Having a break but want to maintain your focus, or just looking for some inspiration while you procrastinate? Check out these six films to keep you motivated even while you relax.
1. Gravity (2013)
In one of the greatest CGI films every made, Sandra Bullock and George Clooney are stranded in space after their shuttle is destroyed by a high speed cloud of debris. The protagonists must find an alternative method of transport and make it back to Earth before their oxygen supplies run out. Faced with a series of highly unfortunate events and almost certain failure, they perservere. If you take away one lesson from Gravity it's that sheer tenacity will get you through any situation, even when it seems futile. Apply this to your revision - don't give up, your commitement and hard work willl pay off in the exam hall.
2. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Feel like you have unsurmountable task ahead of you? This French-language film will soon put things into perspective. Based on Jean-Dominique Bauby's memoir of the same name, we follow the former editor of the French fashion magazine ELLE as he wakes up from a coma following a massive stroke. Diagnosed with locked in syndrome, Jean-Do is mentally coherent but physically paralysed. With only the ability to blink his left eyelid, he manages to dictate his life story to a transcriber, blinking when she reaches the right letter as she repeatedly recites a frequency-ordered alphabet. A true testament to his patience and strength of spirit.
3. Star Wars (1977)
Although Return of the Jedi is my personal favourite in the series, the original Star Wars film is perfect inspiration for anyone who needs to meet demanding expectations. Yoda is the ultimate taskmaster and pushes Luke Skywalker to his limits as he trains to become a Jedi Knight. The old adage is true - what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Take the three tenets of Jediism - focus, knowledge and wisdom - and apply them to your university work. Focus on the tasks you need to complete, learn the knowledge required to achieve a top grade and build the wisdom to excel at university and beyond.
4. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
In this Oscar-winning film, Hillary Swank plays a waitress determined to become a professional boxer. She refuses to let her age, gender or the constant rejection from the sporting industry stand in the way of fulfilling her dream. Through blood, sweat and tears - literally - she makes it to the top and proves everyone she has what it takes. If you come up against a wall, knock through it. Sometimes the biggest blocker can be our own internal monologue. Strive to prove yourself wrong and achieve your academic goals.
5. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
I don’t condone most of the behaviour in this film but Jordan Belfort’s ambition to succeed is admirable. He is the master of recovery, from building a successful (if illegal) business after losing his job in the 1987 stock market crash to turning notoriety into a lucrative public speaking career after a stint in prison and a ban from working in finance. Things don't always go to plan - don't be crushed by failure. Learn from it and come back stronger. If you received a poor grade for a piece of coursework, seek out feedback from your tutor and use their comments to improve future essays.
6. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
Like you, Harry Potter is a student wading his way through the the trials and tribulations of academia. Unlike you he's a wizard. Yet he's still a relatable - being the chosen one doesn't come easily to Harry. He struggles to keep on top of school work while building the (magical) skills he needs to defeat Voldemort. Similarly, you have to manage a balancing act between working towards your degree and creating the foundations for your future career. One of the key takeaways from the film, and the book, is support from friends is invaluable. Your nearest and dearest will help you through the toughest of times.
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