If you loved the quiet introspection and artistic realism of 'Showing Up' (2023), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same delicate balance of creativity, everyday struggles, and human connection. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply enjoy character-driven narratives, these recommendations will resonate with you.

C'mon C'mon (2021)
Description: A tender and introspective film about the bond between an uncle and his nephew as they travel across the country. Its focus on human connection and the quiet moments of life resonates with the emotional depth and authenticity.
Fact: The film features real interviews with children about their hopes and fears, adding a layer of documentary realism to the narrative.


Little Women (2019)
Description: A reimagining of the classic novel that highlights the creative ambitions and familial bonds of the March sisters. The film's focus on artistic pursuit and the complexities of sisterhood aligns with the themes of personal and creative fulfillment.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Massachusetts, with many scenes filmed in historic homes to capture the period's authenticity.


The Last Black Man in San Francisco (2019)
Description: A lyrical and visually striking film about a man's connection to his hometown and his quest to reclaim his family's home. Its poetic tone and exploration of identity and place resonate with the themes of belonging and personal history.
Fact: The lead actor, Jimmie Fails, co-wrote the story based on his own life experiences growing up in San Francisco.


20th Century Women (2016)
Description: A poignant exploration of family dynamics and personal growth set in the late 1970s. The film's emphasis on character development and its nostalgic yet grounded tone resonate with the themes of self-discovery and artistic expression.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features punk and new wave music from the era, adding authenticity to its period setting.


Certain Women (2016)
Description: A slow-burning drama that weaves together the lives of several women in a small town, emphasizing their quiet struggles and personal resilience. The film's naturalistic tone and focus on character-driven narratives align closely with the introspective approach.
Fact: The film is based on short stories by Maile Meloy, and its three segments were shot in Montana, capturing the stark beauty of the landscape.


Lady Bird (2017)
Description: A coming-of-age story that balances humor and heartbreak, focusing on a young woman's turbulent relationship with her mother and her aspirations. Its honest portrayal of family and personal growth echoes the emotional depth and authenticity.
Fact: The film was shot in just 26 days, and many scenes were filmed in the director's hometown of Sacramento, California.


Paterson (2016)
Description: A quiet, meditative film that explores the beauty of everyday life through the lens of a bus driver who writes poetry. Its focus on mundane details and the artistic process mirrors the introspective and understated storytelling style.
Fact: The film was shot in Paterson, New Jersey, the same city where the poet William Carlos Williams, who inspired the protagonist, lived and worked.


The Souvenir (2019)
Description: A deeply personal film about a young filmmaker navigating love and artistic ambition. Its introspective narrative and exploration of the creative process mirror the quiet, reflective storytelling style.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, drawing from the director's own experiences as a film student in the 1980s.


The French Dispatch (2021)
Description: A visually rich and stylized anthology film that celebrates journalism and storytelling. Its eclectic mix of humor, drama, and artistic flair mirrors the creative and narrative diversity.
Fact: The film's production design includes meticulously crafted sets that pay homage to mid-20th-century magazine layouts.


Nomadland (2020)
Description: A contemplative film about a woman who embarks on a journey through the American West after losing everything. Its minimalist storytelling and focus on solitude and resilience align with the introspective and understated approach.
Fact: Many of the film's cast members were real-life nomads, adding authenticity to the portrayal of their lifestyle.
