Momma Throughout

Bonnie is more commonly referred to as Momma throughout the film which ties into the fact that she doesn't leave the house often and the only people that see her are her children. Momma is extremely defensive of Arnie and only wants what is best for him. This may be due to the fact that doctors told her and her family that Arnie wouldn't live very long. Momma hasn't left the house in 7 years which is mainly due to her obesity. After her alcoholic husband committed suicide she hasn't had the motivation to move from her couch. Due to the Grape's dysfunction Gilbert found a safe haven, Becky. Becky is a free spirited young girl who drove into Endora with her mother via trailer. Becky was wise beyond her years, she was loving and accepting and she was exactly what Gilbert needed at exactly the right time. Becky eventually became Gilbert's girlfriend and he leaves Betty Carver, a married woman who's having an affair.

Gilbert Grape from What's Eating Gilbert Grape? is believed to be suffering from depression. The producers, directors and Johnny Depp showed and accurate depiction of someone who would be suffering from depression. Depression occurs in people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds which affecting over 120 million people worldwide. Depression has many causes a few being, genetics, major hardships and life stressors, such as the death of a loved one or the loss of a job (Book A page 9). Gilbert has been going through a rough time in his life. Only a few years ago his alcoholic father committed suicide which can be considered a "life stressor". Also despite Gilbert's personal issues his career was also causing him anxiety. Gilbert being the only working one in the family one can assume he felt pressured. In the small town of Endora he worked at a local food market, but with the addition of supermarkets created competition. Fewer and fewer costumers shop at Gilbert's job which may affect his paycheck.