Movies About Mental Illness

From David Fincher, starring Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, Meat Loaf, Zach Grenier
Rated R

Fight Club is an American film directed by David Fincher and starring Brad Pitt and Edward Norton. It tells the story of an unnamed narrator (Norton) who is discontented with his mundane life and forms a fight club with soap maker Tyler Durden (Pitt). Through the fight club, the two men form a close bond and embark on a journey of self-discovery, which leads to a dangerous and destructive cult. The film explores themes of masculinity, violence, nihilism, and consumerism, as the narrator is consumed by his own reckless desires and ideals. The film was a success at the box office and has since become a cult classic.

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

Forrest Gump is a 1994 American romantic comedy-drama film based on the 1986 novel of the same name by Winston Groom. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film stars Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump, a naïve and slow-witted yet athletically prodigious man 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; as he experiences milestones such as Vietnam War, the Peace Movement, and the rise of the "hippie" counterculture, Forrest finds himself in the middle of all these events, meeting with historical figures such as John F. Kennedy, John Lennon, and Richard Nixon. Along with his best friend and fellow Vietnam veteran, Bubba, Forrest embarks on a journey of self-discovery as he strives to fulfill his mother's expectations of him and make something of his own life. The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director (Robert Zemeckis), Best Actor (Tom Hanks), Best Adapted Screenplay (Eric Roth), Best Visual Effects, and Best Film Editing.

From Milos Forman, starring Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher, Michael Berryman, Peter Brocco
Rated R

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is a 1975 American drama film directed by Milos Forman and based on the 1962 novel by Ken Kesey. The film stars Jack Nicholson as Randle McMurphy, a criminal who is sent to a psychiatric hospital for evaluation. Once there, he clashes with the oppressive Nurse Ratched, who runs the ward and attempts to control the patients. He rallies the inmates to rebel against her, leading to a climactic battle between him and the staff of the hospital. The film is widely considered to be a classic and was the first to win the "Big Five" Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay.

From Jonathan Demme, starring Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Lawrence A. Bonney, Kasi Lemmons
Rated R

The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological horror-thriller film directed by Jonathan Demme, based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris. The film follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) as she is assigned to interview Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a brilliant psychiatrist and serial killer, to gain insight into the mind of another serial killer who is on the loose. Throughout her investigation, Clarice attempts to stay one step ahead of an FBI task force that is hunting the killer, while being haunted by Lecter's insight and her own childhood traumas. With Lecter's help, Clarice must face her demons in order to solve the case and stop the serial killer in time. The Silence of the Lambs was a commercial and critical success, becoming the first horror film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.

From Alfred Hitchcock, starring Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin
Rated R

Psycho is a 1960 American psychological horror film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and based on the 1959 novel of the same name by Robert Bloch. The film follows Marion Crane, a secretary who embezzles $40,000 from her employer and goes on the run. She checks into the Bates Motel, where she meets the strange and mysterious owner, Norman Bates. As the story progresses, Marion's disappearance sets off a chain of events that unravel the twisted secrets of the Bates family. The film is widely regarded as a classic of the horror genre, and is widely considered to be one of Hitchcock's best films.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano, Mark Boone Junior
Rated R

Memento is a 2000 American neo-noir psychological thriller film written and directed by Christopher Nolan, and produced by Suzanne and Jennifer Todd. The film stars Guy Pearce as a man suffering from anterograde amnesia, and is told as two separate storylines; a series of black-and-white scenes interspersed with color sequences. In the black-and-white scenes, Leonard Shelby (Pearce) is searching for the person who killed his wife. He is unable to store new memories, so he creates a complex system of notes, tattoos and Polaroid photos to help him track down the killer. In the color sequences, Leonard is in a motel room interacting with a mysterious stranger he believes may have information related to the murder. Memento is a critically acclaimed film, having received numerous awards and nominations including two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Screenplay and Best Film Editing. The film also won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Feature and the Saturn Award for Best Director.

