The Best Movies About Marriage

The Best Movies About Marriage

Ranker Film
Updated May 9, 2024 59.6K views 43 items
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5.4K votes
577 voters
3 reranks
Voting Rules
Movies about the institution of marriage.
Latest additions: Band Aid, Role Play, May December
Most divisive: Couples Retreat
Over 500 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About Marriage

Love and romance dominate the cinematic landscape, but films that offer an authentic portrayal of married life are a rarity. These gems don't appear often, yet they masterfully capture the true essence of committed relationships and the inevitable challenges they face, making them universally relatable. Rather than pushing an agenda, these movies present an unvarnished look at reality, free from judgment. Many of these films have garnered critical acclaim, winning prestigious awards and earning their place as timeless classics.

Crafted by filmmakers with a keen understanding of relationships, these movies delve into the intricacies of married life, portraying both its joys and struggles. While not all of them cast marriage in a somber light, many do, highlighting the nuanced challenges couples face. At the same time, some films celebrate the sweetness and joy of marriage, showing that despite its difficulties, it can be the best decision one ever makes.

Marriage can be exhausting, with the day-to-day grind of spending all your time with the same person, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. It’s no wonder that some of the film industry's greatest works focus on the drama and comedy that unfold in marriages, second marriages, or finding love again after a marriage.

The movies featured on this list sometimes offer inspirational messages, like the importance of never giving up on the one you love, no matter the cost. Others are comedies that explore the trials of the early years of marriage, as seen in "Just Married." No matter your preferred genre, whether it’s romantic drama or Christian movies about marriage, there's sure to be a film on this list that you and your significant other will enjoy.

This list includes some of the best movies about marriage, such as "The Notebook," "Gone With the Wind," "A Walk to Remember," and "Father of the Bride." Vote for your favorite marriage movies below to help determine the top films about married couples and their relationships with family and friends.

  • My Big Fat Greek Wedding
    1
    Nia Vardalos, John Corbett, Michael Constantine
    145 votes

    In this delightful comedy, we witness the hilarious and heartwarming journey of Toula Portokalos (Nia Vardalos) as she navigates the balancing act between her rather eccentric Greek family's expectations and her own desires. As she falls in love with the non-Greek Ian Miller (John Corbett), they defy cultural barriers to form a union that ultimately brings two vastly distinct worlds together, emphasizing that love can conquer all amidst a celebratory exploration of both tradition and modernity in marriage.

  • Father of the Bride
    2
    Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Kimberly Williams-Paisley
    165 votes

    A truly charming and poignant film, Father of the Bride tells the story of George Banks (Steve Martin), an overprotective father struggling to come to terms with his daughter's impending nuptials. The film humorously portrays George's countless mishaps in wedding planning while simultaneously providing an introspective look into the emotional complexities faced by a parent during such a monumental change. Ultimately, the movie tenderly reveals how the bonds of marriage can bring together not just individuals, but entire families as well.

  • The Notebook
    3
    Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner
    169 votes

    As a paradigm of true love and devotion, this cinematic masterpiece offers a riveting portrayal of Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie's (Rachel McAdams) tumultuous and passion-filled relationship. Despite life's hurdles and societal pressures that initially keep them apart, their unwavering love ultimately reunites them in marriage. The movie's raw depiction of the power of love even amidst the heartache of age and illness...provides a profound and moving exploration of love, commitment, and the trials faced by couples throughout their lives together.

  • Meet the Parents
    4
    Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Blythe Danner
    116 votes

    Emphasizing the hilarity and mortification involved in navigating family dynamics within the context of love and union, this humorous romp features Greg Focker's (Ben Stiller) efforts to win over the conservative, suspicious heart of his girlfriend's father, Jack Byrnes (Robert De Niro). Through a series of unfortunate events and laughable misadventures, the audience sees how individuals can persevere through trials and tribulations to prove their worthiness for the love at the core of any marriage. Meet the Parents delivers laughter, excitement, and a heartfelt glimpse into the importance of gaining familial approval before embarking upon lifelong commitment.

