Motherhood is a journey filled with emotional highs and lows, and sometimes, there’s no better way to connect with your mom than by enjoying a great movie together. Whether you’re looking for humor, heartfelt moments, or stories about the complexities of family, here’re my movies to watch with your mom. From musicals to dramas, here’s a selection of movies that are perfect for watching with your mom—movies that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the beautiful, complicated bond you share.
If you want more – check my TOP 5 Must-Watch TV Shows Moms.

August: Osage County (2013)

IMDb Rating: 7.0

• Why You Should Watch It: This slow heavy drama is an exploration of family dynamics at their most dysfunctional. When the family matriarch (played by iconic Meryl Streep) becomes ill, her three daughters return home and face long-buried tensions, secrets, and unresolved conflicts. Julia Roberts also delivers an unforgettable performance as the eldest daughter, who is forced to reconcile with her mother and the family she left behind.
• What Makes It Special: While it’s intense and sometimes uncomfortable, it’s one of the greatest movies to watch with your mom if you want to delve deep into complicated family relationships, empty nest and other problems.

Stepmom (1998)

IMDb Rating: 7.1

• Why You Should Watch It: This emotionally charged film is a beautiful exploration of family, motherhood, and the complex relationships between biological mothers and stepmothers. Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts give stunning performances as a mother and the new woman in her ex-husband’s life, navigating their way through jealousy, insecurity, and ultimately, respect for each other as they care for the children they both love.
• What Makes It Special: Stepmom offers a heartwarming portrayal of motherhood from different angles, making it a perfect choice for a mom and daughter duo. It’s funny, tender, and will tug at your heartstrings in the best way.

Wild (2014)

IMDb Rating: 7.1

• Why You Should Watch It: In this powerful drama, Reese Witherspoon plays Cheryl Strayed, a woman who embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail to heal from the emotional scars of her past, including the death of her mother. The film beautifully portrays Cheryl’s physical and emotional journey as she confronts grief, addiction, and her own inner strength.
• What Makes It Special: Wild is a deeply moving film about self-discovery, healing, and the complicated relationship between a mother and daughter. Witherspoon’s performance is compelling and raw, making this a great choice to enjoy stories of resilience and personal transformation and it makes it one of the best movies to watch with your mom.

Julie & Julia (2009)

IMDb Rating: 7.0

• Why You Should Watch It: Based on the true story of Julie Powell (played by Amy Adams) and her quest to cook all 524 recipes in Julia Child’s cookbook, Julie & Julia celebrates the joy of cooking, self-discovery, and the bond between mother figures and their daughters. Meryl Streep gives a show-stopping performance as Julia Child, bringing humor and warmth to the role.
• What Makes It Special: This delightful film is perfect for moms who love to cook—or those who simply appreciate the beauty of pursuing a passion. It also explores the dynamic between mothers and daughters in a relatable, uplifting way.

I Don’t Know How She Does It (2011)

IMDb Rating: 5.6

• Why You Should Watch It: Sarah Jessica Parker stars as a working mom trying to juggle her career, family, and personal life. The comedy centers on the pressures of modern motherhood, with plenty of moments that will resonate with any mom trying to balance
• What Makes It Special: Sarah Jessica Parker! If you are a fan of Sex and The City, want something light, fashionable and nice to look at. And Pierce Brosnan – if you know, you know 🙂

The Upside of Anger (2005)

IMDb Rating: 6.9

• Why You Should Watch It: This film follows Joan Allen as Terry, a mother of four daughters who is left by her husband and forced to cope with the upheaval. With the help of her neighbor (played by Kevin Costner), Terry learns to navigate her anger and the complex relationships with her daughters. The humor is dark but balanced with deeply emotional moments.
• What Makes It Special: The film perfectly captures the frustration, joy, and transformation that often accompany motherhood. It’s an emotional yet funny portrayal of a mother who must learn to reconcile her own desires with the needs of her family.

Ricki and the Flash (2015)

IMDb Rating: 6.1

• Why You Should Watch It: Meryl Streep stars as Ricki, a rock musician who returns to her family after years of estrangement. The film is about reconciling with your past, learning to forgive, and the complexities of family relationships. Streep’s performance is both funny and deeply moving as Ricki tries to reconnect with her children, especially her daughter (played by Mamie Gummer, Streep’s real-life daughter).
• What Makes It Special: For moms who love music and a good family drama with humor, Ricki and the Flash offers both. It’s a great pick for a mother-daughter movie night, combining great music with an emotional storyline about love, regret, and personal growth.

A Beautiful Boy (2018)

IMDb Rating: 7.3

• Why You Should Watch It: This heartbreaking drama stars Steve Carell as a father trying to help his son, played by Timothée Chalamet, battle a serious drug addiction. The film is based on the memoirs of David Sheff and his son Nic, and it provides a raw, emotional look at addiction, mental health, and the heartbreaking impact on families.
• What Makes It Special: A Beautiful Boy is an intense and powerful portrayal of the challenges that come with raising a son through difficult, painful times. The bond between father and son is both tender and tragic, showing the complexities of parental love when faced with addiction.

King Richard (2021)

IMDb Rating: 7.6

Why You Should Watch It: While King Richard primarily focuses on the life and journey of Richard Williams, the father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams, it’s also a deeply moving look at Serena’s early life and her path toward greatness. The movie portrays the struggles and triumphs of the Williams family as they navigate the challenges of coming from a disadvantaged background in Compton, California, to rising stars in the world of tennis.

What Makes It Special: King Richard is a celebration of family, perseverance, and the power of believing in your children’s potential. It highlights Richard Williams’ dedication, sometimes at great personal cost, to help his daughters achieve their dreams. It also provides a glimpse into Serena’s formative years, showcasing her unshakable confidence and determination, qualities that would go on to define her legendary career.

Mamma Mia! (2008)

IMDb Rating: 6.9

• Why You Should Watch It: If your mom loves music, heartwarming family stories, and a good sing-along, Mamma Mia! is a perfect choice. This feel-good musical is set on a picturesque Greek island and follows Sophie, a young bride-to-be, as she invites three potential fathers to her wedding in search of her biological dad. The catchy ABBA hits are impossible to resist, and the movie explores themes of family, identity, and love in a fun and colorful way. Meryl Streep, playing Sophie’s mother Donna, steals the show with her heartfelt performance and spectacular vocals.
• What Makes It Special: The light-hearted comedy and the themes of mother-daughter relationships make it a wonderful choice for a movie night with your mom. Plus, you’ll both be humming “Dancing Queen” long after the credits roll.

These 10 films offer a blend of laughter, tears, and reflection, making them perfect for a memorable movies to watch with your mom. Whether you’re exploring the lighter side of motherhood or the deeper emotional layers, these films will resonate with both you and your mom.