Movies That Molded Our Lives

[meridiantoo]

Originally Posted by Soon

Splendor in the Grass

I remember staying home from school to watch the second part of this (there were movies during the weekday) when I was about ten or eleven.

Something about the tragic consequences of rigid social roles and repressed desire struck me and always stayed with me...

This movie was an eye-opening experience for me. I watched it when I was in junior high. I was, as we all were, so impressionable at that age. This movie also struck me and helped me to understand my high school and early 20s years concerning the rigid social roles and repressed desire and the possible consequences.

Other films that molded my life:

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - This film broke my heart the first time I saw it. And it saddens me every time I watch it, even today.

Dead Poet's Society - I watched this film when I was a Freshman in college. I was having a hard time solidifying what I wanted to do with my life, which direction I should go in - and ,therefore, what to major in. I loved the way the teacher character played by Robin Williams instilled a sense of life and passion into his class, and how the young men, in return, found something to believe in. I found the courage to name my calling in this movie - to leave the world a better place than when I got here. The tragedy in the end (the character played by Robert Sean Leonard) only enhances the movie's sense of a profound message that many families considered dangerous (not likely the case anymore).

Forrest Gump - Just a very sweet movie. I wish we had more Forrest Gump souls in the world.

Ordinary People - I also saw this movie in junior high the first time. I was amazed at how accurately the mother (played by Mary Tyler Moore) mimicked my own mother. This movie resonated within me for years.

The Color Purple - This movie is probably the single most influential movie for me. If you grew up in the deep south prior to say 1980, you are keenly aware of how accurate this movie was, and maybe even still is. Each character stirred things in me that I didn't even know existed. The plight of poverty in the African American culture is present throughout the film, but it takes a back seat to other themes. I identified so much with the main character Celie, and likely always will. Seeing the film made me want to read the book, which I did, and write an essay and mini-play about in high school. Love this movie!

Fried Green Tomatoes - When I first saw this movie, I was in the midst of dealing with homosexual desires. I was so confused, afraid, and torn, and this movie really helped me to muster the courage to accept myself and potential future.