In my personal and professional experience with grief as a therapist, I've discovered a comforting and steadfast ally in art, music, film and literature, especially during times when verbal expression feels inadequate.
Among the myriad of films I cherish on the topic of grief, here are three that stand out. Each unique yet united by a common thread: a profound and compassionate exploration of pain, yearnings, and connection.
Celine Sciamma’s Petite Maman (2021) is a tender and poignant exploration of childhood, grief, and the timeless bond between mothers and their children. The film delicately weaves together themes of loss and discovery through the eyes of its young protagonist. Every frame imbues a sense of wonder and empathy, capturing the fleeting moments of innocence and vulnerability. The film is a beautiful ode to the transformative power of love and the enduring connections that shape our lives.
Not for the faint-of-heart, Kantemir Balagov’s visually stunning Beanpole (2019) portrays grief, guilt, and the bonds that bind us together in the face of unimaginable trauma, such as in post-WWII Russia. Through the intertwined stories of two women, Beanpole navigates the jagged terrain of loss and longing with heartbreaking precision, capturing the raw intensity of their shared anguish and the fragile flicker of hope that sustains them.
And Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester by the Sea (2016) allows us to empathize with the protagonist’s journey, validating the myriad of emotions that accompany loss, from overwhelming guilt to profound sadness. By witnessing his struggle, we are offered a sense of companionship and hope, reminding us that while grief may feel insurmountable, there is always the possibility of finding moments of grace and connection amidst the darkness.