Meaning of Life Films: 20 Movies That Will Make You Think

A curated list of thought-provoking meaning of life films that will challenge your perspectives, spark conversations, and ultimately shed light on your purpose!

What is our purpose? What lies beyond our mortal coil? These are questions that have perplexed humanity for centuries. Amidst the current fast-paced society, it is easy for us to lose track of our trajectory and end up “drifting” aimlessly. In such cases, a good movie may be exactly what we need to regain control. From philosophical dramas to mind-bending sci-fi, the meaning of life films below will prompt you to pause, reflect on your own existence, challenge underlying beliefs, and ultimately discover new truths about yourself and the world!

Highlights

• The thought-provoking movies featured in this list challenge viewers to contemplate the meaning of life, death, love, and the human condition. Ranging from iconic masterpieces like Ikiru and The Seventh Seal to modern gems such as Soul and Everything Everywhere All at Once, they serve to provide a sanctuary for self-reflection and introspection.
• By immersing themselves in these cinematic masterpieces, one may acquire new insights, challenge their beliefs, and ultimately discover purpose in their own lives.

Ikiru (1952)

How tragic that man can never realize how beautiful life is until he is face to face with death.

Set against the backdrop of a post-war Japanese society, “Ikiru” (生きる, “To Live”) follows the story of Kanji Watanabe, a middle-aged civil servant who receives a terminal cancer diagnosis. Faced with his impending death, Watanabe embarks on a quest to find meaning in his life, which has been consumed by mundane routine and bureaucratic red tape.

The movie introduces haunting questions about existence, mortality, and the essence of a fulfilling life. Watanabe’s journey takes him from a life of apathy and conformity to a passionate pursuit of making a difference in the lives of others. He channels his newfound vitality into a project to build a children’s playground, a symbol of hope and joy for future generations.

Ikiru offers a poignant critique of the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy and the importance of breaking free from societal expectations. Watanabe’s transformation from a passive observer to an active agent of change highlights the potential for individual action to create a positive impact, even in the face of adversity.

Through its exploration of themes like mortality, purpose, and the value of human connection, the film serves as a reminder that life is precious and should be lived to the fullest.

Read more: Ikigai (生き甲斐) – The Blueprint for Purpose & Abundance

The Seventh Seal (1957)

I see my face and feel loathing and horror. My indifference to men has shut me out. I live now in a world of ghosts, a prisoner in my dreams.

A medieval knight, Antonius Block, finds himself challenging Death to a game of chess, seeking to postpone his own inevitable demise by the Black Death. As Block and his squire, Jöns, journey through a plague-ridden landscape, they encounter a variety of characters who grapple with the meaning of life and the fear of death. Through these encounters, Block is forced to confront his own mortality and question the purpose of his existence.

“The Seventh Seal” is a meditation on the nature of faith and suffering, as well as the search for purpose in a chaotic world. The film’s stark and symbolic imagery, combined with its philosophical dialogue, creates a haunting and unforgettable experience. Even in the face of death, one may find solace in human connection, art, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Meaning of life films

Dead Poets Society (1989)

There’s a time for daring and there’s a time for caution, and a wise man understands which is called for.

A powerful exploration of life’s meaning, “Dead Poets Society” follows a group of students who are inspired by their unconventional English teacher, John Keating, to question the status quo and embrace their passions. Keating’s philosophy, encapsulated in the phrase “Carpe Diem” (seize the day), encourages people to find their own voices, pursue their dreams, and challenge the conventional wisdom that often stifles creativity and individuality.

The film delves into the profound impact of education on shaping one’s worldview and sense of purpose. By exposing his students to the works of great poets and thinkers, Keating ignites their imaginations and inspires them to think critically about the world around them.

Through its exploration of themes like conformity, rebellion, and the pursuit of happiness, “Dead Poets Society” introduces a timeless message about the importance of authenticity. Its tragic conclusion underscores the fragility of life and the need to cherish every moment.

