Spoiler alert: This essay is about endings. Learning to love your friends, your work, or finding your community are essential parts of the human existence yet are rarely featured as the happy ending in films. On-screen depictions of human relationships generally center on the assumption that a romantic relationship is the ultimate happy ending. All types of relationships and life events bring change and happiness yet so many films seem to suggest happiness is only ever sealed with a kiss. Noah Baumbach is a storyteller whose films often shy away from this overarching trend to present different outcomes. His latest feature, Mistress America, explores a close friendship between two women that is bordering on mentorship/life coach. To honor its release, I decided to look at other films that resist the “and then they lived happily ever after” trope.
6 movies to watch after a break up that will remind you your life isn't over
Proof there's more to life than love.
Image via Complex Original
Sign up for the
ComplexNewsletter
Your leading source for what’s now and what’s next in Music, Style, Sports, and Pop Culture.
By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our
Terms of Serviceand
Privacy Policy