Movies, like other forms of art, are a mirror to society and all its nuances. They can make us laugh, cry, ponder and even inspire us. Inspire us to become do-gooders, fight through adversities, or simply evolve into better human beings. How can movies affect students? Well in a big way!! As a society we usually view academic and professional success as the ultimate achievement of a “good life”. Careers360 has compiled a list of six best motivational movies for students, which are on our ‘must-watch’ list for students. See if these are your favourites too.
This iconic movie has remained on many top 100 Best Movies to watch list. So it is not at all surprising that it tops the list for inspiratonal movies for students. The story is of Forest, the titular character, who is considered to be slow by those around him and how he manages to shine through by using his natural street smartness and amiable personality. This movie teaches that academic achievements are not the only way to prove your calibre. You can still get a lot done by staying dedicated and willing to learn even if it’s by trial and error.
A story of a highly talented but socially uncomfortable mathematician named Will, teaches us that if you have talent, then it will shine through in due time, no matter what your circumstances are. The friendship between Will and his psychiatrist Sean shows us the importance of building meaningful connections with our peers and how we may benefit from it. Will struggles to find his place in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and works as a janitor at MIT until he is discovered by a professor. The movie reconfirms the fact that degrees or jobs do not prove our intelligence. If there is talent, then opportunities will land your way. It is one of the greatest and best motivational movies for students, in ways more than one.
With a dream to study at Duke University, Quinn Ackerman, ends up participating in a dance competition and realises that dance is her true passion. This light, breezy musical is all about discovering and understanding yourself and what you truly want from life. With a simple clear message to remain true to yourself and discover your passions, this movie tells us that pursuing your passions is okay, excelling at them is even better. Often students who want to take up non-academic pursuits face opposition from their parents. This movie will help those students stay strong in their resolve and believe in their chosen path.
This movie, one of the best movies for students, inspires us to live life with gusto, and not make everything about society's view of success or failure. Running on a flashback mode, it shows Anni and his gang of friends reiterating the fact to his son that getting into a prestigious educational institute is not the only way to gain recognition or be considered a success story. This message is to all students - you are much more than your academic records. Your will to live a happy life should not be dictated by how popular your college’s name is. So, if you don’t end up at your preferred college or institution, then don’t let it dishearten you. Not every success story starts at an IIT or IIM.
This movie is a rare gem. A teacher suffering from Tourette Syndrome and her struggles to motivate her EWS students. Class teacher Naina Mathur, struggles to gain the respect and confidence of her students. The movie speaks volumes about overcoming disabilities and difficulties. Despite the reservations of her colleagues Naina overcomes her initial inability to connect with her students and as for the students, inspired by her, they decide to put in their best efforts to pass. They also decline an unscrupulous person's offer to make them pass by cheating. ‘Dishonesty never pays’---is another loud and clear message that the movie sends out.
This cult classic has gained quite a following across age groups. The journey of three friends Rancho, Raju and Farhan needs no introduction. Here the loud and clear message is - don’t give in to society’s pressure of what you should be. The second most famous message of, don’t search for success, strive for excellence and success shall follow.
So, don’t wait to catch these amazing movies!
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