These 1992 movies are worth revisiting

all of cinema. Puts you in a reflective mood. Not many movies do that these days.

For those who in this maddening political moment have formed what they imagine are alliances of convenience with those they secretly despise or even fear: “The Crying Game.” Not for the gender dynamics or the midfilm surprise that by now everyone has heard of, but for Forest Whitaker reciting the fable of the Scorpion and the Frog.

For those who believe the troubles they face are insurmountable, “My Cousin Vinny”: Share your problems with a loved one. You might be surprised at what hidden talents come to the surface. (Also, always be respectful to judges, whether you like them or not, and, if you’re arrested for a crime you didn’t commit, confine your answers to Yes and No.)

Let’s add in a small political collection, with the hope of perhaps helping those on either side of the ideological divide gain some further understanding of the other.

“A Few Good Men”: A movie conservatives should watch to be reminded how liberals think conservatives think. (You can’t handle the truth, but you sure do want me on that wall!)

“Howard’s End”: A movie conservatives should watch to be reminded how liberals think liberals think. (Rich do-gooders can stay rich and still do good.)

“Aladdin”: A movie liberals should watch to see how conservatives think liberals think. (Rub the magic lamp and all good things materialize, courtesy of the federal gover— um, that is, the genie.)

“Shining Through”: A movie liberals should watch to see how conservatives think conservatives think. (Bravery, sacrifice, patriotism, loyalty, all without loud music or foul language.)

Finally, for all of us celebrating a remarkable year in cinema, “A League of Their Own”: Right now, lots of people are frustrated with the working of democracy. Up until now, especially for young people, it’s all seemed pretty easy. But remember: It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard is what makes it great. Stephen L. Carter is a Bloomberg View columnist.