Communities are the backbone of society, providing a sense of belonging, identity, and support. This curated list of films delves into various aspects of community life, from the idyllic to the challenging, showcasing how individuals navigate their roles within these microcosms. Whether it's a small town, a cultural enclave, or a makeshift family, these movies highlight the importance of community in shaping personal and collective experiences. Each film offers a unique lens through which we can understand the complexities of human interaction, making this collection valuable for anyone interested in sociology, anthropology, or simply the beauty of human connection.
The Gods Must Be Crazy (1980)
Description: This comedy follows a San tribesman from the Kalahari Desert who encounters modern civilization, highlighting the clash and eventual harmony between different communities.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in South Africa and internationally, becoming one of the highest-grossing foreign films in the U.S. at the time.
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The Big Chill (1983)
Description: A group of college friends reunite after the funeral of a mutual friend, reflecting on their past, their community, and how they've changed over time.
Fact: The film's soundtrack became iconic, featuring hits from the '60s and '70s, reflecting the era's music that bonded the characters.
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The Straight Story (1999)
Description: A heartwarming tale of an elderly man's journey across Iowa on a lawnmower to reconcile with his estranged brother, showcasing the rural American community's warmth and support.
Fact: The film was inspired by a true story, and David Lynch, known for his surreal films, directed this grounded, emotional narrative.
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The Station Agent (2003)
Description: A man inherits a train station in rural New Jersey and finds an unlikely community among the town's quirky inhabitants, exploring themes of solitude versus companionship.
Fact: The film was shot on a very low budget, which added to its authentic, small-town feel.
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The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: While not explicitly about a community, this film explores how one man's journey affects and is affected by the community around him, highlighting the interconnectedness of lives.
Fact: The film's ending was shot in Iceland, showcasing the natural beauty that often serves as a backdrop for community life.
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The Village (2004)
Description: This film explores an isolated 19th-century community living in fear of the creatures that inhabit the surrounding woods. It delves into themes of control, fear, and the lengths to which a community will go to protect its members.
Fact: M. Night Shyamalan wrote the screenplay in just two weeks. The film was shot in chronological order to help the actors maintain the emotional arc of their characters.
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The Giver (2014)
Description: Set in a seemingly utopian world, this film examines a community where emotions and memories are suppressed to maintain order. It's a poignant look at the cost of conformity and the value of individuality within a community.
Fact: The film was adapted from Lois Lowry's 1993 novel, which has been a staple in school curriculums for its exploration of societal issues.
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The Descendants (2011)
Description: This film focuses on a Hawaiian family dealing with grief and the complexities of land ownership, reflecting on the community's history and its impact on personal lives.
Fact: Alexander Payne, the director, chose to shoot on location in Hawaii to capture the authentic feel of the community.
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The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
Description: A group of British retirees move to a hotel in India, forming an unexpected community that learns to adapt, grow, and find new purpose in life.
Fact: The film was shot in Jaipur, India, and the hotel featured in the movie is a real place called the Ravla Khempur.
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The Help (2011)
Description: Set in the 1960s, this film portrays the lives of African-American maids in Jackson, Mississippi, and their relationships with the white families they work for, exploring themes of race, class, and community.
Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's novel, which was inspired by her own childhood experiences with her family's maid.
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