Films With Impossible Moral Dilemmas

Lists
Written By Habiba Abdou

A good sign of solid characters in film is when they are forced to make difficult decisions, forcing the audience to be invested in what choices they’ll make. This will either bug an audience if they feel like they would’ve done something completely different, or put them at ease if they feel like they’ve made the right choice. In some films, however, characters can be faced with impossible decisions that will have drastic consequences no matter how they go about it. In cases like this, we’ll often leave the cinema wracking our minds, trying to figure out what would have been the right choice, if it was made, and if there even was one. 

Prisoners (2013)

After his daughter is kidnapped, Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) decides to try and find her himself since the police are taking their time. The moral dilemma comes in when the police stop investigating a suspect, who Keller Dover feels certain is guilty.  After kidnapping the suspect, Keller is forced to decide whether he should torture a man who likely knows where his daughter is, or if he should refrain and let him go since there is a chance he’s innocent. If Keller where to let him go, he’d be faced with the risk of letting a little girl die, and if he were to torture him he’d faced with the risk of severly harming someone innocent. Keller ends up torturing him, but unfortunately for his conscience the suspect turns out to be innocent. The moral dilemma shows how it’s ineffective to inflict harm for the greater good, since the future is unpredictable despite our best guesses.

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The Killing Of A Sacred Deer (2017)

The Killing Of A Sacred Deer is an adaptation of the Greek myth of Iphigenia In Aulisa.  In the myth, King Agamemmon kills a deer, an animal sacred to the goddess Artemis, forcing him to sacrifice his daughter in order to make things right. In The film, a doctor’s children start to become incredibly ill, and the son of a patient that died under the doctor’s operation warns him that he must kill one member of his family, or else they’ll all die. Director Yorgos Lanthimos gave the myth a medical twist and delivered a thrilling moral dilemma. The film uses deadpan, direct dialogue which is perfectly executed by Colin Farell and Nicole Kidman to give the bleak situation undertones of humour. The elements of humour are present even in the most disturbing parts, like when the two dying children compete against each other to win over their fathers love, who's trying to decide which one to kill.

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Toy Story 2 (1999)

The world’s most beloved children's films often have something thatt will keep parents entertained, whether it be sly adult humour or challenging themes. In the case of Toy Story 2, It’s a moral dilemma. Woody is forced to choose between being meticulously maintained all his life and living forever, or to live his normal life with the people he loves. It’s a tale as old as time - having to choose between immortality or a short but full life. Toy Story 2 tackling this as a theme at the end makes it a little more than just another kids film.

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The Mist (2007)

Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, The Mist is about a father and his son who get trapped in a supermarket after a mist filled with monsters takes over the town. At the end, they get hold of a car and attempt to escape the town with some other survivors, but the car breaks down and the monsters start approaching. This is where the film throws a truly disturbing moral dilemma at us - one that wasn’t even in the King of Horror’s book. The boy's father is faced with the decision to shoot his sleeping son and everyone else in the car, including himself, or to watch them be eaten by bloodthirsty monsters. Everyone else in the car agrees that suicide is the best option, and he ends up shooting all of them. The film decided to be especially cruel to its characters, as right before the father shoots himself, the mist vanishes and the military show up. 

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Watchmen (2009)

Watchmen gives a similar Utilitarian moral dilemma to Prisoners. Ozymandias, the film's antagonist, kills three million people to prevent nuclear war. A new take on the villain archetype is given as we’re left uncertain about whether his actions were villainous or not. After one of the superheroes tells him “killed millions”, Ozymandias responds with “to save billions”. The film's most memorable dialogue exchange really pushes this uncertainty forward. While Prisoners seems to be more critical of the “greater good” approach to these scenarios, Watchmen leaves more ambiguity.

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Sophie’s Choice (1982)

The film’s title already teases a moral dilemma, but it doesn’t give away how truly devastating and heartbreaking it is. Sophie is forced to choose which two of her children should be sent to a concentration camp, and which two to let live. The scene really punches you in the gut, making you imagine the horror of a mother having to make such a decision. 

