The Best Movies About a Midlife Crisis in Women

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Updated March 1, 2024 40.0K views 27 items
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Midlife crises aren't just for men anymore. In fact, some of the best films featuring people re-examining their life choices are about women. The best women's midlife crisis movies feature women taking a step back from their current work and family life to pursue new loves and unfulfilled dreams. This is a list of the top female midlife crisis features including everything from Thelma & Louise to Something's Gotta Give to The Big Chill.

What films will you find on this list of mid life crisis movies? In the whimsical movie Under the Tuscan Sun, Frances Mayes (Diane Lane) unexpectedly moves to Italy following the loss of her house and the betrayal of her cheating husband. She goes on to rediscover her own strength, love, and happiness. The Bridges of Madison County is another good film featuring a woman going through a midlife crisis. Meryl Streep finds herself in a midlife love triangle in the 2009 film It's Complicated. Other good movies on this list include The Other Woman and The Squid and the Whale.

Which midlife crisis movie do you like the best? Give your favorites a thumbs up and share some of your favorite scenes in the comments section.

Most divisive: Eat Pray Love
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About a Midlife Crisis in Women
  • Thelma & Louise
    1
    Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey Keitel
    503 votes
    • Released: 1991
    • Directed by: Ridley Scott

    A classic tale of friendship and self-discovery, this iconic film follows two women as they take an unforgettable road trip that ultimately changes their lives forever. As they escape their mundane lives and embark on a journey filled with adventure, danger, and newfound freedom, they learn valuable lessons about themselves and the true meaning of sisterhood. With plenty of action, drama, and unexpected twists along the way, this is one story that shouldn't be missed.

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  • Death Becomes Her
    2
    Meryl Streep, Bruce Willis, Goldie Hawn
    459 votes
    • Released: 1992
    • Directed by: Robert Zemeckis

    In this darkly comedic fantasy, two women find themselves engaged in a fierce rivalry for youth and beauty that takes them down a dangerous path. Desperate to maintain their looks and win the affections of the same man, they resort to extreme measures that have unexpected consequences. With its blend of humor, horror, and genuine emotion, this unique film is a captivating portrayal of vanity and obsession run amok.

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  • Something's Gotta Give
    3
    Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton, Keanu Reeves
    428 votes
    • Released: 2003
    • Directed by: Nancy Meyers

    This charming and witty romantic comedy showcases a successful playwright who unexpectedly falls in love with a younger man, a notorious womanizer who has his sights set on her daughter. Initially hesitant to give in to her feelings, she eventually comes to terms with her desires and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and reinvention. With laughter, heartache, and some steamy romance along the way, this movie is a delightful exploration of love and life in middle age.

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  • Under the Tuscan Sun
    4
    Diane Lane, Sandra Oh, Lindsay Duncan
    375 votes
    • Released: 2003
    • Directed by: Audrey Wells

    This enchanting film follows a newly divorced woman as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing in the beautiful Italian countryside. As she renovates a dilapidated villa, she learns to embrace her newfound freedom and the joys of living life on her own terms. With its breathtaking scenery and inspiring message about resilience and reinvention, this movie is the perfect escape for anyone seeking solace and inspiration during a mid-life crisis.

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  • This Is 40
    5
    Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, John Lithgow
    391 votes
    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Judd Apatow

    An honest and relatable portrayal of life at the cusp of middle age, this film delves into the complexities of marriage, parenting, and personal growth. As the characters navigate the ups and downs of their daily lives – grappling with career setbacks, financial struggles, and existential angst – they learn important lessons about what truly matters in life. With its heartfelt performances and unflinching examination of the human condition, this movie is a poignant reminder that it's never too late to change and grow.

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  • Crazy, Stupid, Love.
    6
    Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore
    367 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa

    In this smart, funny, and deeply human romantic dramedy, a middle-aged woman rediscovering herself navigates love, friendship, and family dynamics with vulnerability and strength. As she forms new connections and rekindles old ones, experiences heartache, and makes some hilariously misguided choices along the way, she learns to embrace the unpredictability of life with courage and grace.

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  • The Other Woman
    7
    Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, Kate Upton
    361 votes
    • Released: 2014
    • Directed by: Nick Cassavetes

    A tale of female empowerment and resilience, this film showcases the power of sisterhood when three women discover they've all been duped by the same deceitful man. As they come together to exact revenge on their lying Casanova, they form an unlikely bond that transcends their shared heartache and helps them heal from their emotional wounds. With its blend of humor, drama, and genuine emotion, this movie is a testament to the strength that lies in female friendships.

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  • How Stella Got Her Groove Back
    8
    Angela Bassett, Taye Diggs, Regina King
    337 votes
    • Released: 1998
    • Directed by: Kevin Rodney Sullivan

    This uplifting romantic drama tells the story of a successful yet unfulfilled career woman who finds her zest for life reignited during a spontaneous trip to Jamaica. As she falls for a handsome younger man who encourages her to let go of her fears and embrace her desires, she discovers that life is about more than just work – it's about love, passion, and embracing each moment fully.

