Only the Lonely
Year: 1991
Runtime: 104 min
Language: English
Director: Chris Columbus
A devoted but overprotective mother, Rose, finds her relationship with her grown son, Danny, challenged when he falls for Theresa. Rose's insecurities lead her to employ increasingly manipulative tactics to keep the couple apart, creating confusion and conflict. Danny finds himself torn between his feelings for Theresa and the advice of his eccentric friends, navigating a humorous and heartfelt journey of love and family.
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Timeline & Setting – Only the Lonely (1991)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Only the Lonely (1991). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:01
Main Characters – Only the Lonely (1991)
Meet the key characters of Only the Lonely (1991), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:01
Major Themes – Only the Lonely (1991)
Explore the central themes of Only the Lonely (1991), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.
Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:01
Explore Movie Threads
Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.
Movies about family vs. romance conflict like Only the Lonely
Stories where love for a partner clashes with loyalty to family.If you enjoyed the heartfelt struggle in Only the Lonely, you'll find similar movies here. These stories explore the bittersweet tension between new love and family ties, featuring characters who must choose between loyalty and their own happiness in gentle, character-driven comedies and dramas.
Narrative Summary
The narrative pattern follows a protagonist, often a late bloomer, whose new romantic relationship is tested by the disapproval or dependence of a close family member. The central conflict revolves around breaking free from ingrained obligations, leading to a series of emotional confrontations and self-discovery before reaching a resolution that balances happiness with acceptance.
Why These Movies?
Movies in this thread are grouped by their shared focus on a specific, relatable emotional crossroads. They blend romantic hope with the melancholic weight of familial strain, creating a bittersweet tone. The pacing is typically steady, allowing for deep exploration of character relationships and internal conflict.
Gentle anxious comedies about self-discovery like Only the Lonely
Humorous and heartfelt journeys about overcoming personal doubts.Fans of the gentle humor and anxious self-discovery in Only the Lonely will appreciate these movies. This collection highlights comedies and romantic stories where characters navigate guilt, obligation, and personal growth with a mix of heartfelt emotion and soft, character-based humor.
This Isn't Funny
2015
The Late Bloomer
2016
My Awkward Sexual Adventure
2012
Gray Matters
2007
Lazy Susan
2020
Happiness for Beginners
2023
Sleepwalk with Me
2012
Life Partners
2014
Playing It Cool
2015
Only the Lonely
1991
Humor Me
2018
Jump Tomorrow
2001
The Answer Man
2009
Hello, My Name Is Doris
2016
Life or Something Like It
2002
Narrative Summary
These stories follow characters, often feeling stuck or behind in life, as they embark on a journey of self-discovery prompted by a new relationship or opportunity. The narrative is driven by internal anxiety and the humorous pitfalls of stepping outside one's comfort zone, leading to a gradual and earned confidence.
Why These Movies?
These movies share a specific emotional mix: they are genuinely funny but not broad or farcical, with humor arising from awkward situations and heartfelt character interactions. The tone balances hope with a tangible sense of anxiety, creating a comforting yet relatable vibe for viewers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth.
Unlock the Full Story of Only the Lonely
Don't stop at just watching — explore Only the Lonely in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Only the Lonely is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Only the Lonely Summary
Read a complete plot summary of Only the Lonely, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Only the Lonely Timeline
Track the full timeline of Only the Lonely with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
