Riding in Cars with Boys is a 2001 film based on the autobiography  of the same name by Beverly Donofrio about a woman who overcame difficulties, including being a teen mother, and who later earned a master's degree. The movie's narrative spans the years 1961 to 1986. It stars Drew Barrymore, Steve Zahn, Brittany Murphy, and James Woods. It was directed by Penny Marshall. Although co-produced by Beverly Donofrio, many details from the book and film differ.