Photo:
“Turning Red” image courtesy of Disney+
Mother’s Day is quickly approaching on May 12. After you have showered mom with homemade treats and gifts she'll love, end the day with some family movie time. To help you out, I’ve rounded up the best movies to watch with mom. From animated classics to emotional dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, you’ll find something you (and mom) will love.
So make mom some popcorn, give her the best seat on the couch and settle in for some quality time.
“The Princess Diaries”
Mia Thermopolis is an awkward teenager who discovers she is the heir to the throne of a small European country. Through the guidance and encouragement of her mother, Mia navigates the challenges of royal life while staying true to herself. This is Anne Hathaway’s feature film debut, and also stars Julie Andrews. What more do you need to know?
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated G
“Incredibles 2”
The Parr family just wants to blend in as they navigate the challenges of a world that no longer trusts superheroes. In an attempt to get the public back on their side, Helen (aka, Elastigirl) works with a wealthy businessman on missions to gain public trust. But everything is not what it seems, and soon the whole family is back to their superhero ways. Through Helen’s journey, the film highlights the invaluable contributions of mothers and their ability to overcome obstacles with love, courage and ingenuity.
Stream on Disney+, rated PG
“Turning Red”
Mei Lee is a teenage girl who discovers she can transform into a giant red panda when she experiences intense emotions. As Mei navigates her newfound abilities and the pressures of adolescence, she learns to embrace her authentic self with the support and guidance of her mother. The film captures the bond between mother and daughter, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, understanding and unconditional love.
Stream on Disney+, rated PG
“Brave”
This animated movie portrays the complex relationship between Princess Merida and her mother Queen Elinor as they navigate misunderstandings and expectations. Merida’s journey to mend their bond serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring love of family, making it a fitting film to watch and reflect upon during Mother’s Day.
Stream on Disney+, rated PG
“Wonder”
Based on the bestselling book of the same name, this movie tells the story of August Pullman, a young boy with facial differences, as he navigates his first year at a mainstream school. Throughout his journey, August’s mother Isabel provides constant love, support and encouragement, helping him embrace his uniqueness and navigate the challenges of acceptance.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“How to Train Your Dragon 2”
Hiccup and his dragon companion Toothless discover a secret ice cave inhabited by hundreds of wild dragons, and encounter Hiccup’s long-lost mother Valka. As they reunite and face new threats together, Valka’s wisdom guides Hiccup in his quest to protect their dragon friends and their village. The film’s exploration of the powerful bond between a mother and her child, coupled with Valka’s bravery and sacrifice, serves as a reminder of the selflessness and love embodied by mothers.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“Akeelah and the Bee”
Akeelah Anderson, a young girl from South Los Angeles, reaches her goal to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee with the support of her community and her mother Tanya. Through Akeelah’s determination and her mother's encouragement, the film showcases the power of maternal love and guidance in nurturing a child’s talents and dreams.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“Freaky Friday”
In this remake of the 1976 classic, Anna (played by Lindsay Lohan) and Tess Coleman (played by Jamie Lee Curtis) are a mother and daughter who do not see eye to eye. On anything. When they magically switch bodies after receiving a fortune cookie, they get to experience life as each other, and develop empathy for each other’s struggles. Jamie Lee Curtis’ performance of a teenager acting like an adult will have you laughing out loud.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG.
“Marcel the Shell With Shoes On”
If you haven’t watched this Oscar-nominated movie yet, go watch it right now. Really, I’ll wait.
This sweet story of a small mollusk shell with one eye and shoes will make you laugh and cry. Marcel is living with his elderly, kind grandma and looking for the rest of his family. Jenny Slate provides Marcel’s voice, which will charm you immediately. This movie focuses on love and family, and will be a perfect way to wrap up Mother’s Day (or any day).
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“Mamma Mia!”
ABBA dance party anyone? This movie follows the journey of a young woman Sophie who invites three men from her mother’s past to her wedding in hopes of discovering her father’s identity. Through a series of joyful and heartwarming musical performances, the film celebrates the bond between mothers and daughters, particularly the unbreakable connection shared between Sophie and her mother Donna.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG-13
“Miss Juneteenth”
Turquoise Jones, a former beauty queen, prepares her daughter Kai for the Miss Juneteenth pageant in hopes of securing a brighter future for her. As Turquoise navigates financial struggles and her own past mistakes, she strives to instill in Kai the importance of independence and self-worth.
Stream on Netflix, rated TV-MA
“Mother’s Day”
How could I leave this off the list? This movie revolves around intertwining stories of different mothers as they navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood. As they grapple with their relationships, careers and personal struggles, they ultimately find solace and strength in the bonds they share with their children and each other.
Stream on Max, rated PG-13
“Miss Virginia”
This award-winning, powerful film is based on a true story. Virginia Walden was a struggling, single mother who wanted to keep her son away from the dangers and rough streets of Washington, D.C. by enrolling him in private school. But when she could not afford the tuition, she launched a movement to change the school system that was letting down thousands of students, including her son. Her dedication is truly inspiring, and proof that everyone can make a difference when they stand up for what they believe.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated TV-14
“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret”
In this adaptation of Judy Blume’s classic novel, Margaret Simon navigates the complexities of growing up with the support and guidance of her mother Barbara. As Margaret deals with the challenges of adolescence and seeks answers to her questions about faith and womanhood, her mother is an important part of the journey.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG-13
“Barbie”
Barbie finds herself transported into a modern-day city where she navigates the challenges of everyday life while trying to find the answer to her existential crisis. She comes across a mother and daughter who are at a tough point in their relationship, and also happen to have the answers Barbie has been looking for. The film celebrates the importance of family and love, delivering a heartwarming message that resonates with audiences of all ages. It’s also quite funny, and American Ferrera delivers a monologue that makes women everywhere want to stand up and clap (and maybe scream a little too).
Stream on Max, rated PG-13
“Dumplin’”
Willowdean Dickson, nicknamed Dumplin’, challenges beauty pageant norms by entering a local competition run by her mother, a former pageant queen (played to perfection by Jennifer Aniston). As Dumplin’ navigates her own insecurities and the complexities of their relationship, she learns to embrace her unique identity and redefine beauty on her own terms.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG-13
“Because I Said So”
Daphne Wilder, a loving but overbearing mother (played by the fabulous Diane Keaton), meddles in her daughter’s love life, determined to find her the perfect match. As Daphne orchestrates a series of blind dates for her daughter Milly, their relationship is put to the test as Milly seeks independence.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG-13
More ideas for family movie night: |