From Sam Mendes, starring Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch, Wes Bentley
Rated R

American Beauty is a 1999 American drama film directed by Sam Mendes and written by Alan Ball. It stars Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch, Wes Bentley, Mena Suvari, Chris Cooper, Allison Janney, and Peter Gallagher. The film tells the story of Lester Burnham, an average, middle-aged man, who is deeply unhappy with his life and decides to make a drastic change. He quits his job, improves his physical appearance, re-kindles his passion for life and embarks on a journey of self-improvement. Through his journey, he finds himself in unexpected situations and relationships, and his transformation affects his family and the people around him. At the core of the story is the exploration of beauty, as seen through the eyes of Lester and his daughter, Jane. The film is an exploration of human beauty, inner beauty, and the beauty of everyday life.

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

Shutter Island is a psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film follows U.S. Marshall Teddy Daniels (DiCaprio) and his partner Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo) as they investigate the disappearance of a patient from a psychiatric hospital on Shutter Island. As the investigation progresses, Teddy begins to uncover dark secrets about the facility and its staff, and soon he questions his own sanity. As the mysteries of the island unravel, Teddy is faced with a shocking truth that forces him to confront his own demons.

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

A Beautiful Mind is a 2001 American biographical drama film based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. The film was directed by Ron Howard and written by Akiva Goldsman. The film stars Russell Crowe as Nash, along with Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany, who portray various characters in Nash's life. The story follows Nash's mathematical genius and his struggle with schizophrenia. It chronicles his rise to fame and eventual breakdown, as well as his recovery from the mental disorder with the help of his wife and friends. At the 74th Academy Awards, the film won four awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer Connelly. It was also nominated for Best Actor for Russell Crowe and Best Adapted Screenplay for Akiva Goldsman. The film has been widely praised for its accurate and honest portrayal of mental illness.

From M. Night Shyamalan, starring Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams
Rated PG-13

The Sixth Sense is a psychological thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan, starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment. The film follows the story of a child psychologist, Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Willis), who is trying to help an emotionally disturbed boy, Cole Sear (Osment). Cole has the ability to see and communicate with the dead, which puts him in danger as he is constantly pursued by ghosts seeking his help. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that the ghosts are trying to tell him something and that he must help them in order to save himself. Meanwhile, Malcolm discovers that his own past is connected to Cole's and the ghosts, leading him to a shocking conclusion. The Sixth Sense was a critical and commercial success, earning six Academy Award nominations and winning for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay.

From Directors: Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich, starring Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould, Willem Dafoe
Rated G

Finding Nemo follows the adventure of Marlin, a clownfish, and his son Nemo, who is a young, curious clownfish. When Nemo is taken by a diver, Marlin must enlist the help of his forgetful friend Dory in order to find and bring Nemo back home. Along the way, they face many obstacles, including sharks, jellyfish, and other sea creatures. In the end, Marlin and Dory successfully find Nemo and bring him home, learning valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and family along the way.

From Directors: Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy, Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe, King Vidor, starring Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr
Rated PG

The Wizard of Oz (1939) is a classic musical fantasy film directed by Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy, Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe, and King Vidor. It tells the story of a young girl from Kansas named Dorothy (Judy Garland) who is whisked away to the magical Land of Oz by a tornado. On her journey, she meets up with the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), the Tinman (Jack Haley), and the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr). Together, they embark on a quest to find the great and powerful Wizard of Oz, who they believe can help them get back home. Along the way, they encounter many obstacles as they travel the Yellow Brick Road and eventually come face to face with the Wicked Witch of the West (Margaret Hamilton). The film features iconic scenes and unforgettable songs like "Over the Rainbow" and "We're Off to See the Wizard". It has become an enduring classic and is one of the most beloved films of all time.

From Richard Kelly, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Mary McDonnell, Holmes Osborne
Rated R

Donnie Darko is a darkly comedic, sci-fi thriller about a troubled teenager (Jake Gyllenhaal) with multiple mental health issues. Donnie is visited by a six-foot tall, doomsday-prophesying rabbit named Frank, who tells him the world will end in 28 days, 6 hours, 42 minutes and 12 seconds. Donnie is then thrust into a time-bending journey through the fabric of the universe in which he must unravel the mystery of Frank's mission in order to save his family and the world. Along the way, Donnie discovers he has the power to manipulate time and space, and he must make a series of difficult choices in order to save the world from certain destruction.

