Movies have a unique ability to transport us into the lives of the characters on screen, making us feel as if we are right there alongside them. One of the most powerful ways that films can do this is by portraying the struggles of their characters in a way that is both authentic and relatable. Whether it’s a dramatic struggle for survival or a more personal battle with inner demons, these films are able to create a sense of empathy and understanding that can be truly transformative.
One of the key ingredients to a great film that portrays character struggles is the ability to create fully fleshed-out characters that are easy to relate to. These films take the time to develop the backstory, motivations, and inner thoughts of the characters, allowing us to see the world from their perspective. We see the world through their eyes, and as a result, we understand and care about what they are going through.
Another important aspect of films that portray character struggles well is the use of powerful storytelling techniques. These films often use symbolism, metaphor, and imagery to convey the deeper meaning behind the characters’ struggles. This can be incredibly effective in helping us to understand the character’s internal conflicts, and in some cases, even mirror our own struggles.
Finally, films that delve into the characters often leave us with a sense of hope and inspiration. They show us that even in the darkest of times, it is possible to find the strength to keep going. They remind us that no matter how difficult the journey may be, we can overcome our struggles and find a way to live a more fulfilling life.
These films offer a unique and powerful way to connect with the characters on screen. They create fully fleshed-out characters, use powerful storytelling techniques, and leave us with a sense of hope and inspiration. They allow us to understand the world from the perspective of the characters and remind us that we all have the strength within us to overcome the struggles in our own lives.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
15 The Truman Show (1998)
Paramount Pictures
The Truman Show is a film that takes us on a journey through the mind of Truman Burbank, a man living in a seemingly perfect world that is actually a giant television set. As the unwitting star of a reality show, Truman’s entire life has been broadcast to the world without his knowledge. As he begins to question the reality of his existence, he struggles to break free from the constraints of his manufactured world and find true freedom and authenticity.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
14 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Focus Features
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a mind-bending film that explores the intricacies of human memory and the impact of past relationships on our present selves. The story follows Joel, a man who undergoes a procedure to erase his memories of his ex-girlfriend Clementine. As the memories are erased, we see the good and bad parts of their relationship and how it affected them. The film is a deep dive into the human psyche, as Joel struggles to come to terms with the consequences of his actions and the true nature of love and loss.
13 Black Swan (2010)
Fox Searchlight Pictures
Black Swan is a psychological thriller that delves into the world of competitive ballet and the intense pressure that comes with it. The film follows Nina, a ballerina who is driven to perfection, but as she becomes more obsessed with her role in the ballet, she starts to lose touch with reality. As she spirals deeper into her own mind, she struggles to separate fantasy from reality, and her obsession with the role becomes a struggle for her own identity.
12 It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)
When it comes to films that portray character struggles in the best way, It’s Kind of a Funny Story is a standout entry. This coming-of-age story follows the journey of Craig, a teenage boy struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts. The film does an incredible job of capturing the raw and often overwhelming emotions that come with mental health struggles. Craig’s journey is both deeply personal and universal, making it a film that truly resonates with audiences of all ages. From the powerful performances to the nuanced portrayal of mental health issues, It’s Kind of a Funny Story is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
11 Melancholia (2011)
Nordisk Film
Melancholia is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves into the struggles of its characters on a cosmic scale. The film tells the story of two sisters, Justine and Claire, as they grapple with the impending collision of a rogue planet with Earth. The film explores themes of depression, anxiety, and the human condition in the face of certain destruction. Justine, the main protagonist, is a complex and relatable character who struggles with depression and her sense of self-worth. It’s a mesmerizing film that manages to be both deeply personal and universal.
10 Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
The Weinstein Company
Silver Linings Playbook is a film that tells the story of Pat Solatano, a man struggling with bipolar disorder and the aftermath of a recent breakdown. It’s a film that manages to be both funny and deeply moving. The film’s portrayal of mental health is both authentic and nuanced, capturing the complexity of living with a mental illness. The struggles of Pat are both relatable and inspiring, as we see him try to rebuild his life and relationships. It’s a film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired by the resilience of the human spirit.
9 The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Summit Entertainment
The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age story that captures the struggles of growing up in a poignant and relatable way. The film follows the journey of Charlie, a introverted and socially awkward teenager, as he navigates the ups and downs of high school. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the search for identity in a way that is both honest and authentic. Charlie’s struggles are both personal and universal, making the film a powerful and relatable story that will resonate with audiences of all ages. From its relatable characters to its powerful storytelling, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a film that truly captures the struggles of growing up in the most honest and moving way.