Groundhog Day (1993)

What would you do if you were stuck in one place and every day was exactly the same, and nothing that you did mattered?

Framed within a comedic and fantastical premise, “Groundhog Day” tells the story of Phil Connors, a cynical weatherman who is trapped in a time loop and forced to relive the same day over and over again. Initially, Phil uses his newfound temporal freedom for selfish pursuits, indulging in hedonistic pleasures and manipulating others. However, as he becomes increasingly frustrated and desperate, he begins to reassess his priorities – and eventually learns the value of empathy, kindness, and selflessness.

As the film progresses, viewers are invited to ponder the nature of existence, the importance of human connection, and the potential for personal growth. Phil’s transformation from a self-absorbed individual to a compassionate and caring person highlights the power of repetition and the opportunity to learn from mistakes. Even in the mundane routines of daily existence, there is the potential for extraordinary experiences!

Purpose of live movies

Forrest Gump (1994)

I don’t know if we each have a destiny, or if we’re all just floating around accidental-like on a breeze, but I, I think maybe it’s both. Maybe both is happening at the same time.

“Forrest Gump” is a heartwarming and philosophical masterpiece that explores the meaning of life through the eyes of a simple-minded yet extraordinary man. The story follows the main character’s journey through various historical events, from the Vietnam War to the Civil Rights Movement.

Despite his intellectual limitations, Forrest possesses an unwavering optimism and a pure heart. His experiences lead him to profound realizations about life, love, and the human condition. Through his simple yet insightful observations, viewers are encouraged to reconsider societal norms and embrace life’s uncertainties.

The film discusses themes of destiny, chance, and the power of human connection. Forrest’s life is marked by a series of coincidences and serendipitous encounters that shape his destiny. However, it is his unwavering belief in himself and his ability to connect with others that truly defines his character, despite all the unexpected twists and turns. Regardless of age and background, audiences may all resonate with the movie’s key lesson: even the most ordinary people are capable of leaving an extraordinary impact on the world!

Meaning of life films

Waking Life (2001)

Creation seems to come out of imperfection. It seems to come out of a striving and a frustration and this is where I think language came from. I mean, it came from our desire to transcend our isolation and have some sort of connection with one another.

Known for its dreamlike quality, “Waking Life” follows a young man as he wanders through a series of dreamlike encounters, engaging in deep conversations with various characters. These conversations touch on a wide range of topics, including philosophy, psychology, religion, and art. The characters discuss the nature of reality, the meaning of existence, and the potential for human consciousness.

As the story unfolds, viewers are invited to question the boundaries between dreams and reality. Departing from traditional notions of time and space, the movie suggests that our perceptions of the world may be illusory. As such, we should strive to embrace the uncertainty and wonder of existence, explore the depths of our own consciousness, and seek meaning in the interconnectedness of all things.

Read more: Subconscious Mind Power – A Glimpse Into the Hidden Force Within

About Schmidt (2002)

Once I am dead and everyone who knew me dies too, it will be as though I never existed. What difference has my life made to anyone.

“About Schmidt” tells the story of Warren Schmidt, a retired insurance salesman. Its skillful balance of humor and pathos results in a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

After a lifetime of routine and conformity, Schmidt finds himself facing the emptiness of his existence. The death of his wife and the impending marriage of his daughter trigger a midlife crisis, forcing him to confront his own mortality and the lack of meaningful impact he has had on the world.

Schmidt then embarks on a road trip to his daughter’s wedding, hoping to reconnect with her and find a sense of purpose. Along the way, he encounters various individuals who challenge his worldview and inspire him to reconsider his priorities. Through these interactions, he begins to appreciate the simple joys of life and the importance of human connection.

No matter what one’s age is, it is never too late to change and start treading the path of self-discovery!

Meaning of life films

Big Fish (2003)

A man tells his stories so many times that he becomes the stories. They live on after him, and in that way he becomes immortal.

