From 1950 to today, many films are produced to show the flaws and injustices of our society and the impossible ways other people have managed to conquer. These are examples that will teach us important life lessons and guide us in the near future. This list contains movies that aren’t suitable for younger audiences. Enjoy! More after the jump.
Unbroken
Plot/ Description: As a child, Louis Zamperini was a trouble maker but also a remarkable runner. With the influence of his brother, Pete, he began his running career. He competed at Hitler’s Berlin Olympics and later joined the US army. Unfortunately, his plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean during a rescue mission and he, along with his crew member, survived in a life raft. They drifted for 47 days (2,000miles) into the Japanese territory. They were captured and sent to prison camps. After they found out that he was an Olympian, they tortured him and made him work in mines for years up to the end of the war.
Rated: PG-13
Pros: An exciting and nerve-wracking film. It captures Louis’s determination with a clear distinctive message.
Cons: It’s leaving out some of the inside thoughts of the characters and when there’re too many characters moving in and out it gets kind of confusing.
Lessons/Take away: Always have hope, strength, and perseverance. It gives another view of the war and it also teaches kids on WWII.
127 Hours
Plot/ Description: This is based on an outdoorsman, Aron Ralston. Ralston always believed that he doesn’t need anybody and that he can do everything on his own, but nature proved him wrong. When Ralston was hiking through a slot Canyon, a boulder fell on his right hand and he was stuck there for 127 hours with approximately 350ml of water and two burritos. He didn’t tell anyone that he was going hiking and therefore no one came to rescue him.
Rated: R (18+)
Pros: The graphics are beautiful. It’s realistic especially with the video he made when thinking that he was gonna die. It’s a mystical and marvelous film.
Cons: The amputation moment might unpleasant for some people.
Lesson/Take away: For introverts, a necessary safety precaution is to notify a friend, colleague, or family members on their whereabouts especially when going outdoors. This film teaches us that we all need someone in our lives.
The Diary of Anne Frank (1950)
Plot/ Description: This is about a Dutch Jewish girl, Anne Frank, and her family. The story takes place during the holocaust, when all Jews were identified as inferior and were sent to concentration camps where they’re persecuted. Anne’s father, Otto Frank, was a lieutenant in the German army during WWI and he arranged a hiding place for his family. But eventually they were betrayed by an anonymous informant and the Frank family along with their friends hiding with them was sent to concentration camps. Otto Frank became the sole survivor of his family and his friends that hid with him during that period of time. This is based on a novel of the same title.
Rated: Parental Guidance
Pros: It’s emotional and very raw. It depicts the real life of Jews during the holocaust; their fears for their lives and for their loved ones.
Cons: The scenes of the camp can give people nightmares and generate negative feelings.
Lessons/Take away: Life is way too short, so live your life to the fullest every day.
To Kill a Mockingbird
Plot/ Description: Based on the Pulitzer wining book by Harper Lee. Through the view of a little girl names Scout Finch, we see racism and inequality between the citizens of the fictional town of Macomb in Alabama. From Boo Radley to the unfair trial of Tom Robinson, Scout’s perception changes her views and ways of seeing things.
Rated: Not suitable for young children
Pros: Great capture of racism.
Cons: It’s black and white.
Lessons/Take away: Everyone should be equal.
The Sound of Music
Plot/ Description: This is an all time classic. The protagonist, Maria, tries to become a nun, but fails miserably. The Navy captain, George Von Trapp, hires Maria as a governess for his seven children. Maria brings happiness to the strict, lifeless home and music as well. Maria and the captain then find themselves in love and they struggle through many conflicts before finally being together.
Rated: G
Pros: It’s a wonderful musical and very joyful.
Cons: It is a 3 hours long movie, about twice the length of a regular movie. The songs will keep playing in a loop for days after watching.
Lessons/Take away: Kindness does have its rewards and share your happiness. The various story lines about coming of age show how to work through those times.
Amari Zhang is, our July Intern, from San Fransisco, California and here to visit friends and family. She loves to doodle, shop with friends, play tennis, and travel.
Photos: Movieguide.org, moviepostershop.com, listal.com, & ramascreen.com
