25 Favorite Movies to Go on Your Watchlist Today

When it comes to movies, there is just so (too?) much choice.

First, you select the movie genre: comedy, adventure, documentary, film noir, silent film, etc. Then you narrow it down to the many great movies making up the category, only to find yourself not knowing what to prioritize. Someone else’s pick? The critics’ choice? Netflix’s suggestion? Or, God forbid, a blogger’s recommendation?

Well, this blogger says, “Go for what your soul wants.” At any given time.

There should be something for everyone’s soul on the list below.

What Are My Favorite Movies to Go on Your Watchlist?

My list of favorite films might not coincide with the greatest movies in cinema history, but I either found them enlightening or I simply had fun watching them.

When you watch them, or if you decide to re-watch them, I hope they do the same for you.

1. “Mirage” (“Durante la Tormenta,” 2019)

Vera, a woman who saves a boy’s life under supernatural circumstances finds herself childless, due to a glitch in the space-time continuum. Of all things.

Choices become increasingly difficult as Vera fights to get her daughter back while ensuring that justice is done in a decades-old murder case. And that she doesn’t lose the love of her life in the process.

Parallel realities, moral complexities, its “There’s magic in letting go” message, and an ending that I thought would break my heart but actually turned out to be everything I was hoping for make this film cinematic perfection.

Please ignore the poor translation and add to the number of people who have watched this Netflix movie. It really needs to be higher.

The American movie “Frequency” has a similar theme, but is a less accomplished story.

2. “The Sixth Sense” (1999)

You undoubtedly know about the famous plot twist thanks to which the writer-director M. Night (a meaningful middle name if there ever was one) Shyamalan got the nickname “the next Spielberg.”

But it’s not only the fall-off-your-seat last-minute surprise that makes this a great movie.

It’s the emotion “The Sixth Sense” is imbued with, despite scenes where the characters don’t express their emotions effectively. We basically spend two-thirds of the movie listening to people talking but not really communicating and witnessing deep sadness without knowing why.

That’s because intellectual intelligence doesn’t really help viewers figure out what’s going on. We need our own sixth sense to do so.

Well done, Mr. Shyamalan. For the record, I don’t think you ever needed to be the next Spielberg. What’s wrong with being yourself?

3. “Leap Year” (2010)

Not every opportunity should be leaped at.

When efficiency-focused Anna from Boston goes to Ireland to propose to her long-term boyfriend on February 29th, her well-laid plans are derailed by the unpredictable UK weather. And an unpredictable man who – cynicism aside – tells her not what she wants to hear, but what she needs to.

My Mum loves this one. Quite a deep rom-com, it gets you thinking about what truly matters in life (*SPOILER ALERT 1* It’s the simple things.) and whether 1 minute is enough to find this out (*SPOILER ALERT 2* It is.).

It also makes you question the value of a relationship that is more transactional than romantic.

Plus it’s a genuinely hilarious film, and the actors (Amy Adams and Matthew Goode) are perfectly cast.

4. “A Quiet Place” (2018)

Starring real life husband and wife John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, this is not a popcorn movie. So many scenes are silent that the mere attempt to munch on said food item would ruin everyone’s cinematic experience.

In a world which has become a quiet place because of creatures that hunt down anything and anyone making a noise, raising their family while waiting for a new baby (!) to join it is Evelyn and Lee’s cross to bear.

How do they do it?

Impeccably. Unlike a multitude of horror movies where characters make the most illogical decisions, Evelyn and Lee just… don’t. They do everything right.

That’s why we root for everything to go right for them.

Does it?

In case you haven’t already, watch the film and find out.

The raw and honest “I have always loved you” moment alone makes this one of the best movies ever. Krasinski directed the motion picture and co-wrote the script as “a love letter” to his kids, which says it all. Audiences the world over felt the authenticity.

Also watch “A Quiet Place Part II” (2020) for a brilliant Cillian Murphy as a broken man who finds hope again.

And if you want more scary stories, read about my top 5 recommendations.

5. “Belle” (2013)

Not the beauty in “Beauty and the Beast,” but Gugu Mbatha-Raw playing Dido Elizabeth Belle, a free Black British gentlewoman. The first of her kind.

Her story, as depicted in the movie, is linked to the infamous Zong case, involving black slaves thrown overboard from a slave ship, their lives sacrificed for nothing. The owner then dared to file with his insurance company for the losses.

The judge who ruled in the case happened to be Belle’s great-uncle, Lord Mansfield. And the decision he made was revolutionary as it led to the abolition of slavery in Britain. He accompanied it with the words, “Let justice be done though the heavens fall.” Wow.

As a teacher of English who is not English, I relate to Belle, and I think everyone who’s ever struggled to fit in will too.

Need I say more to get you to watch this inspirational tale?

6. “Heart and Souls” (1993)

A different version of “The Sixth Sense.” Not better, just different.

In this dramedy, Robert Downey Jr. portrays a man connected to the spirits of 4 endearing souls with unfinished business that HE has to take care of. Tough luck.

As the character navigates the puzzles of life and afterlife, the actor’s charismatic performance seamlessly weaves humor and vulnerability. Which is just like him.

