Kate Winslet’s Directorial Debut Shines in Goodbye June on Netflix

Oscar- nominated actress Kate Winslet takes on a new challenge with her first feature as a director in the upcoming holiday drama Goodbye June. The film, set to premiere in select theaters on December 12 before streaming on Netflix Christmas Eve, draws inspiration from Winslet’s personal experience of losing her mother. The screenplay, crafted by her son Joe Anders, brings a deeply personal touch to the story. Winslet also stars alongside Toni Collette, Johnny Flynn, Helen Mirren, Andrea Riseborough, and Timothy Spall, forming a powerhouse ensemble.

Family Bonds and the Weight of Loss

Goodbye June centers on the character June, whose health takes a turn for the worse just as the holidays approach. Her four children and husband are forced to confront the reality of her declining condition. June, determined to face her fate on her own terms, uses her signature wit and honesty to guide her family through the pain. The film opens with a dramatic moment: June collapses while making tea and is rushed to the hospital. Although surgery is successful, doctors reveal her cancer is advancing. The family’s anxiety boils over, leading to a heated argument in the waiting room as they grapple with the looming loss.

In 2025, several films have tackled the theme of grief, and Goodbye June stands among them. Like Hamnet, Train Dreams, and even the horror film Bring Her Back, this movie delves into the many ways people process sorrow and the lasting impact of saying goodbye. While the script aims to capture the complexity of these emotions, it sometimes gets bogged down by unnecessary subplots that distract from the core story.

Script Flaws and Emotional Authenticity

Joe Anders’s writing shines when it focuses on the family’s struggle to accept their mother’s fate. The film authentically portrays how each child—and their father—handles the situation in their own way. The audience is invited to witness the raw, relatable reactions that come with facing the inevitable. However, the script occasionally loses its footing by introducing side stories for each character, which muddle the narrative and dilute the emotional punch.

Despite these missteps, the film’s heart remains intact thanks to the cast’s compelling performances. Helen Mirren delivers a standout portrayal of June, capturing the full spectrum of emotions as she prepares her family for life without her. The chemistry among Toni Collette, Kate Winslet, Andrea Riseborough, and Johnny Flynn as siblings feels genuine, while Timothy Spall brings much-needed levity as the family patriarch.

Performances That Elevate the Story

The ensemble cast breathes life into the film, elevating a script that sometimes falters. Mirren’s nuanced performance as June anchors the story, balancing vulnerability and strength as she reassures her children. The sibling dynamic is believable, with each actor bringing depth to their role. Spall’s humor offers relief during the film’s heavier moments, making the family’s journey feel all the more real.

While the screenplay may not always hit the right notes, Goodbye June is likely to resonate with viewers who have experienced loss or navigated complicated family dynamics. Winslet’s directorial approach is understated yet effective, showing promise for her future behind the camera. The film’s emotional core and strong performances ensure it will find an audience seeking a heartfelt story this holiday season.

Goodbye June opens in select theaters December 12 and will be available to stream on Netflix starting December 24.