  • Steel Magnolias
    5
    Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine
    116 votes

    This extraordinary ensemble piece showcases the depth and resilience of Southern female friendship amid the backdrop of endearing characters navigating life's many challenges. Centered around the maternal bond between M'Lynn (Sally Field) and her newlywed daughter Shelby (Julia Roberts), the film delves into the joys and strife of marriage and family life with humor, wit, and heartbreakingly honest emotion. Though not exclusively a movie about marriage, it nonetheless offers powerful meditations on love and unwavering support that are essential to sustaining any lifelong partnership.

  • The Incredibles
    6
    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson
    64 votes

    A delightful, action-packed animated adventure, this film follows the life of a retired superhero family as they confront the pressures of parenthood, financial struggles, and the irresistible pull of their heroic past. A unique and empowering portrayal of marriage, The Incredibles highlights the importance of teamwork, communication, and trust in overcoming life's obstacles, as spouses Bob (Craig T. Nelson) and Helen Parr (Holly Hunter) work together to save the world while simultaneously nurturing their relationship.

  • Crazy, Stupid, Love.
    7
    Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore
    75 votes

    In this lively romantic comedy, viewers witness an insightful journey through the minefield of relationships and rediscovery of love when Cal Weaver's (Steve Carell) marital world comes crumbling down due to his wife, Emily's (Julianne Moore) confession of infidelity. Supported by a colorful cast including Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, and Kevin Bacon, the film combines humor, sentimentality, and raw human emotion as characters grapple with the complexities of love, commitment, and self-loathing in the ever-evolving landscape of modern marriage. The movie emphasizes that love can be messy but is ultimately worth fighting for.

  • Shrek 2
    8
    Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
    107 votes

    Defying traditional fairytale conventions, this beloved animated sequel features newlyweds Shrek (Mike Myers) and Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) embarking upon a thrilling adventure to meet Fiona's royal parents, much to their chagrin. Poignantly emphasizing the importance of true love, understanding, and acceptance of individuality in a successful marriage, Shrek 2 effortlessly blends humor and heartfelt storytelling that resonates not only with children but also with adults experiencing the inexorable challenges faced by any couple journeying through life together.

  • Something's Gotta Give
    9
    Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton, Keanu Reeves
    86 votes

    This sophisticated comedy stars Jack Nicholson as a confirmed bachelor turned lovelorn suitor passionately smitten with Diane Keaton's enchantingly complex playwright. The movie delves into themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and enduring romance regardless of age or circumstance, probing the notion that love, commitment, and understanding are fundamentally vital to creating beautiful relationships at any stage in life.

  • The Family Man
    10
    Nicolas Cage, Téa Leoni, Don Cheadle
    103 votes

    In this thought-provoking drama, we watch as self-centered businessman Jack Campbell (Nicolas Cage) obtains a glimpse into the life he could have had with his college sweetheart Kate Reynolds (Téa Leoni), offering him the opportunity to reflect on his priorities and values. The movie brilliantly showcases how pivotal choices impact relationships, and the ultimate importance of meaningful human connections, specifically, the bond of matrimony. As a compelling meditation on what truly matters in life, The Family Man transcends matrimonial concepts by delving into the overarching themes of love, devotion, and the transformative power that comes with a chance at redemption.

  • Sweet Home Alabama
    11
    Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey
    124 votes

    In this entertaining romantic comedy, we follow Melanie Smooter (Reese Witherspoon) as she returns to her rural hometown to finalize a divorce from her childhood sweetheart Jake Perry (Josh Lucas) so that she can marry her fiance Andrew Hennings (Patrick Dempsey) in New York City. Along the way, Melanie encounters colorful characters and learns that following her heart is key to forging a meaningful marriage. The film offers a sweet exploration of love, forgiveness, and self-discovery amidst the chaotic complexities of marriage.

  • True Lies
    12
    Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Arnold
    38 votes

    A high-octane action-comedy, this movie stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Harry Tasker, a seemingly mundane salesman leading a secret double life as a covert operative. When his two worlds collide, and his wife Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) becomes unwittingly involved, True Lies illustrates the transformative power of honesty and trust in the context of marriage. By highlighting the importance of communication and shared adventure, the film proves that overcoming hardship together can ultimately strengthen a marital bond.

