Finals season is upon us, which means that it is time for long days in the library, running on minimal sleep and cramming in as much studying as possible. Considering how exhausting this routine can get, here are some films that will reinvigorate your academic spirit.
Legally Blonde
There’s nothing as inspiring as seeing someone take a risk and go after what they want. In “Legally Blonde,” this is what the fabulous and iconic Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, does over and over again.
From getting into Harvard Law School despite her unconventional fashion merchandising major to successfully winning her first-ever court case, Elle shows that even the wildest dreams can come true.
If you are starting to feel the heavy weight of finals and need a reminder that you are capable, “Legally Blonde” is a great watch that will leave you feeling like the world is your oyster.
Hidden Figures
“Hidden Figures” tells the true story of three Black women mathematicians and engineers, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, who played crucial roles in making early spaceflight possible. They received major posthumous recognition but were not acknowledged at the time, hence the film’s title.
If you are in STEM, this film will remind you that you, too, might play a part in extraordinary, world-changing accomplishments, and that getting through your finals will get you one step closer.
Dead Poets Society
With the rise of artificial intelligence upon us, it can feel like our dream humanities careers could soon be replaced by robots or even deemed entirely irrelevant. However, “Dead Poets Society” reminds us that not all hope is lost.
At the fictional elite New England Welton Academy, teacher John Keating — played by Robin Williams — shows his students, time and time again, that nothing can ever replace authentic human creativity.
So get writing on that English paper — it matters, despite what society is trying to tell you.
Harry Potter Film Series
The classic Harry Potter films have an unmatched dark academia vibe. At the magical Hogwarts, students spend their years studying to become dragonologists, Muggle experts, aurors, healers and much more. Hermione Granger — played by Emma Watson — is an especially driven and inspiring student.
Whatever you are studying for, it is difficult to watch these films and not be encouraged by the dedication these young wizards have to their craft.
Mona Lisa Smile
In the 20th century, many Western societies still deemed marriage the greatest accomplishment for women. Set in the 1950s at the all-women’s Wellesley College in Massachusetts, the reality in “Mona Lisa Smile” is no different.
Although the women in this film are ambitious students and avid learners, most still believe that the only viable option after graduation is marriage.
With powerful performances from Julia Roberts, Kirsten Dunst and other talented actresses, this film serves as a reminder of how empowered women are today compared to a few decades ago and of what a privilege it is to have access to education.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
If you are looking for the ultimate stress-reliever film, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is the answer.
The movie offers light-hearted comedy, high-energy 80s fun and a reassuring message about not taking life too seriously — elements of a perfect pre-finals film.
If you feel a sense of impending doom, this movie will show you the light at the end of the tunnel and motivate you to finish your finals as soon as possible, so you too can have as much fun as Ferris soon.