10 Films Where Nothing Happens—And That’s the Point

Some movies thrive on action and plot twists, but others find power in quiet moments and minimal events. These films embrace stillness, letting mood, character, and atmosphere tell the story, proving less can be more.

I’ve chosen ten films where “nothing happens” yet everything matters. Each uses subtle details and human experiences to draw you in, showing why slow cinema can leave a lasting mark.

‘Lost in Translation’ (2003)

In ‘Lost in Translation’, Bob and Charlotte wander Tokyo, sharing quiet conversations and fleeting glances. There’s no big plot—just two lonely souls connecting in a foreign city.

The film’s strength is its mood of isolation and brief intimacy. I love how it captures the ache of feeling adrift, making their small moments feel profound.

‘Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles’ (1975)

‘Jeanne Dielman’ follows a housewife’s daily routines—cooking, cleaning, small errands—over three days. The camera lingers on her meticulous tasks, with no major events until a subtle shift.

Its hypnotic pace forces you to notice tiny cracks in her life. I found its slow burn gripping, revealing how routine can hide deeper turmoil.

‘Paterson’ (2016)

‘Paterson’ tracks a week in the life of a bus driver and poet named Paterson, who writes poetry and goes home to his quirky wife. Nothing dramatic happens—just daily rhythms and small observations.

The film’s gentle flow celebrates ordinary beauty. I was charmed by its quiet focus on creativity in everyday life.

‘Columbus’ (2017)

In ‘Columbus’, two strangers meet in a small Indiana town, talking about architecture and their personal struggles. The story doesn’t build to a big climax; it’s just their connection.

The clean visuals and thoughtful dialogue make it resonate. I love how it finds meaning in shared moments and quiet spaces.

‘Once Upon a Time in Anatolia’ (2011)

This Turkish film follows a group of men searching for a buried body in the countryside at night. Most of the runtime is filled with slow drives, mundane chats, and long silences.

Its deliberate pace mirrors the weight of their task. I was drawn into its haunting atmosphere, where every pause feels heavy with truth.

‘Wendy and Lucy’ (2008)

‘Wendy and Lucy’ centers on a woman stranded in a small town, searching for her lost dog. The plot is bare—her quiet struggles with poverty and small acts of kindness fill the time.

It’s a raw look at survival and loss. I found its simplicity heartbreaking, showing how much can be said with so little.

‘The Station Agent’ (2003)

In ‘The Station Agent’, a man with dwarfism moves to a rural train depot, forming unexpected friendships with a food truck owner and a grieving artist. There’s no big conflict, just their daily lives.

The film’s warmth lies in its small interactions. I love how it builds deep bonds through quiet, human moments.

‘Drive My Car’ (2021)

‘Drive My Car’ follows a theater director grieving his wife, directing a play, and bonding with his driver. Long drives and rehearsals dominate, with no major plot twists.

Its slow unraveling of grief and art is mesmerizing. I was moved by how it finds healing in shared silences and subtle connections.

‘Paris, Texas’ (1984)

In ‘Paris, Texas’, a man wanders out of the desert and reconnects with his estranged family, but the story lingers on quiet drives and conversations. There’s no rush to resolve his past.

The film’s stark beauty and emotional depth hit hard. I found its patient storytelling a powerful way to explore loss.

‘A Ghost Story’ (2017)

‘A Ghost Story’ shows a ghost watching his wife and the passage of time in their home. Long, silent shots of mundane life dominate, with little action.

Its meditative pace makes you feel time’s weight. I was captivated by its haunting take on love and memory, told through stillness.

Which quiet film spoke to you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!