Films about old women often delve into themes of aging, memory, resilience, and the complexities of life from the vantage point of women who have lived through decades of change, conflict, and transformation. These films can range from character-driven dramas to lighthearted comedies, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that highlight the challenges and triumphs unique to aging. These stories serve to foreground voices and perspectives that are frequently marginalized in our youth-centric culture, providing valuable insights into the lives of older women, their struggles, their joys, and the wisdom they carry.
“Driving Miss Daisy”, 1989
Director: Bruce Beresford
This film explores the unlikely friendship between Daisy Werthan, a wealthy, strong-willed Southern widow, and her African American chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, over several decades. As Miss Daisy ages, the evolving dynamic between the two characters touches on themes of prejudice, aging, and mutual respect.
Starring: Morgan Freeman, Jessica Tandy, Dan Aykroyd, Patti LuPone, Esther Rolle, Jo Ann Havrilla, William Hall Jr., Alvin M. Sugarman, Clarice F. Geigerman, Muriel Moore;
Production year: 1989;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 99 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Driving Miss Daisy” on the website imdb.com
“The Queen”, 2005
Director: Stephen Frears
Starring Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II, the film delves into the life of the monarch in her older years, focusing particularly on the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death. It presents a nuanced look at the challenges of leadership and the complexities of navigating public and private life in times of national crisis.
Starring: Helen Mirren, James Cromwell, Michael Sheen, Alex Jennings, Sylvia Syms, Helen McCrory, Roger Allam, Tim McMullan, Robin Soans, Lola Peploe;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “The Queen” on the website imdb.com
“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, 2011
Director: John Madden
A group of British retirees decide to take their retirements to the less expensive and seemingly exotic India, taking residence in what they believe is a newly restored hotel. The ensemble cast of older characters, including several women, finds humor and new purpose in their senior years, dealing with themes of aging, love, and cultural differences.
Starring: Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Dev Patel, Tom Wilkinson, Maggie Smith, Penelope Wilton, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup, Patrick Pearson, Hugh Dickson;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 124 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” on the website imdb.com
“Amour”, 2012
Director: Michael Haneke
This film tells the heartbreaking story of an elderly couple, Anne and Georges, who are retired music teachers with a daughter who lives abroad. After Anne suffers a stroke that leaves her partially paralyzed, Georges cares for her, showcasing the challenges and devotion inherent in aging and love.
Starring: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva, Isabelle Huppert, Alexandre Tharaud, William Shimell, Ramón Agirre, Rita Blanco, Carole Franck, Laurent Capelluto;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Amour” on the website imdb.com
“I, Tonya”, 2017
Director: Craig Gillespie
While not exclusively about an old woman, “I, Tonya” features Allison Janney in an Academy Award-winning performance as LaVona Golden, the hard-edged mother of figure skater Tonya Harding. The film includes portrayals of LaVona at different ages, including her later years, providing a stark look into the complexities of her relationship with her daughter against the backdrop of the competitive world of figure skating.
Starring: Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison Janney, Julianne Nicholson, Paul Walter Hauser, Bobby Cannavale, Bojana Novakovic, Caitlin Carver, Maizie Smith, Mckenna Grace;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: biography, sport, comedy, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 119 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
“Book Club”, 2018
Director: Bill Holderman
This comedy follows four lifelong friends in their late 60s who read “Fifty Shades of Grey” in their monthly book club and have their lives changed forever. The film deals with themes of aging, sexuality, and rediscovery as each of the women embarks on her own journey of personal exploration.
Starring: Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Mary Steenburgen, Andy Garcia, Craig T. Nelson, Don Johnson, Ed Begley Jr., Richard Dreyfuss, Wallace Shawn;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: comedy, melodrama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
“Little Women”, 2019
Director: Greta Gerwig
While not exclusively focused on an old woman, this adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel features several timelines, including the later years of Marmee March and Aunt March. It navigates through the lives of the March sisters into their adult lives, exploring enduring themes of family, independence, and aspirations.
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern, Timothée Chalamet, Tracy Letts, Bob Odenkirk, James Norton, Louis Garrel;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 135 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Little Women” on the website imdb.com
These films, among others, contribute to a growing genre that offers a reflective look at the lives of older women, presenting their stories with the depth, dignity, and diversity they deserve. They serve as reminders of the rich narratives that can be found at every stage of life.
The portrayal of older women in film has transcended from background characters to complex, leading figures, offering audiences a rich tapestry of stories that delve into the multifaceted realities of aging, wisdom, and the enduring spirit of womanhood. These films provide not only a platform for seasoned actresses to showcase their formidable talents but also serve as a cultural reflection on society's evolving perspectives towards aging and the roles of older women both in our lives and narratives. As cinema continues to explore and celebrate the lives of older women, it challenges stereotypes, encourages a broader appreciation of the human experience, and magnifies the undeniable impact that these characters – as embodiments of resilience, love, and strength – have on audiences worldwide. In doing so, films about old women not only enrich the cinematic landscape but also play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive and empathetic world.
