Movies About Change And Growth

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption follows the story of Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a banker wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life in the harsh penitentiary of Shawshank. While there, Andy befriends a man named Red (Morgan Freeman) and finds ways to survive and eventually make a daring escape. Along the way, the movie examines themes of hope, justice, and friendship, as well as the power of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle. The film ultimately shows the redemptive power of friendship, as Andy and Red's bond strengthens over the years and allows each of them to make it through their respective ordeals.

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

Forrest Gump is a 1994 drama film directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks. The story follows a slow-witted, but kind-hearted man named Forrest Gump (Hanks) as he navigates his way through life. Through the course of the film, Forrest encounters some of the defining events of the 20th century and experiences great personal triumphs and setbacks. Along the way, he makes friends, finds love, and discovers that his true destiny is to make a difference in the world. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning multiple awards, including 6 Academy Awards.

From Directors: Olivier Nakache, Éric Toledano, starring François Cluzet, Omar Sy, Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot
Rated R

The Intouchables is a 2011 French buddy comedy-drama film directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano. It tells the story of a wealthy quadriplegic and his unlikely friendship with the man who is hired to take care of him. The film follows the newly-hired caregiver, Driss, as he brings joy and humor to the life of his employer, Philippe. Despite their differences in class and background, the two men quickly develop an unexpected bond as they both learn from each other and discover what truly matters in life. The film was both a critical and commercial success, and was nominated for several awards including a César Award for Best Film, a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, and an Academy Award for Best Motion Picture – Foreign Language.

From Tony Kaye, starring Edward Norton, Edward Furlong, Beverly D'Angelo, Jennifer Lien
Rated R

American History X is a 1998 American drama film directed by Tony Kaye and written by David McKenna. The film tells the story of Derek Vinyard, a former neo-Nazi skinhead played by Edward Norton, who is released from prison and attempts to prevent his younger brother from joining the same white supremacist gang. The film explores the idea of redemption, as Derek reflects on his violent and racist past. The film follows Derek's attempts to reform, the results of his actions, and the struggles of those close to him. It shows how his actions affect his family and other members of the community and how it affects his own life. The film also examines racism in contemporary society, exploring the idea of "turning away" from racism.

From Michel Gondry, starring Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Tom Wilkinson, Gerry Robert Byrne
Rated R

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a 2004 American romantic science-fiction comedy-drama film written by Charlie Kaufman and directed by Michel Gondry. It follows an estranged couple who have erased each other from their memories, then, over time, rediscover their love for each other. The film stars Jim Carrey as Joel Barish, a man who is informed by his ex-girlfriend, Clementine Kruczynski (Kate Winslet), that she has undergone a procedure to have all memories of him erased from her mind. Devastated, Joel decides to undergo the same procedure, and as he does, he has reflections of their time together. Through these reflections, he begins to realize that he still loves her, and attempts to stop the process to save their relationship. The film explores themes of memory, the power of love, and the subsequent consequences of technological advances. It was met with critical acclaim, and won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

From Directors: Pete Docter, Ronnie Del Carmen, starring Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling
Rated PG

Inside Out is a 2015 Disney-Pixar animated comedy-drama film directed by Pete Docter and Ronnie Del Carmen. The movie follows 11-year old Riley, who is uprooted from her Midwest life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco. To help her cope with the change, Riley's emotions – Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness – take control of her mind and lead her on an emotional rollercoaster ride. Joy strives to keep Riley happy, while the other emotions try to navigate a new city, family and school life. Along the way, Riley discovers that the only way to be truly happy is to accept the good and bad that life throws at you.

From Harold Ramis, starring Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott, Stephen Tobolowsky
Rated PG

Groundhog Day is a 1993 American comedy film directed by Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, and Chris Elliott. The film follows Phil Connors (Murray), a TV weatherman who, during a hated assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, finds himself reliving the same day over and over, repeating the same events no matter what he does. With help from a local groundhog handler, Rita (MacDowell), Phil eventually comes to appreciate the small things in life and finally breaks the cycle of repeating the same day. Ultimately, Phil learns to live life to the fullest, makes amends with the people he's wronged, and falls in love with Rita.

From Peter Weir, starring Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles
Rated PG

Dead Poets Society is a 1989 American drama film directed by Peter Weir and starring Robin Williams. Set in 1959 at the fictional elite conservative Vermont boarding school Welton Academy, it tells the story of an English teacher who inspires his students through his teaching of poetry. After the strict headmaster and his traditional teaching methods are challenged by the arrival of a new teacher, the students begin to explore their own potential and the true meaning of life. The film features a strong cast including Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, and Josh Charles, and won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The film's message of carpe diem, or seizing the day, has become an oft-quoted phrase in popular culture.

