Films About Retirement
Here are several films that thoughtfully explore the theme of retirement:
“The Intern”, 2015
Director: Nancy Meyers
A 70-year-old widower finds retirement to be incredibly dull, leading him to apply for a senior intern position at an online fashion retailer. The film humorously and warmly explores themes of retirement, cross-generational mentorship, and staying relevant.
Starring: Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Rene Russo, Anders Holm, JoJo Kushner, Andy Rannells, Adam Devine, Zack Pearlman, Jason Orley, Christina Scherer;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 121 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Intern” on the website imdb.com
“Finding Your Feet”, 2017
Director: Richard Loncraine
When 'Lady' Sandra Abbott discovers her husband of forty years is having an affair, she seeks refuge with her estranged, bohemian sister Bif. As she is dragged along to a community dance class, Sandra starts finding new joy in life. The film is a poignant, humorous look at starting anew in retirement.
Starring: Imelda Staunton, Celia Imrie, Timothy Spall, Joanna Lumley, David Hayman, John Sessions, Josie Lawrence, Phoebe Nicholls, Indra Ové, Marianne Oldham;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy, family, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 111 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,7;
More information about the film “Finding Your Feet” on the website imdb.com
“Late Bloomers”, 2011
Director: Julie Gavras
This comedy-drama centers on a married couple confronting the realities of aging. As they each respond to retirement and physical decline in different ways, the film delves into the complexities of aging, love, and reinvention.
Starring: William Hurt, Isabella Rossellini, Doreen Mantle, Kate Ashfield, Aidan McArdle, Arta Dobroshi, Luke Treadaway, Leslie Phillips, Hugo Speer, Joanna Lumley;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 95 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,7;
More information about the film “Late Bloomers” on the website imdb.com
“Quartet”, 2012
Director: Dustin Hoffman
Set in a home for retired musicians, the annual concert to celebrate Verdi's birthday is disrupted by the arrival of Jean, an eternal diva and the former wife of one of the residents. The film, directed by Dustin Hoffman, is a delightful exploration of aging, art, and friendship.
Starring: Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins, Michael Gambon, Sheridan Smith, Andrew Sachs, Gwyneth Jones, Trevor Peacock, David Ryall;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “Quartet” on the website imdb.com
“Gran Torino”, 2008
Director: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood stars as Walt Kowalski, a recently widowed Korean War veteran alienated from his family and angry at the world. Walt's life changes when he confronts a young Hmong teenager attempting to steal his prized 1972 Gran Torino. The film touches on themes of retirement, redemption, and forming unexpected bonds.
Starring: Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Christopher Carley, Ahney Her, Brian Haley, Geraldine Hughes, Dreama Walker, Brian Howe, John Carroll Lynch, William Hill;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 116 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Gran Torino” on the website imdb.com
These films, each in their own unique way, tackle the multi-faceted experience of retirement, offering both light-hearted and profound takes on this significant life transition.
In conclusion, films about retirement offer a deeply reflective and often poignant look at a universal phase of life, blending humor, drama, and introspection to tell stories that resonate across generations. Whether it’s the comedic approach of movies like “The Bucket List,” which tackles the theme of making the most out of life’s final chapters, or the sobering reality presented in “Amour,” showcasing the challenges and enduring love in the face of aging, these films succeed in exploring the multifaceted experience of retirement. They not only entertain but also serve as a mirror reflecting society's changing attitudes towards aging, retirement, and the value of life in its waning stages. Through their narratives, we are invited to confront our own perceptions of aging, find inspiration in the resilience demonstrated by their characters, and perhaps rethink the ways we envision our own golden years.
