Retirement marks a significant chapter in one’s life, a time for relaxation, self-discovery, and perhaps a bit of adventure. For older adults and their adult children, watching movies that depict the various facets of retirement can be both entertaining and enlightening. Below, we’re listing our favorite movies about retirement.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Starring Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Tom Wilkinson, Bill Nighy, and Dev Patel, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel highlights a group of British retirees who decide to retire to a newly renovated hotel in India. This decision leads to a series of heartwarming and comedic adventures, sure to delight.
As a bonus, check out The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, with Richard Gere joining the cast.
Cocoon
A group of residents in a retirement community discover a pool with mysterious powers that rejuvenate them. The science fiction comedy/drama film explores themes of aging, friendship, and the desire for a second chance.
Poms
This documentary follows a group of older women who form a cheerleading squad, challenging stereotypes about age and proving that life can be exciting at any stage.
Quartet
Directed by Dustin Hoffman, this film is set in a retirement home for musicians and follows the rekindling of past relationships and passions as residents prepare for a concert.
Comedies About Retirement
Ready for a good laugh? These movies will have your stomach muscles working, your eyes watering, and the good times rolling.
Going in Style
This comedy, starring Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, and Alan Arkin, follows three retirees who rob a bank after their pensions are canceled.
Grumpy Old Men
Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau star in this comedy revolving around the lifelong rivalry and pranks between two senior neighbors.
Last Vegas
Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman, and Kevin Kline join together in a comedy where old friends reunite in Las Vegas for a bachelor party.
Romance Movies About Seniors
Everyone loves a love story! Fall in love with some of these romantic movies.
The Leisure Seeker
Helen Mirren and Donald Sutherland star in this film about a couple who embark on a road trip in their vintage RV, rediscovering love and memories along the way.
It’s Complicated
This romantic comedy features Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin as divorced spouses who rekindle a romantic relationship later in life.
Grumpier Old Men
Grumpy Old Men’s sequel, Grumpier Old Men, continues the comedic and romantic adventures of Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau’s characters.
Queen Bees
A romantic comedy-drama featuring Ellen Burstyn as a woman who reluctantly enters a retirement community and discovers unexpected friendships and romance.
Adventure Movies About Retired People
In the mood for some excitement and adventure? Add these movies to your “To Watch” list.
The Bucket List
Two terminally ill men, played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, meet in a hospital and decide to fulfill their bucket lists. Along the way, they realize it’s never too late to live life to the fullest.
Red
Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren star in this action-packed comedy, which follows a group of retired CIA agents who reassemble to uncover a conspiracy.
Stand Up Guys
Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, and Alan Arkin are retired gangsters who reunite for one last night of adventure and reflection.
The Straight Story
Based on a true story, this drama follows a senior who embarks on a journey to visit his estranged brother on a lawnmower.
Nebraska
This film follows a father and son on a road trip to claim a million-dollar prize, and they encounter relatives in the father’s old hometown.
Dramas About Seniors
A little action, some mystery and history, and a captivating time. These dramas are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat or put a lump in your throat.
Space Cowboys
Four retired Air Force test pilots, played by Clint Eastwood, Tommy Lee Jones, Donald Sutherland, and James Garner, are sent into space to repair an old satellite.
A Man Called Otto
Based on the bestselling novel, A Man Called Ove, this movie stars Tom Hanks as a grumpy old man who finds a new purpose in his retirement.
King of Thieves
Based on a true story, this crime-comedy features a group of senior men who plan and execute a heist in London’s jewelry district.
Gran Torino
A Korean War veteran and retired auto worker, portrayed by Clint Eastwood, forms an unlikely friendship with a young Hmong boy, addressing issues of race and generational gaps.
Not a movie watcher?
TV shows can still be a great way to bond with family and friends while getting a look at the experiences many older people have in real life. Try:
- Grace and Frankie
- Golden Girls
- Hot in Cleveland
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At Waterstone Senior Living, we bring older adults opportunities to engage, socialize, continue their pursuit of lifelong learning, and live to the fullest. Learn more about our communities today.
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