Our Fav Movies that Inspired Change

Because our theme for August is Actionista, we’ve taken a look at what we believe to be the most inspiring movies of our time…

 

Idi Amin as played by Forest Whitaker in The Last King of Scotland reinforced the despicable behaviour that is presently being echoed in Zimbabwe.

Al Gore’s film about climate crisis manages to quite unbelievably use graphs and photographs alone to persuade the audience to change their living habits. Along with the shocking reality of what we’re headed for environmentally, the film offers simple everyday tips on how you can make a change, little by little – from turning a light off or refusing a plastic bag when offered one. Fabulous!

Blood Diamond
After watching Blood Diamond, the thought of how the most beautiful of jewels reach our limbs is quite frankly terrifying. The violence incurred and the complete lack of value for life overwhelms you as a viewer, and should there be a time when I buy diamonds, facile as it sounds, I would want to know that it’s conflict-free. However, it is inevitable that the very way that label is statutory should raise question: watch the special features on the DVD. If the sheer amount of blood-shed and corruption is not enough to shock, take a moment to realise that this is recent history, taking place within the last ten years.

 

As a keen sports fan, I’ve always found that a rousing spectacle inspires me to hit the gym. Watching Al Pacino deliver that speech in Any Given Sunday can’t help but evoke passion in the viewer, maybe leading to multiple high-fives amongst your mates...

The Peaceful Warrior
Another sports flick, this one is inspirational in other ways. This inspirational drama is based on Dan Millman, a gymnast who sustains a terrible injury. The story centres upon how he changes his approach to life and attitude towards others, thanks to a life changing accident. Somehow through moody lighting and the power of philosophy this spiritual journey leads us to think anything is possible, if we follow our dreams. ‘Wisdom is doing’, wise words indeed.

Malcolm X
Spike Lee’s movie covers Malcolm's early years, through to his fine oratory delivering a message of black pride in the face of white oppression.

American History X
Edward Norton takes on the horrifying character of a Nazi who murders without retribution, until he is imprisoned and realises his mistakes.

Somer Town

If you’ve not seen anything by director Shane Meadows, you absolutely must! Though be warned, his films are not for the faint hearted. That said his most recent outing, Somers Town, takes on the unlikely friendship between a young blood from middle England and a Polish migrant. We’re taken on an emotional journey with the two boys, their daily struggle for cash running parallel with their burgeoning friendship.

Ghandi
An epic film that follows the spiritual leader as he preaches pacifism tyranny of British Imperialism is quashed.