You should watch this movie for its themes (the enduring power of connection, the bitter-sweet nature of human existence, the importance of showing the world who you are and of telling loved ones that… well, you love them), but you’re bound to remember it for RDJ.

7. “Wonder Woman” (2017)

The only Hollywood superhero movie on my list (though I think it’s simplistic to call it that).

A character whose deep-rooted goodness is the beating heart of the film, Wonder Woman fights for those unable to fight for themselves. She does so alongside “above average” member of military intelligence Steve Trevor. Their chemistry infuses the film with genuine emotion all the way through.

The female protagonist’s most memorable moments are not those involving – in the words of someone else she’s teamed up with (Aquaman) – enemy “ass-whooping.” They’re those where she does what is right, not what is easy. Jane Eyre-style.

Like this one:

A fairy tale of a movie.

8. “Stardust” (2007)

Tristan, who happens to work in a shop but is not “a shop boy,” promises to retrieve a fallen star for the girl he’s besotted with. Non-stop adventure ensues.

The stellar cast is just 1 reason why this movie stands out. Watch Michelle Pfeiffer as the perfect villainess, Mark Strong as the perfect villain, and Robert de Niro the way you’ve never seen him before.

There are surprises throughout, like the deepest of confessions made to a mouse, a sprint that’s much more tense than any of Tom Cruise’s, and a super-impressive zombie fencing scene.

Best lessons from this film?

• Love is not a negotiation.
• A hug from the right person can make you shine like the brightest star.

9. “A Man Called Otto” (2022)

He has been:

• stranded on an island (“Cast Away”)
• a cowboy doll (“Toy Story” series)
• an astronaut (“Apollo 13”)
• a Harvard symbologist involved in conspiracy theories (“The Da Vinci Code”)
• Walt Disney (“Saving Mr. Banks”)
• an FBI agent (“Catch Me If You Can”)
• a hitman (“Road to Perdition”)
• a prison guard (“The Green Mile”)
• a hero (“Sully: Miracle on the Hudson”).

This time around, Tom Hanks is just grumpy. As with everything in life, there’s always a reason. His has to do with the woman who brought color to his “black and white” life.

Another woman who does this – out of the blue – is his new neighbor, straight-talking and big-hearted Marisol (played by the marvelous Mariana Treviño).

Switching between the past and the present gives us a chance to see Hanks’ own son, Truman Hanks, portray an effortlessly charming and utterly smitten Otto.

This is more than a great movie; it’s a mirror and a reminder that our life journey may not go the way we expect, but it’s always worthwhile.

10. “Arrival” (2016)

“If you could see your whole life from start to finish, would you change things?”

A question that soft-spoken Amy Adams (again!) ponders as linguist Louise Banks after facing extraterrestrial encounters. The answer is very similar to Arwen’s choice (read my “Favorite Books” post to find out why).

The concepts of language and time are thoroughly… ahem, probed in this film, and the result is an immersive experience that redefines the expectations of the sci-fi genre. Bringing it closer to philosophy.

Haunting music and one of the greatest compliments paid in cinema history (“I’ve had my head tilted up to the stars for as long as I can remember. You know what surprised me the most? It wasn’t meeting them [the aliens]. It was meeting you.”) make this movie so much better than “Star Wars.” And maybe just as good as the mind-bending “Inception”.

11. “In Good Hands” (“Sen Yasamaya Bak,” 2022)

Single mother meets carefree bachelor and they fall in love.

But what if terminal illness gets in the way?

Heavy, I know. But so worth it.

The recurring visual metaphor of Melisa’s gradual departure from this world is out of this world.

And Firat’s journey from oblivious man to obliging boyfriend and… something else is nothing short of remarkable. Just like Daniel Meade’s in “Ugly Betty”.

On the one hand, I wish I could forget this movie as it’s a real tear-jerker. On the other, I’m lucky not to be able to forget it as it’s taught me that love is ultimately its own reward.

12. “Signs” (2002)

Shyamalan movie fatigue is a concept I’m not familiar with. Apologies if you feel differently.

This is an atmospheric thriller that kind of uses science fiction as an excuse to explore the themes of faith and family.

As he grapples with personal tragedy, Graham Hess, a former reverend, has to deal with an inexplicable series of crop circles appearing on his farm.

There’s an escalating sense of dread (the director’s signature storytelling), coupled with gradual revelations of more than what the circles are about.

Is it possible that everything in life has meaning, which you can only understand when the time comes? Or that SIGNS are all around?

Questions to answer for yourself after watching this.

A secondary message is that there’s no giving up something you’re meant to be doing. Graham tries his hardest, but still can’t escape his calling so re-embraces it by the end of the film. Good for him.

13. “The Lake House” (2006)

This romantic fantasy weaves a unique tale of love that transcends time.

Starring the well matched Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves, the film is about the mysterious connection between 2 characters living in different years, communicating through a magical mailbox at a lake house.

They say that the best acting is the kind that doesn’t come across as such. That’s what I felt watching this. Sooooooo drawn into the unconventional love story because the thespians didn’t seem to fake it.

