The theme of envy towards youth is a timeless one, often explored in cinema to delve into the complexities of human emotions and the passage of time. This collection of 10 dramatic films not only showcases the universal struggle with aging but also provides a rich tapestry of stories where characters grapple with their own mortality, desires, and the fleeting nature of youth. Each film in this selection offers a unique perspective on this theme, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the emotional and psychological intricacies of human life.

Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Description: Norma Desmond, a faded silent film star, envies the youth and vitality of Joe Gillis, a struggling screenwriter, leading to a tragic and obsessive relationship.
Fact: The film was nominated for 11 Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Screenplay.


American Beauty (1999)
Description: Lester Burnham, a middle-aged man, becomes obsessed with his daughter's friend, Angela, embodying the envy of youth and beauty. His fixation leads to a series of events that unravel his life.
Fact: Kevin Spacey won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Lester Burnham.


13 Going on 30 (2004)
Description: Jenna Rink, who magically transforms from a 13-year-old to a 30-year-old, experiences the flip side of envy, longing for the simplicity and innocence of youth.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Suddenly 30" before being changed to "13 Going on


The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Description: Benjamin Button, who ages in reverse, experiences life from a unique perspective, where he becomes younger as those around him grow older, highlighting the envy of youth in a literal sense.
Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald.


The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Description: Miranda Priestly, a powerful magazine editor, envies the youth and potential of her new assistant, Andy Sachs, leading to a complex dynamic of mentorship and rivalry.
Fact: Meryl Streep's character was loosely based on Vogue editor Anna Wintour.


The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
Description: A group of British retirees move to India, where they encounter the vibrant energy of youth, leading to reflections on their own aging and the envy of youthful vitality.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Jaipur, India.


The Age of Adaline (2015)
Description: Adaline Bowman, who stops aging after a near-death experience, lives through decades, witnessing the envy of youth from those around her as she remains eternally young.
Fact: The film's title was inspired by the poem "The Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton.


The Intern (2015)
Description: Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old retiree, becomes an intern at a tech startup, where he encounters the youthful energy and ambition of the younger generation, sparking a subtle envy.
Fact: Robert De Niro improvised many of his lines, adding depth to his character's interactions.


The Graduate (1967)
Description: This classic film explores the relationship between Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate, and Mrs. Robinson, an older woman who envies his youth and freedom. The film delves into themes of generational envy and the confusion of youth.
Fact: The iconic scene where Dustin Hoffman's character is seen in a scuba suit was improvised when the director couldn't decide on what Benjamin should be wearing.


The Internship (2013)
Description: Two middle-aged salesmen, Billy and Nick, intern at Google, where they are surrounded by young, tech-savvy interns, highlighting the generational gap and envy of youth.
Fact: The film was partially shot at Google's headquarters in Mountain View, California.
