Published By: Jayati

Families can be Tough! Here are 5 films that explore that very theme!

These families are the most colourful ones you’ll see on screen!

Movies depicting dysfunctional family relationships offer a unique form of entertainment, highlighting the significance of strong familial connections for viewers. The appeal of these films lies in their satirical exploration of the persistence of family ideals, often leading to extraordinary situations. Whether depicted in a tragic or comedic light, these movies consistently evolve, captivating audiences with their genre through reinterpretations.

'Hereditary' (2018)

In "Hereditary," following the demise of the enigmatic family matriarch, Annie (portrayed by Toni Collette) and her kin encounter increasingly bizarre occurrences, disrupting their once tranquil domesticity. A harrowing tragedy unveils a gateway to further horrors for the traumatised family. Regarded as one of the finest psychological horror flicks exploring demonic family dynamics, "Hereditary" also serves as a poignant exploration of grief and loss, driving individuals to extreme lengths to alleviate their anguish. Through this A24 production, director Ari Aster proves himself as a contemporary maestro of horror, earning accolades from fans of the genre worldwide.

'Boyhood' (2014)

Mason Evans Jr.'s coming-of-age tale was depicted in Richard Linklater's Boyhood over 12 arduous years, from the age of 6 to his 18th birthday and the 12th grade. The film explores Mason's turbulent journey from childhood to adolescence and the intricacies of his dynamic relationships with his sister and divided parents. With the same actors frequently appearing in several other films shot during the making of this movie, audiences have the opportunity to witness the characters' development over time. This poignant tale of growing up is filled with vignettes that many will find relatable, capturing the essence of life's simple yet profound moments, including constant sibling arguments, broken promises with parents, and first romantic encounters.

'Little Miss Sunshine' (2006)

A beloved film from the 2000s, Little Miss Sunshine centres on the dysfunctional Hoover family, which consists of the father Richard (Greg Kinnear), his wife Sheryl (Toni Collette), their daughter Olive (Abigail Breslin), and an unruly brother and grandpa to round out the cast. They set off on an amusing road trip together to support Olive, who is participating in the child pageant that shares its name with the film’s title. The Hoovers' tolerance for one another gradually wears out as the dysfunctional family's odd behaviour starts to clash in their fabled yellow Volkswagen. 

'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (2022)

Everything Everywhere All at Once, the global hit and Oscar-winning masterpiece from the Daniels, chronicles the crazy adventure an ageing Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh) takes after discovering she is the only one who can preserve the multiverse. Considering how difficult it is for her to manage her busy laundry, failing marriage, and tumultuous connection with her daughter Joy (Stephanie Hsu), this is the last thing she needs. In the outrageous and frequently humorous movie, Evelyn explores her other identities and quickly realises that the main antagonist she must defeat is a reincarnation of her own daughter.

'The Royal Tenenbaums' (2001)

Wes Anderson has made a name for himself in the film industry with family-related films, in addition to his signature symmetrical shots and deadpan humour. The Royal Tenenbaums shines a spotlight on the quirks, heartaches, and letdowns of the Tenenbaum family, perhaps stemming from the sudden departure of patriarch Royal Tenenbaum (Gene Hackman). Twenty-two years later, Royal announces he has cancer and reappears upon hearing of his ex-wife's potential remarriage. Meanwhile, his adult children are preoccupied with their own equally vexing issues. The remainder of the movie shows their oddball adult lives and how their upbringing influenced them.

These films illustrate the fact that families can impact one’s life in many different ways. While the impact might not be felt at first, it lingers subconsciously!