Starting university is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. While real-life university experiences might not match up to blockbuster movie scenes, watching these films with friends can help you get into the spirit of what’s to come.  

Check out our top picks for films that capture various aspects of the university experience: 

1. The Social Network (2010) (12A)  “The Birth of Facebook” 

Plot: The Social Network dives into the creation of Facebook and the drama that surrounded its rise. Follow Mark Zuckerberg and his friends as they navigate the challenges of starting a revolutionary social network while dealing with the pressures of university life at Harvard. This film is both an intense drama and an intriguing look at ambition, innovation, and the complexities of friendship. 

Why Watch: To get a glimpse of how big ideas can start in a university dorm room and the intense journey of turning those ideas into reality. 

2. Monsters University (2013) (G)  “Scaring Up Fun” 

Plot: This animated prequel to Monsters, Inc. shows how Mike and Sulley met at university and became best friends despite their initial differences. Monsters University is a fun and heartwarming story about discovering your true talents, making lifelong friends, and realizing that university is about more than just grades. 

Why Watch: For a lighthearted take on university life, full of laughs and valuable lessons about teamwork and embracing your unique strengths. 

3. Good Will Hunting (1997) (15)  “Unlocking Potential” 

Plot: Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT, has a genius-level intellect but struggles with personal issues. When he solves a complex math problem, he catches the attention of a professor who helps him realize his potential. This film is a powerful story about mentorship, self-discovery, and overcoming personal challenges to achieve greatness. 

Why Watch: For inspiration on finding mentors, realizing your potential, and understanding that intelligence comes in many forms. 

4. Dead Poets Society (1989) (PG)  “Seize the Day” 

Plot: Set at a conservative all-boys preparatory school, Dead Poets Society tells the story of an English teacher who inspires his students to pursue their passions and think for themselves through the power of poetry. The film highlights the impact of an inspiring teacher and the importance of following your own path. 

Why Watch: To be inspired to seize the day and embrace your passions, even when they go against the norm. 

5. Moxie (2021) (12A)  “Rebel with a Cause” 

Plot: Inspired by her mother's rebellious past and a confident new friend, a shy teenager publishes an anonymous zine calling out sexism at her school. This leads to a movement that shakes up the status quo. Moxie is a refreshing and empowering film about standing up for what you believe in and making your voice heard. 

Why Watch: For a modern take on activism and the power of student voices in creating change on campus. 

6. Love, Simon (2018) (12A)  “Finding Yourself” 

Plot: Simon Spier is a high school student who hasn’t told his friends or family that he’s gay. When an email falls into the wrong hands, his secret is at risk of being revealed. This heartfelt coming-of-age story is about finding love, friendship, and the courage to be true to yourself. 

Why Watch: To see the importance of authenticity and self-discovery, and the supportive friendships that often form at university. 

7. The Half of It (2020) (12A)  “Unexpected Connections” 

Plot: Ellie Chu, a shy, straight-A student, agrees to help a sweet but inarticulate jock write love letters to the girl they both secretly love. Along the way, they form an unlikely friendship. The Half of It is a touching film about identity, friendship, and the different forms love can take. 

Why Watch: For a heartfelt look at the complexities of relationships and the unexpected friendships that can develop during university. 

8. Lady Bird (2017) (15)  “Growing Pains” 

Plot: Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson is a high school senior with dreams of leaving her hometown and attending college in New York City. The film captures her turbulent relationship with her mother, her final year of high school, and her journey towards self-discovery. Lady Bird is a poignant and often humorous look at the transition from adolescence to adulthood. 

Why Watch: For a realistic portrayal of the emotional ups and downs of preparing for university and finding your own path. 

9. Pitch Perfect (2012) (12A) Finding your interests

Follow the journey of an inspiring music producer who accidentally joined an all-girl signing acapella group. Becca joins Barden University and joins her student radio, only find herself joining the Barden Bellas in a sing-off competition.

Why Watch: Pitch perfect is a little bit crude, very cringy but most of all shows you how important societies are for finding friends - Performing Arts Society anyone? 

10. Legally Blonde (2001) (12) Finding your feet

In an attempt to win back her ex-boyfriend, Elle Woods enrols herself to Harvard Law. She quickly finds the university lifestyle difficult and hard to adjust too, realising it’s harder than it seems.  

Why Watch: Elle does not give up and proves that when you study hard you can succeed. Yes, it’s tricky at first if you don’t feel like you fit in, but you’ll soon find your feet.

Thor: The Dark World (2013) (12A) Finding Greenwich

An extra special mention goes to this Marvel sequel filmed right here on our campus. Getting to come and study at the site of some of the coolest blockbuster fight scenes? We think that's pretty cool!