6 Netflix films on dysfunctional families that mirror reality

6 Netflix films on dysfunctional families that mirror reality

As someone who has spent countless hours engrossed in the world of cinema, I must say that these Netflix films on dysfunctional families have truly resonated with my own experiences and those of many people around me. They portray the intricate web of emotions, conflicts, and love that exists within a family in such an authentic and relatable manner.


Eating meals together keeps a family bonded, as demonstrated by Sooraj Barjatya in his film Hum Saath-Saath Hain. Over time, Indian cinema has shown various depictions of families, emphasizing societal expectations, traditional family roles, and women’s portrayals. More recently, we see films that present a genuine reflection of family life instead of just projecting harmony. Streaming platforms like Netflix have also produced movies about troubled families, offering a realistic view.

Barjatya’s films focus on upholding traditional values and strengthening family ties, whereas modern directors such as Shakun Batra, Zoya Akhtar, among others, offer realistic portrayals of family dynamics. Their movies like Kapoor & Sons and Dil Dhadakne Do showcase troubled familial relationships. Here’s a glimpse:

We have curated 6 Netflix films on dysfunctional families you should add to your watchlist:

1. Kapoor & Sons

In the 2016 film “Kapoor & Sons,” directed by Shakun Batra, Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, and Alia Bhatt played the main characters. Supporting roles were taken on by Ratna Pathak Shah, Rajat Kapoor, and Rishi Kapoor. The movie delved into the complex relationships within the Kapoor family, as depicted by Batra’s direction. The narrative centers around two brothers, Rahul Kapoor and Arjun Kapoor, who reunite with their family after learning about their grandfather’s heart attack.

Kapoor & Sons explores the intricacies of family dynamics, sibling rivalry, unveiling hidden truths, and more. As the narrative unfolds, characters disclose their secrets and confront each other, culminating in a heartfelt climax. Simultaneously, they strive to fulfill their grandfather’s final wish – being immortalized together in a cherished family photograph.

In the film, Sidharth took on the character of Arjun, with Fawad portraying Rahul. Rishi Kapoor appeared as their on-screen grandfather Amarjeet Kapoor. Ratna and Rajat were chosen to play Sunita and Harsh, the characters who were the parents of these two. Alia was cast in the role of Tia Malik.

2. Dil Dhadakne Do

Featuring Priyanka Chopra, Ranveer Singh, Farhan Akhtar, and Anushka Sharma in lead roles, Dil Dhadakne Do is a fresh entry to our collection. Overseen by director Zoya Akhtar, this film offers a contemporary take on a wealthy family’s life. In the story, Kamal Mehta (played by Anil Kapoor) and his wife Neelam Mehta (portrayed by Shefali Shah) arrange a cruise voyage to celebrate their anniversary. During this trip, the family encounters intricate predicaments as they uncover buried secrets about each other.

In the movie Dil Dhadakne Do, Ranveer and Priyanka portray siblings who stand by each other during challenging times. The Mehta family discovers that Ranveer’s character Kabir doesn’t share their passion for piloting a plane, while their daughter Ayesha (Priyanka) is on the verge of ending her marriage.

3. Udaan

Under the direction of Vikramaditya Motwane, the movie “Udaan” featured Rajat Bharmecha and Ronit Roy in leading roles, with Ram Kapoor playing a significant part as well. The story revolves around Rohan, a 17-year-old boy who returns home to Jamshedpur after being expelled from his boarding school. Rohan, portrayed by Rajat, struggles to coexist with his strict father, Bhairav Singh, played by Ronit Roy.

In the portrayal, Ronit is depicted as Bhairav, a father who exerts control and has an alcohol problem, forcing his son to conform to his desires for how to live. Contrarily, Rohan yearns to become a writer, but his father insists he runs long distances, works in a factory, and attends engineering classes. However, Rohan’s uncle, Jimmy Singh, encourages his dream.

4. Animal

Under the direction of Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the 2023 film “Animal” delves into the intricate bond between a father and son, portrayed by Anil Kapoor as Balbir Singh, a renowned Delhi industrialist, and Ranbir Kapoor as his son, Ranvijay Singh. The narrative unfolds the tumultuous dynamic of affection and animosity between them. Due to Balbir’s busy schedule during Ranvijay’s upbringing, they drift apart over time. However, Balbir remains oblivious to his son’s deep-rooted love for him. Throughout his life, Ranvijay is devoted to his industrialist father.

In Vanga’s direction, the tense bond between the father and son takes center stage. It shows us how Balbir’s strong personality affected his son psychologically.

5. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but sing the praises of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara – a movie that every wanderlust soul must experience! Starring Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, and Farhan Akhtar, this cinematic masterpiece is more than just a travel flick; it’s an emotional rollercoaster ride that delves into the intricacies of friendship.

In the movie, Imran’s on-screen persona experiences a range of feelings as he prepares to encounter his long-lost biological dad, Salman Habib, who is an artist residing in Spain. The narrative unfolds with Imran challenging his father, portrayed by Naseeruddin Shah, over leaving him behind during his childhood.

6. Goodbye

Among the movies to look forward to is Goodbye, featuring Rashmika Mandanna and Amitabh Bachchan. This comedy-drama, helmed by Vikas Bahl, revolves around the complex dynamics of the Bhalla family, who are portrayed as a dysfunctional unit. In the film, Amitabh Bachchan takes on the role of Harish Bhalla, while Neena Gupta is cast as his wife, Gayatri Bhalla. Rashmika Mandanna assumes the character of their daughter, Tara Bhalla, who is a lawyer in this heartfelt story.

Farewell explores intricate family dynamics and the challenging relationships among its characters as they grapple with the passing of Gayatri. The film primarily centers around the tumultuous bond between father Harish and daughter Tara. Following Gayatri’s death, disagreements arise over her funeral rites, but in time, the family begins to grow closer.

Have you watched these movies? Don’t miss them on Netflix.

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2024-10-09 14:53