Spring break has unfortunately come to a close and arguably ended too soon. Finals are just around the corner, and now it seems everyone is counting down the days until classes end.
As we enter this final quarter of the year, here are some movies for an extra dose of motivation to finish the academic year off with a bang.
“Whiplash” (2014)
“Whiplash” follows Andrew Neiman, played by Miles Teller, in his pursuit to become the top jazz musician at his music conservatory in Boston. Throughout the journey, his instructor Terence Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons, is both his biggest inspiration and enemy as Andrew fights his way to jazz excellence.
“Whiplash” blurs the line between passion and obsession. As a series of high-stress events play out, Andrew pushes the limits of both his sanity and ability to the edge for the goal of musical genius.
Whiplash is available to stream on Netflix.
“Sing” (2016)
While this movie is less serious than the others on this list, motivation and determination are still central to the plot. “Sing” is a fun watch that follows multiple animal musicians including the protagonist, a koala named Buster Moon — voiced by Matthew McConaughey — as they all overcome personal barriers and limitations to open a theater and put on a singing performance for their city.
The songs covered by actors such as Tori Kelly, who plays the elephant Meena, are uplifting and enjoyable. If you need a movie that reminds you that life is what you make of it or just a fun watch for a study break, this is the movie for you.
Sing is available to stream on Disney+.
“The Social Network” (2010)
The influence of Facebook as a social media platform and globalization tool in the 21st century is undeniable. “The Social Network” follows a young Mark Zuckerberg, played by Jesse Eisenberg, as he becomes one of the world’s youngest billionaires through his creation of Facebook.
From a Harvard undergraduate to a multibillionaire, Zuckerberg’s story is a reminder that anything can happen to self-starters that have a goal and the right execution. Nothing is too far out of reach.
The Social Network is available to stream on Hulu and Disney+.
“The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
The love that a parent has for their child is one that can never be replaced or found anywhere else. In this film, Will Smith plays a single father named Chris Gardner who was evicted from his home and works as an intern for a prestigious firm for no money. He and his son struggle as they bounce around from shelter to shelter, yet Chris is determined to build his life back together for his child.
A deeply emotional film full of powerful performances by all actors that demonstrate systematic issues within the United States, “The Pursuit of Happyness” also highlights Chris’ power and accomplishments made in the name of paternal love.
Life is unpredictable and oftentimes unfair, but this film highlights the importance of continuously showing up for yourself and for the ones you love. When you succeed, so does your inner circle.
The Pursuit of Happyness is available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
“Coda” (2021)
In Coda, Ruby Rossi, played by Emilia Jones, is the only hearing member of her family. She works before school with her parents and brother to help them keep their fishing business afloat, but finds herself drawn to singing after joining her school choir and wants to pursue it in college despite her family’s hesitation and disapproval.
“Coda” is a beautiful coming of age story that won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2022, and emphasizes finding your voice in all aspects of life and gaining the courage to pursue and study what you want despite what anyone else may say.
Coda is available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.
Hopefully these films inspire and prepare you for the final stretch of the semester. Whatever you do to get yourself motivated, remember that anything is possible and you’ve definitely got this!
This article was edited by Alia Messina, Marina Zaczkiewicz and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Olivia Citarella.
