During award show season it is hard not to get caught up in celebrating the biggest and brightest films of the year. Whether enjoying the glamor of the actual award ceremonies or settling in for a marathon viewing of the top nominated films, there is plenty of great artistry to discover this time of year.

At Deupree House we believe that making time to explore the arts is an important part of enjoying senior life. And film provides a fun and interesting way to explore our own lives and relationships while having a good time with friends.

The following films feature great story lines, prominent actors and a focus on seniors who are living well as interesting, complicated and thoughtful individuals.

Top 5 Recent Films Portraying Senior Life

1. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

This 2012 British comedy features an impressive cast of characters. Based on a 2004 novel by Deborah Moggach, the film follows a large group of British pensioners as they move to an Indian retirement hotel. Released to critical acclaim, the film grossed nearly $137 million following its worldwide release. The film was such a great success that a 2015 sequel is planned for release this summer.

2. Amour

As you may be able to tell from this 2012 film's title, Amour is all about an everlasting love. This French-language Palme d’Or winning drama follows the story of an elderly couple who find their bond tested. The pair of retired music teachers struggle after the wife, Anne, played by Emmanuelle Riva, suffers a stroke that paralyzes the right side of her body.

Exquisite acting and a beautifully written script make Amour a romance not to be missed by audiences of all ages.

3. Hope Springs

This 2012 romantic comedy stars Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones and Steve Carrell. Viewers see Kay and Arnold Saomes (Streep and Jones) try to reignite the flame in their marriage with marriage counseling. With an array of interesting and hilarious tasks, their counselor helps them to remember why they fell in love in the first place.

Fans of Streep and Jones will not be disappointed with their tremendous acting skills and should prepare for plenty of laughs.

4. Is Anybody There?

It's hard to not fall in love with great acting and a moving, well written story. And that is what 2008's Is Anybody There? promises audiences. The film follows young Edward, who lives in a retirement home run by his parents, as he sets out to find evidence of an afterlife. Along the way he meets Clarence, played by Michael Caine, an ex-magician in the early stages of dementia. Together the pair find out what true friendship really is and come to terms with their futures.

5. Still Mine

This 2013 Canadian romantic drama was another award show darling that was highly praised by critics and audiences alike. Based on a true story, Still Mine tells the tale of Craig Morrison and his wife Irene. Morrison, portrayed by James Cromwell, must battle a government bureaucrat for the right to build a new home that meets the needs of his wife, Irene, who is in failing health.

Explore Different Life Experiences through Film

Each one of the fantastic titles mentioned above offer a new and complex view into senior life. With great messages of understanding different types of love, loss and friendship they take audiences on a satisfying journey.

Each one of these films also puts an emphasis on living well and getting the most out of life. So grab your popcorn and your favorite movie buff to enjoy one or all five of these great films. And be on the lookout for more great films portraying senior life in 2015.