Some prolong their power through war. Others watch their wealth swell with rising oil and stock prices. Meanwhile, others lose their lives—their universes fading to dust. If this is not ruin, what is?

Yet, amid the ruins, someone captures moments of life. They document them. It is a trivial yet precious two-hour solace. When the film ends, you must return to your ruined reality, but you gather a faint strength. It awakens the will to start anew upon the wreckage.

So, witness and empathize. Here, 20 films will expand your universe just a little further. (Ksan)