As a film major and avid movie enthusiast, I often find myself discussing a multitude of films that I believe are both underrated and underappreciated. These cinematic gems are ones that I strongly believe everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.Â
While I could easily create a three-page list of my favorite films, I’ve chosen to highlight my top three all-time favorites that I could rewatch endlessly without ever growing tired of them. In this piece, I’ll share my thoughts along with brief summaries, so if you haven’t seen them yet, you can get a sense of what they’re about and consider adding them to your movie night lineup.
Summit Entertainment
First, and perhaps unsurprisingly, is La La Land. Directed by Damien Chazelle, this film is perfect in every aspect. Each time I watch it, it never fails to evoke tears. With the characters, the storyline, the soundtrack, and the vibrant visuals, there’s so much to admire that I could rave about this movie for hours on end. La La Land depicts the romance between characters Mia and Sebastian. Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, chase their dreams in Los Angeles. Set against a vibrant musical backdrop, this film explores the challenges of balancing love and ambition in the pursuit of success. Ultimately, it captures the bittersweet nature of dreams, showcasing the sacrifices made along the way. The bittersweet ending illustrates the complexities of love and ambition because despite their deep connection, they choose separate paths to pursue their dreams.
Summit Entertainment
The second film on my list is The Perks of Being a Wallflower. This movie offers a comforting perspective, as many of us can relate to the protagonist, Charlie, who is an introverted teenager struggling to find his place in high school. He grapples with feelings of isolation and the struggle to find where he truly belongs, a journey that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Beneath its surface, the film tackles some heavy themes that resonate deeply, making it both poignant and impactful. The performances by talented actors like Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, Nina Dobrev, and Paul Rudd add tremendous depth, allowing viewers to uncover the film’s profound messages in various ways. Essentially, the plot follows Charlie, an introverted high school freshman, who navigates the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and mental health. Through his letters, he shares his struggles with trauma, isolation, and the quest for belonging, ultimately finding solace in his friendships with a group of misfit seniors. Emphasizing the importance of connection and self-acceptance, the film beautifully captures the trials of growing up.
Miramax Films
The third and final movie is, Good Will Hunting. Filmed in 1997, more than two decades ago, this film touches on the story of Will, a brilliant but troubled janitor at MIT who grapples with his past and his potential. After assaulting a police officer, he avoids jail time by agreeing to attend therapy, where he forms a profound bond with therapist Sean, who helps him confront his emotional scars. As Will navigates love, friendship, and the fear of failure, the film beautifully explores themes of identity, healing, and the transformative power of connection. Ultimately, it captures the struggle of a gifted young man striving to embrace his worth and confront what holds him back. This movie was honestly so emotionally compelling, and it is a classic that I believe everyone should watch at least once. Will’s character arc is a compelling element that continually draws me back to the film, as it beautifully showcases his transformation throughout the story. Coupled with the outstanding performances by the cast, the movie delivers an emotional depth that truly resonates, making it a must-watch in my opinion.