People Like Us (2012)
A deeply personal drama about family secrets, unexpected connections, and the courage to do the right thing.
People Like Us - Movie Information
- Original Title: People Like Us
- Release Year: 2012
- Directed by: Alex Kurtzman
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 1h 54m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 29, 2012 (Portugal - M/12), June 29, 2012 (United States - PG-13), October 18, 2012 (Germany - 6), August 10, 2012 (Brazil - 14)
- Alternative Titles: Ludzie jak my (PL), Así Somos (ES), 平凡人生 (CN), Chuyện Người Dưng (VN), Bem Vindo à Vida (BR), Welcome to People (US), Des gens comme nous (CA)
- Production Companies: DreamWorks Pictures, Reliance Entertainment, K/O Paper Products
- Production Countries: United States of America
People Like Us - Plot
After flying home to L.A. for the funeral of his estranged record-producer father, a struggling man discovers that the will stipulates that he must deliver $150,000 in cash to a 30-year-old alcoholic sister he never knew existed, and her troubled 12-year-old son.
People Like Us - Trailer
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People Like Us - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Alex Kurtzman
Main Cast
- Chris Pine
- Elizabeth Banks
- Olivia Wilde
- Michelle Pfeiffer
- Mark Duplass
- Devin Brochu
- Barbara Eve Harris
- Dean Chekvala
- Sara Mornell
- Michael Hall D'Addario
Writers
- Alex Kurtzman
- Jody Lambert
- Roberto Orci
Producers
- Bobby Cohen
- Clayton Townsend
- Roberto Orci
People Like Us - FAQs
What is People Like Us about?
People Like Us follows Sam Harper, a fast-talking salesman who returns to Los Angeles after his estranged father's death and discovers a shocking secret: he has a half-sister named Frankie and a troubled 12-year-old nephew he never knew existed. The film explores family, identity, and the courage it takes to tell the truth.
Is People Like Us based on a true story?
Yes, People Like Us draws from the real-life experience of co-writer and director Alex Kurtzman, who discovered he had a half-sibling after his father's death. While the film takes creative liberties, its emotional core — the shock of an unexpected family revelation — is rooted in Kurtzman's own life.
Where can you stream People Like Us?
People Like Us is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It's not currently on a subscription streaming service, but it's easy to find across all major digital rental platforms.
Does People Like Us have a post-credits scene?
Yes! There is a brief scene during the credits, so it's worth staying in your seat a little longer. It's a small but touching moment that adds a warm coda to the story — the kind of quiet surprise that fits perfectly with the film's emotional tone.
Who are the main actors in People Like Us?
The film stars Chris Pine as Sam, Elizabeth Banks as Frankie, and Michelle Pfeiffer as their mother Lillian. Olivia Wilde plays Sam's girlfriend Hannah, while young Devin Brochu delivers a standout performance as Frankie's son Simon. It's a strong ensemble anchored by genuinely moving performances.
Is People Like Us worth watching?
If you enjoy character-driven family dramas, People Like Us is a quietly rewarding watch. Critics praised the performances — especially Elizabeth Banks — and the film's emotional sincerity. It's not a flashy blockbuster, but it earns its tears honestly and leaves a lasting impression.
Who composed the music for People Like Us?
The score was composed by A.R. Rahman, the Oscar-winning composer behind Slumdog Millionaire. His music brings warmth and emotional depth to the film's quieter moments, complementing the story's themes of family reconnection and personal redemption without ever overpowering the performances.
How did People Like Us perform at the box office?
People Like Us had a modest box office run, earning around $12.4 million worldwide against a $16 million production budget. While it didn't set the charts alight commercially, the film found a dedicated audience who appreciated its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances from its talented cast.
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