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I was talking to my mum about movies that she felt portrayed older people authentically and this is one of the movies she recommended (with the warning that it’s another romcom for me to sit through). I’m incredibly glad she did. The film takes a refreshing look at love and life over 50, with Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson delivering memorable performances. As their characters, Erica and Harry, navigate an unexpected romance, the movie dives into ageism, menopause, divorce, and love at a later stage in life. It tackles personal reinvention, showing that ageing can come with new beginnings and growth. With its sharp wit and genuine warmth, Something’s Gotta Give stands out as a delightful and insightful portrayal of older adults living vibrant, full lives. I have to be honest, I watched this movie with a large grin and I don’t tend to enjoy rom-coms. Even if romcoms aren’t your thing, I recommend giving this one a watch.
Grace and Frankie is a show that captures the complexities and joys of ageing. Starring Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, it centers around two women over 70 who form an unexpected friendship after their husbands reveal they are in love with each other. While the show has its problematic moments, it is refreshing to see a portrayal of older women that isn’t patronising or riddled with goofy stereotypes. Grace and Frankie navigate challenges with friends, family, sex, and more all while defying ageist notions. The series showcases the resilience and adaptability of its characters, emphasizing that life after 70 can be vibrant and full of opportunities for growth. With sharp humour and heartfelt storytelling, Grace and Frankie provides an insightful look into the lives of older adults, celebrating their experiences with authenticity and warmth. It also proves that audiences are more than willing to watch stories about older characters.
Ikiru is a Japanese movie that’s over 70 years old and yet still resonates with many people. The movie is a profound exploration of ageing and the human quest for meaning. It is a story of a man who’s faced with terminal stomach cancer and has only a few months left to live. With the sudden realization that he has very little time left, he is left reconsidering his life and the impact he had on those around him. Rather than succumbing to despair, Watanabe embarks on a journey to find purpose, fighting to change a system that is broken. This narrative challenges ageist stereotypes by depicting an older individual as capable of personal growth and societal contribution. It highlights the human capacity for change and impact, regardless of age. If you are not big into watching older movies, there was an adaptation of the movie in 2023 called Living. However, I really recommend watching the original as well.
The Kominsky Method is one of those shows that will make you laugh hysterically one second and cry the next. It’s a beautiful and nuanced exploration of ageing, friendship, and relationships. The series tackles physical and mental health issues with a blend of humour and poignancy, capturing the complexities of growing older without victimizing older people. It highlights the deep friendship between Sandy and Norman, showcasing the importance of social connections while also delving into the complicated nature of interpersonal relationships. The show emphasizes that personal growth, ambitions, and learning continue throughout life, portraying older adults as resilient and vibrant. Balancing comedy with heartfelt moments, it offers a rich depiction of ageing, making it a standout example of authentic representation in media. I highly recommend watching it, but I take no responsibility if you end up binge-watching it in one weekend.
About Schmidt is not a movie to watch if you’re looking for a quick laugh. While it is a comedy-drama, the film can be quite gut-wrenching. The story centres on Warren Schmidt, a recently retired insurance actuary who grapples with the death of his wife and the realization that his life may not have the significance he once believed. Like many people at some stage of their lives, he questions the meaning behind how he spent his limited time on earth. The film challenges ageist stereotypes by portraying an older man navigating personal growth. Through its honest and occasionally humorous depiction of Schmidt’s struggles and self-discovery, the movie highlights the human capacity for reflection, change, and finding meaning at any stage of life. Though it can be quite heavy, I highly recommend giving it a watch, especially for Jack Nicholson’s embodiment of the protagonist.