Movies for the soul

MANILA, Philippines - A few years ago, I made a list of heartwarming movies titled Movies for the Soul, in time for the Lenten Season. This year I’ve gathered another set of movies that hopefully might touch the heart of viewers and encourage them to reflect on their lives. No need to worry if these films bring tears or sadness, the most important thing is that we realize something important, we learn from it, and, hopefully, change for the better. Enjoy watching!

The Bucket List. Carter (Morgan Freeman) and Edward (Jack Nicholson) meet and become friends when their lives are about to end. Both are terminally ill and have less than a year to live. Upon knowing this, Carter starts to make a list of things he wants to do before dying. Edward agrees to do it with him and adds some spice to the list. Together, they try to accomplish their list until their day to kick the bucket comes. Do they have enough time? 

Everybody’s Fine. Frank (Robert de Niro), an old widower is on a journey to reconnect with his adult children. All along, he thought and knew that his children were living perfect lives, but he will soon discover the truth. Will Frank be able to accept it? Will he be able to help them?

The Boy in Striped Pajamas. Is friendship between a commandant’s son and a Jewish boy in a concentration camp possible? The movie tells the story of a friendship no one ever thought could happen. In fact, Bruno (Asa Butterfield) and Shmuel’s (Jack Scanlon) friendship is deeper than anyone can imagine. When will people around them ever understand?

Gandhi. The movie depicts the touching and inspiring life of Mahatma Gandhi. Through non-violent protests, he tried to voice out his desire to help people of India get justice. Because of this, many people loved and admired him. But his courage and philosophy were a threat to those he opposed. Gandhi is truly one of a kind. Sometimes it makes one wonder where Gandhi got his courage and compassion.

We Were Soldiers. It is set during the Battle of La Drang in 1965, one of the major battles between the US and North Vietnam in the heat of Vietnam War. Colonel Hal Moore (Mel Gibson) is assigned to train his troops well, as they will soon be stepping on the battlefield that will later be called “Valley of Death”. Will they survive the terror of this war?

The Blind Side. The movie is based on the true story of Michael Oher, a huge African-American adopted by Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy. Being with his new family was hard at first, but the Tuohys welcomed him with much love — giving him a real home. When Michael started to show interest in football, his foster parents supported him all the way. This gave Michael the opportunity to grow and to finally show everyone what he got. The movie starred Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw and Quinton Aaron.

Life is Beautiful. Set in the time when Italy was overpowered by Germans, a Jewish father (portrayed by Roberto Benigni) tries to convince his son that their being in the concentration camp is just a game and that there is a prize waiting for them. It is a wonder how can someone creatively think of something humorous in such a serious situation. Well, everybody needs humor once in a while especially in times of trouble.

Lovely Bones. The-novel-turned-movie is about a murdered 14-year-old girl who watches her family grieve and seeks justice for her death. As her family suffers, she does too — she just can’t let go. It’s always nice to watch the other side of the story. In death, the loved ones are not the only ones who suffer. The one who died undergoes a scarier journey. Watch the film and you’ll understand.

Shawshank Redemption. Andy, a successful banker, is sent to Shawshank State Prison after being convicted for killing his wife and her lover. Feeling lonely and depressed, Andy (Tim Robbins) secluded himself from other prisoners. After a while, he became friends with Red (Morgan Freeman), an influential and respected prisoner. Their friendship becomes their hope and strength as they continue their life in Shawshank Prison.

Ben-Hur. The movie is about the life and trials of Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish Prince in Jerusalem at the time of Jesus Christ. Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston) is happy and excited to meet his good old friend Messala who has become the commanding officer of the Roman legions. Instead of having a nice and joyous reunion, Ben-Hur and Messala find themselves with different beliefs. An unexpected event leads Ben-Hur to prison, but he is determined to seek revenge. It’s truly surprising how life can turn upside down. When this happens, will our faith in God remain the same?