We’ve compiled some thought provoking movies that have left us thinking about what actually went on long after the credits finished rolling. There’s nothing better than watching a film that makes you use your head. All these films will stay with you long after they’ve finished playing. Here are the top 10 movies that will make you think.
Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Requiem for a Dream shows the harshness of addiction in graphic detail and the hoops and hurdles people will go through in order to get their fix. It also forces you to evaluate the relationship you have with your parents, and how often some people may take them for granted. The film is definitely re-watchable and will stick with you long afterward. This brilliant piece of cinema also shines a light on how even the most sensible and respectable people can change in a heartbeat.
Life of Pie (2012)
The ending of the Life of Pie is cryptic and thought-provoking, to say the least. The entire story recounts the survival of a young boy stranded on a life raft with a tiger. It’s up to the viewer at the end to interpret what they witnessed and if it was true or not. The film challenges one to evaluate what they would do if they were in a similar situation.
Donnie Darko (2001)
Donnie Darko has such a cult following and the entire film is a mood. From the music and the way that it’s filmed gives you a certain deep feeling when watching it. Each time the film is viewed you’re left with new questions. Donnie’s forced to make a choice between saving himself or his loved ones. Donnie Darko forces you to consider playing God, as well as with your morals.
Equilibrium (2002)
Equilibrium definitely has some Orwellian 1984 vibes as most people find the regime normal and think they’re free and safe. This is all an illusion though created through mass propaganda. The film makes one question their own sense of freedom and safety, as well as how much propaganda is being used in countries around the world.
Interstellar (2014)
Interstellar makes you feel small and insignificant given the terrifying scope of the infinite universe. Our planet’s place in the universe is so minuscule. The stunning cinematography and VFX are stunning, plus Hans Zimmer’s score makes for an emotionally satisfying film. The physics being the film are all true which brings a sense of realism to this far-out space-traveling flick. This movie will make you think about space and time.
The Truman Show (1998)
The Truman Show was ahead of its time. Not only does Jim Carey give a stellar performance, but his discovery of life beyond the made-up reality show provides an insight into how modern society has devolved to air shows like the Kardashians and Big Brother. Contemplating what is real or not and the antics that follow make for a fun journey of discovery in The Truman Show.
Exam (2009)
Shot in a single room with only 9 actors, the Exam makes for one of the top crafted and acted films out there. Eight candidates are vying for a job within a prestigious company, but things aren’t as they seem. This life-changing film is up there with Inception, Shawshank Redemption, and Shutter Island.
Ex Machina (2015)
Ex Machina is the ultimate Turing test and explores the limitations of what it means to be human. Artificial intelligence reaches a human-like-level and the film will melt your brain and have you thinking about philosophical questions for days. The ending is unpredictable and really makes you ponder what makes a human, human.
The Prestige (2006)
Christopher Nolan directs The Prestige, a film about magicians in the late 1800s. This non-linear plot makes you work out what’s going on before it’s all revealed. It’s definitely a film you won’t want to take your eyes off. You may even need to re-watch the ending multiple times to fully grasp what actually happened. It’s an excellent film with an unexpected ending that’ll leave you scratching your head.
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Memento (2000)
Memento is a mystery thriller about a man who suffers from short-term memory loss. The film alters between color and black and white. The black and white sequences proceed in chronological order as the colored scenes go backward. You’re put into the shoes of the main character so you only know as much as he does. Memento will have you focusing to figure out exactly what’s going on.
Any other thought provoking movies that make you think that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
