By: Gunner Van Driessche 

These movies all explore complex themes, being mature and psychologically intense. However, they generally are extremely different from each other. If you are looking for a more magical and epic story, go for #3, or #4, if you’re looking for heartfelt, emotional movies, choose #5, or #1, if you are looking for crazy intensity, and pacing then watch #2.

5. Good Will Hunting (1997) – Directed by Gus Van Sant. Starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Robin Williams

Good Will Hunting is a drama/romance that follows an unrecognized genius, Will Hunting (Matt Damon), who is introduced as troubled and working as a janitor at MIT. After solving an extremely difficult math problem, he becomes recognized. However, he struggles with the law and is forced to see a therapist, Sean Maguire (Robin Williams), who helps him confront his past and his potential that he seems to be wasting. Following this, Will Hunting goes on a journey of self-discovery alongside his best friend (Ben Affleck) and girlfriend (Minnie Driver). Good Will Hunting hits all the right notes, whether it be comedy, drama, or romance. It will make you cry, laugh, and feel joy all in one film. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck wrote this screenplay as their first major project, and the film ended with nine Oscar nominations, two wins, and an unforgettable place in cinema history.

4. Gladiator (2000) – Directed by Ridley Scott. Starring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen, and Richard Harris

Gladiator is the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a powerful general who becomes a gladiator. The emperor’s son is enraged when he is passed over as heir in favor of his father’s favorite general. He murders his father and sets up the murder of Maximus’s family. Maximus is then sold into slavery and trained as a gladiator. Yet his popularity as a gladiator threatens the throne. Maximus becomes set on a quest for revenge, driven by the murder of his family, and looks to kill the new emperor, Commodus. Ultimately, the film explores themes of revenge, duty, honor, legacy, mortality, corruption, freedom, and death. As Maximus says, “What we do in life echoes in eternity.” Russell Crowe gives an Oscar-winning performance, and the film is recognized as one of the most powerful and epic films of all time.

3. The Prestige (2006) – Directed by Christopher Nolan. Starring Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, and Scarlett Johansson

The Prestige is a thriller/mystery/sci-fi film that follows two rival magicians, Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale), who feud over the perfect teleportation illusion. Their rivalry leads to obsession, sabotage, and deadly consequences. With a complex, non-linear plot filled with twists, the film jumps between multiple times and locations, mirroring the structure of a magic trick: The Pledge, The Turn, and The Prestige. From quotes that linger long after the film ends to the creation of the perfect illusion, The Prestige is a mind-boggling film that keeps its mystery until the final moment. When asked about obsession, one must ask, “Have you considered the cost?” – Nikola Tesla (David Bowie).

2. Whiplash (2014) – Directed by Damien Chazelle. Starring Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, and Paul Reiser

Whiplash is a psychological drama about an extremely ambitious young jazz drummer, Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller), and his unethical instructor, Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), at an elite music conservatory. The film explores obsession, perfectionism, and whether the end justifies the means. It is praised for its performances, particularly J.K. Simmons (who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor), and Miles Teller in his breakout role. The film examines the dynamic between an abusive teacher and student, and the psychological and physical toll it takes not only on the student but also on those around him. The movie features intense dialogue and iconic scenes, including the “tempo” sequence, and masterful direction and score. Perhaps most impressive is that it was filmed in 19 days on a $3 million budget. Whiplash has lightning-fast pacing and an ending that leaves you on the edge of your seat.

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Directed by Frank Darabont. Starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, and Clancy Brown

The Shawshank Redemption is a crime/drama film that follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to two life sentences. He endures life at Shawshank State Penitentiary while forming a deep friendship with fellow inmate Red (Morgan Freeman). He navigates prison brutality, a corrupt warden, and the psychological effects of institutionalization, all while holding onto hope and planning an escape. The film explores hope, friendship, perseverance, institutionalization, and corruption. Masterfully acted, directed, and written, it remains the highest-rated movie of all time on IMDb. It received seven Oscar nominations and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. Through powerful narration, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable scenes, The Shawshank Redemption offers two choices in life: “Get busy living, or get busy dying.” – Andy Dufresne.