Indie films have always been my favorite go-to when I'm looking for something to watch. There is something about the quality of the work that went behind filming it that makes the film seem so raw. Rarely do the glitz, glam, and explosions of Hollywood meddle its way into the film clouding the plot completely.

But here's the thing about indie films: most are either way underrated both by critics and sometimes even viewers, completely unheard of from lack of marketing, or have been forgotten as time as gone on and new blockbusters have been released. So here's is a list of what I think are some of the greatest indie films to date and why you might be interested in giving them a watch while you recover from finals (or while you try your best to avoid the impending doom of finals, your choice.

1. Thirteen (2003)

Starring Holly Hunter, Evan Rachel Wood, and Nikki Reed, Thirteen shows a raw and gritty downfall of an honor students as she spirals down the wrong path after befriending some bad influences. Alright, I know that basically just sounds like some lame Lifetime movie plot, but I promise this film has so much more to offer than your typical, predictable soap.

The most interesting thing behind the production of this movie is that Nikki Reed, who plays Evie the thirteen-year-old nightmare that is ultimately the beginning of Tracy's (Evan Rachel Wood) decline, wrote the screenplay alongside the director. Reed actually was inspired to write the screenplay after some of her own experiences and the movie is actually deemed a drama/autobiography on IMDB because of this.

Although beware, while this movie has been produced beyond perfection and the storyline is bound to have you thankful that your preteen days weren't too bad after all, for some this might not be an easy watch. There is nothing comfortable about watching two thirteen-year-olds experiment with drugs, sexual encounters, or violence. However, sometimes the best movies were made to make us feel uncomfortable and that is why this will always remain an all time favorite of mine.

2. Never Let Me Go (2010)

With such an all-star cast its a shame that this movie is not more well-known. Taking place in an a somewhat distant future where the life expectancy rate has sky rocketed and chronic illness is almost completely eradicated were introduced to a idyllic boarding school in the english countryside. The children there seem happy, are encouraged to keep themselves healthy, and overall seem like any other children. However, the horrible truth of the fate and purpose of these children is prematurely revealed to them by one of their school teachers. Throughout the duration of the film you watch three children grow up with the truth of their existence and struggle to find acceptance, truth, and love within it all. Starring Carey Mulligan, Kiera Knightly, and Andrew Garfield, this all star-cast definitely delivers a heart-breaking performance worthy of so much praise. The best news? Netflix has just recently add this to their stream so feel free to binge away, you definitely won't be left disappointed.

Sleeping Beauty (2011)

Finally an adult twist to our favorite fairytale: but you won't be finding an princes' in this version. If you can get past the strange and uncomfortable premise of the film and just enjoy the performance of Emily Browning and the beautiful production of the film then this might be for you. The film follows Lucy, a university student (Emily Browning) drawn into a world of mysterious hidden desires and erotic fantasies. Without giving too much away, ultimately Lucy signs up for a job to become a real-life sleeping beauty of sorts. Definitely dark, definitely twisted, but definitely worth the watch.

6 Years (2015)

6 Years follows the decline of a dysfunctional relationship of two college students who have been together for, you guessed it, six years. It stars Taissa Farmiga (from American Horror Story) and Ben Rosenfield. It's an interesting look at the gender bias between physical and domestic abuse in relationships. The ending will probably leave you super frustrated and wanting more but the best films always do. This film is also available for streaming on Netflix!

The Runaways (2010)

This film depicts the story of the legendary all-girl rock group The Runaways that paved the way for all future female rockers. It stars Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie. The film explores the relationship of Joan and Cherie as well as the downfall of the band and Currie's eventual drug addiction. Definitely a great watch especially if you're a rock fan, but no prior knowledge of the band the Runaways is at all necessary to enjoy this film.

The Virgin Suicides (1999)

In 1970's america five beautiful teenage sisters lives are observed from a distance by neighborhood boys. The doomed fates of the sisters perplex the boys as the obsess over what happened that fateful summer for years to come. It's an interesting look into the impenetrable life-altering mind of adolescents and their secrets. It's a total cult classic, if you haven't already seen it, you must. If you have, it might be time to revisit it again.

Creep (2014)

Creep will definitely make you think twice about answering any strange Craiglist's ads, that is for sure. The film follows Aaron, an amateur videographer, who answers an online ad and drives to a remote cabin location to film for one day. Josef, the man behind the ad, has hired Aaron to help him make a video for his unborn child as he reveals that he has a large brain tumor and will not survive to meet his son. As the day goes on though Josef's request get more and more bizarre. This film definitely has a horror movie feel to it but if you ask me it is just as humorous as it is scary and is definitely an interesting look into the mind of a psychopath. Good news too, if you enjoy this film (which I almost gurantee that you will) there making a sequel! So get ready for Mark Duplass (Josef) to creep you out once more!

Donnie Darko (2001)

This movie is a mind-bending journey into, literally, a parallel universe. After surviving a freak accident, Donnie Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal) a mentally-troubled teenager, uncovers secrets about time, destiny, and unlocks the tempting power to alter his own fate. If this seems a little too deep for you, don't worry, there's a talking bunny rabbit to lighten up the mood. It also features a killer score with songs from the 80s band Tears for Fears. If you haven't already joined the cult following of Donnie Darko, its about time you have. This film is currently available for streaming on Netflix as well!

Nocturnal Animals (2016)

Amy Adams plays Susan, a withdrawn yet highly successful art-gallery owner in Los Angeles. Disillusioned by her lavish lifestyle and second marriage, Susan feels empty. Abruptly, she receives a packaged from her ex-husband containing a manuscript from his new novel titled Nocturnal Animals, a nickname he used to have for Susan. Unable to battle her curiosity, Susan becomes engrossed in the novels pages and is forced to examine her past and confront some dark truths about her first marriage. The film also stars Jake Gyllenhaal is definitely a production masterpiece and a must-see.

Her (2013)

In the age of technology this film is really not too far fetched. Heartbroken after a divorce, a sensitive man falls into depression and disconnects himself from friends. After purchasing a new operating system he develops and deep and personal connection with her operating system. If you can get past the whole 'falls in love with a computer' concept and just watch with an open mind, this movie will be sure to become a favorite.

What other indie films do you feel are way too underrated, unknown or forgotten? Share them below and binge on!