Grief is difficult to navigate, and we often deal with it differently. Some may seek the guidance of their loved ones, while others will use entertainment to help them cope with their feelings.
Films are a popular medium that has helped millions of people explore the depths of grief, allowing us to connect with characters who may have faced similar losses or challenges. Here are some great examples of thought-provoking movies that navigate grief’s complexities.
‘Dad’ (1989)
The movie explores the tale of a son who is estranged from his father. As fate would have it, his father falls gravely sick, forcing the son to face his unresolved emotions of resentment and pain toward him. The film skillfully navigates this complex relationship and emphasizes the pivotal influence fathers have on their sons. It also shows the audience that whether we have a love/hate relationship with our parents, they consistently hold a significant place in our lives.
‘The Father’ (2020)
The Father follows an older man who is slowly succumbing to dementia, with his loving daughter fighting to keep him at home despite the pressure to move him to a nursing home. The film does an incredible job of immersing the audience in the father’s mental deterioration. It is a raw film that provides a beautiful reminder of the power of family and connection.
‘The Lovely Bones’ (2009)
This movie portrays the story of a young girl named Susie Salmon, who is murdered, and how her family is coming to terms with her death. The film blends the reality of what her family is experiencing on Earth with the girl’s perspective as she watches them struggle to find the truth about her disappearance. “The Lovely Bones” is a haunting movie that ultimately shares how humans are resilient in the face of loss and grief.
It is also a great example of how families may deal with grief differently and why seeking guidance and support is crucial for your mental and physical health.
‘Bridge to Terabithia’ (2007)
Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb in a scene from “Bridge to Terabithia.” (Photo: Walden Media).
“Bridge to Terabitha” is a fantasy-filled movie about two young friends, Jess and Leslie, who create an imaginary world to escape their reality. However, the story takes a tragic turn when Jess experiences a devastating loss and must find a way to cope with this grief. This heartbreaking story reminds us that even in the depths of pain, there are still moments of hope, imagination, and healing.
‘Asteroid City’ (2023)
“Asteroid City” is a whimsical film directed by Wes Anderson. It tells the story of a small town that welcomes newcomers who become stuck in the area due to the arrival of aliens that have suddenly appeared on Earth. The movie introduces many interesting characters and focuses on a father named Augie, who is grieving the loss of his wife.
As the townspeople try to find ways to cope with their impending doom, they realize what truly matters in life and find solace in each other’s company. A quirky and heartwarming take on grief, “Asteroid City” shows us that even in the face of tragedy, you can still find beauty and hope.
‘What They Had’ (2018)
This film follows a family struggling with their mother’s decline into Alzheimer’s. The characters are confronted with the conflicts they must navigate, such as memory loss. The movie does a beautiful job of bringing to light the emotions one feels when facing deteriorating health and the importance of reminiscing on old memories to move forward.
The movie’s powerful plot has the power to help the audience understand the toll of caring for a family member. There are many responsibilities to fulfill, from moving an elderly parent to a new home to handling finances. The movie’s raw portrayal of these struggles can resonate with people who have faced similar challenges and bring comfort as they see their experiences portrayed on screen.
‘Causeway’ (2022)
Brian Tyree Henry and Jennifer Lawrence in a scene from “Causeway.” (Photo: A24).
“Causeway” is a film about a veteran, Lynsey, played by Jennifer Lawrence, who returns home from Afghanistan after suffering a brain injury. The movie explores the difficulty of navigating life after a traumatic experience and how to build a new normal. It also emphasizes the importance of friendship and support as Lynsey navigates her grief and trauma, making it an emotional yet heartwarming story. It sheds light on many veterans’ struggles and their need for understanding and support in dealing with traumatic events and injuries.
Aside from full-length movies, there are also short animated films like “Starling” that deal with grief in a way that is both relatable and unique. The filmmaker’s experience of losing a childhood friend in Istanbul inspired the story, which follows a young star (a protostar, or starling) who has fallen from the sky. Although it is only 10 minutes long, the film captures the emotions and journey of grief beautifully.
These films provide us with healthy outlets to make sense of grief and witness how the characters deal with uncomfortable emotional journeys. However, it is crucial to understand that getting the proper support from loved ones or a dedicated professional is essential to heal from our internal and external struggles.
