In a society that often equates female worth with youth and beauty, age-gap relationships can be met with skepticism and even hostility. When the woman is older than the man, these relationships are often seen as inherently predatory, with the assumption that the older woman must have some ulterior motive. This double standard, which vilifies older women for dating down but lets older men off the hook, is both unfair and outdated.
Age-gap romances, particularly those with an older woman-younger man dynamic, challenge societal norms and expose the underlying ageism and sexism that persists in our culture. The new rom-com, which follows a 40-year-old art gallery owner who falls for a 24-year-old pop star, tackles this issue head-on, portraying the real-life consequences that older women face when they date younger men.
The film highlights the isolation and shame that Solène, the older woman in the relationship, experiences as she navigates the judgment and scrutiny of society. While Hayes, the younger man, escapes with his reputation unscathed, Solène is labeled as a cougar and a predator. This double standard reflects the deep-seated belief that older women are not entitled to the same sexual freedom and agency as younger women.
Beyond the societal stigma, age-gap relationships can also be complex and challenging due to different life experiences and expectations. The film explores the reasons why two people with a significant age difference might be drawn together, such as the desire for stability or the yearning for missed experiences. However, it also acknowledges the challenges that can arise, including power imbalances and differing worldviews.
Despite the challenges and societal disapproval, age-gap relationships can be fulfilling and mutually beneficial. By unpicking the reasons behind society’s discomfort with these relationships, the film encourages us to rethink our assumptions and embrace the diversity of human connections. It reminds us that love and happiness can come in many forms, regardless of age.