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  • It's Complicated
    9
    Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin
    329 votes
    • Released: 2009
    • Directed by: Nancy Meyers

    A nuanced portrayal of love and relationships in middle age, this witty romantic comedy follows a successful businesswoman as she navigates the complexities of her love life. Torn between her ex-husband and a charming architect, she must decide what – and who – she truly wants in her life. With its smart humor and relatable characters, this film is an engaging exploration of the joys and challenges that come with starting over.

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  • Eat Pray Love
    10
    Julia Roberts, James Franco, Javier Bardem
    367 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Ryan Murphy

    Based on the bestselling memoir, this inspiring movie follows a woman struggling with a midlife crisis as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery through Italy, India, and Indonesia. As she learns to find balance between pleasure, spirituality, and connection, she discovers the true meaning of happiness and fulfillment. This film is a visual feast for the senses and an emotional journey that will resonate with anyone seeking to redefine their life on their own terms.

  • Must Love Dogs
    11
    Diane Lane, John Cusack, Elizabeth Perkins
    292 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Gary David Goldberg

    This heartwarming romantic comedy centers on a newly divorced woman who finds herself unexpectedly thrown back into the world of dating after her sister creates an online profile for her. As she navigates the ups and downs of meeting new people and opening herself up to love again, she learns to embrace her newfound freedom and rediscover her passions. With plenty of laughs and tender moments along the way, this movie is a feel-good reminder that second chances are possible.

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  • The Bridges of Madison County
    12
    Clint Eastwood, Meryl Streep, Annie Corley
    282 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: Clint Eastwood

    In this timeless love story, a lonely housewife living in rural Iowa finds her world turned upside down when a handsome photographer comes to town on assignment. As they embark on a brief but intense love affair that changes them both forever, they must grapple with the consequences of their actions and make difficult choices about their future. This film is a beautifully crafted meditation on love, longing, and the sacrifices we make for those we care about.

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  • In Her Shoes
    13
    Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette, Shirley MacLaine
    281 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Curtis Hanson

    A touching exploration of sisterhood, this film follows two estranged siblings as they navigate the complexities of family, love, and personal growth. As they confront their pasts and learn to accept one another's differences, they discover that sometimes the people who know us best are the ones we need most in our lives. With its blend of humor, heartbreak, and redemption, this movie is a poignant ode to the power of familial bonds.

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  • Unfaithful
    14
    Richard Gere, Diane Lane, Olivier Martinez
    274 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Adrian Lyne

    A gripping drama that delves into the consequences of infidelity, this film tells the story of a seemingly perfect marriage pushed to the brink when the wife embarks on a torrid affair with a handsome stranger. As her world unravels and she grapples with her desires, she must face the reality of her actions and make difficult decisions about what matters most in her life. Raw, intense, and unflinchingly honest, this movie is a powerful examination of the human capacity for self-destruction.

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  • Where'd You Go, Bernadette
    15
    Cate Blanchett, Billy Crudup, Kristen Wiig
    36 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Richard Linklater

    Based on the bestselling novel, this quirky comedy-drama follows a brilliant yet misunderstood architect who vanishes without a trace, leaving her husband and daughter to piece together the clues to find her. As they unravel the mystery of her disappearance, they uncover a side of her they never knew existed – one filled with passion, creativity, and a desire for adventure. This captivating film is both a celebration of human potential and a cautionary tale about the dangers of stifling one's true self.

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  • Juanita
    16
    Alfre Woodard, Blair Underwood, Adam Beach
    36 votes
    • Released: 2019
    • Directed by: Clark Johnson

    In this inspiring tale of self-discovery, an overworked and underappreciated woman decides to leave her life behind and embark on a solo road trip to Montana. Along the way, she encounters new friends, breathtaking landscapes, and unexpected experiences that challenge her preconceptions about who she is and what she truly wants from life. This uplifting film serves as a reminder that it's never too late to start anew and forge your own path.

  • The Good Girl
    17
    Jennifer Aniston, Jake Gyllenhaal, John C. Reilly
    261 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Miguel Arteta

    In this darkly humorous drama, a bored retail worker finds herself caught in a love triangle when she becomes involved with a troubled young coworker. As she struggles to break free from her mundane existence and find meaning in her life, she must confront the consequences of her actions and decide what kind of person she really wants to be. With its biting wit and compelling performances, this movie is a thought-provoking examination of the choices we make in pursuit of happiness.

  • Other People's Children
    18
    Virginie Efira, Roschdy Zem, Chiara Mastroianni
    17 votes
    • Released: 2023
    • Directed by: Rebecca Zlotowski

    This insightful drama follows a documentary filmmaker as she becomes entangled in the lives of her subjects – a group of troubled teens living on the margins of society. As she forms unexpected connections with these young outcasts and faces her own personal demons, she discovers that healing can come from the most unlikely places. Profound and emotionally resonant, this movie is a powerful exploration of the human capacity for empathy and growth.

