The depths of the human mind, the nuances of relationships, and the complex mechanisms of trauma and healing—these are recurring themes in films and series that often explore psychological topics in impressive ways. In this article, we present a selection of films and series that not only entertain but also provide deep insights into the human psyche. Dive into these moving stories and learn more about the various aspects of psychology.
Films
Joker (2019)
This film tells the story of Arthur Fleck, a mentally ill man living as a failed clown and stand-up comedian in Gotham City. Isolated by society and driven deeper into despair and madness, he gradually transforms into the infamous Joker, a symbolic anarchist and criminal. The film explores the origins of this iconic villain and addresses themes of societal neglect, isolation, and the deterioration of mental health.
By the way: This October (2024), the sequel of the film will be released, with Joaquin Phoenix returning in the lead role and Lady Gaga starring as Harley Quinn.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
The rebellious criminal Randle P. McMurphy (played by Jack Nicholson) fakes insanity to avoid prison time and is committed to a mental institution. There, he clashes with the tyrannical Nurse Ratched, who suppresses and controls the patients. McMurphy inspires the other inmates to rebel against the oppression, shaking up the order of the institution and leading to a tragic conclusion. This film explores themes of power abuse, individual freedom, and the treatment of the mentally ill at the time.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
The Holdovers (2023)
Set in the 1970s, this story follows Paul Hunham, a strict and unpopular teacher at a boarding school, who must look after a few students who can’t go home for the Christmas holidays. One of these students is the rebellious and lonely Angus, with whom Paul initially has little in common. However, over the holidays, the two develop an unexpected friendship that changes their outlook on life. Themes of loneliness, friendship, and the search for belonging form the backbone of this story.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Magenta TV
Black Swan (2010)
Ambitious ballerina Nina Sayers (played by Natalie Portman) lands the lead role in Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.” As she tries to perfectly portray both the innocent white swan and the seductive black swan, she begins to lose her grip on reality. Nina’s obsession with perfection and her fear of being replaced lead to delusions, paranoia, and dark impulses that push her to the brink of madness. The film explores the destructive effects of perfectionism and identity loss.
Streaming options: Disney+, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
This Oscar-winning film tells the true story of brilliant mathematician John Nash, who suffers from schizophrenia. It follows Nash’s life from his early successes at Princeton University through his struggle with the disease, which increasingly pulls him into a world of delusions and paranoia. Despite his severe mental illness, Nash manages to overcome it with the support of his wife, Alicia, and his own determination, eventually winning the Nobel Prize in Economics. The film centers on themes of genius, madness, and the power of love.
Streaming options: Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube Premium, Apple TV
Series
The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
This mini-series tells the story of young orphan Beth Harmon (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), who emerges as a chess prodigy in the 1950s and 60s. As she conquers the male-dominated world of professional chess, Beth battles her own inner demons, including addiction and childhood trauma. The series explores her rise to international chess mastery, her personal challenges, and the inner conflicts that accompany her pursuit of perfection and success.
Streaming: Netflix
Mr. Robot (2015-2019)
This series follows Elliot Alderson (played by Rami Malek), a highly skilled but socially isolated hacker who suffers from severe anxiety and depression. By day, he works as a cybersecurity expert, but by night, he is recruited by the anarchist underground group “fsociety” to fight against the world’s most powerful corporations. As Elliot delves deeper into the dark world of hacktivism, he begins to question his own perception and reality. The series tackles themes of identity, paranoia, and the struggle against personal and societal demons.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube
BoJack Horseman (2014-2020)
This animated dramedy series follows the life of BoJack Horseman, a washed-up former sitcom star. Once celebrated, BoJack now struggles with alcoholism, depression, and the emptiness of his existence in Hollywood. As he tries to revive his career and build meaningful relationships, he is repeatedly pulled back by his self-destructive tendencies. The series satirically and deeply explores themes like fame, addiction, mental health, and the search for meaning in life.
Streaming: Netflix
Severance (2022–present)
This dystopian thriller series revolves around the employees of the mysterious company Lumon Industries, who have undergone a special procedure: their memories of work and personal life are completely separated. The main character, Mark Scout, begins to question the dark secrets behind this experiment as strange events unfold and he finds himself increasingly trapped between the two divided worlds. The series explores themes of identity, the definition of work in the modern world, and the ethical limits of technology.
Streaming: Apple TV
The Crown (2016 to present)
This historical drama series chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II and the events during her reign. The series begins with her early ascension to the throne in the 1940s and highlights the political and personal challenges she faces throughout her rule. “The Crown” explores the tensions between personal life and public duty, the complex relationships within the royal family, and the interactions with significant political figures of the time. The series provides deep insights into the British royal family and the effects of power and responsibility.
Streaming: Netflix
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