Grandma
| 2015Directed by: Paul Weitz

Main Plot
In Grandma, the story revolves around Elle, a sharp-witted and unconventional grandmother who is navigating a personal crisis following the recent death of her long-term partner. When her teenage granddaughter, Sage, unexpectedly arrives at her doorstep seeking help, Elle is thrust into a whirlwind of challenges. Sage is pregnant and needs money for an abortion, but she is short on funds and time. As they embark on a journey across town to gather the necessary cash, the pair confront various obstacles, including strained family dynamics and unresolved issues from Elle's past. Throughout their day together, the film explores themes of generational conflict, the complexities of female relationships, and the importance of support and understanding in times of need. The story unfolds with humor and poignancy, highlighting the bond between grandmother and granddaughter as they navigate their respective struggles.
Characters
- Lily Tomlin plays Elle Reid, a poet who helps her granddaughter raise funds for an abortion, leading to a day-long journey reconnecting with figures from her past.
- Julia Garner plays Sage, a teenager seeking help from her grandmother to fund an abortion, sparking a day-long journey that explores their familial bonds and personal histories.
- Marcia Gay Harden plays Judy, the daughter of the protagonist Elle Reid, and mother to Sage. She is central to the unfolding of family dynamics and resolutions.
Ending Explained
In the ending of Grandma, the main conflict revolves around Elle's struggle to help her granddaughter, Sage, obtain an abortion. Throughout the film, Elle confronts her past relationships and the complexities of her family dynamics while navigating her own emotional turmoil. As the story progresses, Elle's determination to support Sage leads her on a journey through various encounters that challenge her beliefs and force her to confront her own regrets. In the climax, Elle finally gathers the necessary funds for Sage's procedure, symbolizing her acceptance of Sage's autonomy and the importance of choice. This act of support not only resolves the immediate conflict regarding Sage's pregnancy but also signifies Elle's growth as a character. The film concludes with a poignant moment of connection between Elle and Sage, highlighting the generational differences yet shared experiences of women. This resolution reinforces the themes of empowerment, understanding, and the complexities of familial love. Ultimately, the ending encapsulates the film's exploration of women's rights and the importance of choice, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and the understanding that the bond between generations can evolve through shared struggles and support.