Grandma

Elle Reid, a sharp witted, solitary woman who keeps everyone at arm's length, is jolted when her 18-year-old granddaughter Sage arrives asking for help. What begins as a quick favor turns into a full day of driving around town and arguing, laughing, and sharing stories as they hitch a ride with friends and strangers. The trip pushes Elle to reckon with the choices that shaped her past and the regrets she’s kept hidden, while Sage tries to map out a future she isn’t sure she wants. Their dialogue dances between humor and honesty, gradually softening their defenses and revealing the stubborn tenderness beneath. Along the way they confront painful memories, laugh at held beliefs, and discover what family really means.

Directed by Paul Weitz, Grandma released in 2015 as an intimate indie drama based on an original screenplay. Lily Tomlin leads as Elle with Julia Garner as Sage, supported by a concise, character focused ensemble that earned praise on arrival.

Grandma earned about 7.2 million worldwide against a tiny 0.6 million budget, signaling solid returns for an indie comedy drama. Its modest footprint reflects limited release but strong word of mouth from audiences drawn to its humor and heart today.

Critics generally praised Tomlin's performance and the film's frank tone. The story centers on aging and motherhood, the ache of past choices, and the bond between generations. Some reviews noted uneven pacing, but most appreciate the film's balance of wit and warmth, and its humanity, which resonates with diverse audiences.

Laverne Cox's presence as Deathy adds a layer of cultural significance, giving visibility to transgender characters in a mainstream indie. The movie sparked conversations about family, chosen kinship, and honest conversations across age and orientation, marking a small but meaningful contribution to contemporary indie cinema that lingers after the credits roll.