People in power have always had a knack for exploiting those below them. Intoxicated by their handle of authority, these people clutch onto questionable schemes to keep their wealth and power in place. We sometimes see them portrayed in movies as villains—those who can heartlessly steal from and kill people while still brandishing a sinister smile. Against them are the symbols of revolution that have the interest of the people at heart. To give you a glimpse of the freedom that comes with toppling down unjust governments, here are some movies about revolutions. You never know, you might need them in the future.

V for Vendetta (2005)

“People shouldn’t be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people.” This quote has been cited again and again by people on social media when the need for revolt seems to arise. V, a masked freedom fighter employs the help of a woman named Evey who later realizes as well that they need to fight for their country through any way possible. With scenes that portray a strong sense of freedom and democracy, “V for Vendetta” is a must-see in understanding the trials of fighting for justice in an oppressive society.

Watch this on Netflix.

Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

This adaptation of the French gothic novel by Victor Hugo is a timeless story about the struggle between the elite and the masses, with Quasimodo, a minority shunned by society for his appearance, in the middle of it all. The subtle messages of overthrowing the oppressive Archdeacon of Notre Dame tied with the story of embracing differences is a mark of encouragement for generations to embrace these principles.

Buy or rent the movie on YouTube Movies.

Hunger Games Trilogy

Who would have thought that a series of young adult novels centered on a strong female lead caught in a love triangle is actually an accurate representation of capitalist and authoritarian regimes? After Katniss Everdeen is used as a pawn for the government’s entertainment, the trilogy ends with an armed uprising from the people. When her city is burned around her, she screams “Fire is catching. If we burn, you burn with us.”

Watch the trilogy on Netflix.

Selma (2014)

History remembers the brave few who fought for silenced voices in times of societal strife. “Selma” is the story of Martin Luther King Jr., the African-American activist and leader of the Civil Rights Movement combating racial inequality through non-violent resistance in 1950s America. The biopic, which recounts the voting rights marches of 1965 led by a group including Luther King Jr., reminds an audience 50 years later of the power that belongs to the people who have fought for the rights that should be respected to this day.

Buy or rent the movie on Amazon.

Harriet (2019)

Based on a true story, “Harriet” is the story of heroic abolitionist Harriet Tubman who led slaves to liberation by passing through the Underground Railroad. Through acts of perseverance and sacrifice, Harriet traverses 100 miles on foot to free the state of Philadelphia from slavery. The movie reminds us that freedom can be attained by those who deserve it, while still reminding us of the injustices that brought about these acts of revolt.

Buy or rent the movie on Amazon.

Header photo courtesy of Akshay Chauhan on Unsplash