Performing well on your next exam, achieving the perfect GPA, and grappling with burnout are common experiences every student endures at some point during the semester.
It’s important to take breaks and indulge in something enjoyable to break up the endless cycle of studying! Here are some must-see movies to remind you that you aren’t alone in your university journey.
- Whiplash (2014)
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Aspiring to be a standout drummer at his conservatory, Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller) is discovered by his instructor, Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), who is infamous for his aggressive teaching methods and harsh criticisms. Under Fletcher’s instruction, Andrew’s passion for drumming spirals into an obsessive pursuit of perfecting his art, ultimately leading to his collapse.
Whiplash illustrates the transition of Andrew’s passion from innocent to a dangerous obsession with perfection, something many artists may relate to (albeit in an extreme case). Andrew exemplifies the dangers of overworking oneself to achieve greatness, while also serving as a powerful motivator to be ambitious.
Plus, even if you’re not a fan of jazz, the soundtrack in this movie excellently sets the mood. Spoiler alert: the ending performance changed my life.
- Legally Blonde (2001)
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Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) loves pink, knows all the latest fashion trends, and is the president of her sorority. However, after being dumped by her ex-boyfriend, Elle decides to dedicate herself to Harvard Law School, working towards becoming a lawyer against the expectations of those who stereotype her as just a “blonde.”
Legally Blonde is a staple for any girl in school, as the movie applauds stereotypical femininity rather than portraying it as a flaw. Watching Elle work so hard while embracing her own identity empowers girls and motivates students, reminding us how important it is to be ourselves in a new environment.
This movie especially resonates if you’re a girl in a typically male-dominated major, so don’t let others diminish your voice, ladies!
- Dead Poets Society (1989)
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In a conservative all-boys school, a group of students is introduced to their new English teacher (Robin Williams), who employs radical teaching methods. The boys immerse themselves in poetry and the arts. As a result, they learn to embrace their individuality to pursue their dreams in an environment rigid with traditionalism.
Dead Poets Society reminds us of the value of our personal ambitions, regardless of how society perceives them. Just as the boys live by the motto “Carpe Diem,” we, too, as viewers, need to learn to live in the moment rather than be constrained by expectations for the future.
- Black Swan (2010)
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Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) is a professional ballerina who has always aspired to play the lead role in Swan Lake. She epitomizes the “White Swan” — an ingĂ©nue obsessed with perfection — and is far from the femme fatale that is the “Black Swan.” Obsessed with maintaining her role, Nina embarks on a quest to embody the Black Swan for the perfect performance, even at the cost of her own well-being.
Similar to Andrew Neiman in Whiplash, Nina in Black Swan serves as a cautionary example of the pressures of perfectionism and the dangers of expectations from both others and oneself. We witness Nina’s psychological descent throughout the film, as she suffers from hallucinations and persistent bad habits, prompting viewers to question whether it’s truly worth it.
If you’re ever in need of a break or a source of motivation, these are some of my personal favorite films to watch that aren’t the usual recommendations like Gilmore Girls (no offense!). Let these movies, which center on the pursuit of perfection or the struggle to find your place in a new environment, serve as a reminder to slow down.
It’s okay to take breaks and maintain a healthy work balance!
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