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Looper (2012)

In the world of the film, criminals get sent back in time when they hadn’t committed a crime yet to get executed. This in itself rasies many ethical questions, but the true dilemma occurs when one of the executioners go back in time for his job, and he sees his older self getting executed. He’s left stuck with having to choose if he should end his life to prevent the crime.

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A Clockwork Orange (1971)

A Clockwork Orange, directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on the novel by Anthony Burgess, is a film that presents the audience with a challenging moral dilemma. The story revolves around a young man named Alex, played by Malcolm McDowell, who is a delinquent and the leader of a violent gang.

Throughout the film, Alex and his gang commit heinous crimes, including assault, robbery, and rape. The government, in an attempt to "cure" Alex of his violent tendencies, subjects him to an experimental procedure called the Ludovico Technique. This treatment forcefully conditions Alex to become physically ill when he encounters violence, essentially disabling his ability to perform violent acts.

The moral dilemma in A Clockwork Orange arises when we, as viewers, are forced to question the morality of the Ludovico Technique. While the technique is successful in pacifying Alex, it also raises concerns about free will and human dignity. The audience is compelled to ask themselves if it is ethical to subject someone to such a procedure, even if it may ultimately benefit society by reducing violent crime.

Moreover, the film examines how societal forces and a lack of social support contribute to the creation of individuals like Alex. His parents, teachers, and law enforcement all fail to provide the proper guidance, which may have contributed to his deviant behavior. The film raises questions about the responsibility of society in nurturing and rehabilitating individuals who have gone astray.

In A Clockwork Orange, Kubrick expertly utilizes various cinematic elements, such as the unsettling use of classical music during violent scenes and the vibrant, contrasting visuals, to heighten the tension and emphasize the moral complexities presented.

By presenting the audience with this impossible moral dilemma, A Clockwork Orange remains a powerful and thought-provoking film that continues to evoke discussions about the nature of good, evil, and personal responsibility.

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The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The Shawshank Redemption is a critically acclaimed film that follows the story of a man, Andy Dufresne, who is wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and her lover. Throughout his incarceration at Shawshank State Penitentiary, Andy faces several impossible moral dilemmas that challenge the viewer's sense of right and wrong.

One of the key moral dilemmas that Andy faces is deciding whether to help the corrupt prison warden, Samuel Norton, with his illegal activities. Andy, a brilliant banker, provides financial advice and engages in money laundering for Norton to gain certain privileges within the prison. This raises the question of whether these actions are justifiable for someone who is innocent and seeking freedom.

Andy's friendship with fellow inmate and narrator of the story, Ellis "Red" Redding, also presents a moral dilemma. Red is guilty of his crimes and has accepted his punishment within the prison system. However, Andy is instrumental in helping Red find redemption and ultimately freedom, despite his involvement in illicit activities. Some may argue that aiding a guilty individual towards freedom is morally wrong, while others may see it as a necessary part of Red's journey towards redemption.

The film also raises the question of vigilante justice, as Andy discovers evidence that could prove his innocence and secure his release. He is faced with the decision to submit this evidence to the proper authorities or take matters into his own hands. This complicates the viewer's understanding of justice and challenges them to decide whether legal mechanisms should always be trusted in the pursuit of truth.

The moral dilemmas presented in The Shawshank Redemption serve to engage the audience and heighten the emotional impact of Andy's journey. By exploring these complex issues, the film allows viewers to consider their own values and beliefs in the face of adversity.

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Oldboy (2003)

Oldboy is a South Korean film directed by Park Chan-wook, released in 2003. The film is known for its compelling narrative and various moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist. The story revolves around Oh Dae-su, who is imprisoned in a hotel room for 15 years without knowing the identity of his captor or the reason for his confinement. Once released, he faces a series of twisted challenges to find the person responsible for his imprisonment and seek revenge.

