I think I 've answered this question before, here or on another thread, but can't resist chiming in with @
Stirchley regarding Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore. Superb gem of a movie. It was made into an enjoyable enough sitcom. but the movie had more depth, and meaning. Other movies that I feel give an honest portrayal of an 'average, unheralded ' woman' s journey through life would include
Murphy's Romance
Norma Rae
As far the struggles and journey of an unheralded artistic soul, no movie imho has given a more accurate and biting yet hilarious portrayal (imho) than A Thousand Clowns. How does the Jason Robards character resolve his need for freedom and authenticity , and devotion to his young charge- with the pressures of society's 'norms' and a newfound love? The answer, if turns out. is not an easy one (and NOT an easily digested Hollywood panacea) .
I also felt that the James Brown bio pic was under appreciated- Get On Up tells his story of striving against all odd to make it as a star, and shows you how he maintained allegiance to his vision of how his music should take form, and flight. I see the same struggle in the Genius of Beethoven BBC film as here- the artists couldn't be more different,
but the challenge remains the same.
Btw the funniest film I EVER saw was the third act of Plaza Suite. I laughed so hard my sides hurt. Walter Matthau, with his hangdog face, wry delivery and shabby shuffle could make me laugh just by entering a room -but when he's clinging to the precipice of the Plaza Hotel fighting for his footing with pigeons- the best !!!!