Ready to dive into the real world of marriage? These movies about marriage problems offer a no-nonsense look at the ups and downs of committed relationships. Whether you’re newly married or have been together for decades, you’ll find relatable stories that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even rethink your own love life.
45 Years (2015)
Set in the tranquil English countryside, this movie follows Kate (Charlotte Rampling) and Geoff (Tom Courtenay), a couple on the cusp of their 45th wedding anniversary. Their relationship, built on shared memories and a deep bond, appears to be the epitome of marital bliss. However, as they prepare for their celebration, a long-buried secret resurfaces, threatening to shatter the tranquility of their seemingly idyllic life.
Director Andrew Haigh delves into the delicate balance of a lifelong relationship tested by the weight of the past. Through understated performances and evocative cinematography, the film critically acclaimed “45 Years” boasts an impressive 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its powerful storytelling and emotional depth.
Little Children (2006)
In the quiet confines of a seemingly perfect suburban neighborhood, this movie unveils a world of hidden desires and discontent.
Director Todd Field masterfully crafts a tale of two souls, Sarah (Kate Winslet), trapped in a loveless marriage, and Brad (Patrick Wilson), an immature househusband struggling to find his place in life. Their paths intertwine at the local playground, sparking a forbidden attraction that threatens to unravel their carefully constructed lives. As they delve deeper into their secret affair, they must confront the consequences of their choices and the fragility of their marriages.
With its captivating performances and thought-provoking narrative, this film offers a compelling look at the complexities of love and fidelity.
The Squid and the Whale (2005)
Noah Baumbach’s film follows the Berkman family as their lives are thrown into disarray when parents Bernard (Jeff Daniels) and Joan (Laura Linney) announce their separation. As the parents’ relationship deteriorates, their teenage sons, Walt (Jesse Eisenberg) and Frank (Owen Kline), become entangled in the emotional turmoil.
With its witty dialogue and insightful observations, this coming-of-age story resonates with audiences of all ages. The film’s poignant portrayal of family dynamics and personal growth has earned it critical acclaim, reflected in its impressive 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Revolutionary Road (2008)
Based on Richard Yates’ acclaimed novel, this movie follows Frank and April Wheeler, a seemingly perfect couple living in a 1950s suburban town. Behind their charming facade, however, lies a deep sense of dissatisfaction and unfulfilled dreams. As Frank grapples with his place in the corporate world and April yearns for a more meaningful existence, their once-promising aspirations begin to unravel.
The film poignantly explores the couple’s growing discontent, prompting them to question the choices they’ve made and the path they’ve taken. Through powerful performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, this movie offers a compelling examination of the American Dream and the sacrifices individuals make in pursuit of love and societal expectations.
On Chesil Beach (2017)
Set in 1962, this movie follows newlyweds Florence (Saoirse Ronan) and Edward (Billy Howle) as they embark on their honeymoon to the picturesque Chesil Beach. Despite their deep affection for one another, the couple’s lack of experience and the restrictive social norms of the era lead to a night fraught with confusion and misunderstanding.
This pivotal evening serves as a turning point for exploring the complexities of human sexuality and love in 1960s Britain, offering a compelling look at the challenges of love during a time of rapid change.
Hope Gap (2019)
This British drama paints a picture of a seemingly perfect couple, Grace (Annette Bening) and Edward (Bill Nighy), whose idyllic life takes a dramatic turn.
After 29 years of marriage, Edward drops a bombshell: he’s leaving. Caught off guard and heartbroken, Grace must grapple with the betrayal and the uncertainty of her future. As the story unfolds, it reveals the impact of this decision on their only son, Jamie (Josh O’Connor).
This movie captures the emotional fallout of divorce while highlighting the resilience required to rebuild one’s life after such a significant upheaval, making it a thoughtful examination of relationships and personal growth.
Blue Valentine (2010)
Dean (Ryan Gosling) and Cindy (Michelle Williams), once a couple who seemed destined for forever, now navigate the rocky waters of a long-term relationship. As they face the challenges of everyday life, cracks in their once-perfect facade begin to show.
This movie paints a raw and intimate portrait of a love on the brink. Through a series of flashbacks and present-day scenes, we witness the highs and lows of their journey—from the exhilarating early days to the heartbreaking realization that their dreams may have diverged.
Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
This Oscar-winning drama centers on Ted Kramer (Dustin Hoffman), a dedicated workaholic whose life is upended when his wife, Joanna (Meryl Streep), unexpectedly leaves him and their young son, Billy (Justin Henry). As he struggles to balance his career with fatherhood, Ted becomes embroiled in a custody battle with Joanna, forcing him to confront the complexities of love, loss, and parental responsibility.
This classic film offers a thought-provoking examination of changing gender roles in society and the profound impact of divorce on families.
Maggie’s Plan (2015)
This movie is a delightful rom-com that’s as witty as it is heartwarming. Our protagonist, the ever-charming Maggie (Greta Gerwig), has a solid life plan: motherhood, yes, but marriage? Not so much. Enter John (Ethan Hawke), a brilliant but complicated professor who throws a wrench into her perfectly laid out future. As their love story unfolds, so does a whirlwind of ex-wives, kids, and unexpected twists.
It’s a hilarious and poignant exploration of love, family, and the messy beauty of life.