Movies are known for evoking strong emotions and telling important life lessons. Many filmmakers use this powerful platform to spread awareness about important social justice issues. These movies blend incredible storytelling with evocative scenes to inspire action from many people and cause actual changes to take place in the world.
“Just Mercy” is a movie based on the book by the same name and stars Michael B. Jordan as the main protagonist. The film covers the true story of how a lawyer in the South, named Bryan Stevenson, tried to combat institutional racism in Alabama courts. Stevenson wanted to combat this racism after one of his clients Walter McMillian was facing an unfair trial due to the color of his skin. This inspired him to start a non-profit law firm called the Equal Justice Initiative dedicated to representing falsely convicted and poor prisoners. “Just Mercy” teaches that through dedication and unity, problems can be solved, and justice can be served.
Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, starring Liam Neeson, and winning 7 Oscar Awards, “Schindler’s List” tackles the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust. At the height of World War II, businessman and Nazi Party member, Oskar Schindler arrives in German-occupied Poland to make his fortune. He quickly hires many Jews to keep his factory running smoothly. At first Schindler is only concerned about wealth and making a profit, but as he begins to witness the Nazis’ brutality towards Jews he is profoundly changed and vows to save as many Jews as he can from the gas chambers. “Schindler’s List” shows how directly witnessing injustice can drive anyone, no matter their background, to pursue a change for good.
Produced as a Netflix Original and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the satirical drama “Don’t Look Up” is a cautionary tale about the imminent danger of climate change. Although the movie itself does not reference climate change, it uses a fictional disaster story about an impending comet strike on Earth as a metaphor for the consequences of climate change inaction. The movie follows two scientists who deliver the news of a civilization-ending comet strike on Earth to leaders of the government, media, and business, all of whom fail to take proper action. Although climate change is unlikely to end the entire human population like a comet strike would, “Don’t Look Up” serves as a strong reminder that people need to take action to ensure that future generations can continue to thrive on Earth.
The 2017 drama film “Marshall” stars Chadwick Boseman as Thurgood Marshall. The film is based on a true story and follows Thurgood Marshall’s journey of becoming the first African American Supreme Court Justice. The movie recounts an infamous court case that Marshall was involved in when he was barred from speaking by a racist judge even though he was a justice. “Marshall” teaches that people should make an effort to ensure that all humans are able to express their talents no matter their race.
Whether you are an avid movie-lover or an occasional watcher, movies are not only a source of entertainment, but can also teach you a thing or two, so consider putting these movies on your watchlist.
