characters
This character is a janitor at MIT with an extraordinary gift for mathematics.
What traumatic event shaped Will’s past?
He experienced physical and emotional abuse from his foster parents.
Why does Will avoid therapy?
Will sees therapy as unnecessary and fears being vulnerable.
Why does Sean emphasize vulnerability?
Vulnerability is essential to processing trauma and healing.
What’s the role of friendship in Will’s healing?
Chuckie helps Will realize he deserves a better life and challenges him to dream big.
This professor recognizes Will’s talent and helps him avoid jail time
Who is Professor Lambeu?
The film highlights how individuals from different this may have different levels of access to help.
What is social status?
What does Will say to push Sean away?
Will attacks Sean’s vulnerabilities, particularly his relationship with his wife.
What are some barriers to Will seeking help?
Will’s pride, mistrust of authority, and fear of judgment hold him back.
How does Will’s relationship with Skylar help him grow?
Skylar’s love encourages Will to consider a future built on trust and intimacy.
She is Will’s love interest and challenges him to open up emotionally
who is Skylar?
The movie demonstrates how bottling up emotions can negatively affect this
What is mental health?
How does Will’s intelligence mask his pain?
Will uses his intellect as a shield to avoid addressing his emotions.
How does Sean challenge Will emotionally?
Sean forces Will to confront the walls he’s built and address his pain directly.
What is the turning point for Will in therapy?
When Sean tells Will, “It’s not your fault,” and Will allows himself to feel and release his pain.
This character allows Will to open up about himself, and helps his healing process
Who is Sean?
Will hides his talent behind this type of behavior.
What is rebellious/defensive behavior?
What’s an example of Will lashing out due to unresolved emotions?
Will verbally attacks Skylar when she asks him to move to California with her.
What breakthroughs occur in therapy sessions?
Will admits his fear of intimacy and acknowledges his need to change.
How does Will’s final decision symbolize healing?
Will chooses to leave Boston, pursue Skylar, and embrace the uncertainty of a new life.
This character is Will's best friend
Who is Chuckie?
The movie subtly critiques this societal concept, which discourages men from showing vulnerability.
What is toxic masculinity?
What’s the significance of the line, "It’s not your fault"?
Sean repeats this phrase to help Will let go of the self-blame he carries from childhood trauma.
How does the film portray the stigma around therapy?
Will initially sees therapy as a weakness, reflecting broader social stigmas about mental health.
How does the film illustrate the connection between vulnerability and freedom?
The film shows that opening up emotionally allows Will to break free from his internal prison.