3 Best Movies That Will Motivate You To Study

Studying can often feel overwhelming, and finding the motivation to continue amidst distractions can seem like an uphill battle. Sounds familiar? We’ve all been there. But what if the distraction itself ends up motivating you? We’re talking about movies—one of the best ways to get inspired. Humans connect to stories at a deeper level and are greatly impacted by them. Thankfully, many inspiring tales about brilliant minds defying odds or teachers breaking traditional molds profoundly impact viewers.

In this list, we look at 3 of the best movies that will motivate students to study. These stories will help us empathize with the struggles of characters in the same boat as us and, eventually, celebrate their success. Even if you’re not a student, these movies may rekindle your love for learning through their lessons about academic achievement, the importance of education, knowledge, personal growth, and more. 

Good Will Hunting

Good Will Hunting is a story about a complex young man with a sharp mind—he’s a self-taught math genius! After completing a prison term, he works as a janitor at MIT and solves a challenging problem left by a professor. Soon, viewers realize that the roadblock in his personal growth is his self-destructive behavior, which makes him troubled, cynical, and emotionally guarded.

That’s when Sean Maguire, a therapist, enters his life. He sees Will’s potential and plays a key role in his transformation. Will isn’t easy to talk to, but Sean tries various approaches to get through to him, to help him confront his past and face his fears. Good Will Hunting is a great pick if you’re looking for a sense of purpose in your academic journey. Sometimes, all you need is someone’s unwavering belief to see yourself in a new light, and this film could be that ‘someone’ for you.

Dead Poets Society

Released in 1989, Dead Poets Society is a coming-of-age drama set in the prestigious Welton Academy, an all-male boarding school known for its strict adherence to tradition. The film’s story follows a group of students, each with their hopes and dreams, as they navigate the pressures of academic excellence and society’s expectations. 

The students continue life in this routine until they meet their new English teacher, John Keating. His teaching methods are different and unconventional—he encourages his students to think critically, question authority, and find their individuality. The film’s core message is based on Keating’s saying, “carpe diem,” which means “seize the day.” 

Dead Poets Society is a movie that teaches students to explore subjects they find inherently interesting. It is bound to inspire viewers who are struggling to fit in, to find their place in the world, and to become independent thinkers regardless of societal pressures.

The film’s lasting popularity is a testament to its timeless theme of self-discovery, which has resonated with audiences of all ages.

Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures is a 2016 American biographical drama loosely based on Margot Lee Shetterly’s book of the same name. It tells the story of three female African-American mathematicians whose contribution to NASA during the Space Race led to major advancements. During this time, there was great pressure on NASA to outdo the Soviets; even the slightest mistake could cause disastrous results. These exceptional mathematicians helped with the complex calculations crucial for the space missions’ success.

The film highlights the critical role that Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson played in NASA’s triumph, despite facing constant prejudice and discrimination based on gender and race. It depicts how knowledge, determination, resilience, and perseverance can take you ahead in life, even in a field that’s not very welcoming to you. After watching this inspiring movie, you may be motivated to pursue your academic goals despite them not fitting societal expectations and stereotypes. 

And there you have it! These were some of the best movies that will inspire you to study. Hopefully, they will motivate you to hit the books with renewed enthusiasm and focus.