The film makes use of several moral dilemmas, such as questions of vengeance and forgiveness, trust, and the thin line between good and evil. As Oh Dae-su tries to unravel the truth behind his confinement, he is confronted with choices that force him to question his morals and ethics. The audience is taken on a journey of suspense and morally challenging decisions, ultimately revealing the antagonist's calculated manipulations that drove these impossible choices.

One such moral dilemma occurs when Oh Dae-su meets Mi-do, a young woman who becomes his romantic partner. As their relationship develops, the audience learns that Dae-su's captor might have manipulated circumstances involving Mi-do, demonstrating the captor's control over the protagonist's life. This scenario further complicates Dae-su's decisions, as he must consider not only his well-being but also the safety of Mi-do.

The film skillfully explores themes of confinement and revenge, using these complex moral dilemmas to bring forth thought-provoking, intense situations. Oldboy's gut-wrenching turns and heart-pounding moments keep the audience questioning the characters' morality and testing their assumptions about right and wrong.

Throughout Oldboy, the protagonists and antagonists each reveal different facets of their characters, engaging the viewer in an emotional and intellectual struggle. The film truly exemplifies the power of storytelling in portraying human emotions, frailty, and resilience. Oldboy's lasting impact is evident in its cult status among international audiences and its ability to provoke discussion and introspection on morality and the complexity of human nature.

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Gone Girl (2014)

Gone Girl (2014) is a psychological thriller directed by David Fincher, based on the novel by Gillian Flynn. The film presents the viewers with a moral dilemma revolving around the themes of deception, betrayal, and manipulation.

The story follows the life of Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck) and his wife Amy (Rosamund Pike). When Amy goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick becomes the prime suspect in her disappearance. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that Amy has staged her own abduction and meticulously framed her husband.

This concocted scenario forces viewers to question their own moral compass. On one hand, Amy's actions are driven by her dissatisfaction with her husband and a desire for revenge. But on the other hand, Nick's infidelity and dishonesty contribute to her motivation for this elaborate plan.

Throughout the movie, audience members are faced with several conflicting perspectives. They must grapple with the ethics of Amy's manipulative actions, weighing them against Nick's shortcomings as a husband. The film masterfully explores the gray area between right and wrong, leaving viewers to ponder the boundaries of acceptable behavior within a relationship.

The juxtaposition of Amy's calculated and remorseless actions with Nick's more relatable character flaws creates an unsettling atmosphere. This dynamic presents a unique moral challenge to the audience as they are compelled to examine their own biases and question where the line between justice and retribution should be drawn. The complex moral landscape in Gone Girl brings forth an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.

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Taxi Driver (1976)

Taxi Driver is a 1976 American film directed by Martin Scorsese, written by Paul Schrader, and starring Robert De Niro. The movie centers around Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran who becomes a taxi driver in New York City.

Travis is depicted as a lonely, depressed individual who struggles with insomnia. As he spends more time on the streets, he witnesses the crime and immorality within the city, which fuels his growing disillusionment and anger. The film presents several moral dilemmas, which are closely tied to Travis' psychological state and his increasingly violent tendencies.

One key moral dilemma arises when Travis becomes infatuated with Betsy, a campaign volunteer for a presidential candidate. Despite Travis' genuine feelings for Betsy, his social awkwardness and inability to relate to her ultimately cause their relationship to falter. This failure further exacerbates his sense of isolation.

Another significant dilemma is presented with the character of Iris, a 12-year-old runaway turned prostitute. Travis becomes fixated on the idea of "saving" her from her involvement in this dangerous and exploitative lifestyle. Although his intentions are somewhat noble, his disconnection from reality and his willingness to resort to extreme violence in his pursuit of her liberation make his actions ethically questionable.

The climactic scene of Taxi Driver raises a final moral dilemma, as Travis sets out on a rampage, targeting the criminals and corrupt politicians who he believes are responsible for the city's degradation. While his actions might be seen as an attempt to bring about justice and purge the city of its ills, his methods are undeniably brutal, and he effectively becomes a vigilante.

Taxi Driver masterfully portrays the complexity of human morality and poses difficult questions about the consequences of vigilantism, the limits of personal responsibility, and the role of mental illness in shaping our actions.

