25 Movies That Showcase the Work of a Therapist
Movie list: These movies show the work of a psychologist or psychotherapist, including their techniques, behavior models, examples of successful and unsuccessful psychological interventions, and the analysis of their problems, mistakes, findings, and successes.
- The Man Who Loved Women (1983): Directed by Blake Edwards, this American film offers a nuanced portrayal of love and relationships through the lens of a man's infatuations and connections with various women.
- The Great Hypnotist / Cui mian da shi (2014): Directed by Leste Chen, this Chinese film follows a renowned hypnotist who takes on a challenging case involving a troubled patient, leading to unexpected psychological revelations.
- Don Juan DeMarco (1995): Director Jeremy Leven brings to life the story of a young man convinced he's the legendary lover Don Juan. This American film explores his encounters with a psychiatrist who attempts to understand and treat his unique delusion.
- The Tree of Life (2010): Directed by Terrence Malick, this visually stunning American film weaves together the story of a family in the 1950s with grand cosmic themes, exploring the complexities of existence, nature, and spirituality.
- The Devil and Miss D / Der grosse Bagarozy (1999): Bernd Eichinger directs this German film, a tale interwoven with elements of mystery and intrigue, centered around captivating characters and unexpected twists.
- The Art of Negative Thinking / Kunsten å tenke negativt (2006): Bard Breien's Norwegian film takes a refreshingly unconventional approach to the power of negative thinking, exploring its impact on a group of characters navigating life's challenges.
- House of Cards (1993): Michael Lessac directs this American-Italian production that unfolds a gripping narrative within the framework of a mysterious and intriguing plot.
- Ordinary People (1980): Robert Redford directs this American film, delving into the aftermath of a family tragedy and the emotional struggles faced by each family member as they cope with grief and guilt.
- Without a Clue / Sans queue ni tête (2010): Jeanne Labrune's French film presents an intriguing story interwoven with elements of mystery, offering unexpected plot twists and engaging characters.
- Fairly Legal (2011): This TV series, directed by Anton Cropper, revolves around legal themes, depicting the challenges faced by a mediator navigating complex cases and personal dilemmas.
- The Sunset Limited (2010): Directed by Tommy Lee Jones, this American film is a gripping conversation between two men of differing philosophies, exploring life's existential questions and contrasting perspectives.
- Princess Marie / Princesse Marie (2004): Benoit Jacquot directs this Austrian film, offering a compelling portrayal of historical events and the life of Princess Marie amidst royal intricacies.
- Scorpio Men on Prozac (2010): Rand Marsh directs this American film, exploring psychological themes through the lens of unique characters navigating life's challenges and complexities.
- Awakenings (1990): Directed by Penny Marshall, this American film portrays the touching story of a doctor's experimentation with a new drug to awaken catatonic patients, leading to unexpected and poignant outcomes.
- One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975): Milos Forman's American film is set in a mental institution, exploring the clash between individualism and authority through the eyes of the rebellious Randle McMurphy.
- Shrink (2005): Jonas Pate directs this American film, offering an insightful journey into the life of a psychiatrist struggling with personal demons while trying to heal his patients.
- Ruby Sparks (2012): Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, this American film delves into the creative process and relationships, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
- Family Life (1971): Ken Loach's UK film portrays the challenges within a family dynamic, addressing societal issues and personal struggles faced by its members.
- Sybil (2007): Directed by Joseph Sargent, this American film delves into the life of a woman with multiple personalities, exploring the complexities of her psyche.
- The Call (2013): Brad Anderson directs this American film centered around a 911 dispatcher, showcasing intense moments and high-stakes situations in emergency services.
- Good Will Hunting (1997): Directed by Gus Van Sant, this American film follows a young janitor with extraordinary mathematical abilities and his journey of self-discovery through therapy.
- Equus (1977): Directed by Sidney Lumet, this American-British film delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of a psychiatrist treating a troubled teenager fascinated by horses.
- Insight (2009): Renata Gritskova directs this Belarusian film, offering an intimate portrayal of human emotions and personal transformations through the lens of a compelling story.
- Lilith (1964): Directed by Robert Rossen, this American film ventures into psychological depths, exploring the complexities of relationships, obsession, and mental health.
- Face to Face / Ansikte mot ansikte (1976): Ingmar Bergman's Swedish-Italian film delves deep into the human psyche through intense personal confrontations, portraying raw emotions and vulnerabilities.