Movies Can Be More than Just Entertainment
Hollywood is renowned for being the ultimate destination for achieving one’s dreams. However, it’s not just a place to live out your fantasies; it’s also a place where self-actualization is attained. Self-actualization is an intricate process of realizing and fulfilling one’s full potential as an individual and as a member of society. Fortunately, we have countless movies from Hollywood that truly illustrate this concept. This includes several examples of characters who have achieved self-actualization. In this article, we will take a deep dive into what Hollywood can teach us about self-actualization. We will explore several movies that serve as a great source of inspiration. While also highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the characters in their journey towards self-actualization. By examining these examples, we can enrich our understanding of this crucial concept. Ultimately the goal is to apply these lessons towards our own journey towards Self-actualization!
- The movie “Rocky” (1976), directed by John G. Avildsen, tells the story of the determined boxer Rocky Balboa. He has been struggling to make it big in his career. However, when he is given an opportunity to face the reigning world champion, Apollo Creed, Rocky sees it as his chance to prove himself and pursue his dreams. With hard work, perseverance, and belief in himself, Rocky not only succeeds as a boxer but also experiences personal growth and self-actualization, finding his inner strength and potential. Throughout the movie, we witness Rocky’s struggles, both inside and outside the ring, as he pursues his dream. In the end he loses to Apollo Creed, but still achieves Self-actualization during his journey.
- “The Pursuit of Happiness” is a heart-warming 2006 movie that tells the story of Chris Gardner. He is a struggling salesman who finds himself in a dire situation trying to provide for his young son. The movie showcases the many setbacks and brutal obstacles that Chris faces while trying to achieve his dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur. With his unwavering determination, tireless hard work, and a positive attitude, Chris works tirelessly towards self-actualization. Throughout the movie, viewers witness Chris’s ups and downs, his moments of triumph and despair. With hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, he eventually achieves self-actualization and finds happiness.
- “Dead Poets Society” is a 1989 film that depicts the life of John Keating. He is a non-traditional English teacher who motivates his pupils to think independently and explore their interests. Keating’s lessons empower the students to express their opinions and embrace their distinctive qualities, igniting their personal growth. Keating inspires them to pursue their dreams and find their individual voices, so they can transform into confident young adults. The film explores themes of self-discovery, rebellion, love, and loss, as the students confront societal and familial expectations. This leads to their self-actualization as they find their voices and follow their dreams.
- “Forrest Gump” is a 1994 movie that tells the story of Forrest. A man with a low IQ who achieves greatness in his life by simply following his heart and doing what he loves. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, including being bullied as a child and serving in the Vietnam War. Forrest’s unwavering optimism and determination ultimately lead him to self-actualization and success. He becomes an accomplished athlete, war hero, and successful businessman, exemplifying the idea that anyone can achieve their dreams with enough perseverance. Forrest’s story inspires and motivates people to pursue their passions and live a fulfilling life.
- “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) is a captivating film that tells the story of Andy Dufresne. He is an innocent man who is imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. Despite him facing a bleak and harsh environment. Andy maintains his dignity and hope, refusing to let his wrongful conviction define him. Throughout the film, we see the depth of Andy’s character and his remarkable resilience as he uses his intelligence and determination to create a better life for himself and those around him while imprisoned. In the end by using his wits and maintaining his perseverance, he achieves self-actualization by escaping from prison and starting a new life.
- “The Lion King” (1994) is an animated film that tells the story of Simba. A young lion who is destined to become the king of the Pride Lands, a territory ruled by lions. Despite his destiny, Simba initially runs away from his responsibilities in order to live a carefree life. However, through his experiences and the guidance of his mentor, the wise baboon Rafiki. Simba eventually learns to embrace his destiny and accept his role as king. He also confronts his past and overcomes the trauma he had experienced as a result of the death of his father. King Mufasa, who was killed by Simba’s uncle Scar. His Self-actualization is truly one of the most cathartic moments of any Disney film.
- “The Social Network” is a biographical drama film released in 2010, directed by David Fincher. The movie follows the story of Mark Zuckerberg. He is the computer programmer who founded Facebook, the biggest social media platform in the world. Mark’s success with Facebook was not handed to him on a silver platter. Several hurdles and challenges arose during the creation process of the platform, such as lawsuits and disputes with co-founders. However, his determination and persistence came to fruition. As he succeeded in creating a platform that connects millions of people worldwide, including those in remote regions of the world. Through his perseverance and determination, he achieves self-actualization by creating the most popular platform used around the world!
- “Good Will Hunting” (1997) is a movie about a janitor named Will Hunting. He works at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Will is not your typical janitor as he has a genius-level IQ, but his lack of direction and issues connecting with others have left him stuck in a dead-end job. However, with the help of therapy and his mentor’s guidance, he learns to confront his past and embrace his potential. The story delves deep into Will’s struggles with his own identity and his eventual journey towards self-actualization. We see him come to terms with his past trauma and make peace with his emotions. This leads to his personal growth and subsequent self-actualization and a bright future.
- The 2010 film “Eat Pray Love” portrays the journey of Elizabeth Gilbert. She is a writer struggling with a failed marriage and a spiritual dilemma. Determined to find inner peace and fulfillment, Elizabeth embarks on a year-long adventure across Italy, India, and Bali. During her travels, she encounters a diverse array of people, cultures, and experiences. This adventure challenges her beliefs and transforms her perspective. Through these experiences, Elizabeth comes to accept and embrace her true self. She attains a sense of self-actualization that she had been seeking all along. The film offers us an insightful opportunity to join Elizabeth on her personal journey of growth and discovery.
To sum up, over the years, Hollywood has produced numerous movies that focus on the concept of self-actualization. As discussed earlier, these movies convey powerful messages. They can serve as guidelines for anyone who desires to reach their full potential. It is important for individuals to aim to be the best versions of themselves and strive towards achieving self-actualization. By exploring the experiences and journeys of the characters in these movies individuals can gain valuable insights. They can also discover the right path to their own self-actualization. Thus, it is imperative to embrace the valuable lessons and wisdom conveyed in such movies. With them one can overcome personal barriers and unleash one’s true potential.
