her fortune. The two must find allies to help them overcome the powerful adversaries they face and navigate a web of treachery and murder in order to reclaim the stolen painting and save the Grand Budapest Hotel.

From Richard Linklater, starring Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Andrea Eckert, Hanno Pöschl
Rated R

"Before Sunrise" is a 1995 romantic drama directed by Richard Linklater and starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. The film follows two strangers, Jesse (Hawke) and Celine (Delpy), who meet on a train and decide to spend the night together in Vienna, talking about their lives and ideas. They explore the city, discussing their hopes and dreams for the future, and eventually fall in love. As dawn approaches, they must decide whether to part ways or to continue their relationship. The film is a meditation on love, youth, and the beauty of a single moment.

From Sean Penn, starring Emile Hirsch, Vince Vaughn, Catherine Keener, Marcia Gay Harden
Rated R

"Into the Wild" (2007) is an American biographical drama directed by Sean Penn and is based on the 1996 non-fiction book of the same name by Jon Krakauer. It tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man from a wealthy family who abandoned his possessions, gave his entire $24,000 savings to charity and hitchhiked to Alaska with the goal of living in the wilderness. During his journey, he encountered a variety of people who taught him valuable lessons about life and helped him grow as a person. Ultimately, his travels end in tragedy, but the film ultimately serves as a tribute to the power of nature and the beauty of living a simple life.

From Rob Reiner, starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell
Rated R

Stand by Me is a coming-of-age drama film based on the novella The Body by Stephen King. The story follows a group of four young boys in the summer of 1959 who embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. Along the way, the boys find friendship, adventure, and a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them. This film features a stellar cast, featuring River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell. Through the course of their journey, the boys must confront their fears, face the consequences of their actions, and ultimately confront who they will become as adults. As their friendship grows, the boys are tested in ways that would shape their adult lives. Stand by Me is a coming-of-age classic that is loved by audiences of all ages.

From Tate Taylor, starring Viola Davis, Emma Stone, Octavia Spencer, Bryce Dallas Howard
Rated PG-13

The Help is a 2011 American period drama film directed and written by Tate Taylor and based on Kathryn Stockett’s 2009 novel of the same name. Set in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 1960s, the film follows a young white woman named Skeeter (Emma Stone) who forms an unlikely friendship with two black maids, Aibileen (Viola Davis) and Minny (Octavia Spencer). Together they decide to write a book detailing the African-American point of view on working as maids to white families in the South, a potentially dangerous undertaking that could cost them their jobs. The book, entitled “The Help”, is written with Aibileen and Minny’s candid accounts of their experiences while working in white households. The film follows the progress of the book, and explores the relationships between the maids and their employers, the racial tensions of the time period, and the power of friendship. The film was praised for its portrayal of the relationships between the characters, and was awarded the Academy Award for Best Picture of 2011.