Queen Bees (2021): A Heartwarming Letter to the Elderly

I’ll show everyone who’s the queen bee of this nursing home.

Queen Bees entered theaters in 2021. Helen Wilston reluctantly agrees to temporarily move into Pine Grove Senior Community while her house is fixed. When she arrives, Helen discovers that cliques are not just in high school. She competes in an elderly popularity contest with mean-spirited women.

Did you ever think there’d be a movie about a popularity contest in a retirement home? Storylines about nursing homes hold more meaning than one thinks. I’ve noticed more films with this concept. Queen Bees is about getting older and how to enjoy every moment.

Ellen Burstyn, well known for The Exorcist, plays Helen Wilston, a fiercely independent woman. The role was written with Burnstyn in mind. She brings nuances, depth, and wit to this character. Helen never lets anyone get her down. Her transformation is uplifting, enforcing that age is just a number.

As the elderly mean girls trio, Jane Curtin (Jenet), Loretta Devine (Sally), and Ann-Margaret (Margot) put all the sass and flair in their roles. Eventually, the women warm up to each other and share heartwarming moments. Their sarcastic comebacks are funny. It shows that no matter how old you are, you can still have a good time.

In contrast to the characters' mean spirits, everyone enjoyed their time in this film. The casting process was a memorable time because filmmakers cast more well-known individuals than they thought.

This is the final role of the late James Caan, who played Dan Simpson. He delivers a heartfelt performance, which is a contrast to his tough guy persona. I rather liked seeing his soft side. The romantic chemistry between Burnstyn and Cann is really sweet.

The talented Christopher Lloyd plays a cheery resident, but he is hiding a heart-wrenching burden. I don’t think I have ever seen Lloyd perform an emotional scene like this one. It makes me thankful for my memory all the more.

Queen Bees is based on producer Harrison Powell’s relative who found love when she moved into a retirement home. Powell, who was inspired himself, told the story to Astute film studios. The studio and film writer Donald Martin were immediately drawn to the film’s mix of comedy and poignant moments.

You may have heard of director Michael Lambeck, who directed 25 episodes of the sitcom Friends. Filmmakers wanted someone who had an eye for storytelling, which is why they chose Lambeck for Queen Bees.

Queen Bees is all about authenticity, right down to the location. Filming occurred in Parc at Daluth, a real senior center in Atlantic, GA. It was filmed in 2018 before the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Based on behind-the-scenes stories, the cast enjoyed their time with Lambeck, who worked closely with each cast member to develop backstories. Lambeck made a touching film about old people. Friendship is another important element. It’s not long until you’re playing a game of bridge and talking about the olden days with your best friend.

We can all find something relatable about Queen Bees. I’ve noticed more films with storylines focused on elderly audiences. My advice is that you shouldn’t avoid this movie because of its storyline and themes. It’s a funny and heartwarming story.

Elderly people are just as important. They have supportive advice, timeless stories, and they’re always here to spread cheer. We need to prepare for old age - even while we’re young. You never know what can happen.

Life always has second chances. Queen Bees is a film for all audiences. Watch this movie with your grandparents. I watched it with my grandmother, and we laughed and laughed.