- The movie industry is embracing fresh perspectives, breaking away from stereotypes to explore bold, innovative themes in scriptwriting
- A growing trend focuses on romantic relationships that challenge traditional age norms, giving audiences new narratives to reflect on
- Here are the five movies that break the traditional age norm
The movie industry has witnessed a surge in thrilling scriptwriting, pushing beyond clichés and exploring new themes. One notable trend is the portrayal of romantic relationships that defy traditional age norms.
Typically, societal expectations dictate that women should be in relationships with men within their age group or older. However, scriptwriters are now challenging this convention by creating stories that give women a chance at redemption in love, regardless of age.
TheRadar highlighted five movies that broke the age norm, redefining the traditional boundaries of love and relationships.
Romantic movies that broke the age norm
1. Before the Dawn
Credit: IMDb
Before The Dawn, released in 2019, is a poignant and thought-provoking film that tells the story of Lila Kendy (Alana de Freitas), a Catholic school teacher, who finds herself falling in love with Jason (Jared Scott), her troubled teenage student. Despite the societal taboo surrounding their significant age gap, the film presents their relationship as a genuine and passionate love story. With outstanding performances from the lead actors, Alana de Freitas and Jared Scott, the movie raises questions about the nature of love and whether it can conquer all, even when society deems it forbidden. As the story unfolds, Lila and Jason's relationship becomes increasingly intense, forcing them to confront the consequences of their love. Before The Dawn is a gripping and emotional film that challenges traditional norms and sparks important conversations about love, age, and societal expectations.
2. The Perfect Find
Credit: Netflix
The Perfect Find, a 2016 novel adaptation written by Tia Williams, and released in 2023, tells the story of 40-year-old Jenna (Gabrielle Union), a fashionista who returns to New York to revive her career after a public breakup and high-profile firing. As she navigates her comeback, Jenna finds herself falling for Eric (Keith Powers), her charming and much younger coworker, who is 15 years younger and happens to be the son of her demanding boss, Darcy.
This romantic drama explores the complexities of a secret romance between two people from different generations. As Jenna weighs the risks of pursuing a relationship with Eric, she must confront the challenges of their age gap and decide if their love is worth fighting for.
3. The Idea of You
Credit: Amazon original
The Idea of You is a romantic drama that tells the story of a complex and unlikely relationship between a 40-year-old mother and divorcee, Solene and a young pop star, Hayes Campbell. The film explores themes of love, identity, and belonging, challenging traditional societal norms and expectations.
As Solene navigates her relationship with the younger pop star, she must confront the judgments and criticisms of those around her, including her daughter and the pop star's friends and fans. Despite the challenges and risks, she finds herself drawn to the pop star's charisma and energy and must decide whether to pursue a relationship that defies conventional norms.
The film features a strong performance from Anne Hathaway as Solene, bringing depth and nuance to the complex and multifaceted character. Nicholas Galitzine also shines as the young pop star, bringing a charming and charismatic presence to the screen.
The movie is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that challenges traditional norms and expectations around age and relationships. With its strong performances and nuanced exploration of complex themes.
4. A Family Affair
Credit: Netflix
A Family Affair is a heartwarming comedy that explores the complexities of relationships and growing up. When Chris Cole (Zac Efron), a self-absorbed actor, falls for Zara's widowed mother Brooke (Nicole Kidman), Zara (Joey King) is forced to confront her own feelings and biases. As Brooke and Chris's relationship blossoms, Zara must navigate her own emotions and learn to let go of her expectations.
The film challenges traditional norms around age gaps, presenting a genuine and heartfelt romance between Brooke and Chris. Through its exploration of complex relationships and personal growth, Family Affair offers a nuanced and relatable portrayal of love and family.
5. Lonely Planet
Credit: Netflix
Lonely Planet is a romantic movie with a story that revolves around Katherine (Laura Dern), a successful novelist, and Owen (Liam Hemsworth), a young man who becomes romantically involved with her. Despite their significant age difference, the two form a deep connection, bonding over their shared experiences and passions.
As they navigate their relationship, Katherine and Owen must confront the challenges of their age gap, including the societal expectations and judgments that come with it. However, they ultimately find solace in each other's company, and their relationship becomes a source of inspiration for Katherine's writing.
The story explored themes of love, identity, and creativity, emphasising the complexities and details of relationships that defy traditional norms. Through Katherine and Owen's journey, the narrative challenges them to rethink their assumptions about age and love and to consider the possibilities of connection and intimacy across generations.
These movies challenge traditional norms around age gaps, inviting reconsider our assumptions about love and connection. By presenting authentic portrayals of unconventional relationships, they encourage empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the human experience
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After a long week, there’s nothing like kicking back with a good movie to help you unwind. Weekends are the perfect time to slow down, forget your worries, and lose yourself in a movie that brings comfort and relaxation.
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