From Barry Levinson, starring Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Valeria Golino, Gerald R. Molen
Rated R

Rain Man is a 1988 American road comedy-drama film directed by Barry Levinson and written by Barry Morrow and Ronald Bass. The film tells the story of an abrasive, selfish young wheeler-dealer Charlie Babbitt (Tom Cruise), who discovers that his estranged father has died and bequeathed all of his multimillion-dollar estate to his other son, Raymond (Dustin Hoffman), an autistic savant, of whose existence Charlie was unaware. Charlie is determined to gain control of the money, which is entrusted to Raymond's care. Through their various misadventures together on cross-country travels, the brothers come to understand and bond with each other, and Charlie learns to appreciate Raymond's special gifts. The film went on to win four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Hoffman, and Best Director for Levinson.

From Tom Hooper, starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Derek Jacobi
Rated R

The King's Speech is a 2010 British historical drama film directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler. It stars Colin Firth as King George VI, who, to cope with a stammer, seeks help from an unorthodox speech therapist named Lionel Logue, played by Geoffrey Rush. The King's Speech also stars Helena Bonham Carter as Queen Elizabeth and Guy Pearce as King Edward VIII. The film follows the story of King George VI as he attempts to overcome his debilitating stutter in order to give a rousing public address that will rally a nation on the brink of World War II. With the help of Lionel Logue, the King learns to trust the therapist and finds his voice, inspiring a nation and securing his place in history. The film examines the relationship between the two men, ultimately revealing how their friendship played a pivotal role in the success of the monarch's reign.

From Darren Aronofsky, starring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel, Winona Ryder
Rated R

Black Swan is a psychological thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky in 2010. The movie tells the story of Nina Sayers, a young dancer in a New York City ballet company, who is pushed to the brink of her abilities and mental stability when she is cast to play the role of the Swan Queen in the company's production of Swan Lake. As rehearsals progress, Nina finds herself struggling to maintain her sanity while trying to meet the demands of her demanding director, perfectionist choreographer and her competitive fellow dancer, Lily. As the stakes become higher and the pressure to succeed intensifies, Nina's dark side begins to take control and the movie culminates in a shocking and climactic finale. The film, which stars Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis and Vincent Cassel, has become a cult classic and has won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress for Natalie Portman.

From Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise, starring Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Jesse Corti, Rex Everhart
Rated G

Beauty and the Beast is a classic animated musical fantasy from Disney released in 1991, directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise. The film follows the story of Belle, a young woman who is taken prisoner by a cursed Beast in exchange for her father's freedom. Despite her fear, Belle soon discovers the kind-hearted soul of the Beast and learns to look beyond his fearsome appearance. As they grow closer, Belle teaches the Beast the meaning of true love and helps him break the spell that has held him captive. Together they must face the evil Enchantress and her minions before the Beast can reclaim his humanity and live happily ever after with Belle. With beautiful songs and breathtaking animation, Beauty and the Beast is a timeless classic that brings hope and joy to all who watch.

From Jim Sheridan, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Brenda Fricker, Alison Whelan, Kirsten Sheridan
Rated R

My Left Foot is a biographical drama about the life of Irish artist and writer Christy Brown. Born with cerebral palsy and unable to control his own body, Christy's sole control is over his left foot, which he uses to paint and write. With the help of his loving, devoted family, Christy learns to communicate and excels in painting, writing, and poetry. He becomes an internationally-renowned artist, author and poet, despite his physical limitations. The film stars Daniel Day-Lewis in the leading role, and Brenda Fricker as his devoted mother. The movie follows Christy’s extraordinary life and career, while emphasizing the power of hope and determination.

From Directors: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson, starring Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow
Rated PG

Shrek is an animated fantasy comedy film released in 2001 directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson. It follows Shrek, a green ogre who is sent on a quest by a powerful lord to rescue a princess from a dragon's keep. Along the way, he meets various characters such as a talking donkey and a wise old man, and learns to accept himself for who he is. With the help of his newfound friends, Shrek is able to defeat the dragon and rescue the princess, only to discover that the princess is not what he expected. The film is a hilarious and touching tale of self-discovery and acceptance, with plenty of laughs and memorable moments.

