Philosophical Films (must watch!)

[GuzzyBone]

I thought it important to share this little piece of genius with the folks of this community:

Jim Henson's "The Cube" (1969)

Here's the hiqh quality watch and/or download link: https://archive.org/details/TheCube-JimHenson-1969

In my opinion this is one of the greatest pieces of film of all time. It is a symbolic and allegorical representation/exploration on the nature of reality. Most people remember Jim Henson for his Muppet puppetry and his work on Sesame Street, but they forget that this is the same genius who made the original Star Wars trilogy so memorable (though we give George Lucas all the credit). Few people have seen his lesser known works, which I think are much better than what he became known for. The film itself involves no puppet

I made this thread mostly to share this great piece of art, but also to raise discussion on our interpretation of the various scenes of the film. I hope you enjoy the experience

Also of note is: My Dinner with Andre (1981)

This one is not public domain so you will have to obtain it for yourself, but here is the wikipedia link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Dinner_with_Andre

This is a film that revolves around a dinner conversation between old friends who have not seen each other for many years. Discussion topics include the nature of reality through experience, societal structures, and much more.

This is the film that truly woke me up to the terrifying reality that Cities are essentially a "voluntary" State-sponsored Concentration Camp, and that interment and extermination camps have taken on a whole new form.

Finally, my top favorite of the bunch is Synecdoche, New York (2008)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synecdoche,_New_York

This is a Charlie Kaufman film. The same guy who brought us so many great films with philosophical undertones like "Being John Malkovich", "Human Nature", and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind".

Synecdoche, New York is a must see. I can't talk too much about it though without spoiling the movie. The subject matter that being explored is Microcosms.

TIP: Don't let the wikipedia synopsis spoil these excellent films. Watch them first!

[Donnadogsoth]

Thanks for the links and recommendations, GB.  Here is one worthwhile on the list, coming from a theistic perspective.  It is one of the few films that appear to be about more than relationships and action, but about ideas...

 

The Ninth Configuration

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lywJkgCd00w

[Sean V]

Synecdoche, New York (2008) is one of my favorite films. A real masterpiece. I'd like to hear some other peoples thoughts on this movies. I saw The Cube a long time ago and don't remember much from it and My Dinner with Andre is in my netflix queue, looks good. 

[notjam]

I'd recomend anything by Samuel Becket

first turned on to him in my early 20's. he reinvigorated my past love of phylosophy

[August Boulder]

I'm very much interested in film, but am not familiar with any of these films. Now I'm very eager to watch them, as I could not come up with any really philosophical film from my favorites. Save V for Vendetta – which yes, is a rather commercial film, but it expresses great ideas and I love watching it every once in a while.

 

I would also recommend Cronenberg's recent film "A Dangerous Method" – it talks about Freud and Jung's relationship and their differing views on psychoanalysis. It's a pretty good film, well worth watching.