Movies have always been a part of my life. Growing up in the Philippines, I didn’t have much, but I found an escape and a way to learn through American films. Since I was 16, I made it a point to watch two movies every week in the theater. It was more than just entertainment — it was how I learned English and understood a new culture. I quickly developed a passion for analyzing the stories, characters, and life lessons hidden in each film. Over the years, I’ve ranked over 1,200 movies on IMDB, watching and deconstructing them for meaning. Movies have always been my teacher.
This is why, when I became an educator and counselor, I found that the lessons from movies still resonate deeply (I did this too when I was a Youth Pastor in California for 2 years). They’ve taught me about courage, leadership, and transformation, lessons that are not only relevant to personal growth but to the challenges military personnel face during career transitions. Here are 10 films that have shaped my understanding of fear, growth, and reinvention — and how these lessons can be applied in career transition, education, and counseling.
1. The Sixth Sense (1999) – Seeing What Others Can’t
Remember when Cole (Haley Joel Osment) tells Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis), “I see dead people”? At first, it’s a horrifying confession. But as the movie unfolds, it becomes clear that Cole’s ability to see what others can’t is a powerful skill.
For educators and counselors, this is a metaphor for recognizing the hidden strengths in others — qualities like leadership, discipline, and empathy that may feel buried beneath the surface. For veterans transitioning to civilian life, these “ghosts” from their military past don’t need to haunt them. In fact, they are the very strengths that can help them thrive in a new career.
2. A Quiet Place (2018) – Adapt or Disappear
In a world where silence means survival, the Abbot family must navigate their environment without making a sound. Every noise could cost them everything. It’s a harsh world, but it’s one that teaches adaptability and awareness.
For those transitioning from military life, this resonates deeply. The military world is loud and filled with commands, but the civilian world demands a different kind of awareness — listening, observing, and understanding the subtleties around us. This is the power of emotional intelligence. It’s no longer about commanding others; it’s about adapting to new situations and connecting in ways we’ve never had to before.
3. Pan's Labyrinth (2006) – Imagination as Armor
Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) escapes into a fantasy world to protect herself from the brutal realities of fascist Spain. In her journey through a labyrinth, she faces monsters and trials, but it’s her imagination that gives her strength.
In many ways, this mirrors the transition process. Imagination can be our armor in times of hardship. For veterans, using creativity and envisioning a better version of themselves can be a powerful tool in overcoming the challenges of reinvention. As educators and counselors, we can help our clients and students see beyond their current circumstances, imagining a brighter future — even when it feels out of reach.
4. The Truman Show (1998) – Escaping the Script
Jim Carrey’s Truman Burbank begins to realize his entire life has been scripted. He has lived in a controlled world, and the moment he chooses to break free, he sails into the unknown, finally saying, “In case I don’t see ya, good afternoon, good evening, and good night.”
This scene is the epitome of what many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. For years, their lives have been scripted — dictated by the military system. The challenge is to write their own story, to step out of the familiar and into the unknown, and redefine themselves. The question is: Who are you beyond your military career? How will you create your next chapter?
5. The Others (2001) – Accepting Change
Nicole Kidman’s character in The Others fights to protect her children from what she believes are invisible spirits, only to discover she is the ghost. This plot twist is as chilling as it is symbolic.
For transitioning service members, this is a wake-up call: Sometimes the version of yourself you’re holding onto has already moved on. The world you’re trying to protect has changed. And that’s okay. Change is hard, but it’s also necessary for growth. As educators and counselors, we must help veterans understand that letting go of the past is key to embracing their future.
6. Interstellar (2014) – Time, Distance, and Duty
Matthew McConaughey’s Cooper launches into space to save humanity, leaving his daughter behind. As he watches decades of her life unfold in mere moments, we feel the toll of duty and the sacrifice it demands.
For veterans, this resonates deeply. Service requires sacrifice — and in the transition process, there is a cost. But legacy matters more than location. The bonds forged during service are timeless. We, as counselors, must help veterans understand that their purpose may change, but their legacy will continue to shape the world they leave behind.
7. The Shape of Water (2017) – Empathy Over Conformity
In The Shape of Water, mute cleaner Elisa (Sally Hawkins) falls in love with an amphibian creature, defying societal norms. Her compassion transcends fear and prejudice, demonstrating that empathy is often more powerful than conformity.
For counselors, educators, and military members, empathy is the bridge that connects people across boundaries. When helping others transition, it’s not about conformity or forcing change — it’s about understanding and accepting the unique experiences each person brings with them.
8. Edge of Tomorrow (2014) – Fail, Reset, Repeat
Tom Cruise’s Major Cage is forced to relive the same battle over and over until he learns the lessons necessary to survive. This repetitive cycle isn’t a curse; it’s a process of learning from failure.
Transition is rarely smooth. Veterans face rejection, awkward interviews, and moments of failure. But failure isn’t fatal — it’s feedback. Every setback is an opportunity to reset and learn. As educators and counselors, we must encourage transitioning service members to embrace failure as part of the journey, not the end of it.
9. Arrival (2016) – The Language of Understanding
Amy Adams’ linguist Louise Banks decodes alien symbols to prevent global war. Through her work, she teaches us that communication begins with curiosity.
In the transition process, understanding the language of the civilian world is critical. For veterans, this often means learning to communicate their military skills in a way that resonates with civilian employers. As counselors, it’s our job to facilitate this language shift, helping veterans articulate their value in a new context.
10. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013) – Adventure Starts Inside
Ben Stiller’s Walter Mitty steps out of his daydreams and into real-life adventures — a powerful metaphor for the leap many veterans face in transition.
For those leaving the military, the unknown can be scarier than combat. But just like Walter, the adventure begins when we step outside our comfort zones. In this journey, the first step is the hardest, but it’s also the most rewarding. As educators and counselors, we guide others through that leap — showing them that the life they dream of can start today.
Conclusion: Fear is Not the Enemy, It’s the Guide
Fear is a natural part of transition. But it doesn’t have to control you. Just like the characters in these films, military members, educators, and counselors alike can face their fears head-on, learn from them, and use them as fuel for reinvention.
As you move forward in your career or life, remember this: Fear is information. Embrace it, learn from it, and let it guide you toward your next great adventure.
For more insights, movie reviews, and life lessons, visit my blog at www.tonyastro.com.