---
title: "Manchester by the Sea"
year: 2016
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/manchester-by-the-sea-2016"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 334541
imdb_id: "tt4034228"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 138
community_rating: 7.6
vote_count: 6461
content_rating: "R"
---

# Manchester by the Sea (2016) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/manchester-by-the-sea-2016

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The film revolves around Lee Chandler, who is forced to return to his hometown after the passing of a family member. Upon his return, Lee is tasked with caring for a teenage relative. As he navigates this new responsibility, Lee is confronted with a painful past that led to his estrangement from his family and the community where he was born. This confrontation forces Lee to confront the consequences of his past actions. The film explores the complexities of grief, family dynamics, and the weight of responsibility.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A grieving man returns home to care for his nephew after his brother passes away."

### Why Watch
- acclaimed performances by Casey Affleck and Michelle Williams
- strong script and direction by Kenneth Lonergan

### Caveats & Content Note
- contains heavy, tragic themes
- can be a very tearful viewing experience
- Tone & Suitability: The film deals with heavy tragic themes and a depressive loner coping with a difficult past.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: dramatic, emotional, somber

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads | Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads | None |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | Amazon Prime Video, STUDIOCANAL PRESENTS Apple TV Channel, Studiocanal Presents Amazon Channel, Amazon Prime Video with Ads | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads | Hoopla, Tele Quebec | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Kenneth Lonergan
- **Networks / Studios**: Pearl Street Films, K Period Media, B Story

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Casey Affleck** as *Lee Chandler*
- **Lucas Hedges** as *Patrick Chandler*
- **Michelle Williams** as *Randi Chandler*
- **Kyle Chandler** as *Joe Chandler*
- **C.J. Wilson** as *George*
- **Gretchen Mol** as *Elise Henderson*
- **Matthew Broderick** as *Jeffrey Garner*
- **Anna Baryshnikov** as *Sandy*
- **Heather Burns** as *Jill*
- **Ivy O'Brien** as *Young Patrick Chandler*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was Manchester by the Sea released in the US?
It was released on 11/18/2016 in the US.

### Q: Who directed Manchester by the Sea?
The film was written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan.

### Q: Who stars in the film?
The film stars Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, and Lucas Hedges.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The film has a runtime of 2 hours and 18 minutes.

### Q: What is the genre of Manchester by the Sea?
It is classified as a drama.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*