“The Lake House” keeps the audience intrigued until the final revelation. Which is that you need to let go to let in. You’ll know what I mean when you watch it.

14. “Cinderella” (2015)

The mantra of this “refreshingly traditional” Disney movie is “Have courage and be kind,” a secret that Ella’s mother promises will see her through all of life’s trials.

The female protagonist is certainly kind (by doing all household chores for her stepmother and stepsisters), but she needs to learn to be brave too. To not allow the former to always have her way, especially when that would be to the detriment of the kingdom and the man – “not boy” – she loves.

Prince Charming has a growth mindset as well. Even at the end of the film, he calls himself “an apprentice still learning his trade.”

Life is no fairy tale, therefore Ella doesn’t have any magical expectations; she is just grateful for the time she’s had with loved ones. Maybe that’s why magical things happen to her. They’re not asked for but well deserved.

One final takeaway from this great movie has to do with forgiveness. No one can truly move on from injustice unless they come to be at peace with it. Despite what the Count of Monte Cristo might say, revenge is never the solution, so Ella does what she does best and kindly forgives. Inspiring.

15. “Jurassic World” (2015)

Come on! A movie about a guy who uses his Ph.D. to train dinosaurs and at some point rides a motorcycle alongside velociraptors chasing their prey?

Bear with it though, as it doesn’t get more superficial than that.

Plus, the Hollywood blockbuster seems to be more about the female protagonist’s (Claire) journey anyway. In the space of 1 day, she goes from being super-corporatey and unfeeling to realizing happiness indexes are not applicable to animals that should be allowed to do their thing: roam freely and ideally stay vegetarian. Claire 2.0 turns out to be sensational.

This great movie is action-packed as well, which is why it’s no. 8 on the highest-grossing films list. Its release was followed by not just 1 successful sequel but 2 (at least in terms of money-making). The dinosaurs are undoubtedly awesome.

As for the actors, they have bona fide chemistry. And even if he’s not allowed to be his usual goofy self, Chris Pratt is more than believable as vest-wearing animal behavioral scientist Owen Grady. CGI notwithstanding, his connection with dinos feels real throughout.

My advice would be to not over-think it. Just enjoy the (Jurassic World) ride.

16. “The Karate Kid” (2010)

Whenever you feel like giving up, watch this movie.

The storyline revolves around Dre, who moves from the US to China with his mother. To say that he struggles to adjust is an understatement. As he’s surrounded by bullies who won’t let him be, Dre decides to learn karate and compete against them in a tournament.

His teacher?

The amazing Jackie Chan. He initially doesn’t impress much. Doesn’t seem to care much either. So you really don’t see the outcome of the 6 against 1 fight scene coming (I for one didn’t), but it works brilliantly because of how well the underdog element is established beforehand.

A lot turns out to be more than meets the eye in this film. Mr. Han’s backstory is unexpected and the reason why Dre fights till the end is surprising too: It’s not so he can brag about defeating his enemies, but so he stops feeling afraid of them.

Added benefit: The training montage will get you off the couch and doing push-ups in no time!

17. “The Darkest Minds” (2018)

Martin Luther King Jr dreamed of a world where people would not be judged by the color of their skin.

In this movie based on the first book in a series of 4 by Alexandra Bracken, young people are judged by their assigned color (= certain level of danger):

• Green means hyperintelligence
• Blue is telekinesis
• Yellow can manipulate electricity
• Red controls fire
• Orange reads and controls minds, mostly through touch.

Concentration camps are formed, with Red and Orange kids being, shockingly, put to death.

Ruby Daly is an Orange in disguise. Teamed up with a Yellow, a Green, and a Blue, her objective is to hide so as to escape death. She’s also plagued by the fact that she removed her parents’ memories of her before becoming aware of the extent of her powers. Since then, touch is off limits for Ruby. Kind of a downer when one falls in love.

Ruby soon learns to let the right people in and understands that she needs to take a stand against the system. But what if sacrifice is a big part of that?

An imaginative YA dystopian story whose main character Liam will charm the socks off of you. Pun intended.

18. “The Age of Adaline” (2015)

Born in the early 20th century, Adaline miraculously stops aging after a near-fatal accident. Fearing scrutiny and potential exploitation, she chooses to live a reclusive life (basically not to have a life), changing her identity and location every decade.

Enter kind-hearted philantrophist Ellis, who changes everything. But an encounter with Ellis’s father, played by a wonderfully vulnerable Harrison Ford, complicates things and forces Adaline to make a (new?) choice which might affect the course of her eternal life.

They say that life doesn’t happen to you, it happens for you. Events are repeated until learned from. Will Adaline finally learn from hers?

All is revealed in this exploration of love, loss, and the consequences of living outside the normal constraints of time.

19. “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” (2022)

Seemingly.

An at-the-end-of-his-tether Nick Cage accepts going to a superfan’s birthday party in exchange for $1,000,000. He feels that, despite his best intentions and consistent efforts, the cinematic work he produced is still under-appreciated. Wink to the audience.

