Insomnia and the Movies: Fighting Sleeplessness with the Right Film

Dealing with insomnia can be a constant struggle, but sometimes the perfect film can help alleviate your mind, allowing you to drift off peacefully. Here are five movies that can help you cope with insomnia and clear your thoughts. Some might find these films tedious or monotonous, but their soothing nature might be just the balm your restless mind needs.

The Hunt for Red October

Recommended for those who find conventional movies boring. The Hunt for Red October is a classic film that, despite its gripping action and compelling plot, can be surprisingly dull. This isn't a new revelation for me; I've watched this film multiple times, yet I still snore my way through parts of it. This quiet monotony seems to relax the mind, making it an ideal choice for those trying to fall asleep due to insomnia. Now imagine trying to explain why a movie starts playing over and over again in the middle of the night to your kids! I guess it doesn't get easier, it just gets more entertaining for them as they get older.

The Ruling Class

A British satire that can stretch your patience. For those who enjoy a good satirical film, The Ruling Class is a 5 hour marathon that never reaches its conclusion. My introduction to this movie was during a late-night TV session. I fell asleep momentarily, but upon waking up, the film was still playing. I repeated this cycle multiple times, unable to stop the movie despite my need to sleep. This is a testament to the film's ability to engage and captivate even as it teeters on the edge of lengthy boredom. It's certainly not for everyone, but if you're up for it, it can provide hours of thought-provoking entertainment!

The Tree of Life

For the philosophically inclined. If you find life's big questions daunting, The Tree of Life might be your kind of movie. This film delves deeply into the nature of existence, making it a good choice for those with a philosophical bent of mind. However, its complex narrative and conceptual depth might not be suitable for everyone. The movie's slow pace and often abstract nature may be best savored for its artistic value rather than its immediate entertainment value.

Bollywood Blockbusters

Insomnia-free with a dose of entertainment. If you're an Indian film enthusiast, Bollywood might not be your first choice for a bedtime movie. However, certain films can help you sleep soundly. Yuvraaj, a Salman Khan film, and Veer3 can be quite soporific, thanks to their rich, complex narratives and emotional depth. Similarly, Akshay Kumar's Tees Maar Khan and Joker can lull you to sleep with their vast arrays of emotions and drama. These films can be entertaining but are more suitable for the theater experience, where you can't fast-forward or skip scenes.

Lost in Translation

For a dreamy feeling movie. If you're looking for something different, try Lost in Translation. This 2003 film is a revelation in its own right. The somber, drifting narrative coupled with the cultural shock of Tokyo can create a surreal, semi-dream-like experience that can help soothe your insomnia. The entire movie feels like a journey through a nightmarish half-sleep, which might be just what your agitated mind needs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you find solace in the serene pace of The Hunt for Red October, the philosophical depth of The Tree of Life, or the soporific drudgery of certain Bollywood epics, the right film can be your ally in the war against insomnia. Just remember, not every movie is suitable for every occasion. The goal is to find those films that can gently lull your mind into a different realm, providing a moment of respite and clarity amidst the chaos within.