The 60+ Best Movies About Adoption
- 1Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Octavia Spencer
A poignant tale that depicts the struggles and joys of adopting three siblings, this heartwarming film showcases how change and unconditional love can transform lives. With a comical twist on everyday events, it demonstrates the resilience of both parents and children as they navigate their new lives together. A must-see for anyone considering adoption or wishing to understand its complexities, this movie encourages empathy and understanding among its viewers.
- 2Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron
An inspirational story based on true events, this compelling drama follows a disadvantaged young man who finds strength in a supportive family when he's adopted as a teenager. Through their unwavering love and encouragement, he overcomes societal prejudice and his difficult past to achieve great success. Their collective journey exemplifies the transformative power of acceptance and love, making this a must-watch for audiences everywhere.
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- 3Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman
Adapted from Roald Dahl's beloved novel, this magical comedy explores the idea that sometimes our chosen families can be more significant than our biological ones. As Matilda discovers her extraordinary gifts and newfound friendship with her school principal, she realizes that love knows no boundaries or bloodlines. This enchanting film teaches children and adults alike that true family stems from connection rather than convention.
- 4
Lion
Dev Patel, Rooney Mara, David WenhamThis riveting film tells the emotional story of a young boy lost in India who is adopted by an Australian couple. Years later, he uses Google Earth to search for his long-lost birth family. His quest highlights the significance of identity while also emphasizing the importance of embracing one's adoptive roots. A true testament to the strength of familial bonds, this movie captivates audiences with its profound sense of love and belonging.
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- 5Kathryn Hahn, Paul Giamatti, Kayli Carter
A deeply affecting exploration of a couple navigating the complexities of fertility treatments and adoption, this poignant dramedy delves into the challenges presented by their desire for a child. With sharp wit and heart-wrenching emotion, the film underscores the perseverance that comes with love and the pursuit of family.
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- 6Aileen Quinn, Albert Finney, Carol Burnett
An evergreen classic about a plucky little orphan girl determined to find her parents, this musical filled with memorable songs is bound to have you humming along. Whisked away from her dreary orphanage by a wealthy benefactor, she soon discovers that love and belonging can be discovered in the most unexpected places. This film serves as a reminder that family is not always defined by blood, but by the love and care one receives from others.
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- 7Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel, Josh Lucas
This romantic comedy manages to tackle the complexities of adoption without losing its humor and lighthearted touch. When two polar opposites find themselves unexpectedly thrust into parenthood after their mutual friends' tragic demise, they learn that family isn't always what you expect – but sometimes, it's exactly what you need. A delightful exploration of love, loss, and discovering joy in unexpected places makes this film an entertaining yet thought-provoking watch.
- 8Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
A heartwarming dramedy revolving around the challenging decisions surrounding adoption, this tale of a pregnant teenager choosing to give her baby up for adoption offers an honest look at the joys and struggles faced by all parties involved. With its witty dialogue and touching moments, this movie captures the essence of unconventional families coming together through empathy and understanding.
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- 9John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Oliver Platt
A captivating drama about a recently widowed man adopting a young boy who claims to be from Mars, this touching film delves deep into themes of grief, acceptance, and the boundless power of love. As they both navigate their unique relationship and face skepticism from others, they learn that sometimes believing and embracing the unbelievable can lead to healing.
- 10Adam Sandler, Joey Lauren Adams, Jon Stewart
A comical yet heartwarming tale about an immature bachelor suddenly finding himself responsible for a young boy, this amusing story highlights how paternal instincts can emerge in even the most unlikely individuals. As they stumble through hilarious mishaps together, their budding relationship proves that parenthood – and sometimes even adoption – can bring out the best in people.
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- 11Frances McDormand, Nigel Hawthorne, Hatty Jones
Adapted from Ludwig Bemelmans' endearing children's books, this charming tale of a feisty orphan girl living in Paris teaches us that family can be found in the most unexpected places – even within the walls of a convent. Through Madeline's spirited antics, viewers are reminded that genuine love and support can create a sense of belonging that transcends bloodlines.
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- 12Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart
This uproarious holiday classic manages to tackle themes of adoption with humor and warmth that appeals to both children and adults alike. When a human raised by elves discovers his true origins, he journeys to New York City searching for his birth father and a sense of belonging. This whimsical film emphasizes that family is not just defined by blood but also by the love we share with those who enter our lives.
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- 13Jessica Lange, Halle Berry, David Strathairn
A powerful depiction of the bond between a mother and her child, this gripping drama explores issues of biological connection, race, and adoption ethics as a drug-addicted mother fights to regain custody of her son after he was adopted by a loving family. With unflinching honesty and raw emotion, this movie raises important questions about the complexities of adoption without providing easy answers.
- 14Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Hugh Jackman
A sweeping adaptation of Victor Hugo’s literary masterpiece, this epic story captures the struggle for redemption and the unbreakable bond between an adoptive father and daughter. As Jean Valjean takes in young Cosette from her cruel upbringing, their journey showcases how love knows no bounds, even amid political turmoil and personal tribulations. With towering performances and unforgettable music, this film will tug at your heartstrings while exploring the deepest connections of humanity.
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- 15Anne Heche, Diane Ladd, Kristen Bell
Based on a true story, this poignant drama follows a teenage girl who assumes responsibility for her younger siblings when their drug-addicted mother fails them. Determined to keep her family together, she decides to pursue adoption. This powerful tale demonstrates the resilience of sisterly love in the face of adversity, shedding light on the strength and courage it takes to keep a family together against all odds.