The movie centers around Edward Bloom, a larger-than-life character whose tales often blur the lines between fact and fiction. Through his fantastical stories, viewers are introduced to themes of identity, legacy, and the power of imagination.

Edward’s tales, though often exaggerated, serve as metaphors for the challenges and triumphs of life. They represent his desire to live a life full of adventure and significance.

As his son, Will, grows older, he becomes increasingly skeptical of his father’s stories, questioning their veracity and the true nature of Edward’s character. However, as he gets to know more about his father’s past, he begins to appreciate the power of storytelling and the importance of embracing imagination and wonder.

After all, the key message from “Big Fish” is that it is the stories we tell about ourselves that ultimately shape our identity and legacy. Even at the cost of conformation to conventional expectations, we are all called to be authentic, embrace our visions, and share our journeys with others.

A Scanner Darkly (2006)

What does a scanner see? Into the head? Down into the heart? Does it see into me? Into us? Clearly or darkly? I hope it sees clearly because I can’t any longer see into myself.

While it may not be in the same vein as other meaning of life films, “A Scanner Darkly” certainly probes deep into the human condition and the fragility of our sense of self. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Bob Arctor, an undercover narcotics agent who becomes increasingly entangled in the drug culture he is investigating. As he descends deeper into addiction, his sense of reality begins to unravel.

The movie’s use of rotoscope animation results in a dreamlike, fragmented quality that mirrors the protagonist’s deteriorating mental state. Throughout the film, audiences are prompted to question the nature of identity, the blurred lines between self and other, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement. In the end, its bleak vision of a future where individuals are constantly monitored and manipulated serves as a cautionary tale about the erosion of individual autonomy.

While the film doesn’t offer easy answers or a definitive statement on the meaning of life, it does invite us to contemplate the fragility of the human mind and the importance of preserving individual identity in an increasingly interconnected world.

Peaceful Warrior (2006)

Life is choice. You can choose to be a victim or anything else you’d like to be.

Based on the true story of Dan Millman, a former college gymnast, the film serves as a metaphor for the transformative power of spiritual awakening and the importance of living a meaningful life. On his journey, Dan encounters a mysterious stranger named Socrates, who guides him on a path of enlightenment. Through a series of philosophical discussions and practical exercises, Socrates helps Dan question his assumptions, let go of his ego, and embrace the present moment.

Through themes of mindfulness, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence, “Peaceful Warrior” encourages viewers to strike a balance between physical and spiritual pursuits – and to cultivate a sense of inner peace. Its message is timeless: by aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with our true selves, we will unlock our full potential and experience greater abundance.

Meaning of life films

The Fountain (2006)

Death is a disease, it’s like any other. And there’s a cure. A cure – and I will find it.

A visually stunning and intellectually stimulating masterpiece, Darren Aronofsky’s “The Fountain” discusses themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of life and death. The film intertwines three distinct narratives, each representing a different stage in the protagonist’s journey: the past, the present, and the future.

• In the past, we follow a 16th-century conquistador searching for the Tree of Life, a mythical tree said to grant immortality.
• In the present, a scientist races against time to find a cure for his dying wife.
• In the future, a lone astronaut travels through space, searching for a planet that can sustain life.

While these narratives may seem disparate, they are interconnected by a central theme: the human desire to conquer death and achieve immortality. However, it is eventually revealed that true immortality lies not in physical existence, but in the enduring power of love and the legacy we leave behind.

The movie’s breathtaking visuals, coupled with its haunting score, create a mesmerizing and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. Throughout the story, viewers are encouraged to contemplate the mysteries of life and death – and to appreciate the beauty and fragility of existence.

Into the Wild (2007)

How important it is in life not necessarily to be strong… but to feel strong. To measure yourself at least once. To find yourself at least once in the most ancient of human conditions. Facing the blind deaf stone alone, with nothing to help you but your hands and your own head.