  • Yours, Mine and Ours
    13
    Miranda Cosgrove, Dennis Quaid, Rene Russo
    80 votes

    In this comical family film about adaption and unconditional love, we witness the chaos following the union of Helen North (Lucille Ball), a widowed mother of eight, and Frank Beardsley (Henry Fonda), a widowed father of ten. As the new unit navigates merging routines, expectations, and familial balance, the couple's love and commitment persevere against staggering odds. Through laughter and sentimentality, Yours, Mine and Ours underlines that a successful marriage often relies on cooperation, communication, and compromise within a patchwork of personalities.

  • Terms of Endearment
    14
    Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, Jack Nicholson
    85 votes

    This critically acclaimed film provides a heart-rending portrayal of the complex bond between strong-willed Texan mother Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) and her daughter Emma (Debra Winger) as they collectively experience the ebbs and flows of marriage, family, and love. As both women navigate their tumultuous relationships with the men in their lives, the audience is masterfully exposed to the ever-compelling themes of love's resilience, the emotional intricacies of marriage, and the unwavering bond between mother and child.

  • Meet the Fockers
    15
    Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Dustin Hoffman
    101 votes

    Continuing the hilarity of its predecessor, Meet the Parents, this sequel introduces us to Greg Focker's (Ben Stiller) eclectic family, leading to raucous clashes between them and Jack Byrnes' (Robert De Niro) strict authoritarian clan. Demonstrating how couples navigate their way through clashing in-laws, as well as finding common ground and humor in contrasting backgrounds, Meet the Fockers artfully showcases that a strong partnership is built on loyalty, understanding, and willingness to adapt.

  • The Time Traveler's Wife
    16
    Rachel McAdams, Eric Bana, Arliss Howard
    83 votes

    A romantic, enchanting, and tear-jerking tale, this movie portrays the heartrending hardships faced by Clare Abshire (Rachel McAdams) and Henry DeTamble (Eric Bana) because of their marriage's bittersweet tangle with the uncontrollable nature of time travel. As the couple wrestles with loss, continuity, and perseverance, their love transcends the physical realm and becomes a symbol of the unwavering commitment felt by both partners throughout the endless depths of time.

  • Gone with the Wind
    17
    Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard
    107 votes

    This timeless classic captures the tempestuous love affair between Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh) and Rhett Butler (Clark Gable) amidst the backdrop of the American Civil War. The magnetic duo navigates a tumultuous union and explores themes of passion, power, and resilience within marriage, all while facing insurmountable societal upheaval. The film perfectly encapsulates the reality that maintaining a successful marriage can be complex, challenging, and requires unwavering persistence.

  • Fools Rush In
    18
    Matthew Perry, Salma Hayek, Jon Tenney
    78 votes

    Starring Matthew Perry and Salma Hayek, this lighthearted romantic comedy follows the whirlwind romance between Alex and Isabel after they discover their one-night stand has resulted in pregnancy. Overcoming significant cultural differences and familial tension, the film explores how genuine love and unconditional support can form the unshakeable foundation for a long-lasting, beautiful marriage. In this heartwarming tale, Fools Rush In displays the process of two individuals learning to navigate the intricate world of marriage through communication, compromise, and shared growth.

  • Date Night
    19
    Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg
    72 votes

    In this uproarious action-comedy, suburban couple Phil (Steve Carell) and Claire Foster (Tina Fey) embark on a chaotic date night after being mistaken for criminals in New York City. Despite their wildly misfortunate adventure, the film ultimately reveals that strengthening their bond through hazard reignites the passion, understanding, and trust in their longstanding relationship. Date Night reminds us that maintaining a healthy marriage requires continued effort, communication, and the occasional unforeseen adventure.

  • Mr. & Mrs. Smith
    20
    Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Vince Vaughn
    114 votes

    This exhilarating action-comedy features Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as a seemingly ordinary married couple who unknowingly work as assassins for opposing agencies. As John (Pitt) and Jane (Jolie) fight through thrilling battles against enemies and each other, they rediscover the passion, trust, and dedication that initially brought them together. Mr. & Mrs. Smith demonstrates how adversity can renew sparks within marriage while emphasizing the importance of always having each other's backs.