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Thank You for Smoking (2005)

"Thank You for Smoking" is a satirical comedy-drama film that presents an interesting moral dilemma for its viewers. The protagonist, Nick Naylor, played by Aaron Eckhart, is a skilled lobbyist and spokesperson for the tobacco industry. He is faced with the challenge of defending and promoting cigarette smoking, an obviously harmful substance. The movie cleverly portrays the ethical tug-of-war that the characters undergo, and this central moral conflict has captivated its viewers since the film's release in 2005.

The film raises essential questions about the ethics of promoting and defending harmful products. While Naylor has a responsibility to his employers and his own career, he is simultaneously contributing to a public health crisis. Although the character is charismatic and likable, the audience grapples with the moral gray area he represents – what lengths should someone go to achieve their goals?

Naylor's relationship with his teenage son adds another layer of complexity to the moral dilemma. Throughout the film, he tries to navigate being a good father while promoting an industry that ultimately leads to death and disease. This dynamic provides a unique insight into the struggles faced by those who are morally conflicted due to their profession.

"Thank You for Smoking" boldly takes on the issue of moral responsibility and professional ethics, challenging its audience to wrestle with their own values and beliefs. The film leaves viewers with no definitive answer, but rather an opportunity to question their own ethical boundaries.

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The Godfather (1972)

The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, portrays an impossible moral dilemma at its core. The story revolves around the Corleone family, led by patriarch Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando). The film delves into the complexities of family loyalty, power, and violence, ultimately showing that even the most honorable intentions can become corrupted.

One of the main characters, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), initially stays away from his family's criminal enterprise. However, he is eventually drawn into the family business to protect his father and maintain the safety of his loved ones. Michael's decisions highlight the central moral dilemma that is the driving force behind the film.

As Michael becomes more involved in organized crime, he faces a series of tough choices around balancing family loyalty with personal morals. This is evident in the infamous scene where Michael is forced to kill Sollozzo and McCluskey to avenge his father's attempted murder. The tension between morality and duty grows as Michael takes on a leadership role within the family and must decide which actions are necessary to protect his family legacy.

Throughout The Godfather, the characters frequently rationalize their actions by claiming to prioritize their loved ones and family reputation. However, these decisions often lead to cycles of violence, retaliation, and further moral compromises. The film does an exceptional job of presenting these impossible moral dilemmas by providing a nuanced portrayal of the characters' motivations, emotions, and justifications.

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Forrest Gump (1994)

Forrest Gump, a 1994 film directed by Robert Zemeckis, presents several moral dilemmas throughout its storyline. The protagonist, Forrest Gump (played by Tom Hanks), is a kind-hearted, intellectually challenged man from Alabama. His upbringing and experiences are often marked by difficult choices, forcing him to question right and wrong.

One of the central dilemmas in the movie is Forrest's relationship with his childhood friend, Jenny Curran (played by Robin Wright). They share a deep bond, but their differing paths in life force them to make difficult choices regarding their relationship. While Forrest's love for Jenny remains unwavering, she navigates through life's hardships, leaving Forrest heartbroken on multiple occasions.

Another dilemma revolves around Forrest's service in the Vietnam War. During a violent combat scene, he finds himself with the choice to save his platoon members or prioritize his own safety. Despite the risks, Forrest heroically risks his life to rescue several of his comrades, raising questions about the morality of putting oneself in danger for the sake of others.

Lastly, the film explores the idea of success and happiness in life. Forrest, despite his intellectual limitations, leads an extraordinary life and achieves remarkable success in various fields such as sports, military service, and entrepreneurship. His journey serves as a moral question about what truly constitutes happiness and success, as Forrest remains humble and grounded while striving to bring about a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

In conclusion, Forrest Gump is a thought-provoking film that highlights numerous moral dilemmas and explores themes related to the complexities of human relationships, selflessness, and the pursuit of happiness.

