10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Big C (2010)

Description: Six Feet Under, like The Big C, deals with themes of mortality, family, and personal transformation. Both shows use a mix of dark humor and drama to explore the impact of death on the living. The introspective and emotionally rich storytelling is a hallmark of both series.

Fact: The show was created by Alan Ball, who also wrote American Beauty. Each episode begins with a death, which sets the tone for the story. The series finale is often cited as one of the best in television history.

Description: Breaking Bad shares similarities with The Big C in its exploration of a protagonist facing a life-altering diagnosis (cancer in both cases) and the subsequent transformation in their life. Both shows delve into themes of mortality, personal reinvention, and the impact of illness on relationships. While The Big C takes a more comedic and heartfelt approach, Breaking Bad adopts a darker, more intense tone, but both center on the protagonist's journey through their diagnosis.

Fact: Bryan Cranston, who plays Walter White, won four Emmy Awards for his performance. The show was originally set to be filmed in California but was moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for tax incentives. The iconic 'Heisenberg' hat became a symbol of the show and was often used in promotional material.

Description: 50/50, like The Big C, tackles the subject of cancer with a mix of humor and drama. Both works highlight the protagonist's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll it takes on their life and relationships. The balance between lighthearted moments and serious themes creates a relatable and humanizing portrayal of illness.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Will Reiser, who based it on his own experience with cancer. Joseph Gordon-Levitt trained with cancer patients to prepare for his role. The film's title refers to the 50% survival rate of the protagonist's cancer diagnosis.

Description: Parenthood, like The Big C, is a family drama that blends humor and heartbreak. Both shows explore the complexities of family relationships and the challenges of balancing personal struggles with familial responsibilities. The emotional authenticity and strong character development are hallmarks of both series.

Fact: The show is based on the 1989 film of the same name. Many of the actors improvised their lines to create a more natural feel. The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of parenting and family life.

Description: This film shares with The Big C a focus on the relationship dynamics that form around a person with a serious illness. Both explore themes of friendship, personal growth, and the bittersweet nature of life. The use of humor to cope with difficult situations is another common thread, making the emotional moments even more poignant.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. The director, Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, dedicated the film to his father, who passed away during production. The movie features numerous homages to classic films, reflecting the protagonist's love for cinema.

Description: The Fault in Our Stars, like The Big C, deals with the emotional and psychological impact of cancer on young individuals and their loved ones. Both works balance humor and heartbreak, portraying the characters' struggles with illness while finding moments of joy and love. The themes of resilience, love, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality are central to both.

Fact: The movie is based on the bestselling novel by John Green. Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, who play the lead roles, later starred together in the Divergent series. The film's title is inspired by a line from Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar.

Description: The Good Place, while a comedy, shares with The Big C a philosophical exploration of life, death, and what it means to be a good person. Both shows use humor to tackle existential questions, creating a unique blend of comedy and deep thought. The character-driven storytelling and emotional depth are key similarities.

Fact: The show was created by Michael Schur, who also worked on The Office and Parks and Recreation. The series features a unique twist in its first season that redefined the show. The Good Place was praised for its innovative storytelling and moral philosophy themes.

Description: This Is Us shares with The Big C a focus on family dynamics, emotional storytelling, and the exploration of life's challenges. Both shows use a mix of humor and drama to address serious themes, creating a deeply emotional and relatable viewing experience. The non-linear storytelling in This Is Us also adds a layer of complexity, similar to the narrative style of The Big C.

Fact: The show's pilot episode was directed by Ken Olin, a veteran of emotional family dramas. The cast underwent a rigorous audition process to ensure chemistry among the actors. The series often features time jumps, revealing connections between past and present events.

Description: The Kominsky Method shares with The Big C a focus on aging, illness, and the search for meaning in later life. Both shows use humor to address serious topics, creating a balance between comedy and drama. The exploration of friendship and the challenges of aging are central to both.

Fact: The show stars Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin, both veteran actors. The series was created by Chuck Lorre, known for his work on sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory. The show was praised for its witty dialogue and strong performances.

Description: This series, similar to The Big C, explores how a life-changing event (in this case, a suicide) affects a group of friends. Both shows delve into themes of grief, friendship, and the importance of living life to the fullest. The emotional depth and focus on interpersonal relationships are key similarities.

Fact: The show was inspired by the creator's own experience with loss. The title comes from the idea that 'friendship isn't one big thing, it's a million little things.' The series features a soundtrack with many emotional and impactful songs.