Films About Thanksgiving:
Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrated primarily in the United States, is a time for families to come together and express gratitude. Over the years, several films have captured the essence of this special occasion, showcasing the joys, challenges, and heartfelt moments that often accompany Thanksgiving gatherings. Here are a few films that revolve around the theme of Thanksgiving:
“Home for the Holidays”, 1995
Director: Jodie Foster
Directed by Jodie Foster, this comedy-drama follows Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter) as she navigates a chaotic Thanksgiving reunion with her dysfunctional family. With a stellar ensemble cast including Robert Downey Jr., Anne Bancroft, and Charles Durning, the film portrays the ups and downs of family dynamics during the holiday season.
Starring: Holly Hunter, Robert Downey Jr., Anne Bancroft, Charles Durning, Dylan McDermott, Geraldine Chaplin, Steve Guttenberg, Cynthia Stevenson, Claire Danes, Emily Ann Lloyd, Zack Duhame, Austin Pendleton, David Strathairn, Amy Yasbeck, Celeste Lecesne, Angela Paton, Randy Stone, Sam Slovick, Shawn Hatosy, Nat Benchley, Molly Austin, Vivienne Shub, Julie Ann Mendez, Bus Howard, Johnny Tonini, Eva Langsdorff, Wilder Ferguson, Stephaine Francoz, Blake Hovespian, Natasha Stanton;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “Home for the Holidays” on the website imdb.com
“Pieces of April”, 2003
Director: Peter Hedges
In this independent film directed by Peter Hedges, April Burns (Katie Holmes) is determined to host a Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family in her small New York City apartment. As she faces various obstacles, April's journey becomes a heartwarming exploration of forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of love.
Starring: Katie Holmes, Derek Luke, Oliver Platt, Alison Pill, John Gallagher Jr., Patricia Clarkson, Alice Drummond, Lillias White, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Adrian Martinez, Susan Bruce, Jamari Richardson, Leila Danette, Stephen Chen, Sally Leung Bayer, Sean Hayes, Sisqó, Marcus Lovett, Jack Chen, Jacqueline Dai, Rosa Luo, Birdie M. Hale, Armando Riesco, Christine Todino, Anney Giobbe, Elizabeth Douglass, Rusty De Wees, Vincent Roselli, Ficchi, Tiffany Tzeng;
Production year: 2003;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 80 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “Pieces of April” on the website imdb.com
“The Ice Storm”, 1997
Director: Ang Lee
Directed by Ang Lee, this drama takes place over the Thanksgiving weekend in 1973. Set in suburban Connecticut, the film follows two dysfunctional families as they struggle with their own personal crises amidst the backdrop of a major ice storm. With a stellar cast including Kevin Kline, Joan Allen, and Sigourney Weaver, this film delves into themes of suburban disillusionment and the breakdown of traditional family values.
Starring: Kevin Kline, Joan Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Henry Czerny, Tobey Maguire, Christina Ricci, Elijah Wood, Adam Hann-Byrd, David Krumholtz, Jamey Sheridan, Kate Burton, William Cain, Michael Cumpsty, Maia Danziger, Katie Holmes, Michael Egerman, Christine Farrell, Glenn Fitzgerald, Allison Janney, Jonathan Freeman, Barbara Garrick, Dennis Gagomiros, John Benjamin Hickey, Tom Flagg, Byron Jennings, Miles Marek, Colette Kilroy, Ivan Kronenfeld, Daniel McDonald, Donna Mitchell, Barbara Neal, Nancy Opel, Larry Pine, Wendy Scott, Marcell Rosenblatt, Evelyn Solann, Jessica Stone, Sarah Thompson, Scott Wentworth, Robert Westenberg, Colleen Camp, Ann Kinner, Bill McIntyre, Joe O'Connor, Courtney Peldon, Bettina Skye;
Production year: 1997;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “The Ice Storm” on the website imdb.com
“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”, 1973
Director: Bill Melendez, Phil Roman
This animated television special, based on the Peanuts comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition for many. The story centers around Charlie Brown and his friends as they try to put together a Thanksgiving dinner, reminding us of the importance of friendship and gratitude.
Starring: Todd Barbee, Robin Kohn, Stephen Shea, Hilary Momberger-Powers, Christopher DeFaria, Jimmy Ahrens, Robin Reed, Vince Guaraldi, Bill Melendez;
Production year: 1973;
Genre: animation, short film, comedy, family;
Duration: 25 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a range of perspectives on Thanksgiving, from heartwarming comedies to introspective dramas. Each one captures the essence of the holiday in its own unique way, reminding us of the power of family, love, and gratitude during this special time of year.
In conclusion, films about Thanksgiving often serve as heartwarming reflections of family dynamics, gratitude, and the spirit of togetherness, showcasing the complexities of relationships against the backdrop of a festive holiday. From classic comedies to poignant dramas, these movies encapsulate the essence of the season, reminding us of the importance of connection and reflection amidst the chaos of life. Whether through humor, nostalgia, or emotional depth, each film offers a unique perspective on what it means to give thanks, making them a cherished part of our cinematic landscape and an annual tradition for many viewers during this special time of year.
