Aside from classics, educational films can be a fun way to learn about various topics, like global warming, the development of computers, and even human rights. Some movies will also teach students about multiple aspects of history and culture. Here are a few suggestions:
It’s a Wonderful Life:
While it may not be the most entertaining movie on the planet, It’s a Wonderful Life is a classic that teaches everyone that they can make a difference by living responsibly. The educational film also offers an important counter-argument to the notion that young people should leave home and seek success in their own right. This classic story emphasizes the importance of family, friends, a good job, and community. Finding a healthy balance between self-fulfilment and dedication to others is a developmental task that all ages must undertake.
Good Will Hunting:
“Good Will Hunting” is an overt critique of the American educational system and is an uplifting and emotional story about a self-taught genius figuring out how to grow up. It’s a powerful story of overcoming barriers, finding personal growth, and learning to be responsible for your education, relationships, and life. The film’s message about the importance of education and skills is important, especially for high school students.
Character in Goodwill Hunting:
In Good Will Hunting, Matt Damon plays Will, a young mathematical genius who struggles with his life. He has little formal education and lives a rough life. He ends up working as a janitor, largely because of his past. Despite his struggles, Will is determined to attend college. He is accepted into the Massachusetts Institute of technology, the best mathematical school in the country. Will meets Professor Lambe:au, a psychology teacher who helps him overcome his inner demons.
Cinema Paradiso:
If you’re looking for a great film to show your high school students, consider the 1988 Italian drama Cinema Paradiso. The story revolves around a young Sicilian boy who is taken under the wing of a wise older man who shares his love of movies and helps him discover his purpose in life. This romantic comedy is a wonderful introduction to foreign films for high school students. Still, it does contain some iffy scenes, including a straight set of young teens masturbating in a movie theatre.
Nil Battey Sannata:
“Nil Battey Sannata” is an interesting and well-made movie about a mother’s dream for her child and how to protect it. The film also contains a powerful message – “be good for nothing” or “knowing nothing.”
Dangerous Minds:
One of the educational movies for high school students is “Dangerous Minds.” The plot revolves around a former Marine who becomes an English teacher in an urban high school. Although the students are unruly and not interested in education, the teacher, LouAnne Johnson, does everything she can to persuade them otherwise. She bribes them into participating and shows interest in their lives.
Even though “Dangerous Minds” is a true story, it falls into the stereotypical teacher-student movie category. The movie exaggerates the negative traits of inner-city students while ignoring the positive qualities that students possessed before Miss Johnson arrived. In addition to being too stereotypical, the film’s title is also inappropriate. Perhaps “Developing Minds” would have been a better title.
Race to Nowhere:
A new documentary, Race to Nowhere, offers an important message for our education system. It points out the dangers of overworked students, a growing number of attention-deficit drug abusers, and a depressing rise in teenage suicides. The movie is based on real student stories, ranging from elementary school through college. The film highlights the importance of critical thinking over formulaic teaching.
The film blames bubble tests, too much homework, and the nagging desire of parents to achieve social status over their children’s education. It cites several examples of parents making children less academically prepared for the world. One counsellor reveals that she overheard mothers bragging about their kids’ performance and that she now knows better. The movie provokes debate among high school students and their parents.
Author Bio:
Miguel Gabriel is a research-based content writer. He has worked in various healthcare, technology, and finance industries. He is currently working as a writer in Research Prospect, famous for dissertation writing services and Report writing services. When Miguel is not writing or researching, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He also loves travelling and learning about new cultures.