Make you think: the best films about the value of life

Life is a journey full of ups and downs, joys and sorrows. Sometimes we get so caught up in everyday worries that we forget about the really important things: love, friendship, the value of every moment.

Cinema has a unique ability to touch the deepest strings of the soul, to make us think about the meaning of life and enjoy the beauty of being. OBOZ.UA offers a selection of films that will help you find new meanings and rethink everyday life.

La grande bellezza, 2013

An Italian drama film directed by Paolo Sorrentino, which has won numerous awards, including the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film. The protagonist, Jep Gambardella (Tony Servillo), is a successful journalist and writer who is disillusioned with the social life of Rome.

At the age of 65, he is reflecting on his own life, remembering his youth, his lost love and his dream of writing a great novel. Jep travels around the city, observing the eccentric characters and lavish parties that symbolize the superficiality and emptiness of society.

The film captivates with exquisite cinematography and shows Rome in all its grandeur and decadence. Through stylish visuals and philosophical reflections, The Great Beauty raises questions about the meaning of life, art and true beauty.

Awakenings (1990)

A drama film directed by Penny Marshall, based on real events and the book of the same name by British neurologist Oliver Sacks. The plot centers on the story of a doctor, Malcolm Sayer (played by Robin Williams), who discovers an experimental treatment for patients who have been in a catatonic state for many years. One of these patients is Leonard Lowe (played by Robert De Niro), who, after being administered the drug, begins to live a full life, experiencing emotions he had forgotten about. The film deeply explores the themes of human consciousness, the value of time, and the short-lived nature of "awakening" as the effect of treatment gradually weakens.

Youth (2015)

A dramatic film by Italian director Paolo Sorrentino that tells the story of the life reflections of two friends who meet in a Swiss alpine hotel. The main characters are Fred Ballinger (played by Michael Caine), a retired composer and conductor, and his friend Mick Boyle (played by Harvey Keitel), a filmmaker working on his latest movie.

In their conversations, they reflect on youth, creativity, time and loss, remembering the past and pondering the meaning of life. Fred is offered a chance to return to music and perform for the Queen, but he hesitates, as he has given up his career forever.

The landscapes of the Alps and the director's visual skill create an atmosphere of beauty and melancholy that reinforces the deep themes of the film.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

The cult American science fiction romantic film of 2004, directed by Michel Gondry. The film explores the nature of love, memory and loss.

The plot revolves around two lovers, Joel and Clementine, who decide to undergo a radical procedure to erase all memories of each other. However, during this procedure, Joel begins to realize how much he loves Clementine and tries to save at least some of their memories.

The film is characterized by an unconventional storyline, philosophical reflections on love and loss, and an original visual style. The film stars Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet, who convincingly conveyed the complex emotions of their characters.

Hector and the Search for Happiness (2014)

A 2014 British comedy-drama film based on the novel of the same name by François Lelord. The film tells the story of Hector, an experienced London psychiatrist who, despite his successful career, feels that he lacks true happiness.

In search of answers to the eternal questions about the meaning of life, Hector challenges the mundane and embarks on a fascinating journey around the world. During his travels, he meets different people, each with their own idea of happiness. Hector visits exotic countries, encounters different cultures and has incredible adventures.

The film is a kind of philosophical reflection on happiness, the meaning of life and the search for oneself. It encourages the viewer to reflect on their own values and priorities.

Click, 2006

A comedy drama directed by Frank Coracci and starring Adam Sandler. The plot tells the story of Michael Newman, an overworked architect trying to balance his career and personal life.

Tired of his many responsibilities, he receives a universal remote control that allows him to rewind, stop, and change the events of his life. At first, it seems like the perfect solution, but gradually Michael loses control of the remote, which leads to unpredictable consequences. The film combines elements of comedy and dramatic moments, touching on the themes of time, priorities and the importance of family.

Eat Pray Love (2010)

An American romantic drama directed by Ryan Murphy. The film is an adaptation of the bestselling book of the same name by Elizabeth Gilbert.

The main character, Liz, is going through a difficult period in her life after a divorce. In search of herself and happiness, she embarks on an exciting journey around the world. The first point of her route is Italy, where she enjoys delicious food and learns to enjoy life. Next, she travels to India, where she immerses herself in spiritual practices and meditation. And finally, she finds love in Bali.

The movie is not only about a journey, but also about self-discovery, spiritual growth and the search for happiness. It shows how the main character changes and develops throughout her journey, gaining strength and wisdom to overcome life's difficulties.

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