10 Riveting Movies that Advocate for Mental Health Awareness

Written by Matt Nelson & Likewise Pix | Sep 20, 2024 From compelling dramas to heartwarming animations, discover ten movies that provide a powerful lens into the complexities of mental health. These films not only entertain but also educate and inspire conversations about mental well-being.

1. Bo Burnham: Inside

Stuck in COVID-19 lockdown, US comedian and musician Bo Burnham attempts to stay sane and happy by writing, shooting and performing a one-man comedy special. This unique film captures the raw, unfiltered experience of isolation and the toll it can take on mental health. With sharp humor and poignant honesty, Bo Burnham: Inside is a true artistic reflection of the pandemic era. Watch here.

2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

A petty criminal fakes insanity to serve his sentence in a mental ward rather than prison. He soon finds himself as a leader to the other patients—and an enemy to the cruel, domineering nurse who runs the ward. This classic film, starring Jack Nicholson, delves into institutionalized mental health care in the 1970s, shedding light on the power dynamics and abuses within such facilities. Watch here.

3. Inside Out 2

Teenager Riley's mind headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions! Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust, who’ve long been running a successful operation by all accounts, aren’t sure how to feel when Anxiety shows up. And it looks like she’s not alone. This family-friendly animation explores the emotional turmoil of growing up while highlighting the importance of mental health. Watch here.

4. The Father

A man refuses all assistance from his daughter as he ages and, as he tries to make sense of his changing circumstances, he begins to doubt his loved ones, his own mind, and even the fabric of his reality. This heartbreaking portrayal of dementia, led by an astounding performance by Anthony Hopkins, offers a deep dive into aging and its impact on mental health. Watch here.

5. Joker

During the 1980s, a failed stand-up comedian is driven insane and turns to a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City while becoming an infamous psychopathic crime figure. This controversial film, starring Joaquin Phoenix, offers a dark and disturbing exploration of mental illness and societal neglect. Watch here.

6. Inside Out

When 11-year-old Riley moves to a new city, her Emotions team up to help her through the transition. Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness work together, but when Joy and Sadness get lost, they must journey through unfamiliar places to get back home. This acclaimed Pixar animation touches on the importance of all emotions, even the negative ones, and underscores a balanced approach to mental health. Watch here.

7. Perfect Blue

Encouraged by her managers, rising pop star Mima takes on a recurring role on a popular TV show, when suddenly her handlers and collaborators begin turning up murdered. This animated psychological thriller delves into the pressures of fame and the potential mental health consequences within the entertainment industry. Watch here.

8. Captain Fantastic

A father living in the forests of the Pacific Northwest with his six young kids tries to assimilate back into society. This thought-provoking drama explores unconventional lifestyles, familial bonds, and the mental struggles of reintegrating into mainstream society. Watch here.

9. Short Term 12

Grace, a compassionate young supervisor at a foster care facility, helps at-risk teens. But when a new charge dredges up memories of her own troubled past, Grace's tough exterior begins eroding. This emotionally charged film highlights the importance of mental health care for both caregivers and those they help. Watch here.

10. Good Will Hunting

When professors discover that an aimless janitor is also a math genius, a therapist helps the young man confront the demons that are holding him back. This iconic drama featuring Robin Williams and Matt Damon provides a touching look into therapy, friendship, and personal growth. Watch here.

These cinematic gems offer more than just entertainment; they open up critical conversations around mental health. Watching these films can be a therapeutic experience, sparking empathy, understanding, and perhaps even inspiring viewers to seek the help they may need. Film is a powerful medium, and these ten selections prove it with their impactful storytelling and dedication to shedding light on mental health issues.