“Into the Wild” centers around Christopher McCandless, who – out of disillusionment with materialistic society – decides to abandon his possessions and set off on a solitary journey into the Alaskan wilderness. His quest for authenticity and significance leads him to confront the harsh realities of nature and the limitations of human endurance.

The film raises haunting questions about the nature of happiness, the meaning of freedom, and the balance between individualism and societal obligations. McCandless’s journey, while ultimately tragic, serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for both extraordinary courage and self-destructive impulses. As the credit rolls, we are prompted to wonder: Which paths are we taking? Are we just following the norms without even thinking about them? Are we exploring the possibilities that lie beyond our comfort zones? Are we truly living a life guided by passion and purpose?

Meaning of life films

Read more: 200 Self-reflection Questions – Toolkit for Life Pilgrims

The Bucket List (2007)

It is difficult to understand the sum of a person’s life. Some people will tell you it’s measured by the ones left behind. Some believe it can be measured in faith. Some say by love. Other folks say life has no meaning at all. I believe that you measure yourself by the people who measured themselves by you.

“The Bucket List” explores the meaning of life through the lens of two terminally ill men named Edward Cole and Carter Chambers – two vastly different individuals who share a hospital room and form an unlikely friendship. Faced with their impending mortality, they decide to seize the day and embark on a global adventure to fulfill their “bucket list” – things they want to do before they die. This journey takes them to exotic locations, from the Great Wall of China to the Pyramids of Giza, and allows them to experience a wide range of thrilling and poignant experiences.

Through their shared adventures, Edward and Carter learn valuable lessons about life, love, and the importance of human connection. They discover that true happiness comes not from material possessions or social status – but from meaningful relationships, personal growth, and a sense of purpose. As such, one should strive to live without regrets – by constantly embracing new experiences, cherishing loved ones, and making a positive impact on the world.

Movies to reflect on life

Read more: 21 Self-discovery Movies to Spark Your Inner Journey

Examined Life (2008)

A philosopher is a lover of wisdom. It takes tremendous discipline, it takes tremendous courage to think for yourself, to examine yourself.

“Examined Life” follows renowned thinkers like Cornel West, Judith Butler, and Slavoj Žižek as they journey through the streets of New York City and other locations. Rather than a traditional lecture-style format, the documentary presents philosophy as a dynamic and relevant force in daily life – one that covers a multitude of aspects, from ethics and politics to love and loss.

One of the film’s central themes is the power of questioning and critical thinking – accordingly, one should not be afraid of challenging conventional wisdom and thinking for themselves. Even in the face of authority, we should remind ourselves to never stop seeking truth and self-knowledge.

Meaning of life films

Departures (2008)

The right of encoffinment is to prepare the deceased for a peaceful departure.

“Departures” (おくりびと) tells the story of Daigo Kobayashi, a former cellist who, after losing his job, takes up an unexpected occupation: a nōkanshi (納棺師), or a traditional Japanese ritual mortician. Initially, Daigo is met with social stigma and prejudice due to the nature of his new job. However, as he becomes more immersed in his work, he begins to appreciate the impact he can have on the lives of the bereaved. Through his meticulous preparation of the deceased, Daigo helps families say a final goodbye and find closure.

The film explores the delicate balance between life and death, emphasizing the importance of honoring the departed. As he learns to confront mortality head-on, Daigo gains a deeper understanding of the fragility of life and the preciousness of every moment.

Mr. Nobody (2009)

I’m not afraid of dying. I’m afraid I haven’t been alive enough. It should be written on every school room blackboard: Life is a playground – or nothing.

A complex yet thought-provoking masterpiece, “Mr. Nobody” centers around Nemo Nobody, the last mortal man on Earth. As he ages and reflects on his journey, Nemo is confronted with a series of alternate realities, each representing a different choice he could have made.