  • A Beautiful Mind
    21
    Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly
    34 votes

    A heartening and powerful account, this biographical drama follows the life and career of the brilliant mathematician John Nash (Russell Crowe) as he wrestles against schizophrenia, personal hardship, and professional adversity. Also showcasing the unwavering loyalty, support, and mental fortitude displayed by his wife, Alicia Nash (Jennifer Connelly), A Beautiful Mind poignantly explores how endurance, understanding, and steadfast devotion lie at the core of a successful partnership even in the face of adversity.

  • Instant Family
    22
    Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Octavia Spencer
    37 votes

    In this earnest and heart-warming comedy-drama, Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and Ellie Wagner (Rose Byrne) venture into the complex world of foster care adoption when they unexpectedly expand their family to include three siblings. Navigating parenthood, acceptance, love, and responsibility together, the film underscores that a shared purpose and unyielding support can create not only fulfilling relationships but also successful marriages.

  • On Golden Pond
    23
    Katharine Hepburn, Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda
    61 votes

    This touching film explores the long-standing marriage between Norman (Henry Fonda) and Ethel Thayer (Katharine Hepburn) as they face the challenges of aging, memory loss, and closing chapters. With its poignant portrayal of love, devotion, and forgiveness even during life's twilight years, On Golden Pond serves as a beautiful reminder that ageless commitment is essential to a deep-rooted and successful marriage.

  • Father of the Bride Part II
    24
    Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Martin Short
    44 votes

    Following up on the charm and warmth of its precursor, Father of the Bride Part II sees George Banks (Steve Martin) concurrently prepare for the birth of his first grandchild and the unexpected arrival of a new baby, himself. This tenderhearted sequel illustrates the power of love and devotion, expanding beyond romantic partnerships and exploring familial bonds that are born of shared experiences and undying loyalty. With laughs and tears, the film skillfully emphasizes that the foundations laid by a successful marriage ripple through generations.

  • Marley & Me
    25
    Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric Dane
    87 votes

    A heartwarming tale about family, love, and life's unexpected moments, this film follows John (Owen Wilson) and Jenny Grogan's (Jennifer Aniston) journey as they incorporate an uncontrollable Labrador retriever named Marley into their growing family. Through their shared experiences and unconditional love for one another and their dog, Marley & Me touchingly reminds us of the importance of growth, perseverance, and connection in any marriage.

  • Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
    26
    Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Sidney Poitier
    68 votes

    A groundbreaking classic, the film tells the story of a young interracial couple grappling with their families' differing views on marriage and race as they prepare for their wedding. Starring Sidney Poitier, Katharine Hepburn, and Spencer Tracy, this social commentary examines love's ability to transcend racial barriers and the importance of acceptance, understanding, and open-mindedness in nurturing meaningful and loving relationships.

  • His Girl Friday
    27
    Cary Grant, Rosalind Russell, Ralph Bellamy
    31 votes

    This witty screwball comedy captures the rapid-fire dialogue between cynical newspaper editor Walter Burns (Cary Grant) and his tenacious ex-wife and reporter Hildy Johnson (Rosalind Russell) as they attempt to solve a murder case. Examining the themes of power dynamics, chemistry, and independence within a relationship, His Girl Friday is an entertaining exploration of what constitutes a healthy and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect and admiration.

  • The Money Pit
    28
    Tom Hanks, Shelley Long, Alexander Godunov
    66 votes

    This hilarious comedy showcases the trials faced by Walter Fielding (Tom Hanks) and his partner Anna Crowley (Shelley Long) after they purchase a seemingly ideal home that rapidly deteriorates before their eyes. Amidst the chaotic chaos, the couple learns how determination, compromise, and teamwork are essential elements required to sustain a healthy relationship. The Money Pit humorously proves that facing life's problems head-on with trust and support can fortify not only a house but also a marriage.

  • The Story of Us
    29

    The Story of Us

    Bruce Willis, Michelle Pfeiffer, Tim Matheson
    60 votes

    Featuring Bruce Willis as Ben and Michelle Pfeiffer as Katie, this dramatic tale follows a couple on the brink of separation as they reflect upon their 15-year marriage. Through their introspection and examination of their shared history, they realize the immeasurable weight held by love, commitment, and understanding in overcoming life's challenges. The Story of Us serves as a poignant reminder that reevaluating past experiences can help revive the strength required to maintain the bonds of marriage.

