In the world of movies, fewer statements ring truer than the iconic journalistic quote, “The Pen is Mightier than the Sword”. Movies themselves are proof of this quote, although some of them embody and reflect it in their plots. Whether as a subplot or the basis of the entire story, there is something satisfying about seeing the power of words bring people together or inspire change. Here are some of the best movies that perfectly illustrate the power of words:
The Great Debaters
The Great Debaters follows the struggles of Wiley College’s debate team in 1935 Texas. Under the leadership of coach Melvin B. Tolson, the debate team sets out to challenge the status quo and earn a place as one of the best in the country.
The movie tackles racism, segregation and discrimination, at a time when these constructs were prominent in the American South. Despite a moderate showing at the Box Office, critics and fans alike can’t help but admire the will and spirit of the students and their debating prowess.
Inkheart
Inkheart follows Moltimer ‘Mo’ Folchart, who discovers he can bring book characters to life by reading aloud. Ten years after inadvertently setting the evil Capricorn free and losing his wife, Mo is drawn back to finish what he started.
The movie takes a literal approach with the words taking hold in reality, making the idea of reading a scary thought. While it may not have lit up the box office, Inkheart has stunning visuals, a solid plot and most importantly, embodies just how powerful words can be.
Freedom Writers
Freedom Writers follows Erin Gruwell, who is hired as a new English teacher for at-risk students at Woodrow Wilson High School. She must find a way to deal with students who don’t respect or like her, which she achieves by having them keep diaries.
Set against the backdrop of LA gang violence in the aftermath of a riot, the movie deals with complex issues like gun violence in schools. By writing journals, the students can creatively express themselves and feel like their voices matter.
Dead Poets Society
The movie follows John Keaton as he takes a job at his former high school, Welton Academy and seeks to inspire his students through poetry. Through his unorthodox methods, he inadvertently inspires the resurrection of his old club, The Dead Poets Society, starting a chain of events that reverberates throughout the school.
A commercial success, Dead Poets Society explores powerful themes such as repression, challenging the status quo, and self-harm. The famous desk scene, iconic words “O Captain! My Captain!”, serve as a reminder that it’s never wrong to stand up for what you believe in.
V For Vendetta
V for Vendetta follows the titular “V” as he seeks to right a long-forgotten wrong and bring those responsible to justice. Through a stroke of fate, he is united with a young girl, Evey Hammond, and together, they seek to challenge a fascist government.
The movie is most famous for the iconic intro monologue, but this is a mere taste of the role words play in the plot. One quote that perfectly displays how powerful words are is the famous line, “Ideas are Bulletproof”. While a man can be killed, it’s almost impossible to eradicate an idea once it has taken root in the masses.
