Divorce is a complex and often painful chapter in many lives, but it also provides rich material for storytelling in cinema. These films delve into the intricacies of relationships falling apart, offering insights, laughter, and sometimes a cathartic release. Whether you're looking for a reflective drama, a sharp comedy, or a poignant narrative, this curated list of divorce-themed movies will resonate with anyone who has experienced or witnessed the dissolution of a marriage.

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
Description: This classic film captures the emotional turmoil of a father fighting for custody of his son after his wife leaves him. It's a poignant look at the effects of divorce on family dynamics.
Fact: Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep both won Oscars for their performances, and the film was nominated for Best Picture.


The War of the Roses (1989)
Description: A darkly comedic take on divorce, this film shows a couple's battle over their shared property turning into an all-out war, highlighting the absurdity of their situation.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Warren Adler, and it was one of the first major roles for Danny DeVito as a director.


Marriage Story (2019)
Description: Noah Baumbach's deeply personal film explores the dissolution of a marriage with raw emotion and nuanced performances, focusing on the legal and emotional battles of divorce.
Fact: Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson received widespread acclaim for their roles, with Driver earning an Oscar nomination.


The Squid and the Whale (2005)
Description: This semi-autobiographical film by Noah Baumbach looks at divorce through the eyes of two young boys, capturing the confusion and pain of their parents' separation.
Fact: The film was shot in Baumbach's childhood neighborhood in Park Slope, Brooklyn, adding authenticity to the setting.


Scenes from a Marriage (1973)
Description: Ingmar Bergman's miniseries turned film is a profound examination of a marriage's disintegration, offering an unflinching look at the emotional and psychological toll of divorce.
Fact: Originally a six-part TV series, it was edited into a feature film for international release.


Irreconcilable Differences (1984)
Description: A unique perspective on divorce, this film is told from the viewpoint of a child who sues her parents for divorce, highlighting the impact on children.
Fact: Drew Barrymore, who played the child, was only nine years old during filming.


The Break-Up (2006)
Description: A mix of comedy and drama, this film follows a couple post-breakup as they navigate living together while trying to move on, showcasing the awkwardness and humor of the situation.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life breakup of Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston.


The Divorce (1994)
Description: A French film that delves into the emotional and psychological effects of a couple's decision to divorce, focusing on the impact on their young son.
Fact: Isabelle Huppert and Daniel Auteuil, both acclaimed French actors, deliver powerful performances.


Heartburn (1986)
Description: Based on Nora Ephron's novel, this film blends humor with heartache as it follows a couple's journey from love to betrayal and divorce.
Fact: Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson star, with Streep also performing the film's theme song.


The First Wives Club (1996)
Description: A comedic revenge tale of three women who band together after their husbands leave them for younger women, turning their pain into empowerment.
Fact: The film features a memorable soundtrack with songs by Cyndi Lauper, and it was inspired by a novel by Olivia Goldsmith.