This time, Pedro Pascal doesn’t hide his face like in “The Mandalorian” (what a relief!), but constantly wears his heart on his sleeve as Javi Gutierrez. Whether or not he made his money selling drugs and/or kidnapping people is another matter.

It’s human ties that are the movie’s greatest asset: the Nick-Javi bromance, Nick’s reignited romance with his ex-wife, his renewed connection with his daughter, and the potential villain’s impossible relationship with Gabriela. Javi not confessing his love for her until it’s almost too late is so very endearing.

As is his preference for Paddington 2. I mean…

20. “A Walk in the Clouds” (1995)

Paul, a soldier returning from WWII, meets pregnant woman Victoria on a train. To help Victoria face her conservative family, Paul agrees to pose as her husband. Except he’s already married. What could go wrong?

Keanu Reeves delivers another sensitive performance (Don’t you just love him for it?) as he’s tortured by his moral dilemma, while Aitana Sánchez-Gijón effortlessly adds grace and depth to her character.

The themes of family and the importance of following your heart resonate throughout the film.

“A Walk in the Clouds” is a cinematic journey that, much like a fine wine, matures with time but never sours.

21. “Oculus” (2013)

A lesser-known film by Mike Flanagan (mentioned in my “Scary Short Stories” post). Unjustly so.

Siblings Kaylie and Tim face a malevolent supernatural force connected to an antique mirror. The narrative structure interweaves their present-day struggles with the traumatic events of their past.

The “I’m-still-Scottish-even-if-I-pretend-to-be-American” Karen Gillan delivers a standout portrayal of a haunted sister systematically finding out what the haunted mirror is about. Said mirror becomes a character in its own right.

“Oculus” is a thought-provoking exploration of the strength of family bonds when tested, and the nature of fear.

A must-watch that will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and illusion / nightmare.

22. “Hush” (2016)

Would someone who cannot hear or speak and lives in isolation stand a chance against a relentless killer? If that someone is a resourceful writer, possibly. That’s 1 excellent reason to become one!

Starring Mike Flanagan’s real life wife (the equally talented Kate Siegel) as Maddie, this is a tight-scripted Hitchcock-like masterclass in suspense. Silence creates an eerie atmosphere that amplifies every creak and every breath.

What sets “Hush” apart is its minimalism. The absence of traditional dialogue adds even more vulnerability to the protagonist. As for the killer, we are left clueless as to what drives him. No tragic origin story or mental issue is revealed. Personally, the mystery doesn’t bother me.

The ending is to die for. It has both heart and intellect – from Maddie’s simply crafted yet powerful message to her family to the different scenarios she pictures (in a slower Dr. Strange in “Infinity War”-manner) in her attempt to outwit the murderer.

Trust me, you’ll hush anyone trying to break your concentration while watching this movie.

23. “Timeline” (2003)

As a student of history, I’d get asked, “Would you ever go back to a time in history that you studied, to see what it was really like?”

Based on a Michael Crichton novel, “Timeline” explores this very question.

The characters go back to a time of war, plague, famine, and overall injustice (14th-century France) and don’t exactly thrive, but struggle to survive.

The film’s pacing is brisk. No dull moment really.

My favorite subplot involves the in-love-with-the-Middle-Ages Marek, who also falls in love with a woman from the Middle Ages. Can they be together?

You know what you need to do to find out.

24. “The Shallows” (2016)

Remember Wilson from “Cast Away,” the ball the protagonist befriends while on a desert island? In “The Shallows,” a highly likeable seagull is that ball, accompanying Nancy (Blake Lively again), a medicine student stranded on a rock in the ocean. Not just any rock. One that’s mere yards away from a circling great white shark. Yikes!

The cinematography is spectacular, and the execution of the premise doesn’t leave to be desired. There are moments that are exceedingly peaceful (for a shark movie, anyway), making the animal attack ones almost unbearably intense.

This story is ultimately about finding the will to survive as Nancy does struggle in this respect. A huge loss gets her questioning the value of the degree she’s working toward and the meaning of life itself. But she pushes through grief and comes out on the other end all the stronger for it.

That’s all well and good, but what about the enormous shark?

Take this far-from-shallow journey for yourself to find out.

25. “Equilibrium” (2002)

This dystopian sci-fi film is 1 emotionally charged experience.

No one could’ve done a better job than Christian Bale as John Preston, a Cleric who strictly enforces the law (drug taking!) in a world where all feeling is suppressed to maintain peace. The gun kata-style fight scenes are incredible.

Bale’s performance becomes even more compelling as he begins to question the system. He starts out small, by protecting a puppy (YES!), and then wholeheartedly rises against the heartless regime. As part of the awakening process, he realizes he loved his now-dead wife all along and is capable of loving another woman too.

The cost of his rebellion?

A heavy one. But the new John Preston will pay it gladly.

Bonus

You know how books are made into films, just because it’s easier to watch something?

Well, I had to turn movie no. 25 into a story as part of a Master’s assignment back in 2020. If you want to read it (but not before lowering your expectations), scroll to the bottom of this post.

Conclusion

That’s a wrap then.

25 movies to enjoy next in case you haven’t already.

