More than 40 percent of people in the U.S. are caregivers, but many may not even realize it. Whether it’s caring for an aging parent, supporting a disabled partner, or juggling the demands of raising children, care is woven into the fabric of our lives in ways that are both obvious and subtle. Yet, these experiences can easily be overlooked or misunderstood, even by those living them.
That’s why I’m encouraged by the number of films I’ve seen this year that are deeply reflective of more unique and expansive nuances of care. U.S. audiences are hungry for more authentic care representation on screen — a fact highlighted in our Norman Lear Center report “This Is What Art Is Supposed To Do,” which showed a growing demand for stories that reflect the true complexity of care. Film has a unique ability to meet this need, and I’ve been fortunate to see many incredible examples at this year’s Sundance and Toronto International Film Festivals and beyond — showing not just the responsibilities of care, but the particular emotions, relationships, and transformations that come with it.
Here are 10 current and upcoming films that highlight the diverse and complex ways care touches our lives, whether through aging, disability, illness or child care. They capture the essence of what it means to be a caregiver, a care receiver, or both at once; they challenge entrenched ideas about age, ability, and gender and how those relate to care. Most of all, they help all of us see our own experiences reflected on screen, reminding us that we’re all part of this shared human journey.
‘His Three Daughters’
Dramedy that captures the complex family dynamics that can emerge when carrying out an older parent’s end-of-life care wishes. Caring Across recently partnered with Netflix to host a community screening of this film.
With a blend of observant humor and deep authenticity, this film captures the emotional complexity of siblings managing care for their aging father. As they navigate the tensions and heartaches of end-of-life care, the film shows how transformative these moments can be, both in terms of the relationships involved and the personal growth each character experiences. This story isn’t afraid to dive into the hard realities, making it all the more relatable for those who’ve walked a similar path. Streaming now on Netflix.
‘Thelma’
Comedic heist film that shows an older adult woman taking charge of her own fate.
“Thelma” refreshingly portrays an older woman who refuses to be defined by her age or her fears. The film is hilarious and honest, showing that older adults are also complex characters with agency, humor, and a deep sense of self-determination. This story makes an important shift to the cultural narrative around aging, and emphasizes that care is not just about physical needs but emotional and psychological empowerment as well. Streaming now on Apple TV, Amazon Prime and other platforms.
‘Super/Man’
This documentary about Christopher Reeves’ journey after becoming disabled is also not-so-secretly the story of his wife and caregiver, Dana.
This biopic goes beyond the story of Superman, shining a light on the profound partnership between Christopher Reeves and his wife, Dana. The film carefully depicts the delicate balance between caring for someone and honoring their agency and individuality. It’s a testament to the power of love and resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges, and a clear depiction of what true partnership in care looks like. In theaters now.
‘Patrice: The Movie’
Documentary rom-com that puts a spotlight on the broken disability care system.
In this unique blend of documentary and romantic comedy, a Black disabled woman fights for reform in a care system that’s stacked against her. The film doesn’t just follow her personal journey; it critiques a system that forces her and her disabled partner to choose between marriage and survival, as they risk losing their benefits if they get married. Through humor and heartache, this film powerfully underscores the systemic barriers that many disabled individuals face, and the resilience required to navigate them. Streaming now on Hulu.
‘Rez Ball’
Coming-of-age sports drama that spotlights a culturally authentic model of collective, intergenerational care.
This entry into the teen sports genre, produced by LeBron James and Sterlin Harjo, is more than just a story about basketball — it’s a tribute to the power of community care. In the wake of a tragedy, a high school team and their community find their healing and strength within a system of intergenerational support. This film helps showcase that care extends beyond the family and into the community at large. Streaming now on Netflix.
‘We Live in Time’
Romantic drama that touches on serious illness and care and Inverts traditional gender norms around spousal and child care.
This decade-spanning romance turns typical gender roles on their head, with Andrew Garfield’s character stepping into the role of a dedicated father and emotionally vulnerable partner. Meanwhile, Florence Pugh’s character wrestles with the intersection of motherhood and career ambitions. By exploring the dynamics of care during serious illness within a relationship, this film challenges traditional narratives and invites the audience to see the beauty in shared responsibilities. In theaters Oct. 11.
‘Night Bitch’
Dark comedy that acknowledges the real-life impacts of the high cost of child care and the lack of government support for parents.
A genre-bending exploration of new motherhood, Amy Adams’ portrayal of a stay-at-home mom tackles the overwhelming responsibilities of child care head-on. In one striking scene, she calls out the U.S. government for its failure to support parents through paid leave and child care. This moment speaks to so many parents who, like her character, have sacrificed their careers to care for their children full time not by choice, but because “the numbers just didn’t add up.” It highlights the visible and invisible costs of care many mothers and parents experience. In theaters Dec. 6.
‘Out Of My Mind’
Coming-of-age film centering a disabled young woman telling her own story.
This groundbreaking film is led by the perspective of a disabled young woman navigating her world. By focusing on her perspective, the film highlights the importance of appropriate care supports — such as an augmentative and alternative communication device that helps someone with a speech or language impairment to communicate — that enable her to live a full, dignified life. It also touches on the complex emotions parent caregivers face, making it a deeply resonant story for anyone involved in care. Streaming soon on Disney+.
‘K-POPS’
Crowd-pleasing comedy that disrupts stereotypes around fatherhood and emotional care. Also includes Emmy-nominated Yvette Nicole Brown, who is a member of our Creative Care Council and the primary caregiver for her father, Omar.
Anderson .Paak’s debut feature film defies negative onscreen stereotypes related to Black fathers and replaces them with an authentic reflection of emotionally engaged fatherhood. As he connects with the son he never knew, .Paak’s character finds new purpose and fulfillment in a role traditionally overshadowed by gendered expectations. This film is a reminder that men and women are equally capable of emotional care, and it beautifully captures the deep joy and bonds that people can find when becoming caregivers. The film is seeking distribution.
‘The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat’
Friendship drama that touches on the importance of having support when navigating aging and end-of-life care.
This drama follows three lifelong friends who support each other and find joy together as they navigate challenging times, including caring for someone as they age. It’s a reminder that relying on one’s community is not a weakness, and that care is often a collective, shared experience. Streaming now on Hulu and Disney+.
Bonus: ‘Familiar Touch’
Caring Across consulted on this “coming of (old) age film” that tells a new story about aging and dementia, which collected seven awards from its debut at the 2024 Venice Film Festival.
This poignant and hopeful drama is a refreshing departure from the typical “decline” narrative often associated with dementia. Starring Kathleen Chalfant, the film invites viewers to see age and memory loss not as an end, but as a new chapter of life. By telling the story from the lead character’s own point of view, it challenges the audience to rethink their perceptions of aging and the care that accompanies it. Stay tuned for updates.
Everyone has a care story, but so often they’ve been missing from the lives of the people we see on screen. In big ways and small, these films are all contributing to a fuller, more authentic picture of life. The more we see nuances like these reflected back at us, the more we realize that we all have care in common.
