The Big Picture The 25 Best Movies of the Century: No. 5 - 'Lady Bird’
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Nov 12, 2025 Dive into the heart of Greta Gerwig's 'Lady Bird,' hailed as a defining millennial movie. Unpack its rich mother-daughter dynamics and the complexities of its confident protagonist. Explore Gerwig's rise as a filmmaker and the film's unique nostalgic setting. Appreciate the film's subtlety in portraying class struggles and personal aspirations. Reflect on the powerful performances, especially by Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf, while comparing its impact to iconic coming-of-age films. Don't miss the insights into its notable awards journey and thematic ties to Gerwig's other works.
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Modern Coming-Of-Age With Real Stakes
- Lady Bird is a quintessential coming-of-age film that hits familiar teen beats while adding specificity and emotional weight.
- The movie captures stakes that feel absolute at 17 while remaining grounded in real-life details.
Gerwig As The Millennial Voice
- Greta Gerwig has become a defining millennial filmmaker by leaning into generational touchstones and cultural references.
- Lady Bird acts as a millennial touchstone by setting its story in 2002 and embracing that era's textures.
Indie Film Meets Mainstream Success
- Lady Bird was A24's breakout mainstream hit, earning broad box-office success by blending indie realism with familiar teen-story frameworks.
- Its relatability across ages helped it cross from specialty audiences to a large cultural moment.
