The film about a father and his estranged son traveling to claim a Mega Sweepstakes prize is Nebraska. This 2013 black-and-white comedy-drama was directed by Alexander Payne and written by Bob Nelson.
The story follows Woody Grant, an elderly Montana man who believes he has won a million-dollar sweepstakes. After repeatedly trying to walk to Nebraska, Woody’s son David reluctantly agrees to drive him. Their journey becomes more than a trip to collect money: it takes them through Woody’s hometown, revives old family tensions, and exposes the complicated history between father and son.
Bruce Dern plays Woody, while Will Forte portrays David. The film also stars June Squibb as Woody’s outspoken wife, Kate. Nebraska premiered at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, where Dern won the Best Actor award. It later received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Original Screenplay. The film’s quiet road-trip structure blends dry humor with an exploration of aging, regret, family loyalty, and memory.