Movie Review: The Role of Grandmothers in Film and Themes Explored in “Grandma” (2015)

Movie Review Grandma: A Deep Dive into Movies and Grandmothers

Grandmothers are inspiring figures in storytelling. They hold families together. Movies depict them in various ways, from heartwarming stories to chilling horrors. Let’s explore films with grandmothers, starting with the indie film, "Grandma" (2015).

Delving into "Grandma" (2015)

Is "Grandma" worth your time? Yes. This film is not a typical feel-good story. It offers a raw view of intergenerational bonds. It tackles tough choices and showcases family power, even in chaos.

Plot Unpacked: What's "Grandma" Really About?

"Grandma" centers on Elle, played by Lily Tomlin. Elle is a witty, misanthropic poet dealing with the loss of her partner, Violet. Estranged from her daughter, Judy, Elle's life changes when her granddaughter, Sage, arrives. Sage faces an unplanned pregnancy and urgently needs $600 for an abortion.

The film is not a casual stroll through Los Angeles. Elle, with her vintage car and sharp attitude, embarks on a day-long journey with Sage to collect the funds. This isn’t just about money. It’s a path through Elle's past and present, forcing confrontations with old wounds and forgotten relationships. The film balances humor and emotion, highlighting the bond between a grandmother and granddaughter in crisis.

The Ending Explained: Resolution and Reconciliation

The conclusion of "Grandma" is realistic and satisfying. Sage goes through the abortion, depicted sensitively without judgment. After, Judy reconnects with Sage, bridging their gap. This highlights the importance of family understanding in tough times.

Elle’s story continues. As she drives home, memories of Violet flood her. A bittersweet chuckle escapes her, a mix of love and loss. She deviates to visit Olivia, her ex-girlfriend. An apology for minimizing their past leads to growth for Elle. A kiss hints at rekindled feelings. The ending offers hope and healing rather than neat resolutions.

The Star Car: A 1955 Dodge Royal with History

The car in "Grandma" is more than just transportation; it’s a character. The striking 1955 Dodge Royal is a classic. Fun fact: it belongs to Lily Tomlin! She purchased it in 1975 for $1500, showcasing her love for vintage vehicles. The Dodge Royal symbolizes Elle’s journey through her past.

Where to Catch "Grandma": Your Viewing Options

Want to see "Grandma"? You can stream it easily. It’s available for rent or purchase on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Video. Grab your popcorn for a funny and thought-provoking movie.

Grandmothers Take Center Stage: Exploring Movie Themes

"Grandma" is just one example of grandmother-themed movies. They appear in numerous roles across genres, highlighting their complexity. Let’s look at some recurring themes.

Grandmothers and Alzheimer's: Navigating Memory Loss

Alzheimer's affects memory and cognition. Several films explore this theme. They provide poignant views on how dementia impacts families.

"The Taking of Deborah Logan": Horror and Alzheimer's

For an unsettling take, check out "The Taking of Deborah Logan." This film mixes horror with Alzheimer’s tragedy. A film crew documents Deborah's struggles, uncovering hidden horrors. It blurs the line between illness and possession, creating a disturbing and thought-provoking experience.

Netflix and Dementia: "Still Alice," "The Wind Blows," and Beyond

Netflix offers many films on dementia, often emphasizing emotional aspects. "Still Alice" stars Julianne Moore as a linguistics professor facing early-onset Alzheimer's. Her fight to maintain identity as her memory fades is poignant. "The Wind Blows" explores love and loss through Alzheimer's diagnosis.

"Not to Forget": Raising Awareness Through Film

"Not to Forget" showcases an entitled millennial caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer's. It aims to raise awareness while delivering a compelling story about the disease’s impact.

Horror Grandmas: When Sweet Turns Scary

Some grandmothers in movies are quite terrifying. Horror films exploit the innocent image of grandmothers for thrills, playing on fears.

"The Visit": M. Night Shyamalan's Grandma Shocker

"The Visit" is Shyamalan's take on grandmother horror. Two kids meet their grandparents for the first time, only to discover strange behaviors from grandma and grandpa. What begins quirky escalates into deep disturbance, questioning reality for grandchildren and audiences alike.

"The Grandmother" (2021): Spanish Horror with a Twist

For international horror, check "The Grandmother" (Spanish: "La abuela"). This film follows Susana caring for her grandmother after a brain hemorrhage. What starts as a family duty descends into terror as Susana uncovers unsettling truths about her grandmother.

Pregnancy and Grandmothers: Generational Bridges

The relationship between grandmothers and their pregnant granddaughters is rich with storytelling potential, exploring themes of support and understanding.

"Grandma" (Hulu): Revisited for its Pregnancy Angle

"Grandma," available on Hulu, focuses on unplanned pregnancy. Sage’s situation drives her to seek help from her estranged grandmother. The film showcases how grandmothers can be vital during crises, guiding younger generations through tough decisions.