Happy watching.

PS. In the mood for a book instead? Check out my “Favorite Books” post if you’re stumped for ideas.

FAQs

1. What are the top 10 most popular movies right now?

According to Rotten Tomatoes:

• “Leave the World Behind”
• “Godzilla Minus One”
• “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• “Napoleon”
• “The Boy and the Heron”
• “Poor Things”
• “May December”
• “The Holdovers”
• “A Disturbance in the Force”
• “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes”.

2. What are common favorite movies?

There seems to be a gender difference here.

Men typically list “The Godfather” and the “Star Wars” series, while women tend to name “Gone with the Wind”, “Titanic” and “Dirty Dancing” as their favorites.

3. What is the best movie in 2023?

I would personally choose either the eye-opening “Oppenheimer” or the meaningful “Barbie”.

But check out more titles under FAQ 1 above.

4. What is the best movie ever played?

The classic choice is Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” (1941), about the rise and fall of a media tycoon.

Is it THE greatest movie ever made? Perhaps.

Will you obsess over the word “Rosebud” until the film reveals what it means? I dare you not to.

Post-Credit Scene

Sorry if you were expecting anything Marvel-related. It’s just my story based on the movie “Equilibrium” above.

“The Rabbit Hole” (Rebeca Bianca Duriga)

It was toward the end of an ordinary day at the office that I turned my wife in for feeling. I had had proof for a while – she would interrupt our afternoon tea by moving close to the window to watch the sun set and there would be a faint smile on her face when parting in the morning. I believe I even saw a tear once. I cannot say for sure as she turned away quickly. But when I found her three books, carefully positioned to be camouflaged by the plants on the windowsill, doubt dissipated. The first had the absurd title of “Loss is Gain.” I opened another, read the highlighted portion – “Love is the relinquishment of logic, the willing relinquishment of reasonable patterns. We yield to it or we fight it. But we cannot meet it halfway” – and was out the door, banging it shut as I had banged the hard copies shut an instant before.

Inside the headquarters where I was privileged to have worked since the beginning of adulthood, my subordinate Jude stopped me to report that his team had found another group of reason offenders. The prisoners were ready for interrogation. This was to be followed by an admission of guilt, sentencing, and execution, despite my recent recommendation for a new streamlined process entailing solely capture and execution. What need was there to establish guilt or pluck confession out of the culprits’ mouths? It was evident from the moment you laid eyes on them. Dry skin, one side of the mouth raised, corners of the lips drawn down, dilated nostrils. Some expressed their contempt, sadness, or anger by shouting “You don’t know what you’re doing!,” or sighing and whispering “You’ll rue this one day.” There were also those who went beyond facial expressions and mere words. To show belief in the power of feeling, they would allow themselves to be captured so that others could escape. A few did, especially the young. I had to give them that: they were certainly adept at ensuring their own survival.

That is why swifter legal action was imperative. I would have to bypass the High Council and take my recommendation directly to Supreme Commander Shepherd. But first things first. Entering the Crime Monitoring Department, I walked past the officers filling out paperwork at perfectly aligned desks and caught a glimpse of the Commander’s new public message playing on a loop on multiple 25-metre screens. “Obedience is key. Obedience is life,” it decreed. Excellent. I greeted Chief Lawyal in his office, apprised him of the situation, and requested that he handle everything. There was to be no trace of my wife or her belongings by the time I returned home. It was the least he could do for his overseer, he replied. I thanked him for his service and the large bottle of water I had asked for, which I drank in one go.

To allow time for this matter to be resolved, I decided to interrogate the freshly caught prisoners myself, or at least their leader. Further insights into their warped mind could only help when I presented my case to Commander Shepherd. As I considered this, I noticed a smudge on my white shirt and decided to stop by the office and change. I was fastening the last button when there was a knock on the door. Jude. He did say he would escort me. A glance at my endeavor made his eyebrows raise.

“Were you aesthetically displeased with your appearance?”

“I am simply following orders, Jude. Clothing is to be impeccable at …”

“Absolutely. Our Commander might be watching right now.”

He kept his gaze on me for some additional seconds, then stepped out and waited for me to follow.

“I was informed about Mrs. Mason and your honorable course of action. How long was she a suspect?”

Now this was a trap. If I said two and a half months, it would have been the truth but not one that he would have found satisfactory. Why had I not shared what little proof there was for that long? And if the space of time was too short – such as a week – he might have doubted me further. In the end, I settled on the more reasonable time frame of 21 days.

“Nothing to do but move forward now. You are aware, of course, that there are a number of candidates who are more than qualified to replace the spouse of our Supreme Commander’s Chief of Staff.”

His suggestion stopped me in my tracks.

“Does that … unsettle you, Chief?”

The renewed scrutiny he subjected me to caused a state of paralysis dominated by visions of the future irrevocably in store for me: going home to a non-Katherine, immobile in her chair during uneventful dinners, never awake to say goodbye in the morning. Sweat broke through every pore in my body threatening to ruin another perfect shirt. Jude was by my side in no time, holding a glass of water. Where had that come from? I drank and could see his unperturbed face clearly again.

