The 25 Best Movies Like 'Beautiful Boy', Ranked By Fans
- Photo: A Million Little Pieces / Momentum Pictures16 VOTES
A Million Little Pieces follows the story of James Frey as he grapples with addiction and forms crucial relationships during his time in a clinic. The film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, features the complexities of addiction recovery and the impact of personal connections on one's journey towards healing. With standout performances from Aaron Taylor-Johnson Billy Bob Thornton, A Million Little Pieces offers compelling exploration of redemption and self-discovery.
A Million Little Pieces mirrors Beautiful Boy in its portrayal of addiction struggles and the quest for identity and belonging in a challenging. Both films delve into intimate dynamics of relationships and the power of support in overcoming adversity. Through its raw and emotional narrative, A Million Little Pieces captures the resilience and inner strength of individuals facing addiction, resonating with the themes of hope and determination depicted in Beautiful Boy.
- Photo: Lionsgate210 VOTES
Ben Is Back
In Ben Is Back, a gripping drama unfolds as a mother, played by Julia Roberts, must confront her son's deep troubles with addiction. The film looks into the complexities of familial relationships, highlighting the power of love, determination, and unconditional support. With stellar performances from the cast, including Lucas Hedges and Courtney B. Vance, Ben Is Back is a heartfelt exploration of the struggles faced by individuals grappling with substance abuse.
Ben Is Back resonates with Beautiful Boy through poignant portrayal of addiction's impact on families and the enduring bonds between parents and children. Both films go into the raw emotions of struggling with substance abuse and the journey towards recovery. In Ben Is Back, the theme of hope and resilience shines through the characters' unwavering determination to overcome challenges, mirroring the powerful message conveyed in Beautiful Boy.
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- Photo: Artisan Entertainment37 VOTES
Requiem for a Dream is a haunting psychological drama that follows the lives of individuals consumed by addiction in various forms. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the film offers a stark portrayal of the devastating impact of substance abuse on relationships and personal aspirations. Through a gripping narrative and intense performances from the cast, including Jared Leto, Ellen Burstyn, and Jennifer Connelly, Requiem for a Dream follows the harrowing journey of characters entangled in the vicious cycle of addiction.
Requiem for a Dream shares thematic similarities with Beautiful Boy through its exploration of the destructive nature of addiction and the profound struggles faced by individuals and their families. Both films do not shy away from the complexities of addiction and the toll it takes on relationships, highlighting the depths of despair and the quest for redemption. In Requiem for a Dream, the characters' desperate search for fulfillment and escape mirrors the emotional turmoil depicted in Beautiful Boy, emphasizing the heart-wrenching consequences of substance abuse.
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- Photo: The Son412 VOTES
The Son is a 2022 drama film that follows a successful lawyer who takes in his troubled teenage son from a previous marriage at the request of his concerned ex-wife. The movie explores themes of family dynamics, mental health issues, father-son conflict, and the impact of divorce on children. The star-studded cast includes Hugh Jackman, Vanessa Kirby, Laura Dern, Anthony Hopkins, and Zen McGrath.
Like Beautiful Boy, The Son examines the complexities of family relationships and the impact of personal struggles on loved ones. Both films center around a parent's journey to support their child through challenges such as addiction and behavioral issues, highlighting themes of love, resilience, and the enduring power of familial bonds. Through powerful performances and emotionally resonant storytelling, both movies present a heartfelt exploration of the human experience and the strength found in facing adversity together.
- Photo: Boy Erased59 VOTES
Boy Erased is a poignant drama that follows the emotional journey of a young man, played by Lucas Hedges, as he grapples with his sexuality and undergoes conversion therapy. Directed by Joel Edgerton, the film explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the complex relationship between a son and his parents. With stellar performances from Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe portraying the protagonist's parents, Boy Erased goes into the challenges of self-discovery and the resilience needed to embrace one's true self.
Boy Erased resonates with Beautiful Boy through its exploration of personal struggles and the intricate dynamics of parent-child relationships. Both films mine the emotional turmoil faced by individuals trying to find their place in the world amidst societal pressures. Through its moving portrayal of a young man's journey towards self-acceptance and the impact on his family, Boy Erased echoes the themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring bond between parents and children depicted in Beautiful Boy.
