A psychiatrist has highlighted five films he believes people should watch to boost their emotional intelligence.
Dr. Alejandro Martínez Rico took to Instagram to share how certain films could be beneficial for mental health. They can be easy relate to and a great outlet to process our own emotions.
In an online post, he explained: “Some stories help us to recognise patterns we experience every day, while others inspire us to seek help, to change, to grow. In every film that deals with mental health there is an essential message: what we feel matters. Even when it hurts, even when it seems confusing or chaotic.”
He also encouraged viewers to engage deeply with such films, adding: “So the next time you watch a film that talks about emotions, about fears, about someone’s inner struggle, allow yourself to feel, to connect, to reflect. The real journey begins after the end credits: the moment when what you saw becomes something you learn about yourself.” So here are the movies he recommends adding to your watch list…
1. A Man Called Otto
Among the films recommended was A Man Called Otto, featuring Tom Hanks. The 2022 movie portrays a cantankerous, solitary man contemplating ending it all after his wife’s death.
The expert said the film conveys a poignant lesson: “That you should never judge anyone because you have no idea what kind of baggage they carry.”
2. A House On Fire
Additionally, he suggested watching the Spanish film A House on Fire, highlighting a particular game within the movie that he claims will “shock you and will give you a lot to think about”.
3. Under Therapy
He also recommended people to tune into Under Therapy, praising the film for its portrayal of three couples in group therapy, highlighting that it “talks about relationships and gives a lot of very useful advice”. He said: “At the end it deals with a sad reality that we should all learn to recognise.”
4. The Father
Turning his attention to The Father, he encouraged viewers to watch the Oscar-winning performance by Anthony Hopkins. He described the movie saying: “Can you imagine waking up one day and not recognising yourself in the mirror? This is what this wonderful film, winner of two Oscars, is all about. It deals in first person with how it feels to be someone who is starting to lose their memories.”
5. Inside Out 2
Lastly, he spoke about one of his personal favourites, Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’, which was released last year. He particularly suggested this film for those experiencing anxiety. He said: “It’s as if they had chosen the best psychologists in the world to write the script for this film.”