8 Infinitely Polar Bear (2014)
This indie dramedy tells the story of a manic-depressive father, Cameron, who struggles to keep his family together while maintaining his mental health. Infinitely Polar Bear follows Cameron’s journey as he attempts to win back the trust and love of his wife and children after a breakdown and hospitalization. The character of Cameron is a complex and relatable one, as we see him both at his highest and lowest points. The movie explores themes of family, love, and mental health, and how they are intertwined. The movie also highlights the importance of support and understanding in the process of recovery.
7 Lady Bird (2017)
A24
This coming-of-age story follows the life of Christine Lady Bird McPherson, a senior in high school who struggles to find her identity and place in the world. The movie takes a deep dive into the inner thoughts and feelings of its protagonist as she navigates the ups and downs of teenagehood. Lady Bird portrays Christine’s struggles with her mother’s high expectations, her own self-doubt, and her desire to escape the small town she calls home. The film shows how the mother-daughter relationship can be complicated, but it also highlights the power of forgiveness and the importance of family.
6 A Star Is Born (2018)
Warner Bros.
This critically acclaimed film tells the story of a struggling musician, Jackson Maine, and his relationship with a young and talented singer, Ally. The movie explores themes of fame, love, and addiction as Jackson helps Ally to launch her career while his own downward spiral continues. The character of Jackson is a complex one, as we see him both at his best and worst, and how he deals with his own inner demons. The movie portrays how the characters’ struggle with their own insecurities and how they use their music as a form of self-expression and therapy. A Star Is Born also illustrates the harsh realities of the music industry and the sacrifices that come with fame in a truly poignant and moving way.
5 Tully (2018)
Bron Studios
This thought-provoking film tells the story of Marlo, a mother of three struggling to balance the demands of motherhood with her own sense of identity. The film explores Marlo’s struggles with postpartum depression, loneliness, and the pressure of societal expectations. Through her relationship with her night nanny Tully, Marlo begins to confront her deepest fears and insecurities, ultimately leading to a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Tully is a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of motherhood, and the struggles that come with it. Charlize Theron’s powerful performance as Marlo, brings a nuanced and relatable portrayal of a woman struggling to find her footing in the midst of overwhelming responsibilities.
4 Waves (2019)
A24
Waves is an emotionally charged film that follows the story of a suburban African-American family as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and coming of age. The film centers around Tyler, a high school wrestler, and his relationship with his father, who is determined to make him a champion. As Tyler struggles with the weight of his father’s expectations, he begins to unravel, leading to a series of events that threatens to tear the family apart. The film is a powerful exploration of the complexities of father-son relationships and the struggles that come with growing up. The film is a poignant and honest portrayal of the emotional turmoil that families can go through, and the strength it takes to come out on the other side.
3 Palm Springs (2020)
Neon / Hulu
In Palm Springs, a carefree groom-to-be becomes trapped in a time loop on the day of his wedding, forcing him to relive the same day over and over again. As he struggles to find a way out, he begins to question the choices he’s made in life and what it truly means to be happy. The main character, Nyles, is a man who has grown tired of the monotony of his existence and has become resigned to his fate. He is a man struggling with the idea of responsibility and commitment, and the time loop forces him to confront these issues head-on. Andy Samberg is truly incredible as Nyles, as he portrays the many emotions of being stuck at one place and trying to come to terms with the idea of living in a loop. Through his journey, he learns that the key to happiness is not found in running away from one’s problems, but in facing them head-on.
2 The King Of Staten Island (2020)
Universal Pictures
The King of Staten Island is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of a young man named Scott, played by Pete Davidson, who is still struggling to come to terms with the loss of his father, a firefighter who died in the line of duty. The film explores Scott’s struggles with grief, responsibility, and his own sense of purpose in life. Through Scott’s journey, we see him grapple with feelings of anger, guilt, and a sense of being lost and adrift. He struggles to find a way to move on from his past and build a future for himself. Through his relationships with his family and friends, he learns to confront the pain of his past, and to find a new sense of hope for his future.
1 Aftersun (2022)
MubiA24
Aftersun is a powerful and heartrending portrait of a father-daughter relationship. The film explores the theme of growing up and looking back to where you came from through a series of flashbacks told by Sophie. The 11-year-old reminisces about a holiday at a vacation resold with her father, Calum, played by Paul Mescel. The film explores how time can change our perception of the people we love. Sophie’s recollections provide a window into her relationship with her father, giving us a glimpse into the different stages of their relationship and the different challenges they faced. The character of Calum is complex and multi-dimensional. He is a loving and devoted father, but he also struggles with depression. It is a complex film that it is a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we spend with the people we love.