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Gone Baby Gone (2007)

In the film Gone Baby Gone, directed by Ben Affleck, the story revolves around a private investigator named Patrick Kenzie who gets reluctantly involved in the case of a missing child, Amanda. The disappearance of Amanda puts Patrick on a collision course with impossible moral dilemmas, forcing him to question his deepest convictions.

As the investigation unfolds, Patrick and his partner, Angie, come across several morally questionable characters, including Captain Jack Doyle, and a possible crooked cop named Remy Bressant. The moral quandaries become increasingly complex, as they are asked to make a choice: should they abide by the law or bend it to protect the vulnerable?

One of the major dilemmas faced in the movie is the conflict between the safety of the child and loyalty to the law. When Patrick discovers that Amanda has been covertly living with Captain Doyle, he is faced with an emotionally charged decision: should he return her to her neglectful mother, Helene, or allow Doyle to provide her with a safe and nurturing environment?

The film doesn't make it easy for the audience to side with either decision, as both seem equally justifiable and unpalatable. The morally complicated characters demonstrate the many shades of human nature, further amping up the tension in the narrative.

Gone Baby Gone succeeds in presenting a riveting crime thriller while exploring the overarching theme of moral ambiguity. The film shows that, even in extreme scenarios, there may not always be a clear-cut right or wrong answer, and sometimes, the choices that individuals make can have far-reaching consequences.

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A Beautiful Mind (2001)

A Beautiful Mind is a biographical drama film released in 2001, based on the life of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician who battles with schizophrenia. The main character faces an impossible moral dilemma, revolving around his relationships, career, and mental health.

In the film, John Nash, played by Russell Crowe, discovers a groundbreaking mathematical theory that catapults him to success. However, as his career progresses, it becomes apparent that his mind is plagued with delusional episodes. Due to the nature of his work, it becomes increasingly difficult for him, along with his wife Alicia (Jennifer Connelly), to distinguish between reality and hallucinations.

As Nash's mental health deteriorates, the dilemma he faces becomes more pronounced. He is torn between seeking help and admitting his vulnerabilities or continuing his work and risking further damage to his relationships and mental health. This decision is made even more complicated by the stigma surrounding schizophrenia at the time.

A pivotal moment in the film showcases this moral dilemma. Nash is confronted with the reality that his top-secret government work, led by a mysterious colleague, is a figment of his imagination. He must then decide whether to continue living a lie in the realm of his hallucinations or to accept the truth and face the consequences.

In A Beautiful Mind, the impossible moral dilemma is presented in a manner that invites the audience to empathize with the protagonist and consider how they would react in a similar situation. The film explores the complexities of the human mind, relationships, and the impact of mental health on an individual's decision-making process.

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Schindler’s List (1993)

Schindler's List is a harrowing film that presents its viewers with an impossible moral dilemma. Set during the Holocaust, the movie tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of over 1,100 Jews during World War II by employing them in his factories.

The moral dilemma at the heart of Schindler's List is the question of what one individual can truly do to save lives in the face of institutionalized evil. Schindler, at first a member of the Nazi party, is not a hero from the beginning. He starts the war looking to profit from the suffering of others. As time goes on, however, he becomes committed to rescuing as many individuals as possible from extermination.

Schindler's List brings viewers face-to-face with the horror of the Holocaust, but it also offers them a chance to ponder the impact that one person's choices can have on the lives of others. Schindler's actions show that even in the darkest moments of history, there is hope and the possibility to make a difference. The film emphasizes that it is both the responsibility and within the power of individuals to stand up against evil and injustice. The impossible moral dilemma that viewers face is in determining how far they would personally go to protect others at extreme personal risk.

The movie, directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1993, won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. It remains a significant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and serves to provoke deep moral and ethical questions for its viewers.

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No Country for Old Men (2007)

No Country for Old Men, directed by the Coen Brothers and released in 2007, is a film that delves deep into the realm of impossible moral dilemmas. Based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy, the story revolves around the pursuit of stolen drug money in the desolate Texas landscape.

