17 Movies to watch when you are feeling lost

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Moonrise Kingdom, Good Will Hunting
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Moonrise Kingdom, Good Will Hunting

Yes, unfortunately life is not always fair. Sometimes everything falls in places and your life is on track. And sometimes there are factors that lead you to believe you are not exactly in the place you want to be. The feeling of being lost has always haunted human beings. A downfall in career or losing a loved one could trigger such a notion, and things could seem out of place. But, as always, we have stories that can make us feel whole again. There are movies that focus on that emotional quotient and can help us through a journey full of doubts. So, here is a list of 17 such movies in case you feel lost in life.

1. The Royal Tenenbaums

The Royal Tenenbaums | Image via Touchstone Pictures
The Royal Tenenbaums | Image via Touchstone Pictures

Directed by Wes Anderson in 2001, The Royal Tenenbaums follows the quirky, dysfunctional Tenenbaum family, once filled with child prodigies and now struggling with adulthood. Starring Gene Hackman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ben Stiller, and Luke Wilson, the film blends dry humour with heartfelt moments. It’s insightful because it shows how messy family dynamics can be, yet love lingers beneath the chaos. With Anderson’s signature style, it’s a whimsical, bittersweet ride about failure, redemption, and awkward family reunions.

2. The Station Agent

The Station Agent | Image via SenArt Films
The Station Agent | Image via SenArt Films

The Station Agent shows how unexpected friendships can change lonely lives. Finbar McBride (Peter Dinklage), a man who loves solitude, moves to an abandoned train depot to escape people. But life has other plans, as he crosses paths with an overly friendly hot dog vendor (Bobby Cannavale) and a quirky artist (Patricia Clarkson). Directed by Tom McCarthy in 2003, this charming indie film proves that even the quietest hearts crave connection, whether they admit it or not.

3. The Squid and the Whale

The Squid and the Whale | Image via Original Media
The Squid and the Whale | Image via Original Media

Starring Jeff Daniels, Laura Linney, Jesse Eisenberg, and Owen Kline, The Squid and the Whale dives into the messy aftermath of a bitter divorce in 1980s Brooklyn. The movie captures how kids often get caught in the emotional crossfire, navigating loyalty, identity, and awkward teen moments. Released in 2005 and directed by Noah Baumbach, the film blends sharp wit with raw emotions. It’s like watching a family therapy session, cringe-worthy, heartfelt, and oddly relatable all at once.

4. Liberal Arts

Liberal Arts | Image via Tom Sawyer Entertainment
Liberal Arts | Image via Tom Sawyer Entertainment

Directed by Josh Radnor in 2012, Liberal Arts follows Jesse (played by Radnor), a 35-year-old stuck in a post-college funk, who returns to his alma mater and meets Zibby (Elizabeth Olsen), a bright, free-spirited student. Their unexpected connection sparks self-reflection, nostalgia, and a dash of romantic tension. The movie is insightful because it shows how growth doesn’t stop after graduation; life lessons keep coming. With charm and wit, it’s a reminder that growing up is an ongoing adventure, not a deadline.

5. Inside Llewyn Davis

Inside Llewyn Davis | Image via StudioCanal
Inside Llewyn Davis | Image via StudioCanal

Starring Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, and Justin Timberlake, Inside Llewyn Davis follows struggling folk singer Llewyn Davis as he navigates the gritty 1960s New York music scene with nothing but his guitar, a stubborn streak, and, occasionally, a runaway cat. It’s insightful because it shows how chasing dreams isn’t always glamorous, sometimes it’s just about cold apartments, bad gigs, and existential crises. Released in 2013 and directed by the Coen Brothers, this film hits all the right notes of heartbreak, humour, and artistic struggle.

6. Paterson

Paterson | Image via K5 International
Paterson | Image via K5 International

Directed by Jim Jarmusch in 2016, Paterson stars Adam Driver as a quiet bus driver named Paterson who lives in Paterson, New Jersey. Yes, it’s all very meta. His days are simple: Driving his route, observing life, and writing poetry in his notebook. The insight? Beauty isn’t always in grand adventures. Sometimes it’s in routine, small details, and fleeting moments. With its calm, thoughtful vibe, the film reminds us that ordinary lives can be quietly extraordinary.

7. The Last Black Man in San Francisco

The Last Black Man in San Francisco | Image via Plan B Entertainment
The Last Black Man in San Francisco | Image via Plan B Entertainment

The Last Black Man in San Francisco is insightful because it explores the deep connection between identity and place, showing how a house can hold more than just memories, it can hold a person’s sense of self. Jimmie Fails (playing himself) dreams of reclaiming his childhood home, with his best friend Mont (Jonathan Majors) by his side. Directed by Joe Talbot in 2019, this visually stunning film is a heartfelt ode to friendship, belonging, and the bittersweet changes of a city.

