Movies about mental illness are a fantastic way to explore and discuss what happens inside the mind. They keep audiences engaged, educate them, and raise awareness about these issues. Whether through a drama like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, a comedy like Little Miss Sunshine, or even a thriller like Shutter Island, films have the power to show mental health in a way that can be both enlightening and entertaining. So, grab some popcorn, turn on your favorite streaming service, and settle in because we will discuss some of the best movies of this genre.
The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds (1972)
This independent drama film stars Joanne Woodward as Beatrice, a single mother struggling to raise her two daughters, one of which is Ruth, an intelligent but withdrawn adolescent struggling with emotional issues. The film explores Ruth’s relationship with her mother and her mental health issues.
The title of this film might sound odd, but it comes from a science experiment that Ruth is doing in school, which involves exposing marigold seeds to radiation. The film uses this as a metaphor to show the effects of emotional trauma on a person’s mental health.