From Gabriele Muccino, starring Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Jaden Smith, Brian Howe
Rated PG-13

The Pursuit of Happyness is a 2006 drama directed by Gabriele Muccino and starring Will Smith. It tells the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who, despite the odds, works to create a better life for himself and his five-year-old son. Despite the challenging circumstances, Chris never gives up and is determined to achieve his American dream. Chris is forced to take a job as an unpaid intern at a prestigious brokerage firm in order to make ends meet, and along the way, he discovers the power of self-belief and determination. With the help of his son, Chris perseveres and eventually achieves success and financial security. The film is an inspiring story of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.

From Cameron Crowe, starring Billy Crudup, Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand
Rated R

"Almost Famous" is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story about 15-year-old William Miller, an aspiring music journalist. After befriending a rock band on tour, he is given the chance to be the band's tour writer for Rolling Stone magazine. As William struggles to balance the demands of life on the road with his school work and family troubles at home, he discovers the importance of friendship and the power of music. Along the way, he learns some important lessons about life, love, and the music business.

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 story about Charlie (Logan Lerman), a high school freshman who is struggling to fit in and make sense of the world. He finds solace in the form of two caring friends, Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller). Together, they help him navigate the rough waters of high school and come to terms with his own troubled past. As the story progresses, Charlie comes to terms with his own sexuality, deals with bullying and harassment, and discovers just how powerful friendship can be. Ultimately, the film serves as a reminder that it is possible to find hope in even the darkest of times.

From Richard Curtis, starring Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Lydia Wilson
Rated R

About Time is a romantic comedy-drama film directed by Richard Curtis and starring Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams. The film follows Tim Lake (Gleeson), a 21-year-old man from Cornwall, who discovers he has the ability to travel in time. He uses his newfound power to create a better life for himself, but also learns that there are consequences to his actions. Through his travels, he meets the love of his life, Mary (McAdams), and learns important lessons about love, family and the fragility of life. In the end, he discovers that time is precious and that he must cherish each moment.

From Jaco Van Dormael, starring Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, Diane Kruger, Linh-Dan Pham
Rated R

Mr. Nobody is a science fiction drama film directed by Jaco Van Dormael and starring Jared Leto as the title character. The story follows Nemo Nobody, a 118-year-old man who is the last mortal in a world where humans can choose to live forever. The story also follows Nemo's life, told through flashbacks, as he reflects on his choices, loves, and regrets. As he ages, he struggles to choose between a life that is safe, comfortable and predictable, or a life of adventure and the unknown. Through these flashbacks, the film presents all of the possibilities of Nemo's life, and ultimately, his mortality. The film is a thoughtful exploration of the choices we make in life and the consequences that follow.

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

The Notebook is a romantic drama film released in 2004, based on the novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. Directed by Nick Cassavetes, the film stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams as Noah and Allie, two teenagers from different backgrounds who fall in love during the summer of 1940. Despite their families’ disapproval, Noah and Allie remain devoted to each other. When they are separated due to the war, they struggle to stay together, each believing that the other has abandoned them. Years later, an elderly man reads the story of their love to a woman in a nursing home, showing that despite all the obstacles they faced, their love endured.

From Walter Salles, starring Gael García Bernal, Rodrigo de la Serna, Mía Maestro, Mercedes Morán
Rated R

The Motorcycle Diaries is a 2004 biopic directed by Walter Salles, based on the memoirs of the young Ernesto Guevara. In 1952, two young friends, the 23-year-old medical student Ernesto "Che" Guevara (Gael García Bernal) and his 29-year-old biochemist friend Alberto Granado (Rodrigo De la Serna), set out on an 8,000-mile motorbike journey across South America. As they traverse the continent and its disparate peoples, cultures and landscapes, both men are transformed and their outlook on life is changed. Along the way, they encounter a variety of people and situations that help shape their worldview. Ultimately, their journey serves as a prelude to Guevara's eventual transformation into a revolutionary leader and symbol of revolutionary ideals.

From Richard Linklater, starring Ethan Hawke, Trevor Jack Brooks, Lorelei Linklater, Wiley Wiggins
Rated R

Waking Life is a dream-like exploration of life's philosophical questions. The film follows the protagonist as he drifts through a series of dream-like conversations with a variety of characters who offer their perspectives on issues such as life, death, free will, potential, and the meaning of existence. Along the way, he is confronted with a variety of dreams, illusions, and imaginative scenarios that challenge his understanding of reality. Ultimately, he discovers the key to life may be found within himself.

From Oliver Hirschbiegel, starring Moritz Bleibtreu, Christian Berkel, Oliver Stokowski, Wotan Wilke Möhring
Rated R

The Experiment is a 2001 drama/thriller film written and directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel. The film is based on the true story of the Stanford prison experiment that took place in 1971. The experiment is set in modern day Germany and revolves around an experiment conducted by a group of scientists in an abandoned prison. A group of twenty men are selected to take part in the experiment, which is designed to study the psychological effects of incarceration and power. Ten of the men are randomly assigned to the roles of "guards" while the other ten are "prisoners". As the experiment progresses, the guards become increasingly authoritarian and the prisoners become increasingly submissive and obedient. However, when certain prisoners begin to revolt against the authority of the guards, the experiment takes a darker turn and the situation quickly spirals out of control. Ultimately, the experiment is terminated and the prisoners are released. The film captures the psychological intensity of the experiment and explores the dangerous implications of power and authority.