  • The Big Chill
    19
    William Hurt, Glenn Close, Kevin Kline
    240 votes
    • Released: 1983
    • Directed by: Lawrence Kasdan

    A heartfelt exploration of friendship and aging, this classic film centers on a group of college friends who reunite for a weekend after the death of one of their own. As they reminisce about the past and grapple with the realities of middle age, they come to realize that some bonds are meant to last a lifetime. Featuring an all-star ensemble cast and a memorable soundtrack, this movie is both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a poignant meditation on the passage of time.

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  • The Perfect Find
    20
    Gabrielle Union, Keith Powers, Gina Torres
    7 votes
    • Released: 2023
    • Directed by: Numa Perrier

    In this charming romantic comedy-drama, a talented fashion editor finds herself grappling with her career and love life when she returns to her hometown after losing her job. As she navigates the challenges of starting over and reconnects with old friends – including a former flame – she learns that sometimes the best things in life are right where you left them. With its heartfelt performances and relatable characters, this movie is an engaging exploration of rediscovering oneself during a mid-life crisis.

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  • You Hurt My Feelings
    21
    Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tobias Menzies, Michaela Watkins
    13 votes
    • Released: 2023
    • Directed by: Nicole Holofcener

    In this deeply affecting drama, a woman struggling with her mental health finds solace in an unconventional friendship with a young girl who has experienced her own share of pain. As they navigate their respective heartaches and learn to lean on one another, they discover the healing power of human connection. With its raw performances and unflinching portrayal of emotional vulnerability, this film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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  • Puzzle
    22
    Kelly Macdonald, Irrfan Khan, David Denman
    27 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Marc Turtletaub

    In this quiet yet powerful drama, a suburban housewife discovers a hidden talent for jigsaw puzzles that leads her down a path of self-discovery and newfound independence. As she enters the competitive world of puzzle-solving, she forms an unexpected connection with another enthusiast and begins to question her place in the world. This beautifully crafted film is a testament to the transformative power of personal passions and the importance of pursuing one's dreams – no matter how small or unconventional they may seem.

  • Enough Said
    23
    Julia Louis-Dreyfus, James Gandolfini, Catherine Keener
    222 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Nicole Holofcener

    This charming romantic comedy follows a middle-aged woman as she navigates the ups and downs of dating after her divorce while also dealing with her daughter leaving for college. As she forms a new relationship with an unlikely suitor, she must learn to let go of preconceived notions about love and embrace her newfound happiness. Filled with laughter, heartache, and relatable moments, this film is a delightful exploration of the joys and challenges of starting over.

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  • Young Adult
    24
    Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson
    227 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Jason Reitman

    In this darkly comedic drama, a struggling writer returns to her small-town roots in an attempt to relive her high school glory days and rekindle a romance with her now-married ex-boyfriend. As she confronts the reality of her past and faces her demons head-on, she learns valuable lessons about self-acceptance and personal growth. Raw, poignant, and unapologetically honest, this movie is a captivating exploration of one woman's journey to find herself amidst the chaos of a mid-life crisis.

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  • Notes on a Scandal
    25
    Cate Blanchett, Judi Dench, Bill Nighy
    203 votes
    • Released: 2006
    • Directed by: Richard Eyre

    A compelling psychological thriller, this film delves into the dark side of human nature as it tells the story of a middle-aged teacher who becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of manipulation and obsession with a younger colleague. As their twisted relationship unfolds, they must confront the consequences of their actions and face the truth about themselves. With its powerful performances and gripping narrative, this movie is a chilling exploration of desire, power, and betrayal.

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  • The Squid and the Whale
    26
    Jeff Daniels, Laura Linney, Jesse Eisenberg
    197 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Noah Baumbach

    Set against the backdrop of a crumbling marriage, this poignant dramedy follows two young siblings as they grapple with the harsh realities of adulthood and their parents' divorce. As their family dynamic shifts and they strive to find their own identities in the chaos, they learn valuable lessons about love, loss, and what it means to grow up. Featuring standout performances and a sharply observed script, this movie is a moving meditation on the complexities of family life and the bittersweet nature of coming-of-age during a mid-life crisis.

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  • The Intervention
    27

    The Intervention

    Melanie Lynskey, Jason Ritter, Skylar Bernon
    194 votes
    • Released: 2016
    • Directed by: Clea DuVall

    Centered around a group of friends who stage an unorthodox "marriage intervention" for a struggling couple, this sharp-witted dramedy examines the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth. As each character confronts their own demons and grapples with the reality of their choices, they learn that sometimes the hardest truths are the ones we need to hear the most. Funny, touching, and thought-provoking, this film is a poignant reminder that the path to happiness is rarely straightforward.