Mental health has only been a topic of discussion in the recent past. And there are a few movies that spectacularly, albeit heartbreakingly, dive deep into the issues related to an individual’s mental well-being. Here are ten such movies that show how people suffer on a daily basis due to the stigma surrounding psychological problems. From suicide and depression to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, these films address the hard conversations ignored by society at large.
10. All The Bright Places (2020)
The romance drama focuses on two teenagers – Theodore Finch and Violet Markey, who are struggling with their mental health and traumatic pasts. The duo help each other through their issues, trying to find happiness even in the most ordinary things. The movie is tender and subtle, giving viewers a superlative experience.
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9. It’s Kind Of A Funny Story (2010)
Adapted from the novel of the same name, ‘It’s Kind of A Funny Story‘ focuses on a teenager who admits himself to the mental hospital after contemplating suicide. The film is light and funny but has an important message. Starring Kier Gilchrist, Emma Roberts, Viola Davis, and Zach Galifianakis, it’s a refreshing take on tackling depression.
8. The Perks Of Being A Wallflower (2012)
Stephen Chobsky decided to turn his sensational novel ‘Perks of Being A Wallflower’ into a movie which was directed by the writer himself. The movie follows a bunch of high school students, especially Charlie who is the lead character. Charlie is trying to cope with his friend’s suicide and his tumultuous past as he rejoins school. It’s a coming-of-age tale that will break your heart and mend it back.
7. Girl, Interrupted (1999)
Starring Angelina Jolie and Winona Ryder, ‘Girl, Interrupted’ is a great cinematic achievement by director James Mangold. The movie follows a young woman who is hospitalized after a suicide attempt. Set in the 1960s, the film gives a view of how mental health was perceived during those days, and how any rebellious act was disciplined. The movie is based on the book of the same name by Susanna Kaysen.
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6. Fight Club (1999)
Of all the movies on the list, ‘Fight Club’ is unconventional. It’s not jovial; instead, it’s a cinematic masterpiece that is dark and aggressive. Trauma, toxic masculinity, and suppressed pain are all part and parcel of what the movie focuses on. Edward Norton and Brad Pitt have delivered remarkable performances in this David Fincher movie.
5. Black Swan (2010)
Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this psychological thriller clearly portrays the thin line between sanity and insanity, and the cost of pushing too hard toward lofty ambitions. ‘Black Swan‘ revolves around a ballerina who is competing for her rival’s role. The movie earned the lead actress Natalie Portman an Academy Award.
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4. A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Russell Crowe portrayed the paranoid schizophrenic mathematician John Nash in the influential movie, ‘A Beautiful Mind.’ Hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia experienced by Nash have been captured within the frames of the movie. It shows how the prodigy’s life and career were affected by his mental illness.
3. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
One of the classics, ‘One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest‘ deals with the topic of mental health in a way that will not allow you to look away. Set in a mental asylum, the movie pans on a criminal – Randle Mc Murphy – who pleaded insanity in court. With the inmates, he organizes an uprising against an abusive nurse.
2. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Bradley Cooper plays Pat, who is seen coming out of a mental hospital as the movie opens. He meets Tiffany, played by Jennifer Lawrence. She is dealing with her own mental illness. The movie takes the turn to become a romantic comedy but never lets go of realism. It will surely touch your heart, especially when the duo accomplishes their goal.
1. Inside Out (2015)
A must-watch, this animated movie will make you laugh and think about your lives at the same time. The story takes a peep into how emotions work inside our heads. It revolves around 11-year-old Riley who has recently moved cities and is starting a new life. Five emotions – fear, anger, joy, disgust, and sadness, have all assembled to help Riley cope with her new life.
