10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to This Must Be the Place (2011)

Description: Like 'This Must Be the Place', this is a road movie about an unconventional journey undertaken by an eccentric older protagonist. Both films find profound meaning in simple human connections and the beauty of the American landscape.

Fact: This is David Lynch's only G-rated film. Richard Farnsworth performed his role while battling terminal cancer. The film is based on the true story of Alvin Straight's 240-mile lawnmower journey.

Description: This film shares with 'This Must Be the Place' the theme of an aging protagonist confronting life's disappointments and seeking redemption. Both feature nuanced performances that balance comedy and pathos, examining the human condition through the lens of midlife crisis.

Fact: Jack Nicholson's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film's famous ending scene was improvised by Kathy Bates. Director Alexander Payne shot the film chronologically to help the actors develop their characters naturally.

Description: Wes Anderson's signature style of melancholic humor and focus on dysfunctional geniuses mirrors the offbeat tone of 'This Must Be the Place'. Both films feature eccentric characters dealing with family issues and personal failures.

Fact: Gene Hackman came out of retirement to play Royal Tenenbaum. The film's distinctive look was inspired by New Yorker magazine illustrations. All the children's book covers were painted by artist Eric Anderson, the director's brother.

Description: Both films explore themes of alienation and connection in foreign environments, featuring protagonists who form unlikely bonds. The melancholic yet humorous tone and focus on character over plot make them spiritually similar.

Fact: Scarlett Johansson was only 17 during filming. Many scenes were improvised, including the famous whisper at the end. Sofia Coppola won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: Similar to 'This Must Be the Place', this film follows a protagonist on a transformative journey, blending elements of adventure and self-discovery. Both films feature a quirky, introspective lead character who embarks on a physical and emotional quest, set against visually stunning backdrops.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1947 movie of the same name, which was based on a short story by James Thurber. Ben Stiller not only starred in but also directed the film. Many of the breathtaking landscapes were shot on location in Iceland, Greenland, and the Himalayas.

Description: Like 'This Must Be the Place', this is a character-driven story about middle-aged men confronting their disappointments. Both films use travel as a metaphor for personal growth, blending comedy with moments of genuine pathos.

Fact: The film caused a noticeable drop in Merlot sales due to Paul Giamatti's character's famous rant. Director Alexander Payne insisted on using real wine in all drinking scenes. The screenplay was adapted from Rex Pickett's semi-autobiographical novel.

Description: Both films feature quirky characters on transformative road trips, blending humor with poignant moments. The ensemble casts and examination of family dysfunction create similar emotional tones despite different premises.

Fact: The film was shot in just 30 days on a budget of $8 million. Abigail Breslin was only 9 years old during filming. The iconic yellow VW bus kept breaking down during production.

Description: Wes Anderson's distinctive visual style and focus on dysfunctional family dynamics parallel the quirky aesthetic of 'This Must Be the Place'. Both films feature journeys of self-discovery, with characters grappling with their pasts while moving through exotic locations.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in India, mostly in the state of Rajasthan. The brothers' luggage was custom-made by Louis Vuitton. Bill Murray's cameo was uncredited and filmed in just one day.

Description: Like 'This Must Be the Place', this movie centers around a middle-aged man's journey to find meaning and happiness. Both films explore themes of existential crisis and personal growth, with a mix of humor and melancholy.

Fact: The film is based on the bestselling novel by François Lelord. Simon Pegg prepared for his role by studying psychology and speaking with real-life psychiatrists. The movie was shot in multiple countries including South Africa, China, and the United States.

Description: Wes Anderson's highly stylized visual approach and darkly comic tone share similarities with 'This Must Be the Place'. Both films feature eccentric protagonists navigating a world that seems slightly out of step with reality, with a nostalgic look at bygone eras.

Fact: The hotel's miniature model was over 14 feet tall. Ralph Fiennes improvised many of his character's funniest lines. The film won four Academy Awards including Best Original Score.