Beyond the Familiar: Other Grandma-Centric Movies

The cinematic world includes many fascinating films with grandmothers in diverse roles. Let’s take a quick overview.

"The Grandmother": A Different Kind of Nightmare

A different film titled "The Grandmother" (with an original title that differs as many share this name) delves into caregiving's nightmarish aspects. Susana returns from Paris to care for her grandmother Pilar after her health crisis, exploring grim familial bonds.

"Miss Granny" (Korean): Body-Swapping Comedy

For a lighter story, watch "Miss Granny" (Korean: "수상한 그녀"). It combines humor and fantasy with the tale of a woman.

A grandmother in her 70s magically becomes 20 after a photo session at a strange studio. This film comically and warmly examines youth, aging, and second chances. The grandmother gets unexpected opportunities to relive her younger days in a surprising manner.

"Killer Grandma" and "Bad Grandmas": When Grandmas Go Rogue

These films focus on humor and action. "Killer Grandma" shows Melissa, a married woman, inviting her husband's mother to stay with them. She soon learns of grandma's wicked plans that involve Melissa's daughter. In contrast, "Bad Grandmas" is an action-comedy where grandmothers find themselves in trouble, starring Pam Grier and Florence Henderson. Both films depict grandmothers in a fun, exaggerated manner as they break free from traditional roles.

"The Leisure Seeker," "The Poetry," and "The Savages": Dramas with Grandma at the Heart

Films like "The Leisure Seeker," "The Poetry," and "The Savages" present grandmothers in deeper, more serious roles. "The Leisure Seeker" portrays a couple on a final road trip, including a husband suffering from Alzheimer’s. "The Poetry" tells of an older woman writing poems while facing early-stage Alzheimer’s. In "The Savages," two siblings return to care for their father with dementia. These films show grandmothers confronting life's obstacles and family dynamics.

Granny Spy: Espionage and Elderly Intrigue

Imagining a grandmother as a spy intrigues audiences. It upends expectations and gives the spy genre a refreshing twist.

"Red Joan": Based on a True Story of Espionage

"Red Joan" embraces this fascinating idea. Based on true events, it stars Judi Dench as Joan Stanley, an older woman revealed to be a KGB spy. The film flashes back to her youth, portraying her motivations as a Cold War double agent. "Red Joan" examines themes of secrecy, loyalty, and the hidden lives of people, even grandmothers.

The Significance of Grandmothers: Roles and Qualities

Why do grandmothers remain key figures in life and cinema? Their impact is profound and varied. Let’s look at some key points.

What Makes a Grandmother Special? Unpacking the Qualities

Grandmothers occupy a special spot in families. They provide additional care and support, particularly when parents work. They act as storytellers, sharing family histories and traditions. Many see grandmothers as second parents, offering loyal love and guidance. Their uniqueness stems from their nurturing nature, connecting generations, and giving stability.

Grandmothers as Second Parents: Extra Support and Love

The role of grandmothers as second parents is vital. They often assist in raising grandchildren, providing care and emotional backing. This role is crucial in single-parent families or when parents have demanding jobs. Grandmothers enrich children’s lives with their support and love.

Grandmothers in Storytelling: Guardians of Family Lore

Grandmothers serve as keepers of family stories. They tell tales from the past, recount family histories, and pass on cultural traditions. This sharing is essential for linking generations and developing a sense of family identity. They bring history alive for grandchildren.

Terminology and Nicknames: A Grandma Lexicon

The terms used to refer to grandmothers vary widely, echoing personal choices and cultural nuances. Let’s explore this linguistic landscape.

"Grandmother" vs. "Grandma": Formality and Familiarity

Both "grandmother" and "grandma" point to the same person – a parent’s mother. "Grandmother" is the formal word, while "grandma" is informal and often preferred. It parallels the distinction between "mother" and "mom." "Grandma" exudes warmth and affection in everyday speech.

A World of Nicknames: Nan, Grammy, Gammy, and More

Many affectionate nicknames exist for grandmothers, each unique in flavor. "Nan," "Granny," and "Gran" are popular in British English. Other variations include "Grammy," "Gammy," and "Gamma." Nickname choice often depends on family customs, regional dialects, and the grandmother’s own wishes.

Grandma Around the World: Language Variations

British Terms: Nanny, Nan, Gran - Regional Preferences

In Britain, regional preferences exist for grandmother names. While "Grandma" is common, "Nanny" is more popular in East England, "Nan" rules the West Midlands, and "Gran" is favored in Scotland. These differences display the rich language and culture within one nation.

Spanish Nicknames: Güela, Abu, Nana, Yaya - Affectionate Terms

The Spanish language offers a delightful array of grandmother nicknames. Common options include "Güela" (or "Güelita"), "Abu," "Nana," and "Yaya." Each name carries its unique affection. Notably, "Yaya" can mean "nan" in Spanish-speaking areas. These terms reflect familial warmth.

