Beginners 2011
"This is what love feels like."
Mike Mills' poignant *Beginners (2011)* weaves a tender, bittersweet tapestry of love, loss, and second chances. The film follows Oliver, an up-and-coming graphic designer still reeling from the sudden death of his father, Hal.
Director: Mike Mills
Cast
Ewan McGregor
Oliver Fields
Christopher Plummer
Hal Fields
Mélanie Laurent
Anna Wallace
Goran Višnjić
Andy
Kai Lennox
Elliot
Mary Page Keller
Georgia Fields
Keegan Boos
Young Oliver
China Shavers
Shauna
Melissa Tang
Liz
Amanda Payton
Party Person
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beginners (2011) about?
*Beginners* explores the aftermath of loss through Oliver, whose father Hal defies expectations after his wife's death by embracing a vibrant, joyful gay life in his later years. When Oliver falls for the spirited Anna, he's forced to navigate grief, reinvention, and the messy beauty of new love.
Who directed Beginners?
Mike Mills, known for his intimate, character-driven storytelling, directed *Beginners*. His signature blend of humor and melancholy shines in this deeply personal film.
Who stars in Beginners?
The film stars Ewan McGregor as Oliver, Christopher Plummer as Hal, Mélanie Laurent as Anna, and Goran Višnjić as the younger love interest.
Is Beginners (2011) worth watching?
With its emotional depth and standout performances—especially Christopher Plummer's Oscar-winning turn—*Beginners* is a gem for fans of character-driven dramas. It's a wistful yet uplifting story that lingers long after the credits roll.
How long is Beginners?
Beginners runs for 104 minutes, or just under two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About Beginners (2011) — A heartfelt story of love, loss, and living fully
Mike Mills' poignant *Beginners (2011)* weaves a tender, bittersweet tapestry of love, loss, and second chances. The film follows Oliver, an up-and-coming graphic designer still reeling from the sudden death of his father, Hal. But Hal's final years were anything but ordinary—after decades of marriage, he came out at 75, embraced his true self, and dove headfirst into a whirlwind romance with a much younger man. When Oliver meets the free-spirited Anna, their connection reignites buried emotions and forces him to confront his own fears of vulnerability and happiness.
Melding drama, romance, and sharp-edged comedy, *Beginners* paints a raw, human portrait of how love can transform even in its most unexpected forms. With a dreamy visual style and heartfelt performances, Mills crafts a story that's equal parts celebration and elegy, leaving audiences to reflect on the fleeting yet profound impact of those who shape our lives.