“Let us be on our way,” I said. “The prisoners need processing.”

We traversed long corridors, passed the Programming and Doctrine Departments, and entered the interrogation room as the rebels’ leader was being brought in. He wore a green shirt with irregular blood stains on it, loose grey trousers, and an old talisman around his neck. Bruises covered part of his face but enough wrinkles were visible for me to realize he was in the fifth decade of his life. Seated precisely in the middle of the room, his countenance was so inscrutable had I seen him in the street I would have deemed him one of us. As the evidence against him was laid on the table in front of his eyes – a broken CD, the letters LVIS on what was left of its cover, diminutive worn-out crayons, and all manner of knick-knacks from the Old System – they illuminated. Certainly not one of us then. I sat down across from him, Jude standing behind me.

“What is your name?” I enquired.

“Adam. What’s yours?”

“All you need to know is that you are addressing the Supreme Commander’s right hand,” replied Jude in my stead.

“What an honor,” smiled the prisoner. “Never in my dreams would I have imagined being so close to those in charge of this rotten New System. Tell me, have you ever felt? Anything at all?” He leaned forward to look directly into my eyes. “You weren’t born in it, were you? You must’ve been a child when it happened. Don’t you remember? Your mother’s voice, what your first kiss felt like, getting angry over something silly, like …”

“That is enough,” intervened Jude. “This is precisely why you are here. The New System is predicated on the absence of all irrationality.” He took out a little white book and started reading. “Nothing contributes to irrational behavior more than emotion. Anger towards one’s fellow human beings leads to conflict, death, and general destruction. Jealousy eats at you until you give in and take what is not rightfully yours. Sadness affects both the intellect and the physical human organism – its effects include erratic sleep habits, loss of appetite, headaches …”

“Forgive me for ignoring your recitation as you’re woefully clueless about what your system is really predicated on: the annihilation of half of what makes us us. You take away the anger, jealousy, and sadness, you obliterate forgiveness, joy, and compassion too. Hell, all passion. Way I see it, that’s no life at all.”

“You have told us nothing we have not heard before,” I took over from Jude. “What I fail to understand is why you continue to undermine a system that undeniably works. No wars for 26 years now. No hunger, no poverty. Every citizen has an assigned purpose. We have even dealt with climate change by tackling it rationally. The world is … uncomplicated. Well, except for you people.”

What he said next was unexpected.

“Are you sure the world’s meant to be uncomplicated?” His tone soft and head bent down, he was genuinely pondering this.

“It most assuredly is bet …” What happened next was also unexpected. I do not remember what came first, the deafening sound or the darkness that enveloped us all.

When I regained consciousness, my surroundings were unfamiliar. I was lying on a bed that barely fit me. The linen was far from clean, partly because of old dirt and partly because of my blood. Looking around, I saw books of different colors and sizes carelessly placed onto shelves. Randomly stuck on the walls were rudimentary drawings of the sun with eyes and mouth like a person’s, countryside houses, flowers considerably bigger than they should have been in proportion to the abodes, and various animals running around. No weapons or anything else of use. I stared at one particular drawing, showing a grey rabbit next to a tree, until acute pain brought my focus back to what had occurred. An explosion. What of Jude and the rebels’ leader?

As if summoned by my thoughts, Adam came into the semi-lit room holding a bowl, scissors, and bandages. There was a deep cut on his head.

“Where are we? Jude?”

“He’s in hospital, and expected to make a complete recovery in a few days. As for where we are, I’m sure you’ll understand if I don’t disclose one of our secret locations to someone who’s bent on wiping us out,” he replied calmly. “We’ll have to go elsewhere soon anyway.”

“You are holding me captive then. The bomb – was this your plan all along? I must warn you: the Supreme Commander will not consider any demands for funds or other benefits in exchange for my return. I am replaceable.”

“And that’s exactly what makes this New System so deplorable. But no, you’re not a prisoner. As soon as you’re well enough to walk outta here, you can go. The bomb was detonated by a group of extremists who are … violently taking matters into their own hands. Not us.”

His comment about my ability to walk prompted an examination of my right upper thigh, now soaked in blood. I kept it still while Adam employed the medical equipment to clean and re-dress the wound. I had seen many like it, had inflicted some myself. I knew it would take at least 12 hours to attempt walking, 24 to try walking rapidly, 48 to be sure of escape on foot. Provided there was no infection.

“Why did you not leave me there? The guards would have taken me to hospital, or the extremists would have killed me.”

“The guards were killed in the explosion. And I couldn’t let someone else die just because it was easy to do so. I chose you because your wound was more serious than Jude’s.”

Before realizing it, I nodded. A spark of recognition lit Adam’s eyes. All I wanted at that moment – urgently – was water. He complied with my request and I drank for what seemed like minutes.

