← Back to explore

My American Uncle

1980 · Movie · 126 min · ★ 7.0 · 87% critics

ComedyDramaRomance

A scientist uses three intertwined life stories to explore how people react to stress, ambition, and uncertainty through ideas about survival, rewards, punishment, and anxiety. As work pressures and complicated relationships mount, each person faces choices that test their sense of control, status, and well-being.

IMDb

Where to watch

Not currently available to stream in the US.

2 hours to watch.

Not currently available to stream, rent, or buy in the US.

Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.

unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.

More value for your money

Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.

Details
Original title
Mon oncle d'Amérique
Years
1980
Release date
1980-05-21
Language
French
Runtime
126 min
Critic score
87/100
TMDB rating
7.0/10 (205 votes)
About

You’ll likely enjoy this if you like character-driven dramas that mix personal crises with big ideas about human behavior and control, in the reflective vein of Hiroshima Mon Amour; Not for you if you want simple, purely emotional storytelling.

Pros: science and story blend; thought-provoking behavior insights; emotional pull grows | Cons: can feel preachy; heavy exposition at times; thesis may not convince

Themes

  • psychology
  • bourgeoisie
  • punishment
  • reward
  • textile company

Awards & recognition

  • Cannes Film Festival Grand Prix · 1980
  • Academy Award — Best Writing, Original Screenplay · 1981 · nominated
  • César Award — Best Actress · 1981 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Alain Resnais