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- 16Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhané Wallis, Rose Byrne
This modern retelling of the classic musical captures the timeless appeal of its source material while offering fresh perspectives on adoption and found-family narratives. As the beloved redheaded orphan faces adversity and finds comfort in an unlikely father figure, this heartening film emphasizes the universal desire for love and belonging, no matter where one comes from.
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- 17Sissy Spacek, Mary-Louise Parker, S. Epatha Merkerson
This heartrending TV movie tells the story of a dedicated nurse who adopts an HIV-positive infant abandoned by her mother. The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience as she fights for her daughter's welfare in the face of prejudice and adversity. This emotional journey serves as a testament to the power of unconditional love in creating life-changing connections, even under the most difficult circumstances.
- 18Zachary Levi, Mark Strong, Asher Angel
Blending superhero action with heartfelt family drama, this thrilling and touching adventure transcends beyond the cape and mask to explore themes of trust, love, and acceptance within an adoptive family. As young foster child Billy Batson discovers his newfound superpowers, he also learns that life's greatest strength comes from the bonds we forge with those who love us unconditionally.
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- 19Timothy Spall, Brenda Blethyn, Phyllis Logan
Exploring the intricacies of family relationships and long-hidden truths, this emotionally gripping drama revolves around a middle-aged woman's search for her biological mother. As secrets unravel and connections are forged, the film emphasizes that sometimes our true families are those we create along the way. With raw honesty and brilliant performances, this movie touches on the powerful bonds that emerge through understanding and forgiveness.
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- 20Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, Jonathan Lipnicki
In this delightful sequel to the beloved family film, our pint-sized protagonist faces new challenges as he embarks on a daring adventure to rescue a kidnapped friend. As Stuart's adoptive family continues to support his courageous endeavors, this uplifting story emphasizes the importance of unity and unconditional love in overcoming adversity and fostering growth.
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- 21Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, Rachel Weisz
Set along the picturesque Australian coast after World War I, this heart-wrenching romantic drama depicts a couple struggling with infertility who discover an abandoned newborn on their isolated island and must face the consequences when the baby's birth mother resurfaces years later. Exploring the emotional complexities of love, loss, and the lengths we go for family, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile balance between mercy and justice.
- 22Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, Jonathan Lipnicki
Blending live-action with animation and adapting E.B. White's delightful tale for the big screen, this endearing story of a mouse adopted by human parents showcases the boundless potential of love to defy convention. As Stuart navigates his new life surrounded by humans and faces various challenges, both children and adults will be reminded that families come in all shapes and sizes.
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- 23Belén Rueda, Fernando Cayo, Geraldine Chaplin
This hauntingly beautiful tale of a woman returning to her childhood orphanage to create a better life for disabled children not only captures supernatural mysteries but also unravels profound themes of love, motherhood, and loss. As she searches for her missing adopted son amidst eerie occurrences, this chilling horror-drama emphasizes that family bonds can endure even beyond the veil of death.
- 24Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard, Isabelle Fuhrman
A chilling psychological thriller that delves into darker aspects of adoption, this gripping story follows a couple mourning the loss of their unborn child who decide to adopt a seemingly sweet young girl. However, they quickly realize that something sinister lurks beneath her innocent façade. As tensions escalate and hidden truths are revealed, this unsettling film explores themes of trust, deception, and the lengths families will go to protect one another.
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- 25Diane Keaton, Harold Ramis, Sam Shepard
A perfect example of how parenthood can change lives unexpectedly, this lighthearted romantic comedy follows a successful career woman who inherits a baby girl from distant relatives. As she learns to balance work, romance, and motherhood, her journey highlights that family can emerge even from the most unlikely situations. This witty and charming tale showcases the transformative power of love, life, and laughter.
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- 26Elizabeth Banks, David Denman, Jackson A. Dunn
This dark reimagining of traditional superhero tropes introduces an extraterrestrial boy adopted by a loving human couple but reveals ominous powers as he grows older. As they grapple with their son's dangerous potential, the film raises questions about nature versus nurture and the responsibilities that come with parenthood – even when faced with unimaginable challenges.
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- 27Helen Hunt, Colin Firth, Bette Midler
Navigating themes of familial loss, self-discovery, and unconventional connections, this heartfelt dramedy follows a disillusioned schoolteacher who decides to adopt after her husband leaves her, only to have her birth mother reenter her life. As she grapples with these newfound relationships and conflicting emotions, she learns that what truly defines family is not necessarily blood ties but rather understanding, empathy, and love.
- 28Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law, Frances O'Connor
In a futuristic world where human-like robots are created to serve humanity, one robot boy embarks on a quest to become "real" when he is abandoned by his adoptive parents. Blending science fiction with heartfelt drama, this visually stunning film raises questions about what it means to be human while exploring themes of love, abandonment, and the search for belonging within unconventional families.
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- 29Molly Ringwald, Randall Batinkoff, Kenneth Mars
This engaging coming-of-age drama recounts the story of teenage parents who grapple with the decision to give up their baby for adoption. As the couple confronts societal expectations and their own evolving maturity levels, the film raises thought-provoking questions about parenthood, responsibility, and courage in making difficult choices. This heartfelt tale showcases the formidable power of love to guide decision-making, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
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- 30Arnold Schwarzenegger, Danny DeVito, Kelly Preston
A hilarious romp through the world of nature versus nurture, this comedy follows two vastly different brothers – one gentle and intelligent, the other brash and street-smart – who discover they were separated at birth as part of an experiment. As they embark on a journey to reunite with their long-lost mother while evading nefarious forces bent on exploiting them, they learn that family is more than just DNA – it’s about the bonds we form along the way.
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