“Thank you,” I said, wanting to take the gratitude back as soon as it was expressed. There was something wrong with me. I had to leave immediately. Exhaustion overcame me, however, and I fell asleep. Moving pictures were floating around in my head upon waking up, a remnant of the myriad I saw in my slumber. The rabbit from the drawing on the wall was now white and leading a little girl down a garden path to a hollow tree. From inside the hollow, the rabbit looked up at the girl, who looked undecided. Dare she go down the rabbit hole? Strings of words slowly came to mind as well, as if wearily traveling from a great distance. Drama. Dragon. Drift. Dread. Katherine. Dress. Katherine. Drug. Dream. That was it: they drugged me so I would fall into Old System sin! So I would dream and recall … a white hopping creature, a smoking caterpillar, and a cat that would not cease smiling?

I could see light underneath the door and limped towards it, only to be greeted by the dizzying sight of more colors. Purple curtains, pink rugs, withered yellow flowers in a dusty blue vase. As I was leaning against the door frame for support, I also saw these soft objects thrown onto the unhygienic floor. They seemed to have no practical purpose whatsoever. Lifting one up, I realized it represented a turtle, although its eyes were unrealistically large and … beautiful.

When the smell of cinnamon reached me from a nearby room, my feet developed a will of their own and slowly headed toward its source. The kitchen was in complete disarray – no surprise there – but what caught my eye was a boy in pajamas sitting in an oversized chair and slurping from an equally inadequate mug while swinging his feet. Within moments, his movement became less energetic and his eyes half closed. A plump woman was washing dishes and humming a song as if she did not have a care in the world. She turned around and froze.

“I will not harm you,” I told her. She must have believed me as she resumed the chore, her back turned once more.

“He had a nightmare. Hot chocolate with cinnamon on top always saves the day. Though it’s never real hot chocolate – no milk, you see. Would you like some?”

My training had prepared me for any and all situations involving temptation and guile. I knew these criminals were not unintelligent and would go to any lengths to corrupt others. What better proof than their contaminated water, wreaking havoc inside me still? In no circumstances, not even so I could return to the Supreme Commander and declare I had remained loyal under duress, was I to allow myself to consume anything from them ever again.

And yet, despite myself, I extended my hand for a cup of the curious liquid. Neither hot nor cold, I did not know what to prepare my mouth for. Upon sipping it, I could not imagine how both the excessively sweet and insufficiently flavored beverage served the purpose of putting a child to sleep. But the boy could barely keep his head up now. The woman picked him up and carried him to what was undoubtedly a shabby bed in another dingy room.

How could they live this way? The image of my own penthouse, in all its superior glory, appeared before me. Located in one of the top security skyscrapers that were exclusively reserved for high-ranking New System officials, and fitted with all the conveniences the great minds of the 22nd century had brought into existence, it was the epitome of a world finally set right. Nothing out of place or substandard in it. Here I saw only regression, pollution of body and mind. Stumbling upon yet another object that was in my way – in everyone’s way – I kicked it as forcefully as I could with my unharmed leg, almost losing my balance in the process. It was the effort that elevated my heart rate. It could not have been the realistic yelping sound the item made for an entire minute until Adam came in.

“It has a battery inside. I meant to take it out but it slipped my mind.” He pressed a button that silenced the toy dog, then poured himself coffee from a rusty pot. Another series of nonsensical actions. One: consuming a caffeinated drink that was not freshly prepared. Two: consuming it at night. Three: consuming it out of a container that was a health hazard. I committed this to memory as another example of irrational behavior the Supreme Commander could add to his new publication, “Transgressions of the Heart.”

“How’s the leg? Wanted to check on it earlier but didn’t wanna wake you.”

“How considerate of you, given you have gone to the trouble of poisoning my water.”

He was facing me now, and raised an eyebrow.

“This is one big Shakespearean misunderstanding, I’m afraid. It’s not our water that’s the problem.” He took another sip of the unsanitary liquid while I attempted to anticipate the untruth he was about to present me with. I was unsuccessful.

“It’s the New System’s,” he resumed. “Every time you drink it you’re all numb again. The water’s drugged, Chief Mason, and it’s been robbing you of feeling and whatever memories of the Old System you had. Everyone had. Though … that seems to be reversible. Right?” he asked resolutely looking away.

“We had it tested. Our experts did what they could to find out what caused this madness.” He went out and returned in seconds. “Here,” he said handing me a thick black folder filled with uncharacteristically well-organised papers. Inside were patient files and test results, the word “tranquilizer” ubiquitous. It could easily have been made so by someone with basic medical knowledge. Although other terms were more difficult – “alprazolam,” “buspirone,” “sertraline” –, I still recognized them as suppressants.

“The documents look authentic. A cleverly engineered trick. But a trick nonetheless.” I closed the folder and the subject with equal ease. Back in my room, I could not help but consider the magnitude of Adam’s supposed revelation. His preposterous claim aside, I decided to postpone my escape till daylight. Thirst would have to go unquenched until then.

