Movies Like American Pastoral

Revolutionary Road dives into the lives of a young couple struggling with their personal demons and societal expectations during the 1950s. Just like American Pastoral, it offers a powerful examination of the American Dream and the stark realities that often lie beneath its glossy veneer.

Exploring the intersecting lives of several individuals in a small town, Little Children deals with themes of infidelity, unfulfilled lives, and the critique of suburban life, much like American Pastoral challenges the audience to look beneath the surface of seemingly ideal lives.

Although primarily a gangster film, Road to Perdition storied past and the ties that bind families. Its exploration of parental relationships and the lengths one goes to for their children echo themes central to American Pastoral.

Ordinary People is a deeply affecting portrait of a family in the aftermath of a tragedy and the ensuing psychological strains. Like American Pastoral, it takes a hard look at the unraveling of the 'perfect' American family and the quest for healing and understanding amidst chaos.

The Hours weaves together the stories of three women from different eras, all of whom grapple with the expectations of society and personal identity. Its narrative complexity and emotional depth will appeal to fans of American Pastoral's rich character studies.

Set in the 1970s, The Ice Storm deals with the themes of suburban malaise and family dysfunction, mirroring the societal and interpersonal breakdowns seen in American Pastoral. The film's exploration of lost innocence and the complexities of human relationships will resonate with viewers.

Focusing on a day in the life of a grieving college professor in 1960s Los Angeles, A Single Man is a poignant story of love and loss. Fans of American Pastoral will appreciate its period setting and the deeply emotional narrative that grapples with profound personal and societal changes.

This understated drama examines the dark undercurrents of a tragic event that befalls a family, leading to an exploration of themes like revenge, justice, and the human capacity for violence. Its tense atmosphere and moral complexities are akin to the dilemmas faced in American Pastoral.