Only the lonely: A movie loners list.



(Definition from Wikipedia): A loner is a person who avoids or does not actively seek human interaction or prefers to be alone. There are many reasons for solitude, intentional or otherwise, and 'Loner' does not imply a specific cause. Intentional reasons include spiritual and religious considerations or personal philosophies. Unintentional reasons involve temperament, being highly sensitive, having more extreme forms of shyness, deep seated guilt, or various mental disorders.



There are different types of loner, including individuals that prefer solitude and are content to have very limited social interaction. The second type includes individuals that are forced to be isolated because they are rejected by society (or, by circumstances beyond their control). This individual typically experiences loneliness. The first type does not feel lonely even when they are alone, at least, not in the same way as would a social person who found themselves isolated. However, these are very broad generalizations and it is not uncommon for loners to experience both of these dimensions at some point.



The concept of a lonely hero (or antihero) is a recurring theme in film and is often the subject in popular culture.



Listed below are a number of films, supported by quotes, with special emphasis on specific characters that I feel encompass, reflect, and explore, characteristics of the loner's condition.