The protagonist, Llewelyn Moss (played by Josh Brolin), discovers a crime scene involving a drug deal gone wrong and decides to take the money, unwittingly setting off a chain of events that tests the morals of each character. Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) becomes involved in the investigation and struggles with the violent world he encounters, while the enigmatic and ruthless hitman Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) pursues Moss and the money.

Throughout the film, each character is confronted with moral decisions that are not easily categorized as right or wrong. For example, Moss's decision to take the money initially appears to be purely selfish, but as the story unfolds, his attempts to protect his family and outsmart Chigurh reveal that he is not a simple criminal.

Similarly, the character of Chigurh, while cold and merciless, operates on a strict code of ethics. He often decides the fate of his victims with a coin toss, highlighting the randomness and unfairness of life. This practice further complicates the moral landscape of the film, as Chigurh's actions are both horrifying and strangely principled.

Sheriff Bell, despite being the law enforcement figure, is often powerless to stop the violence occurring around him. His inability to protect innocent bystanders forces him to reflect upon the changing world and question the value of his role in it. He is faced with the difficult decision of whether to continue pursuing justice in an increasingly brutal environment.

_Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of No Country for Old Men is its lack of a clear moral hierarchy. The characters constantly grapple with difficult choices, and their actions often have unintended consequences. The movie confronts the audience with the harsh reality of life's uncertainties and the blurred lines between good and evil.

In summary, No Country for Old Men masterfully explores the concept of impossible moral dilemmas through its complex, morally ambiguous characters and thought-provoking narrative. The film is an outstanding example of cinema that challenges and captivates the viewer, leaving a lasting impact on those who experience the story.

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The Dark Knight (2008)

In Christopher Nolan's 2008 film, The Dark Knight, it portrays a complex and layered narrative that centers around impossible moral dilemmas. The film follows Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) reprises his role as Batman, trying to fight against the chaos created by the Joker (Heath Ledger). The story dives deep into the human psyche, revealing how the characters are forced to choose between morally conflicting decisions.

One of the key scenes that showcases an impossible moral dilemma occurs when the Joker rigs two ferries with explosives – one carrying ordinary citizens and the other carrying convicted criminals. The passengers on each ship are given a choice: either they can detonate the other boat to ensure their survival or choose not to, which would result in both ships being destroyed by the Joker after a certain time. This dilemma presents a harrowing choice for the characters onboard, as they are forced to confront their morals and judge the perceived value of lives.

The Dark Knight also touches upon the concept of utilitarianism through Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), the city's district attorney and a symbol of hope for Gotham. When faced with horrifying events, such as the loss of his love and half of his face, Dent's rigid belief in justice comes into conflict with his newfound desire for revenge. His transformation into the villainous Two-Face demonstrates the murky moral waters that characters must navigate in situations involving conflicting loyalties, love, and justice.

In conclusion, the impossible moral dilemmas presented in The Dark Knight serve to challenge the audience's perception of right and wrong and prompt them to question their own beliefs. The film's exploration of these dilemmas adds depth and complexity to the traditional superhero story and serves to enrich the narrative as a whole.

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Paths of Glory (1957)

Paths of Glory, directed by Stanley Kubrick, is an iconic film that revolves around the harsh realities of war and emanates the theme of impossible moral dilemmas. The film is set during World War I and tells a story about a French Colonel who refuses to carry out a suicidal attack. Consequently, military leaders select three soldiers to face trial and execution for cowardice as an example to the rest of the troops.

In the first paragraph, the movie's core plot is centered around the refused order and the proceedings that follow it. The protagonist, Colonel Dax, is placed in the intricate moral quandary of whether to adhere to the military chain of command or to defy the order and potentially save his men's lives. This scenario forces the viewer to reflect on the blurred lines between duty and ethics.

The second paragraph highlights the clash between the higher-ups' desire to maintain authority and a commanding officer's responsibility to his soldiers. The film illustrates institutional power's ability to dictate the fate of individuals through the twisting of the law. The military tribunal portrayed in Paths of Glory lays bare the outrageous disregard for the soldiers' lives and the manipulation of the judicial process, provoking further thought about the morality within the bureaucratic hierarchy.

