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The Trip to Bountiful

1985 · Movie · PG · 108 min · ★ 7.2 · 91% critics

Drama

In 1940s Texas, an elderly woman feels trapped in a tense home with her son and daughter-in-law. Longing to see her childhood town one last time, she sets out on a deeply personal journey shaped by memory, loss, and the hope of finding peace.

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Details
Years
1985
Release date
1985-12-20
Language
English
Rated
PG
Runtime
108 min
Max quality
HD
Critic score
91/100
TMDB rating
7.2/10 (57 votes)
About

You’ll likely connect with this if you like intimate, emotional dramas such as Driving Miss Daisy or Tender Mercies; Not for you if you want fast pacing, big plot turns, or a lighter mood.

Pros: deeply moving story; powerful lead performance; tender emotional journey | Cons: slow pacing; stagey feel; sentimental for some

Themes

  • escape
  • bus
  • texas
  • based on play or musical
  • houston, texas
  • memory
  • senior citizen
  • 1940s
  • daughter–in–law
  • elderly lady

Awards & recognition

  • Academy AwardBest Actress · 1986
  • National Board of Review: Top Ten Films
  • Academy AwardBest Writing, Adapted Screenplay · 1986 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Actress · 1986 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Peter Masterson