Films about depression delve into the psychological and emotional elements of this mental health disorder, often portraying the struggles, challenges, and experiences of those dealing with depression. These films can help in spreading awareness, reducing stigma, and may resonate deeply with viewers who might be going through similar battles, or have loved ones who are. Often poignant and powerful, they can serve as both art and aids in understanding mental health better.
“The Hours”, 2002
Director: Stephen Daldry
This drama depicts three women from different generations, all of whom are affected by the novel “Mrs. Dalloway” by Virginia Woolf. It explores themes of depression and mental illness, with Woolf herself being a character struggling with bipolar disorder leading to depressive states.
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Meryl Streep, Ed Harris, Miranda Richardson, Claire Danes, Jeff Daniels, Stephen Dillane, John C. Reilly, Toni Collette;
Production year: 2002;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “The Hours” on the website imdb.com
“Little Miss Sunshine”, 2006
Director: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris
In this comedy-drama, a dysfunctional family goes on a road trip to support the young daughter's beauty pageant dream. The grandfather, uncle, and brother all handle personal ordeals, including depression and suicidal tendencies.
Starring: Abigail Breslin, Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Paul Dano, Steve Carell, Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston, Dean Norris, Julio Oscar Mechoso, Marc Turtletaub;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 101 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Little Miss Sunshine” on the website imdb.com
“It's Kind of a Funny Story”, 2010
Director: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
This film follows a teenage boy, Craig, who checks himself into a mental health clinic due to suicidal thoughts. He meets a variety of individuals facing their own mental health challenges, and learns more about life, coping mechanisms, and the importance of seeking help.
Starring: Keir Gilchrist, Emma Roberts, Zach Galifianakis, Viola Davis, Lauren Graham, Jim Gaffigan, Zoe Kravitz, Dana DeVestern, Karen Chilton, Aasif Mandvi;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 101 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “It's Kind of a Funny Story” on the website imdb.com
“Prozac Nation”, 2001
Director: Erik Skjoldbjærg
Based on Elizabeth Wurtzel's autobiography, this film chronicles the life of a young woman dealing with major depressive disorder amid the challenges of her career, relationships, and personal growth, all while starting treatment with the then-new drug, Prozac.
Starring: Christina Ricci, Jason Biggs, Anne Heche, Michelle Williams, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Jessica Lange, Jesse Moss, Nicholas Campbell, Zoe Miller, Sheila Paterson;
Production year: 2001;
Genre: drama, melodrama, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 95 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,2;
More information about the film “Prozac Nation” on the website imdb.com
“A Single Man”, 2009
Director: Tom Ford
Directed by Tom Ford and based on the novel by Christopher Isherwoode, the film follows a day in the life of George Falconer, a depressed and suicidal English professor in 1962 who struggles to find meaning after the death of his partner.
Starring: Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, Nicholas Hoult, Matthew Goode, Jon Kortajarena, Paulette Lamori, Ryan Simpkins, Ginnifer Goodwin, Teddy Sears, Paul Butler;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: thriller, drama, melodrama, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 100 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “A Single Man” on the website imdb.com
“Cake”, 2014
Director: Daniel Barnz
Jennifer Aniston plays Claire Bennett, a woman dealing with chronic pain, initiates a poignant journey fueled by the suicide of a member in her support group. The film explores grief, depression, and the protagonist's pathway to healing.
Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Adriana Barraza, Felicity Huffman, William H. Macy, Anna Kendrick, Sam Worthington, Mamie Gummer, Chris Messina, Lucy Punch, Britt Robertson;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,4;
More information about the film “Cake” on the website imdb.com
“Leaving Las Vegas”, 1995
Director: Mike Figgis
Nicolas Cage stars in this romantic drama about an alcoholic screenwriter who decides to drink himself to death in Las Vegas, where he forms a complicated relationship with a kind-hearted prostitute, both grappling with severe personal turmoils including depression.
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Elisabeth Shue, Julian Sands, Richard Lewis, Steven Weber, Kim Adams, Emily Procter, Stuart Regen, Valeria Golino, Graham Beckel;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
These films, while often heavy, offer crucial visibility for mental health issues and can play a role in educating audiences and fostering empathy.
In conclusion, films about depression serve as a powerful medium to delve into the complex, often misunderstood realm of mental health. By portraying raw and authentic narratives, these films foster empathy, challenge stigmas, and initiate important conversations about depression. They provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the condition, its impact on individuals and their loved ones, and the diverse ways people cope and find resilience. As the film industry continues to explore these poignant themes, it empowers audiences with greater awareness and a more profound sense of compassion towards those who struggle with depression.
