20th Century Women
In 1979 Santa Barbara, California, Dorothea Fields is a determined single mother in her mid-50s who is raising her adolescent son, Jamie, at a moment brimming with cultural change and rebellion. Dorothea enlists the help of two younger women – Abbie, a free-spirited punk artist living as a boarder in the Fields' home and Julie, a savvy and provocative teenage neighbour – to help with Jamie's upbringing.
Critics Sentiment
Dorothea talks openly about her feelings and dreams
Abbie makes dinner guests say menstruation at dinner party
The film recovers from its most divisive moment (the dinner party scene) to reach its emotional peak when Dorothea finally opens up to Jamie.
Critics consistently praised the film's authentic character work and Annette Bening's performance, with particular appreciation for Mills' sensitive direction and the ensemble cast. While some found certain moments overly precious or theatrical, the emotional honesty and nostalgic atmosphere won over most reviewers. The film builds to a deeply satisfying emotional climax that validates its character-driven approach.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 71
Annette Bening
Dorothea
Elle Fanning
Julie
Greta Gerwig
Abbie
Billy Crudup
William
Lucas Jade Zumann
Jamie
Alison Elliott
Julie's Mother
Thea Gill
Abbie's Mother
Vitaly Andrew LeBeau
Young Jamie
Olivia Hone
Julie's Sister
Waleed Zuaiter
Charlie
Curran Walters
Matt
Darrell Britt-Gibson
Julian
Alia Shawkat
Trish
Nathalie Love
Cindy
Cameron Protzman
Teen in Therapy
Victoria Bruno
Teen in Therapy
John Billingsley
Abbie's ObGyn
Cameron Gellman
Mark
Finnegan Seeker Bell
Brian
Zoë Nanos
Tanya
Crew
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