From Woody Allen, starring Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, Kurt Fuller
Rated PG-13

Midnight in Paris is a romantic comedy written, directed, and produced by Woody Allen. The film follows Gil Pender, a screenwriter from Los Angeles who goes to Paris with his fiancée, Inez. While there, Gil meets a group of people who take him back in time to the 1920s, where he meets some of the great writers and artists of the period. Through his experiences, Gil discovers a newfound appreciation for the city of Paris and learns to appreciate the present by looking to the past.

From Spike Lee, starring Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Delroy Lindo, Spike Lee
Rated PG-13

Malcolm X is a biopic about the life of African-American activist Malcolm X, following his journey from a troubled youth to a prominent civil rights leader. The film follows Malcolm from his early days in Boston, through his conversion to Islam while in prison, to his tenure as a leader of the Nation of Islam. Along the way he faces racism, imprisonment, and personal struggles, all while advocating for the rights of Black Americans. The film culminates in Malcolm's pilgrimage to Mecca and his embrace of a more peaceful, humanistic interpretation of Islam. The film stars Denzel Washington as Malcolm X and was nominated for two Academy Awards.

From Directors: Eric Bress, J. Mackye Gruber, starring Ashton Kutcher, Amy Smart, Melora Walters, Elden Henson
Rated R

The Butterfly Effect is a 2004 psychological thriller film about a troubled young man named Evan Treborn. After suffering from memory blackouts throughout his childhood, Evan discovers that he can travel back in time to alter the course of events and change the present. He uses his newfound powers to try and fix the mistakes of his past and make his life better. Along the way, he discovers that the consequences of his actions are far more extreme than he imagined, as they can have chaotic ripple effects on the lives of those around him. Ultimately, Evan must decide whether the risks of time travel are worth the potential rewards.

From Ryan Coogler, starring Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad
Rated PG-13

Creed is a 2015 American sports drama film directed by Ryan Coogler, and starring Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, and Phylicia Rashad. The seventh installment in the Rocky franchise, Creed follows Adonis Johnson (Jordan), the son of Rocky Balboa's late rival-turned-friend Apollo Creed, as he travels to Philadelphia to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional boxer. With the help of the retired Balboa, Adonis trains to become a professional fighter and ultimately earns a spot in the heavyweight championship. As Adonis grows in his career, he must face his own personal demons and deal with his strained relationship with his adopted mother. The film was praised by critics for its performances, direction, musical score, fight choreography, and emotional depth, and earned many accolades, including two Oscar nominations, seven Golden Globe nominations, and two BAFTA nominations. Creed was a success at the box office, grossing over $173 million worldwide.

From John Lee Hancock, starring Quinton Aaron, Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Jae Head
Rated PG-13

The Blind Side is a 2009 American biographical sports drama film written and directed by John Lee Hancock, based on the 2006 book The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game by Michael Lewis. The film follows Michael Oher, a homeless African-American teenager from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family who help him fulfill his potential. At the same time, Oher's presence in the Touhys' lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own. The film stars Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, and Quinton Aaron. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $300 million on a budget of $29 million. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture and won an Oscar for Best Actress for Bullock's performance. It also won several other awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role, and a People's Choice Award for Favorite Drama Movie.

From Jonathan Levine, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard
Rated R

50/50 is a 2011 American comedy-drama film directed by Jonathan Levine and written by Will Reiser. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Anjelica Huston. The film follows 27-year-old Adam Lerner (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), who is diagnosed with a rare form of spinal cancer. With the support of his best friend Kyle (Seth Rogen) and his therapist (Anjelica Huston), Adam begins to learn what it means to face mortality. Along the way, he meets a young woman (Bryce Dallas Howard) in the same situation, learns to appreciate the time he has left, and struggles to find joy in the face of death.

From Richard Curtis, starring Hugh Grant, Martine McCutcheon, Liam Neeson, Laura Linney
Rated R

Love Actually is a romantic comedy film written and directed by Richard Curtis and released in 2003. The movie follows the intertwining stories of numerous couples in London during the weeks leading up to Christmas. From the newlywed couple trying to make it work, to the Prime Minister's affair with his young assistant, to the new writer falling for his Portuguese housekeeper - each story adds a unique twist to the tale of love. As the characters navigate their way through the ups and downs of relationships, the film explores the complexities of love in all its forms - from the butterflies of a first meeting to the joy of commitment, from a broken heart to the comfort of friendship. Ultimately, Love Actually celebrates the joyous moments in life and the strength of love in all its forms.

From Rob Reiner, starring Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, Sean Hayes, Beverly Todd
Rated PG-13