Movies are more than just entertainment; they can be powerful tools for learning and expanding our perspectives. Some films open windows to history, science, cultures, and the human condition, leaving viewers with a deeper understanding of the world. Here are 20 films that will teach you something new:
1. “Hidden Figures” (2016)
Directed by: Theodore Melfi
This film tells the true story of three African American women mathematicians who played crucial roles in NASA during the Space Race. It sheds light on the contributions of women in STEM and the fight for racial and gender equality in the workplace.
2. “13th” (2016)
Directed by: Ava DuVernay
A powerful documentary that explores the history of racial inequality in the United States, focusing on the nation’s prison system and how it has been used as a tool of oppression. It’s a thought-provoking film that educates viewers on the complexities of race, politics, and social justice.
3. “The Social Dilemma” (2020)
Directed by: Jeff Orlowski
This documentary-drama hybrid delves into the impact of social media on society, showing how technology influences behavior, mental health, and democracy. It’s a wake-up call for anyone who wants to understand the ethics of tech companies and their influence.
4. “Schindler’s List” (1993)
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
A harrowing depiction of the Holocaust, this historical drama is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish refugees. It’s an eye-opening portrayal of human resilience and the horrors of war.
5. “Inside Job” (2010)
Directed by: Charles Ferguson
A documentary that explores the 2008 financial crisis and the corruption that led to the global economic collapse. It’s a film that educates viewers on economic systems, politics, and the power dynamics behind global finance.
6. “Good Will Hunting” (1997)
Directed by: Gus Van Sant
This drama tells the story of a young janitor with a genius-level IQ who struggles to find his place in the world. The film highlights the importance of mentorship, education, and self-discovery, teaching valuable lessons about potential and personal growth.
7. “A Beautiful Mind” (2001)
Directed by: Ron Howard
Based on the life of Nobel Laureate John Nash, this biographical drama explores the world of mathematics and mental illness. The film provides insight into schizophrenia and the challenges faced by those who live with the condition, as well as the triumphs of the human mind.
8. “Food, Inc.” (2008)
Directed by: Robert Kenner
This documentary takes a hard look at the American food industry, exposing the truth behind mass production, farming, and corporate influence. It’s a revealing film that will make you think differently about the food you consume and its impact on health and the environment.
9. “The Theory of Everything” (2014)
Directed by: James Marsh
This biographical drama is based on the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, chronicling his groundbreaking work on black holes and cosmology, as well as his personal struggles with ALS. The film inspires viewers to think about science, resilience, and the human spirit.
10. “He Named Me Malala” (2015)
Directed by: Davis Guggenheim
This documentary follows the life of Malala Yousafzai, a young Pakistani girl who was shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education. It’s a story of courage, activism, and the power of education, teaching viewers about global human rights issues.
11. “Apollo 13” (1995)
Directed by: Ron Howard
A gripping dramatization of the real-life Apollo 13 space mission, which faced near disaster on its way to the moon. The film teaches about teamwork, problem-solving, and human ingenuity in the face of crisis, making space exploration accessible and thrilling.
12. “Super Size Me” (2004)
Directed by: Morgan Spurlock
In this documentary, the filmmaker embarks on a 30-day experiment eating only fast food from McDonald’s. The film explores the effects of fast food on health and the food industry’s influence, providing valuable lessons on nutrition and well-being.
13. “An Inconvenient Truth” (2006)
Directed by: Davis Guggenheim
This documentary features former U.S. Vice President Al Gore’s campaign to educate people about climate change. It’s a compelling exploration of the science and politics behind global warming, urging viewers to take action for a sustainable future.
14. “Moneyball” (2011)
Directed by: Bennett Miller
Based on the true story of the Oakland A’s baseball team, this film shows how data analytics revolutionized the world of sports. It’s a great introduction to the power of statistics, decision-making, and innovation in unexpected fields.
15. “Lion” (2016)
Directed by: Garth Davis
This biographical drama tells the story of a young Indian boy who gets lost far from home and is later adopted by an Australian couple. Years later, he embarks on a journey to find his biological family using Google Earth. The film teaches about identity, family, and the power of technology in modern storytelling.
16. “The Great Hack” (2019)
Directed by: Karim Amer, Jehane Noujaim
A documentary that explores the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica data scandal and how personal data is used to influence elections. The film educates viewers on the impact of data privacy and the ethical questions surrounding big data.
17. “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” (2019)
Directed by: Chiwetel Ejiofor
Based on a true story, this film follows a young Malawian boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine. It’s a story of innovation, resilience, and the power of education, teaching lessons about sustainability and creativity in problem-solving.
18. “Gorillas in the Mist” (1988)
Directed by: Michael Apted
A biographical film about the life of Dian Fossey, a primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda. It’s an educational film about conservation, wildlife protection, and the challenges of working in remote areas.
19. “Sicko” (2007)
Directed by: Michael Moore
This documentary provides a critical look at the American healthcare system, comparing it to other countries. It’s an eye-opening film that educates viewers about healthcare policy, access to medical care, and the importance of a fair healthcare system.
20. “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
Directed by: Gabriele Muccino
Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who overcomes hardship to become a successful stockbroker. The film is a lesson in perseverance, resilience, and the American Dream, reminding viewers that with determination and effort, success is within reach.
These films are more than just stories; they are educational experiences that can inspire, challenge, and inform. They offer insights into history, science, human behavior, and social issues, proving that cinema can be a powerful teacher. Whether you’re looking for motivation, knowledge, or a deeper understanding of the world, these 20 films will leave you enriched with something new.
