Modern movies exploring estranged siblings and complicated family dynamics (Golden child brother vs. black sheep sister)?
Hey everyone, I’m looking for some movies recommendations that feature a very specific kind of family and friendship dynamic.
Basically, I want something centered around an older sister and a younger brother who are estranged, but not in a dramatic kind of way. They just genuinely don't care about each other. The brother is the analytical, calculating type who stayed in their hometown and is definitely the mom's spoiled golden child. The sister (preferably the main character) got out of town as soon as she could because she felt completely suffocated by them.
I’m looking for a protagonist who is deeply lonely but fiercely independent because she’s never had anyone to rely on but herself. I really want a film that explores how the parents treat them differently, like the contrast in the mother/daughter, father/daughter, and parents/son dynamics, and how that unequal upbringing shaped who they became.
Bonus points: If there is a subplot involving a fading female friendship. I'd love to see a dynamic where the main character is envious of a childhood best friend who has the "perfect" opposite life (good family, put-together, etc.). They are drifting apart because the friend just doesn't get her struggles, and there’s a quiet, mutual feeling of resentment or being wronged by the other.
Any genre works (drama, thriller, etc.) but prefer dark comedy, no feel-good movies. I know it's pretty specific so really, anything that comes close is good.
(Already seen lady bird and was not a fan of it, liked the edge of seventeen, This Is Where I Leave You, Frances Ha)
Thanks!