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- Photo: A24611 VOTES
Waves
Waves is a powerful drama that follows the emotional journey of a suburban African-American family as they navigate love, loss, and redemption. Directed by Trey Edward Shults, the film delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the ripple effects of trauma and forgiveness. With standout performances from the cast, including Kelvin Harrison Jr., Sterling K. Brown, and Renée Elise Goldsberry, Waves offers a poignant exploration of resilience and healing in the face of life's challenges.
Waves mirrors Beautiful Boy in its portrayal of characters struggling to find their place in the world amidst personal and familial challenges. Both films navigate the intricacies of family relationships and the impact of adversity on individuals seeking redemption. Through its emotive storytelling and profound character development, Waves captures the essence of resilience and self-discovery, resonating with the themes of love and forgiveness depicted in Beautiful Boy.
- Photo: Aftersun74 VOTES
Aftersun is a 2022 drama film directed by Charlotte Wells, following Sophie as she reflects on a holiday with her father twenty years ago, using a mix of real and imagined memories to understand the father she knew versus the man he really was. The movie delves into themes of family dynamics, nostalgia, reconciliation, and the passage of time, with a cast led by Paul Mescal as Calum, Frankie Corio as Sophie, and Celia Rowlson-Hall as adult Sophie.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Aftersun explores the complexities of family relationships and the impact of past experiences on current dynamics. Both films focus on characters dealing with personal struggles and the ways in which these challenges affect their loved ones. Through poignant storytelling and emotional depth, both movies examine themes of love, healing, and the enduring bonds that hold families together through life's trials tribulations.
- Photo: Sony Pictures Classics87 VOTES
Call Me by Your Name is a tender romance drama set in 1980s Italy, following the blossoming relationship between a young man, played by Timothée Chalamet, and an older scholar, portrayed by Armie Hammer. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film explores themes of love, desire, and self-discovery against backdrop of picturesque landscapes. With captivating performances and a heartfelt narrative, Call Me by Your Name offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of human emotions and connections.
Call Me by Your Name resonates with Beautiful Boy through its exploration of relationships and characters navigating personal and emotional challenges. Both films capture the essence of self-discovery and the complexities of human connection, highlighting the transformative power of love and acceptance. Both films also feature captivating performances by Timothée Chalamet.
- Photo: Moonlight93 VOTES
Moonlight is a critically acclaimed coming-of-age drama that follows the life of a young African-American man, portrayed by Trevante Rhodes, as he navigates his identity, sexuality, and place in the world. Directed by Barry Jenkins, the film looks into themes of self-discovery, love, and masculinity against the backdrop of a challenging environment. With standout performances from Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris, Moonlight offers a poignant exploration of personal growth and emotional vulnerability.
Moonlight parallels Beautiful Boy in its depiction of characters struggling to find their place in the world and grappling with personal challenges. Both films navigate the complexities of self-identity and the impact of societal expectations on individuals seeking acceptance. Through its evocative storytelling and profound character development, Moonlight captures the essence of resilience and authenticity, resonating with the themes of personal growth and acceptance depicted in Beautiful Boy.
More Moonlight - 1012 VOTES
Trainspotting is a gritty drama that focuses on the lives of heroin addicts living on the fringes of society in Edinburgh. Directed by Danny Boyle, the film offers a raw look at addiction, friendship, and the pursuit of escape from life's harsh realities. With a stellar cast including Ewan McGregor and Ewen Bremner, Trainspotting explores the chaotic and chaotic lives of individuals caught in the grips of substance abuse.
Trainspotting shares thematic similarities with Beautiful Boy in its exploration of addiction's destructive nature and the tumultuous journey towards recovery. Both films look into the inner struggles faced by individuals grappling with substance abuse and the impact on their relationships. Through its gritty portrayal of addiction and the characters' quest for redemption, Trainspotting mirrors the emotional depth and challenges depicted in Beautiful Boy.