Through the character’s experiences, audiences are left to ponder the impact of every decision they make – plus the endless possibilities of life. Ultimately, the meaning of life is not found in a single, definitive answer; rather, it comes from our efforts to actively embrace the uncertainty and beauty of every moment. Of every breath we take.

Movies that change your life

Life of Pi (2012)

“So your story does have a happy ending.”
“Well, that’s up to you. The story’s yours now.”

“Visually stunning yet philosophically rich” is how one may describe Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi“. With a strong emphasis on the power of faith, hope, and imagination, the movie recounts the extraordinary journey of a young boy named Pi Patel, who survives a shipwreck and finds himself adrift in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger. As Pi endures hardship and danger, he learns to draw strength from his faith and his ability to find beauty and meaning – even in the most dire circumstances.

The tiger, Richard Parker, serves as a powerful metaphor for the dark side of human nature – the primal instincts, fears, and desires that consume many of us. However, Pi’s ability to coexist with Richard Parker symbolizes the delicate balance between our rational and irrational selves.

In the end, it is suggested that the meaning we find in life is often a matter of perspective. The story of Pi’s survival can be interpreted as a literal account of a miraculous event, or as a symbolic representation of one’s spiritual journey.

Meaning of life films

Read more: 18 Best Spiritual Films – Awaken, Inspire, and Enlighten

The Tree of Life (2011)

There are two ways through life: the way of nature and the way of grace. You have to choose which one you’ll follow.

Through the story of a family in 1950s Texas with cosmic imagery, the film invites viewers to ponder the mysteries of creation, the passage of time, the beauty and fragility of life, the interconnectedness of all things, and the ultimate meaning of existence. Its signature use of slow-motion cinematography, combined with a haunting score, creates a meditative and contemplative experience that continues to linger even after the credits roll.

Despite being a challenging and divisive movie, “The Tree of Life” offers a unique and poetic perspective on the human experience. It encourages us to contemplate the vastness of the universe, the smallness of humanity’s existence, and the interplay of chaos and order – so that we may be motivated to embrace the beauty and mystery of every moment.

Soul (2020)

Life is full of possibilities. You just need to know where to look. Don’t miss out on the joys of life.

Sometimes, animated films are embedded with a very deep layer of philosophy. That’s the case with Pixar’s “Soul“, which revolves around Joe Gardner, a jazz musician who, on the brink of his big break, has a near-death experience that sends his soul to the afterlife.

In the afterlife, Joe encounters various souls in different stages of development, each with its own unique spark and purpose. Through his interactions with them, Joe begins to question his own purpose and the true meaning of life. He learns that it’s not just about achieving great things or fulfilling dreams – but instead about experiencing life’s simple joys and cultivating meaningful connections with others.

Meaning of life films

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

When I choose to see the good side of things, I’m not being naive. It is strategic and necessary. It’s how I’ve learned to survive through everything.

A mind-bending and emotionally resonant work, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” explores the vast possibilities of the multiverse and the nature of existence through the story of Evelyn Wang – a Chinese-American immigrant who is forced to confront a multiversal threat while grappling with her own family and personal struggles.

As Evelyn navigates through countless alternate realities, she encounters a wide range of bizarre and absurd scenarios, from hot dog fingers to raccoon tax accountants. Through these experiences, she learns to embrace her own unique qualities and to find meaning in the chaos of life.

The film delves into themes of family, love, and the power of human connection. It suggests that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, one may still retain hope and a sense of purpose by connecting with others and embracing their own individuality.

Final Thoughts

Whatever life may mean to you, it is only through constant self-reflection that one may find out the answer. I hope that the curated meaning of life films above should provide a solid starting point for those who wish to gain clarity into their own self and make sense of this world!

Bon voyage!

Other resources you might be interested in:

• 15 Books About the Meaning of Life
• 60 Quotes on the Meaning of Life: Timeless Wisdom for Life Pilgrims
• 12 Self-improvement Documentaries: Level Up Your Life
• 14 Self-improvement Animes: From Hero to Zero