8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower | Image via Mr. Mudd Productions
The Perks of Being a Wallflower | Image via Mr. Mudd Productions

Starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller, The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows Charlie, a shy high school freshman navigating the ups and downs of adolescence. He finds friendship, first love, and self-acceptance with a group of free-spirited seniors. Released in 2012 and directed by Stephen Chbosky (who also wrote the novel), the film is insightful because it beautifully captures the struggles of mental health, the importance of genuine connections, and the feeling that even wallflowers deserve to bloom.

9. A Beautiful Life

A Beautiful Life | Image via SF Studios
A Beautiful Life | Image via SF Studios

Directed by Mehdi Avaz in 2023, A Beautiful Life stars Christopher, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Christine Albeck Børge. The film follows Elliott, a humble fisherman with an extraordinary singing voice, who gets a shot at fame after a chance discovery. As he navigates the highs and lows of the music industry, the movie reminds us that true success isn’t just about hitting the right notes. It’s about staying true to yourself. It’s a heartfelt, feel-good story with a soulful twist.

10. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind | Image via Anonymous Content
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind | Image via Anonymous Content

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is insightful because it explores how memories, even the painful ones, shape who we are. Joel (Jim Carrey) is heartbroken after his breakup with Clementine (Kate Winslet) and decides to erase her from his memory. But as the memories fade, he realizes he doesn’t want to let go. Directed by Michel Gondry in 2004, this mind-bending, bittersweet film shows that love isn’t always perfect, but it’s worth remembering.

11. The Pursuit of Happyness

The Pursuit of Happyness | Image via Columbia Pictures
The Pursuit of Happyness | Image via Columbia Pictures

Starring Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith, The Pursuit of Happyness follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while trying to provide for his young son. Despite countless setbacks, he holds onto his dream of a better life. Released in 2006 and directed by Gabriele Muccino, the film is insightful because it shows that perseverance, hope, and love can carry you through even the toughest times. It’s a heartwarming reminder to never give up.

12. Lost in Translation

Lost in Translation | Image via American Zoetrope
Lost in Translation | Image via American Zoetrope

Directed by Sofia Coppola in 2003, Lost in Translation stars Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson as two lonely souls who form an unexpected bond while staying in a Tokyo hotel. Bob (Murray) is a washed-up actor, and Charlotte (Johansson) is a young woman struggling with life’s uncertainties. The movie is insightful because it shows how even fleeting connections can profoundly impact our lives, offering comfort in the most unexpected places. It’s a beautiful, quiet exploration of loneliness and companionship.

13. A Beautiful Mind

A Beautiful Mind | Image via Universal Pictures
A Beautiful Mind | Image via Universal Pictures

A Beautiful Mind is insightful because it shows how genius and mental illness can coexist in surprising ways. Directed by Ron Howard in 2001, the film stars Russell Crowe as John Nash, a brilliant mathematician who struggles with schizophrenia. As he battles his inner demons, he also fights for his career and family. The movie beautifully explores love, resilience, and the fine line between genius and madness, offering a moving portrayal of triumph against the odds.

14. Wild

Wild | Image via Pacific Standard
Wild | Image via Pacific Standard

Starring Reese Witherspoon, Wild tells the story of Cheryl Strayed, a woman who sets out on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail to heal from the pain of her mother’s death and a shattered life. Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée in 2014, the film is insightful because it shows how personal growth often comes through struggle, self-reflection, and the courage to face one’s past. Cheryl’s journey is a testament to resilience, reminding us the road to healing isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it.

15. Moonrise Kingdom

Moonrise Kingdom | Image via Indian Paintbrush
Moonrise Kingdom | Image via Indian Paintbrush

Moonrise Kingdom is an insightful tale of young love and the desire to escape the ordinary. Directed by Wes Anderson in 2012, the film stars Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward as Sam and Suzy, two quirky kids who run away together, setting off a search mission in their small island town. With its charming visuals and whimsical tone, it reminds us that sometimes the most important journeys are the ones we take to understand ourselves.

16. Good Will Hunting

Good Will Hunting | Image via Be Gentlemen
Good Will Hunting | Image via Be Gentlemen

Starring Matt Damon, Robin Williams, and Ben Affleck, Good Will Hunting follows Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with extraordinary mathematical talents, but a troubled past. After assaulting a police officer, Will avoids jail time by studying math and working with therapist Sean Maguire (Williams). Directed by Gus Van Sant in 1997, the film is insightful because it explores how facing past trauma can unlock your true potential, showing that even a genius needs help navigating life. It’s a powerful story of self-discovery and friendship.

17. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty | Image via Samuel Goldwyn Films
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty | Image via Samuel Goldwyn Films

Directed by Ben Stiller in 2013, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty stars Stiller as Walter, a quiet man who escapes his mundane life through vivid daydreams of adventure. When his job at LIFE magazine is threatened, he embarks on a real-life quest to find a missing photograph. The film is insightful because it shows how taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to real, extraordinary experiences. It’s a charming reminder that life is what you make of it.

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Edited by Vinayak Chakravorty
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