12 Monkeys (1995) is a mind-bending science fiction thriller directed by Terry Gilliam. The film follows James Cole (Bruce Willis), a convict in a dystopian future, who is sent back in time to prevent the release of a deadly virus that devastates humanity. In the year 2035, the world is ravaged by the virus, and Cole is chosen by a group of scientists to travel to the past to stop the outbreak before it happens.

Cole’s mission takes him to 1990, where he becomes entangled with a mysterious group called the “Army of the Twelve Monkeys,” which is believed to be responsible for the virus. As he tries to piece together the truth, Cole struggles with his own sanity, unsure of what is real and what is a product of his time-travel-induced hallucinations.

Along the way, he meets Dr. Kathryn Railly (Madeleine Stowe), a psychiatrist who becomes entangled in his quest, and Jeffrey Goines (Brad Pitt), a mentally unstable man connected to the Army of the Twelve Monkeys.

As Cole navigates the complexities of time travel and his fractured perception of reality, he discovers shocking twists that challenge the fate of the world and the nature of his mission. 12 Monkeys explores themes of free will, the cyclical nature of time, and the fragility of the human mind. With its intricate plot and surreal visuals, the film remains a cult classic in the sci-fi genre.