I find it intriguing that movies take on such a greater meaning when I watch them a second time. I don’t mean when we watch them once and then again, maybe a week or two later. Coming from a family of “old souls” means that I feel a sense of familiarity every time I find an old 80s rom-com I swear I’ve never seen before. Old 80s movies were practically background music in my house growing up. I’m obsessed with 80s and 90s movies. They are so cozy to me. So, hopeful. When I get the time to watch an old movie before bed, especially here at school, I feel immediately comforted. I feel at home.
I don’t think I’ll ever feel as passionate about a movie as I do with two specific movies, however. Movies I probably rewatch five to 10 times a year. The first one is also the answer to every Get-To-Know-Me survey I’ve ever filled out. The classic, Good Will Hunting. This movie is the closest thing I’ve ever known to perfect. There is such wisdom about this film. So many lessons, so much love, so many tears. Not to mention, Robin Williams. Some people could tell you everything you need to know about cars; some are good at math. Me? I could recite all the lines of Good Will Hunting. Not much of a necessary skill. Nonetheless, I get to carry with me messages and mindsets I’ve gained straight from this film.
My other go-to? When Harry Met Sally, of course. The importance of being best friends before and hopefully during our romantic relationships. I mean, why be in a relationship if your significant other isn’t your best friend? This film taught me to one; be thoughtful with who we choose to date. And two, to be patient. Be patient only during the process of finding your person, not when you’ve found them.
“When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” I think our generation has lost the passion and the commitment when it comes to the idea of love. We’ve got it all wrong right now. This movie never fails to remind me of what love is supposed to look like.
Watching movies is a chance to escape reality for a little while and to find oneself in a different person’s story for an hour or two. They teach us things we may not find ourselves learning otherwise: our worldview, our perspectives, cultural and social understanding. I feel so passionate about films that take me to a time I’ll never experience. I just love the way they make me feel. All sorts of emotional release. Honestly, I don’t think we’re watching enough movies.