{shortcode-9b0adf618a150a4e7b96a33d29d4161a836cfb5d}

With reading period coming to an end, you may be burned out from studying or struggling to find the motivation to even start. Perhaps you need a movie to serve as a brain break, or just as another procrastination tactic. Whatever the case, choosing the right film can reset your mood and may offer the right form of inspiration to carry you through finals period. Here are five films that just might do the trick.

“Good Will Hunting” Dir. Gus Van Sant (1997)

This is an obvious choice to watch as the year winds down. Starring Matt Damon ’92, Ben Affleck, and Robin Williams, the story follows Will Hunting (Damon), a young, recently paroled janitor from South Boston whose mathematical genius garners attention from an MIT professor (Stellan Skarsgård). As he’s pulled into the world of academia, therapy, and personal growth, the film becomes a moving meditation on potential, mentorship, and self-worth — all things that are definitely needed as a reminder during finals. Those struggling with a Math 21a final may be uplifted by the natural mathematical skill that Will exhibits, believing that they too can answer the seemingly unsolvable problems that may be on their exam. The film is an excellent way to romanticize life at Harvard, and it inspires a Harvard viewer to be grateful for their opportunities here, even when the going gets rough.

“With Honors” Dir. Alek Keshishian (1994)

“With Honors” is also one of the rare movies filmed at Harvard — a lesser-known gem comparable to “Good Will Hunting” in its powerful and insightful nature. It centers on a senior honors student (Brendan Fraser) whose thesis falls into the hands of a homeless man (Joe Pesci), who frequently camps out in the basement of Widener Library — a relatable situation for those who frequent Lamont basement this week. The two begin an unlikely friendship as they explore what it means to be truly educated and the importance of being surrounded by friends and family. For the seniors who have come to the end of their harrowing thesis journey, it might serve as a reminder of their hard work. For underclassmen bogged down by work and struggling with the vices of ChatGPT, “With Honors” may guide them away from evil and towards the rewarding light of honest academic achievement.

“Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” Dir. Ken Kwapis (2005)

With summer so close but so far, you might need something to look forward to while drowning in finals. Starring Blake Lively, America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel, this feel-good film evokes nostalgia for summers past — ones when you weren’t anxious about a soul-sucking internship. Based on a book series of the same name by Ann Brashares, the story follows four best friends who stay connected through a shared pair of jeans as they are thrown into different adventures. Its lighthearted and warm nature will have you dreaming of a time where you will finally be on the beach, basking in the sun, free of any worry — if that time ever does come. Whether you plan on being home, abroad, or in New York for the summer, the film will inspire you to venture out of your comfort zone and try something new — and keep your friends updated while you’re at it.

“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” Dir. Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones (1975)

This is an out-of-left field pick, but just had to be included. Unless you study history or medieval studies, this film will most likely not be applicable to your finals. It won’t necessarily inspire you to study or get you excited about the summer. Sometimes, you just need to laugh. This film will certainly achieve this goal. An absurd and endlessly quotable British comedy, “Monty Python” is a perfect way to turn your brain off of practice tests and essays and onto the truly important things in life: King Arthur questing for the Holy Grail while galloping (though not on horseback) through the English countryside. It's random, ridiculous, and mind-numbing — exactly what is needed during finals week.

“A Beautiful Mind” Dir. Ron Howard (2001)

Ever heard of the Nash equilibrium? Economics majors, I’m looking at you. A Beautiful Mind” is a biopic about the man who discovered the Nash Equilibrium: mathematician John Nash (Russell Crowe). Don’t worry, the movie is not that theory-intensive. Instead, it focuses on both Nash’s personal and academic challenges in the lead-up and aftermath of his academic success. It’s a powerful story of brilliance, struggle, and resilience that shows the humanity behind intellectual pursuit. While a sad story overall, its message can be strangely motivating as you work through your own struggles.

—Staff writer Julia J. Downey can be reached at [email protected].