Parties are often depicted as joyous occasions, but beneath the surface, they can reveal deep-seated emotions, conflicts, and life-altering decisions. This curated list of drama films about parties explores the complexities of human relationships, the highs and lows of social gatherings, and the aftermath that often follows. From intimate gatherings to wild blowouts, these movies offer a compelling look at what happens when people let loose, and the drama that ensues.

The Big Chill (1983)
Description: A group of college friends reunite for the funeral of a friend, leading to a weekend of reminiscing, partying, and confronting their past and present lives.
Fact: The film's soundtrack became a cultural phenomenon, featuring hits from the '60s and '70s. The cast lived together during filming to build chemistry.


The Last Supper (1995)
Description: A group of liberal graduate students invite conservative dinner guests to their home, only for the evening to take a dark turn, exploring themes of morality and justice.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life dinner parties hosted by the director. It features a mix of dark comedy and social commentary.


The Ice Storm (1997)
Description: This film delves into the lives of two dysfunctional families during a Thanksgiving weekend in 1973, where a key party becomes a catalyst for personal revelations and emotional turmoil.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Rick Moody, and its depiction of suburban ennui and sexual liberation was both praised and controversial. Kevin Kline improvised much of his dialogue.


The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Description: This film follows the dysfunctional Tenenbaum family as they reunite for a series of events, including a birthday party, revealing their eccentricities and unresolved issues.
Fact: The film was shot in a style reminiscent of Wes Anderson's previous work, with meticulous attention to detail. Gwyneth Paltrow's character was originally written for another actress.


The Squid and the Whale (2005)
Description: A family's disintegration is explored through the lens of a dinner party gone awry, highlighting the emotional turmoil of divorce and its impact on children.
Fact: The film was inspired by director Noah Baumbach's own childhood experiences. Jeff Daniels' character was based on Baumbach's father.


The Savages (2007)
Description: Two estranged siblings come together to care for their ailing father, and their strained relationship is put to the test during a family gathering.
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Laura Linney. The screenplay was inspired by director Tamara Jenkins' own experiences.


The Great Gatsby (2013)
Description: Set in the Roaring Twenties, this film captures the opulence and decadence of Gatsby's legendary parties, which serve as a backdrop to explore themes of love, ambition, and social stratification.
Fact: The film's production spent over $400,000 on fireworks alone for the party scenes. Leonardo DiCaprio was the first choice for Jay Gatsby, a role he had been wanting to play since he was


The Party (2017)
Description: A dinner party in London spirals out of control as secrets and lies are exposed, showcasing the fragility of relationships and the chaos of social gatherings.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white, adding to its dramatic and comedic effect. It was written and directed by Sally Potter, known for her unique storytelling.


The Graduate (1967)
Description: A young man's affair with an older woman leads to unexpected complications when he falls for her daughter, all set against the backdrop of a graduation party.
Fact: Dustin Hoffman was not the first choice for the lead role; Robert Redford was initially considered. The iconic song "Mrs. Robinson" was written for the film.


The Celebration (1998)
Description: A family reunion turns into a dramatic revelation when the eldest son exposes his father's dark secrets during a birthday celebration, leading to a night of intense confrontations.
Fact: The film was shot using the Dogme 95 rules, which emphasize raw, unpolished filmmaking. It was the first film to win the Jury Prize at Cannes.
