This curated selection of biopics delves into the lives of women who have faced the profound loss of their husbands. These films not only portray the emotional journey of widowhood but also highlight the resilience and strength of these women. Each story provides a unique perspective on grief, recovery, and the enduring human spirit, making them valuable for those seeking understanding or solace in similar circumstances.

A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Description: While primarily about John Nash, the film also shows his wife Alicia's struggle after his death, highlighting her strength and dedication.
Fact: Russell Crowe won an Oscar for Best Actor for his role as John Nash.


The Hours (2002)
Description: The film intertwines the lives of three women across different time periods, one of whom, Virginia Woolf, deals with the loss of her husband.
Fact: Nicole Kidman won an Oscar for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf.


The Queen (2006)
Description: Queen Elizabeth II, portrayed by Helen Mirren, reflects on her life and marriage after the death of her husband, Prince Philip.
Fact: Helen Mirren won an Academy Award for Best Actress for this role.


The Duchess (2008)
Description: The film depicts the life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, who endures the death of her husband and the complexities of her marriage.
Fact: Keira Knightley was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance.


The Iron Lady (2011)
Description: This film chronicles the life of Margaret Thatcher, focusing on her later years, where she reflects on her life, including the death of her husband Denis.
Fact: Meryl Streep won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher.


The King's Speech (2010)
Description: The film shows King George VI's life, with his wife, Queen Elizabeth, dealing with his death and the subsequent reign of their daughter.
Fact: Colin Firth won an Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI.


My Week with Marilyn (2011)
Description: While not directly about widowhood, it explores Marilyn Monroe's life, including her tumultuous marriage and the impact of her husband's death.
Fact: Michelle Williams was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: The film focuses on Stephen Hawking's life, with his wife Jane coping with his deteriorating health and eventual death.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Stephen Hawking.


The Wife (2017)
Description: Joan Castleman, after decades of supporting her husband's literary career, faces his death and the revelation of his secrets.
Fact: Glenn Close received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Joan.


Iris (2001)
Description: This biopic explores the life of Iris Murdoch, focusing on her relationship with her husband John Bayley, who cares for her as she succumbs to Alzheimer's.
Fact: Judi Dench and Kate Winslet both received Oscar nominations for their roles.