In the final paragraph, Paths of Glory exposes the audience to the emotional turmoil and agonizing decisions faced by individuals in wartime situations. Kubrick masterfully conveys the juxtaposition between bravery and fear, life, and death, ultimately leaving the viewers with the realization that war is a breeding ground for complex moral dilemmas. By presenting these challenging ethical questions, Paths of Glory elevates itself from a mere war film to a timeless examination of humanity's moral fiber.

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is a remarkable film that showcases an impossible moral dilemma. This 1975 film, directed by Milos Forman, is based on Ken Kesey's novel of the same name. The story revolves around Randle McMurphy, a criminal who feigns insanity to serve his sentence in a mental institution rather than prison. Upon his arrival, he faces the oppressive and authoritarian Nurse Ratched, who attempts to control the patients completely.

The moral dilemma in this film centers on the clashing of two different approaches to mental health treatment. On one hand, Nurse Ratched represents the traditional medical system with strict rules and regulations, while McMurphy introduces an unconventional, rather rebellious perspective that values humanity and compassion. The question arises: which approach is morally right, and is it possible to maintain a balance between the two?

One of a series of seemingly unethical movies, we see the consequences of both perspectives. Nurse Ratched's methods lead to the dehumanization of patients and contribute to an unhealthy environment that stifles recovery. However, McMurphy's actions prioritize the patients' well-being and happiness over their overall mental health. This often results in short-term relief but could become problematic in the long run.

Viewers are left to grapple with the dilemma, as there seems to be no definitive solution. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest illustrates the complexity of mental health treatment and raises important questions about the ethics of authority figures and their impact on vulnerable individuals. The film urges the audience to consider the appropriate balance between control and freedom, as well as the responsibilities tied to the care of people with mental illnesses.

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Batman Forever (1995)

Batman Forever, directed by Joel Schumacher, is an action-adventure film that explores the never-ending battle of good versus evil. The film presents the Caped Crusader, Batman (portrayed by Val Kilmer), and his partner Robin (portrayed by Chris O'Donnell) facing off against two notorious villains, The Riddler (played by Jim Carrey) and Two-Face (played by Tommy Lee Jones).

A notable moral dilemma arises when Batman must decide whether to save his partner, Robin, or his love interest, Dr. Chase Meridian (played by Nicole Kidman). The heroes are put to the test as they must make challenging decisions under immense pressure.

In Batman Forever, Batman faces a crucial choice when The Riddler and Two-Face kidnap Dr. Chase Meridian and Robin. The villains force Batman to select between the two, emphasizing the complexity of the choice even further by placing them in life-threatening situations.

Batman's internal struggle to make this decision is evident, as he values both the companionship and loyalty he shares with Robin and the love and happiness that he has found with Dr. Meridian. The circumstances push Batman's moral code to its limits, emphasizing the difficulties heroes must face when making crucial life or death choices.

Furthermore, this complex moral dilemma also highlights Batman's responsibility to the city of Gotham and its citizens. As a vigilante hero, Batman must put the greater good above personal feelings and desires. The question of whether he can set aside his personal emotions for the betterment of the city adds to the narrative's complexity and intensifies the moral dilemma.

Thus, Batman Forever stands as a film that effectively presents its characters with nearly impossible moral dilemmas, forcing them to confront their values, beliefs, and relationships during harrowing challenges.

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Conclusion

In the realm of cinema, films with impossible moral dilemmas have consistently gripped audiences and sparked thought-provoking discussions. By presenting protagonists with near-impossible choices, these movies explore the complexity of human emotions, ethics, and the nature of making difficult decisions.

Engaging in these stories challenges viewers to consider how they might act under similar circumstances while also providing an opportunity for introspection. The audience gets a chance to examine their own beliefs and values.

Films with impossible moral dilemmas will likely continue to captivate audiences in the future, as they provide a unique perspective on the human condition and provoke stimulating dialogue. These movies not only entertain but serve as a testament to the power of art in exploring the depths of the human psyche.

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Habiba Abdou
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