  • Cinderella Man
    30
    Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul Giamatti
    27 votes

    In this poignant biographical drama, Russell Crowe portrays heroic boxer James J. Braddock, a man who overcomes adversity during the Great Depression to provide for his family. The film emphasizes the unwavering support, love, and loyalty shared between Braddock and his wife Mae (Renée Zellweger), illustrating that commitment and partnership serve as pillars of strength throughout life's most challenging trials.

  • Just Married
    31
    Ashton Kutcher, Brittany Murphy, Christian Kane
    75 votes

    Ashton Kutcher and Brittany Murphy star in this charming romantic comedy as Tom and Sarah, newlyweds who face a series of unfortunate mishaps on their European honeymoon. Throughout their turbulent journey, the couple learns that conflict resolution, understanding, and unwavering support are key ingredients necessary to nurture a thriving marriage. The movie underscores that even in challenging circumstances, embracing love can overcome adversity and keep marital bonds strong.

  • Couples Retreat
    32
    Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau
    73 votes

    A zany comedy with underlying depth, Couples Retreat focuses on four couples vacationing at a tropical resort to work on their relationships through therapy sessions and unconventional exercises. As each pair confronts their unique issues, the film highlights the importance of communication, compromise, and unwavering trust as integral components in maintaining successful and loving marriages. The movie uncovers that every relationship endures inevitable rough patches; however, perseverance, understanding, and laughter can lead to stronger bonds in the end.

  • Four Christmases
    33
    Vince Vaughn, Reese Witherspoon, Robert Duvall
    61 votes

    This humorous holiday romp stars Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn as a couple forced to visit all four of their divorced parents' homes in one hectic day. As they navigate through stressful family dynamics, the couple learns to appreciate the strength, love, and support that they provide for each other. Four Christmases serves as both an entertaining comedy and a heartfelt reminder of the importance of unity and understanding within a marriage.

  • Love Story
    34
    Ali MacGraw, Ryan O'Neal, Ray Milland
    59 votes

    This tear-jerking romantic drama follows Harvard student Oliver (Ryan O'Neal) and working-class beauty Jenny (Ali MacGraw) as they navigate the complexities of love, family dynamics, and a devastating illness. In depicting the transcendent power of love and how true partnership provides an unwavering source of strength, Love Story serves as a timeless testament to the importance of commitment and self-sacrifice in marriage.

  • The Way We Were
    35
    Barbra Streisand, Robert Redford, Bradford Dillman
    45 votes

    This compelling drama stars Robert Redford and Barbra Streisand as a dedicated political activist and her apolitical writer husband, struggling to reconcile their ideological differences in post-WWII America. Their passionate romance offers a poignant reminder of the value of compromise and shared values in sustaining lasting and meaningful relationships.

  • Life as We Know It
    36
    Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel, Josh Lucas
    62 votes

    When their mutual best friends die in an accident, Holly (Katherine Heigl) and Eric (Josh Duhamel) are suddenly thrust into the unexpected roles of co-guardians for their orphaned goddaughter. As they navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood, the unlikely pair discovers strength in one another and the importance of trust, support, and love in forging strong family bonds.

  • May December
    37
    Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, Cory Michael Smith
    9 votes
  • A Fall from Grace
    38
    Cicely Tyson, Tyler Perry, Bresha Webb
    15 votes

    A thriller-drama film written and directed by Tyler Perry, centering on the life of a middle-aged woman named Grace Waters. After finding love with a younger man, she is accused of murdering him, putting her newfound happiness in jeopardy. The film follows Grace as she navigates the complexities of the legal system, facing betrayals and unearthing dark secrets, ultimately revealing the truth behind her lover's death and the extent of her own personal struggle.

  • Georgetown
    39

    Georgetown

    Christoph Waltz, Vanessa Redgrave, Annette Bening
    13 votes
  • Band Aid
    40
    Zoe Lister Jones, Adam Pally, Fred Armisen
    1 votes
  • Role Play
    41
    Connie Nielsen, Kaley Cuoco, Bill Nighy
    4 votes
  • Needle in a Timestack
    42
    Leslie Odom, Freida Pinto, Cynthia Erivo
    15 votes
  • Mark, Mary & Some Other People
    43
    Ben Rosenfield, Hayley Law, Nik Dodani
    15 votes