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- Photo: Honey Boy / Amazon Studios114 VOTES
Honey Boy is an autobiographical drama written by Shia LaBeouf, based on his own experiences as a child actor and his tumultuous relationship with his father. Directed by Alma Har'el, the film highlights themes of trauma, family dynamics, and self-discovery. With powerful performances from Noah Jupe, Shia LaBeouf, and Lucas Hedges, Honey Boy offers a raw and emotional exploration of the complexities of parent-child relationships and personal growth.
Honey Boy mirrors Beautiful Boy in its poignant portrayal of a father-son relationship marred by emotional turmoil and the impact of childhood upbringing on adult struggles. Both films focus on the intricacies of family dynamics and the challenges of self-discovery amidst personal hardships. Through its intimate storytelling and captivating performances, Honey Boy captures the essence of resilience, healing, and the enduring bond between a father and his son.
- Photo: Mudbound126 VOTES
Mudbound
Mudbound is a historical drama directed by Dee Rees, chronicling the intertwined lives of two families—one white, one black—in rural Mississippi during the era of Jim Crow segregation. The film explores themes of race, inequality, and trauma, following the struggles and aspirations of the characters against a backdrop of societal divisions. With a talented ensemble cast including Carey Mulligan, Jason Mitchell, and Mary J. Blige, Mudbound offers a poignant reflection on the enduring legacies of prejudice and resilience in the face of adversity.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Mudbound delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of societal injustices on individuals striving for acceptance and understanding. Both films navigate the themes of resilience and struggle, depicting characters fighting against the constraints of their circumstances. Through its rich storytelling and powerful performances, Mudbound captures the essence of personal growth and the complicated familial bonds that exist within societal barriers.
- Photo: The Farewell131 VOTES
The Farewell is a heartfelt dramedy directed by Lulu Wang, following a Chinese-American woman, played by Awkwafina, who returns to China with her family under the guise of a fake wedding to say goodbye to her terminally ill grandmother. The film explores themes of cultural differences, family bonds, and the complexities of love and loss. With a standout ensemble cast and touching performances, The Farewell offers a poignant exploration of identity, tradition, and the emotional intricacies of familial relationships.
The Farewell resonates with Beautiful Boy through its portrayal of characters grappling with personal challenges and the dynamics of family relationships in the face of adversity. Both films navigate the impact on individuals seeking acceptance and connection. Through its heartfelt storytelling and authentic performances, The Farewell captures the essence of resilience, love, and the enduring connections that bind families together.
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- Photo: New Line Cinema141 VOTES
The Basketball Diaries is a gritty drama based on Jim Carroll's autobiographical novel, depicting his descent into a world of drugs and crime as a young basketball player in New York City. Directed by Scott Kalvert, the film explores themes of addiction, self-destruction, and the harsh realities of urban life. With a standout performance from Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead role, The Basketball Diaries offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of a young man's struggles with addiction and the impact on his relationships.
The Basketball Diaries shares thematic similarities with Beautiful Boy through its exploration of the destructive nature of addiction and the challenges faced by individuals caught in the grips of substance abuse. Both films revolve around the complexities of personal battles and the toll it takes on familial relationships, highlighting the complex dynamics and quest for redemption. Through its gritty portrayal of addiction and the protagonist's journey towards recovery.
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- Photo: Eighth Grade152 VOTES
Eighth Grade is a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Bo Burnham, following the life of an introverted teenager Kayla, as she navigates the challenges of adolescence and social media in her final week of middle school. The film explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of modern youth culture. With a breakout performance from Elsie Fisher as Kayla and a poignant portrayal of teenage struggles, Eighth Grade offers a relatable and authentic depiction of the journey to self-acceptance.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Eighth Grade delves into the complicated dynamics of parent-child relationships and the challenges faced by individuals struggling to find their place in a rapidly changing world. Both films explore themes of personal growth and internal conflicts, portraying characters grappling with their inner demons and external pressures. Through its authentic storytelling and genuine portrayal of adolescence, Eighth Grade captures the essence of resilience and the universal quest for self-discovery, echoing the themes of familial bonds and personal struggles depicted in Beautiful Boy.