Fancy Words for Grandma: Grandam, Matriarch - Elevated Language

To add a formal tone, terms like "grandam" and "matriarch" can describe a grandmother. "Grandam" is old-fashioned, while "matriarch" emphasizes a grandmother's authority in the family. These words lend grandeur to the idea of grandmotherhood.

Related Movie Topics: Expanding the Cinematic Universe

Our look at grandmother films links to larger cinema themes and trends. Let's briefly touch upon related areas.

R-Rated Blockbusters and Horror Hits: Box Office Titans

The highest-grossing R-rated film and horror film touch on grandmothers indirectly. "Deadpool & Wolverine" holds the record for R-rated films, showcasing superhero movies aimed at mature audiences. "It" (2017) leads as the top horror film, highlighting enduring scares in cinema. While not directly related to grandmothers, these box office hits illustrate diverse cinematic interests.

Movies About Dementia: A Recurring and Important Theme

As with "The Taking of Deborah Logan" and "Still Alice," dementia frequently arises in grandmother-related films and beyond. Another notable film is "The Father," featuring Anthony Hopkins, examining dementia deeply. These works enhance understanding and empathy for affected individuals.

Dementia vs. Alzheimer's: Understanding the Difference

Differentiating dementia from Alzheimer's is crucial. Dementia is a broad term describing cognitive decline, while Alzheimer's is a specific type that leads to memory loss and deteriorating thinking abilities. Understanding this distinction enriches appreciation for films depicting these issues.

Movies for Dementia Patients: Gentle Entertainment

Selecting films for dementia patients requires careful thought. Familiar, gentle, and positive movies often work best. Titles like "Grumpy Old Men," "Cheaper by the Dozen," "Fried Green Tomatoes," and "It's A Wonderful Life" are popular choices, providing light-hearted fun without distressing plots.

"Grandpa Car" Stereotype: Cars and Age

The “grandpa car” stereotype describes vehicles appealing to older folks. These cars tend to be reliable yet not thrilling or stylish. Elle's vintage 1955 Dodge Royal in "Grandma" defies this norm with its classic flair, much like Elle herself.

Disney, R-Rated Movies, and "Grandma": A Rating Question

Why does “Grandma” have an R rating? It’s mainly due to language and mature topics like abortion. Disney typically avoids releasing R-rated content under its own brand. R-rated films tied to Disney often come from subsidiaries like 20th Century Studios or Searchlight Pictures.

Movie Plot Points: Details and Nuances

Let’s delve into specific plot points from various films to enhance our understanding of how grandmothers are represented.

"Grandma" (2015): Elle's Driving Force

Elle's motivation in "Grandma" extends beyond helping Sage with her abortion. She confronts her past and reconnects with family. Elle seeks purpose after loss. Her journey with Sage sparks personal growth. This makes her character arc compelling and engaging.

"Granny" Game and Car Escape: Gaming Connection

The "Granny" game is a popular horror title. It features a car for escape and even as a weapon wielded by Granny. This gaming element, while unrelated to "Grandma," showcases how grandmothers differ across media. They shift from helpful to terrifying roles.

"Cars" Movie Character Lizzie: Vintage Grandma in Radiator Springs

In "Cars," Lizzie is a 1923 Ford Model T Coupe. She embodies the "grandma" figure in Radiator Springs. As a widow of the town's founder, she symbolizes history and nostalgia. Lizzie injects vintage charm and wisdom into the "Cars" cast.

"Sisters" Movie Plot on Hulu: Unrelated but Intriguing

The movie "Sisters" on Hulu has no direct connection to grandmothers. Its plot about Siamese twins and a murder mystery is captivating. It reminds us that Hulu features diverse genres and themes beyond granny-focused films.

Qualities and Messages About Grandmothers: Heartfelt Sentiments

Grandmothers inspire strong emotions. They convey profound messages. Let's examine quotes, descriptions, and ideas related to grandmothers.

Quotes About Grandmothers: Celebrating Family Bonds

Quotes about grandmothers highlight their role in families. They often hold a "special part in treasured memories." Grandmothers always "have time to talk and make you feel special." They blend parent, teacher, and best friend in their relationships with grandchildren.

Descriptions of Grandmothers: Elegance and Care

Grandmothers get described as "beautiful" and "elegant," signifying their grace. They are portrayed as "caring" and "loving," showcasing their nurturing ways. They are known to "handle everyone" and "take care of everyone," embodying strength within families.

Grandmother as Inspiration: A Lasting Legacy

Grandmothers can inspire even after they depart. Works like "The Grandmother" illustrate this, showing their values that guide future generations. Their love, wisdom, and strength create a lasting legacy for their grandchildren.

From heartwarming comedies to chilling horror films, movies with grandmothers present a rich array of stories. These tales reflect the diverse roles and significance of these amazing women. They offer wisdom, solve crimes, and battle inner demons, captivating us each time.