From Doug Liman, starring Franka Potente, Matt Damon, Chris Cooper, Clive Owen
Rated PG-13

The Bourne Identity is a 2002 American action thriller directed by Doug Liman and starring Matt Damon. It is based on Robert Ludlum’s novel of the same name. The film follows Jason Bourne, a man who wakes up with no memory of his past life and is on the run from the CIA. As he begins to piece together information about his past, he realizes he is a highly skilled assassin who has been the target of an elite government hit squad. With the help of a German woman, Marie, he sets out to uncover the truth about his identity and his past. As his memories slowly return, he must use his extraordinary fighting abilities and mental acuity to survive and uncover the secrets of his past.

From Stephen Chbosky, starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Paul Rudd
Rated PG-13

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age film set in the early 1990s. It follows the story of Charlie, a high school freshman, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance with the help of two newfound friends, Sam and Patrick. Throughout the film, Charlie struggles to adjust to a new school, cope with the death of a close friend, deal with anxiety and depression, and try to find a place to fit in. Along the way, he comes to terms with his past and discovers the power of friendship and love. In the end, Charlie gains a newfound sense of self-confidence and happiness.

From Nick Cassavetes, starring Gena Rowlands, James Garner, Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling
Rated PG-13

The Notebook is a 2004 romantic drama film directed by Nick Cassavetes and based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. It stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as a young couple who fall in love in the 1940s. The film follows the couple, Allie and Noah, as they go through the ups and downs of their relationship over the years, including their separation and eventual reunion. The film is narrated by an elderly man, Duke, played by James Garner, telling the story to an elderly woman, Allie, played by Gena Rowlands, who suffers from Alzheimer's. The Notebook is a heartfelt and powerful story of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

From Penny Marshall, starring Robert De Niro, Robin Williams, Julie Kavner, Ruth Nelson
Rated PG-13

Awakenings is a 1990 drama film directed by Penny Marshall and starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro. The film is based on the true story of British neurologist Oliver Sacks' book of the same name, which tells the story of a group of patients with encephalitis lethargica who were "frozen" in a catatonic state for decades until Dr. Sacks treated them with a new drug called L-Dopa. The film follows the story of Dr. Malcolm Sayer (Robin Williams), a dedicated young doctor hired to work in a Brooklyn hospital, who discovers that some of the patients in the hospital have been asleep for decades due to encephalitis lethargica. He decides to take a risk and give the patients L-Dopa, a drug that was previously used to treat Parkinson's Disease. The patients' awakening proves to be miraculous, as they regain movement and speech, and are able to experience life again. However, the effects of the drug are temporary, and the patients eventually return to their catatonic state. Despite the tragic outcome, Awakenings is ultimately a story of hope and the power of the human spirit. Dr. Sayer's unwavering commitment to helping his patients,

From Robert Stevenson, starring Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns
Rated G

Mary Poppins is a classic 1964 musical fantasy film from Disney, directed by Robert Stevenson and starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. The film tells the story of the Banks family, living in London in the early 1900s, who are in need of a new nanny. When the magical Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep, she brings with her a combination of magic and common sense to the family and helps them to appreciate the little things in life that they have been missing. Along the way, Mary Poppins takes the children on several magical and memorable adventures, teaching valuable lessons. The film is widely considered a classic, and it was nominated for thirteen Academy Awards, winning five.

From David Fincher, starring Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgård
Rated R

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a 2011 film adaptation of the novel of the same name by Stieg Larsson, directed by David Fincher. The story follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) as he investigates the disappearance of a wealthy Swedish family's eldest daughter, Harriet Vanger. Blomkvist is aided by the mysterious and troubled computer hacker, Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara). The two uncover the family's dark secrets and uncover a conspiracy involving a serial killer that spans four generations. Along the way, Salander and Blomkvist form a unique bond, and although the two face intense danger, ultimately they are able to bring the killer to justice.