"The really great films challenge the way you see the world, they revisit and reframe understanding of who we are."

Great movies aren’t just about dazzling special effects or gripping storylines. At their core, the best films shake up our perspective, making us question everything we thought we knew about ourselves and the world around us. They push us to think deeply, to reevaluate our beliefs, and to see things in a new light.

Think about when this idea might have been said—probably by a filmmaker or critic who’s seen enough movies to understand their impact. They’re not talking about your run-of-the-mill blockbuster, but the kind of film that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It’s like the difference between a catchy pop song and a symphony that moves you to tears.

Take “Schindler’s List,” for example. If you’ve seen it, you know it’s not a movie you just watch—it’s one you experience. Set during the Holocaust, it’s a harrowing look at the depths of human cruelty but also at the heights of human kindness. Oskar Schindler, a German businessman, saves over a thousand Jewish refugees by employing them in his factories. You walk out of that film with a heavy heart and a mind buzzing with questions about morality, courage, and the impact one person can have. It challenges you to see heroism and humanity in the starkest of circumstances.

So how do you take this wisdom and run with it? For starters, don’t just watch movies for entertainment—watch them to learn. Pick films that stretch your mind. Discuss them with friends, debate their meanings, and think about how they apply to your own life. If a movie makes you uncomfortable or makes you think, lean into that feeling. That’s where the magic happens.

Picture this: You and a friend decide to watch “The Matrix.” On the surface, it’s a sci-fi action flick. But as you dive deeper, you see it’s really about questioning reality and the nature of control. Imagine after watching it, you both sit at a coffee shop, lattes in hand, and start dissecting its themes. You talk about how much of your life is influenced by societal expectations and whether you’re really making your own choices. The conversation flows, time flies, and you leave with a fresh perspective on your day-to-day life.

And here’s a tip: next time you watch a movie, especially one that’s got some depth, keep a journal nearby. Jot down any thoughts or feelings it stirs up. This can help you process the film’s themes and understand how they relate to your own experiences. You’ll start seeing connections you never noticed before, and it’s a great way to deepen your appreciation of the art form.

So, next time you pick a movie, go for one that promises more than just a couple of hours of fun. Choose one that challenges you, that makes you see the world differently. Trust me, those are the films you’ll remember—and the ones that just might change your life.