The sound of chatter and clatter put an abrupt end to the sedate night. Albeit weakened, I was up and ready to go in minutes. With everyone in the kitchen, I surreptitiously made my way out into a yard that had long ago been taken over by vegetation. My leg hurt like blazes – a small price to pay, surely, given I still had my life and integrity. All the offenders had was the dilemma of how to evade us for much longer. Let them enjoy one final breakfast. The thought made the corners of my mouth go up, confirming that the effects of their poison had not worn off. “One cannot believe reason offenders,” the Supreme Commander’s warning came into my head. Yes, one cannot believe impossible things. “Except you can,” a female voice replied. “I daresay you haven’t had much practice. Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

All of a sudden, the features of the person the voice belonged to were so clearly fleshed out that I leaned forward to touch the dark-haired kind-eyed woman of small stature before me. My mother. Although she was not really there, the world she came from – I came from – began to materialize. I was now in the middle of nowhere, then inside a run-down cottage, then in a messy room full of useless trinkets only a hyperactive boy of 11 who dreamt of being an astronaut could treasure. The smell of slightly burnt pancakes filled my nostrils – she was multitasking again. No matter; I couldn’t wait to taste them. Sounds that produced no more pleasure than nails on a chalkboard came from another room. My brother and his noise music. Fine, I could put up with it as long as I kept going down memory lane. I closed my eyes and let sensation take over. It was like gliding on an endless water slide. I felt weightless, unalone.

I felt again.

When I opened my eyes, the cottage and all in it were gone, safely transferred to my consciousness.

“What are you gonna do now?” came Adam’s inevitable question. I did not have an obvious answer, so I stayed where I was for a long time, shaking. He was still there when I eventually turned around and must have have picked up on a certain sense of urgency.

“Do whatever you need to. Our paths might cross again, one way or another.”

“My name is Rick, by the way. But Mum always called me Ricky,” I shouted as I limped my way to the nearest Feeling Police Station. Accounting for my disheveled appearance, I declared I possessed vital intelligence on the offenders’ latest machinations. The information needed to be conveyed to the Supreme Commander himself – I was to be taken to him at once. Phone calls were made and transportation arranged while I devised a thousand plans to save Katherine, only one emerging as sufficiently coherent: convincing Shepherd I had to personally interrogate my wife as she would not confess otherwise. Wait, what was plan 523 again? I was still contemplating options when the doors to the Great Hall opened to the disgraceful sight of Shepherd’s bulky body on a white throne, his lethargic hand signing the usual pile of papers that would shortly result in countless more deaths.

“It is my utmost privilege to stand before you, Supreme Commander.” My bow was low and scorn-concealing.

“It is good to see you returned to the fold,” he acknowledged. “I trust your captivity has left you undamaged. Apart from the leg, I mean.”

“It is nothing time spent productively under your rule will not heal, Commander.”

“What intelligence did you wish to relay?”

Did he seem impatient? Did he feel?

“Prior to my escape, I came across a set of documents – falsified documents – that implied New System water has been drugged to… prevent citizens from feeling.” Shepherd stopped signing papers. “This is clearly another attempt on the offenders’ part at persuading others to join them on the path that leads to destruction,” I quickly resumed. “Treachery is all they have ever known.”

The reassurance got him scribbling again. I mustered my courage to proceed.

“Of course, if I were to obtain a confession – from my own spouse, for instance – detailing how they lie to our innocent citizens, it would go a long way towards thwarting their plan and strengthening your most beneficial rule.”

“Good thinking, Chief Mason.” My heart leaped. “I am certain this would help a great deal. However, the confession would have to come from someone else.” My heart sank.

“In your absence, to show the people how much I appreciated your service – in case you perished at the hands of the wicked –, I decided to accept the proposal you made to the High Council. You have always advocated ‘capture and execution.’ Well, I finally understood how simple it can all be. I thought it fitting that Katherine should be the first to experience this new streamlined process. In your honor, you see.”

A voice from behind me – who else but Jude? – and his firm hand on my shoulder delayed the blow I’d soon feel.

“You must be thirsty. Do help yourself to some water.” He pointed to a table where there were at least two dozen bottles.

“Certainly.” I was moving towards it like a lamb to the slaughter when the last two days’ ordeal took their blessed toll and I blacked out.

I woke up in my empty luxurious suite, with no idea of the time that had passed or whether I was under surveillance. The sorrow hacksawing through me made breathing a chore. Pulling myself out of bed, I looked for traces of Katherine’s belongings as frantically as my wounded leg allowed. Anything that the Sweep Team might’ve missed: a rubber band or an oversized sweater they could’ve mistaken for mine. Wardrobe-wise, my order had been carried out to the letter. I ransacked the kitchen just as efficiently, gleefully destroying plates, saucers, and anything else that was smash-worthy because of its white ordinariness.

Mission accomplished, I sank to the floor, surrounded by a hungry void that was closing in on me. I was sure that once it swallowed me, it would slowly, never completely, digest me. But what was actually around me was lots and lots of water, of course. How comforting: salvation at my fingertips. Sitting there, wifeless, I picked up a bottle – why the hell not choose oblivion?

Just then, the day’s clouds surrendered to the afternoon sun and the sitting room began to bask in a warm, mesmerizing light. A sight to behold indeed. Nothing would stop me from getting closer to the light – it didn’t Katherine either. Fearing quick movement might make the shining disappear, I empty-handedly crept towards the window, took a seat near it, and gazed at the sky till twilight beckoned the moon.

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