Riding in Cars with Boys
In 1965, a young woman with dreams of becoming a writer has a son at the age of 15 and struggles to make things work with the drug-addicted father.
Critics Sentiment
Beverly confronts Ray and Shirley about signing memoir waiver
Ray admits he cannot quit drugs and leaves the family
The dramatic drop from Jason's birthday party hope (7.5) to Ray's devastating drug revelation and departure (5.2 to 4.8) marks the film's most crushing emotional shift.
The sentiment arc follows Beverly's journey from teenage optimism through crushing disappointments to eventual redemption. Critics consistently praised the performances, particularly Steve Zahn and Drew Barrymore, while noting the film's authentic portrayal of working-class struggles. The emotional low point centers on Ray's drug addiction and abandonment, with the film recovering toward a satisfying if bittersweet conclusion.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 74
Drew Barrymore
Beverly Donofrio
Steve Zahn
Ray Hasek
Adam Garcia
Jason
Brittany Murphy
Fay Forrester
James Woods
Leonard Donofrio
Lorraine Bracco
Teresa Donofrio
Rosie Perez
Shirley Perro
Sara Gilbert
Tina Barr
Peter Facinelli
Tommy Butcher
Mika Boorem
Beverly Donofrio (Age 11)
Vincent Pastore
Uncle Lou
Maryann Urbano
Aunt Ann
Alexia Landeau
Jenny
Kristin Proctor
Cindy
Celine Ordioni
Janet Donofrio (Age 8)
Alissa Dean
Townie Girl #1
Jessica Leshnower
Townie Girl #2
Temple Brooks
Karen
Lauren Lake
Karen's Friend
Desmond Harrington
Bobby
Crew
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