10 Drama Films About Choosing Between Family and Career

Description: This film captures the essence of a father's struggle to balance his career with the sudden responsibility of single parenthood after his wife leaves him. It's a poignant look at how career ambitions can clash with family duties.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep both won Oscars for their performances in this film, with Streep winning for Best Supporting Actress despite having only 17 minutes of screen time.

Description: John Nash's journey from a promising mathematician to a man battling schizophrenia shows the impact of his career on his family life, and how his wife supports him through his struggles.

Fact: The film took some liberties with the real-life story of John Nash, particularly regarding the timeline of his illness and recovery.

Description: This film intertwines the lives of three women across different eras, each facing their own struggles with identity, career, and family, highlighting the timeless nature of these conflicts.

Fact: Nicole Kidman won an Oscar for her role as Virginia Woolf, despite the controversy over her prosthetic nose.

Description: Chris Gardner's journey from homelessness to a successful stockbroker is a testament to the struggle between providing for family and pursuing a dream career. This film showcases the lengths one will go to achieve both.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in real life as well as on screen, adding an authentic layer to their performances.

Description: While not directly about family, this film explores the sacrifices made for career advancement, often at the expense of personal relationships and family time, highlighting the choices young professionals face.

Fact: Meryl Streep's character, Miranda Priestly, was inspired by Vogue editor Anna Wintour, known for her demanding nature in the fashion industry.

Description: This film tells the story of Michael Oher, whose adoption by a family leads to a career in football, showcasing the intersection of family support and personal ambition.

Fact: The real Michael Oher was involved in the film's production and even had a cameo as a security guard.

Description: Matt King must navigate his wife's infidelity and her impending death while trying to connect with his daughters, exploring the balance between personal grief and family responsibilities.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in Hawaii, reflecting the setting of the story.

Description: Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower, becomes an intern at an online fashion site, learning about modern work-life balance and the impact of career on family life from a younger generation.

Fact: Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway had never worked together before this film, bringing fresh chemistry to the screen.

Description: Ryan Bingham's life is all about his career, traveling to fire people, until he meets someone who makes him question his solitary lifestyle and the sacrifices he's made for his job.

Fact: George Clooney's character was originally written for a much younger actor, but Clooney's charm and experience brought a new dimension to the role.

Description: This film delves into family dynamics during the holiday season, where career-driven Meredith faces the scrutiny of her potential in-laws, highlighting the tension between personal and professional life.

Fact: The film was shot in a real house in Connecticut, giving it an authentic family feel.