This collection of family films focuses on the intriguing world of psychiatry, showcasing stories where mental health professionals play pivotal roles. These movies not only entertain but also educate, providing a deeper understanding of psychological issues through the lens of family dynamics. Whether it's through humor, drama, or heartfelt moments, these films offer a unique perspective on how families cope with and understand mental health.

Ordinary People (1980)
Description: After the death of their eldest son, a family struggles to cope, with the youngest son seeking help from a psychiatrist. The film delves into themes of grief, guilt, and the healing process within a family setting.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Robert Redford. It was Mary Tyler Moore's first dramatic role, earning her an Oscar nomination.


The Doctor (1991)
Description: Dr. Jack McKee, a successful surgeon, faces his own health crisis, leading him to understand the emotional and psychological needs of his patients, including those with mental health issues.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life experiences of Dr. Edward Rosenbaum, who wrote the book "A Taste of My Own Medicine." William Hurt was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance.


What About Bob? (1991)
Description: This comedy-drama follows a psychiatrist, Dr. Leo Marvin, who is trying to enjoy his vacation when his new patient, Bob Wiley, with multiple phobias, follows him. The film humorously explores the boundaries of patient-therapist relationships and family life.
Fact: Bill Murray improvised many of his lines, leading to spontaneous and hilarious interactions. The film was a box office success, grossing over $63 million against a $35 million budget.


Good Will Hunting (1997)
Description: Will Hunting, a janitor with a genius-level intellect, is discovered by a professor who sends him to see a therapist, Dr. Sean Maguire. The film explores themes of self-discovery, family, and mental health through their sessions.
Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck wrote the screenplay, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Robin Williams won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dr. Maguire.


Analyze This (1999)
Description: A mob boss, Paul Vitti, seeks help from a psychiatrist, Dr. Ben Sobel, to deal with his anxiety attacks. This film blends comedy with the exploration of mental health issues within the context of family and organized crime.
Fact: Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal had great chemistry, leading to a sequel, "Analyze That." The film was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy.


Antwone Fisher (2002)
Description: A young sailor, Antwone Fisher, works with a Navy psychiatrist to confront his past and heal from childhood trauma, highlighting the importance of therapy in family reconciliation.
Fact: Denzel Washington made his directorial debut with this film, which was based on the real-life story of Antwone Fisher. The film was critically acclaimed for its emotional depth.


The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Description: This quirky family comedy-drama features a psychiatrist, Dr. Henry Sherman, who becomes romantically involved with one of the Tenenbaum siblings, exploring themes of family dysfunction and mental health.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It features an ensemble cast including Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, and Gwyneth Paltrow.


The Squid and the Whale (2005)
Description: A semi-autobiographical story about a family dealing with divorce, where the father, a writer, and the mother, a therapist, navigate their personal and professional lives.
Fact: The film was written and directed by Noah Baumbach, who drew from his own experiences. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.


The Savages (2007)
Description: Two estranged siblings must come together to care for their ailing father, dealing with their own psychological baggage and the complexities of family dynamics.
Fact: The film received widespread critical acclaim, with Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman both earning Academy Award nominations for their performances.


The Intern (2015)
Description: While not primarily about psychiatry, the film features a retired executive, Ben Whittaker, who becomes an intern at a tech startup where he befriends a company therapist, offering insights into workplace mental health.
Fact: Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway had great on-screen chemistry, making this film a feel-good exploration of intergenerational friendship and mental well-being.
