Choosing a movie to watch can be quite daunting. It can be a bit difficult when given so many options. So, here are five recommendations for when you want a film that inspires, motivates, and enlights.

Good Will Hunting

Released in 1997, starring the late actor Robin Williams and 90’s heartthrob Matt Damon, this film is about a young man named Will Hunting (Matt Damon) who has an extraordinarily genius IQ but chooses to work as a janitor at MIT. Hunting’s talents are discovered by Professor Lambeau who decided to help him overcome his bad life choices and the chaotic world that is Boston. After being arrested for attacking a police officer, Professor Lambeau makes a deal with the police to let him free if he receives treatment from therapist Sean Maguire (Robin Williams). The reason this film is at the top of this list is that this film depicts tragedies that could happen to anyone while putting it through the lens of a therapist, that society, would stereotype as put together with no problems. The fascinating film is complete with the authentic Bostonian humor and memorable actors.

Dead Poets Society

O Captain! My Captain! The Dead Poets Society is a heartbreaking and Oscar-winning film about an elite all-boys high school in the 1980s that has a new English teacher, Robert Keating (Robin Williams). He teaches his students through poetry, inspiring his students to seize the day. Challenging the perceived notion of what it means to succeed in the world of employment and empowerment through art and poetry, it is a coming of age story that tugs the heartstrings of many.

Y Tu Mamá También

Indie Mexican films are criminally underrated such as is this film Y Tu Mamá También. The film focuses on two 17-year-old boys, Julio and Tenoch, typical boys who play all over the capital of Mexico. While on an escapade with an older woman, they connect with each other and themselves with the earth. A raunchy coming of age film that shows the beautiful countryside of Mexico and powerful acting to go along with it.

The Breadwinner

This film follows the life and family of Parvana, an Afghani girl whose father is taken by the Taliban for having a foreign education. She decides to cut her hair to dress and look like a boy so she can sell items for her family to survive since girls cannot go outside without a male guardian. Parvana begins to see the other side of life as a boy in Afghanistan, she begins to make money for her family all the while keeping some money to free her father from prison. This film is set during the time of war when Afghanistan is caught in a crossfire. Parvana goes through rigorous hardships and copes through children’s stories. This compelling film makes one wonder what lengths they would go for someone they love.

Pachamama

Pachamama follows the story of an Incan boy, Tepulpai, who lives in a small village in the Andes Mountains and dreams of becoming a shaman. After the village is robbed of their Huaca, traditional to many indigenous tribes as something revered for their gods, he takes the opportunity to prove himself and retrieve it. Tepulpai and his friend Naïra go on a quest to get the Huaca back while the Spanish attack and steal from the whole empire, including surrounding villages.

These five films, all with dramatically different plots, stem from the idea of inspiring those who watch it. It comes from wanting to make yourself better and helping those around you while also relaxing and enjoying your favorite actors.