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- Photo: user uploaded image162 VOTES
Last Flag Flying is a dramedy directed by Richard Linklater, following three Vietnam War veterans—played by Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston, and Laurence Fishburne—as they reunite to accompany a grieving father on a journey to bury his son, who died in the Iraq War. The film explores themes of loss, friendship, and the lingering impact of war on individuals trying to find closure and connection. With heartfelt performances and a blend of humor and poignancy, Last Flag Flying offers a touching exploration of duty, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between comrades.
In parallel to Beautiful Boy, Last Flag Flying delves into the complexities of fatherhood and the camaraderie shared among characters facing personal struggles and emotional turmoil. Both films explore themes of grief and the transformative power of relationships in times of adversity. Both films also feature heart-wrenching performances by Steve Carell.
- Photo: Permanent Midnight170 VOTES
Permanent Midnight is a biographical drama film directed by David Veloz, based on Jerry Stahl's memoir, starring Ben Stiller as the TV writer struggling with heroin addiction while navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood. The movie delves into themes of success, downfall, and the relentless grip of substance abuse on personal and professional life. Through Stiller's compelling portrayal, Permanent Midnight offers a gritty and honest look at one man's battle against his inner demons.
In alignment with Beautiful Boy, Permanent Midnight explores the destructive nature of addiction and the toll it takes on individuals caught in its grip, depicting the struggles of maintaining relationships amidst the chaos of substance abuse. Both films navigate the complexities of personal battles and the quest for redemption, showcasing the internal conflicts and external pressures faced by the characters.
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- Photo: Clean and Sober180 VOTES
Clean and Sober is a drama film directed by Glenn Gordon Caron, starring Michael Keaton as Daryl Poynter, a real estate agent grappling with drug addiction who seeks help at a rehabilitation center. The movie explores themes of addiction recovery, redemption, and the arduous path towards self-improvement and acceptance. Through its raw portrayal of addiction's hardships and the transformative journey of recovery, Clean and Sober offers a realistic and heartfelt depiction of one man's battle against substance abuse.
Comparable to Beautiful Boy, Clean and Sober does not shy away from the struggles of addiction and the tumultuous relationships between family members impacted by substance abuse. Both films revolve around the complexities of addiction recovery and the challenges faced by individuals seeking to rebuild their lives and connections. Through its authentic storytelling and impactful performances, Clean and Sober captures the essence of resilience and the relentless pursuit of personal redemption.
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- Photo: Lady Bird190 VOTES
Lady Bird is a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Greta Gerwig, showcasing the life of Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson, a high school senior navigating relationships, aspirations, and growing up in Sacramento. The film explores themes of mother-daughter dynamics, independence, and the pursuit of identity and acceptance. With Saoirse Ronan in the titular role and Laurie Metcalf as her mother, Lady Bird offers a heartfelt and genuine portrayal of the complexities of families.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Lady Bird captures the intricacies of parent-child relationships and the challenges of young characters striving to find themselves. Both films delve into themes of self-discovery and personal growth, depicting individuals grappling with their desires, dreams, and societal expectations.
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- Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures200 VOTES
Bones & All is a drama film directed by Luca Guadagnino, following a young woman, Maren Yearly, played by Taylor Russell, on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance while grappling with a gruesome secret of her cannibalistic nature. The movie explores themes of identity, love, and the complexities of embracing one's true self amidst societal expectations. With a standout cast including Timothée Chalamet and Mark Rylance, Bones & All offers a dark and compelling narrative of a young woman's internal struggle and quest for belonging.
In parallel to Beautiful Boy, Bones & All offers themes of self-acceptance and the challenges of relationships in the face of personal revelations and societal norms. Both films navigate the complexities of characters struggling to find their place in a world that rejects them, highlighting the inner turmoil and external pressures they must confront. Both films also feature Timothée Chalamet who gives nuanced performances.
- Photo: This Boy's Life210 VOTES
This Boy's Life is a drama film based on Tobias Wolff's memoir, directed by Michael Caton-Jones, depicting the challenging relationship between a young boy, Tobi, and his abusive stepfather, Dwight, in 1950s America. The movie explores themes of family dysfunction, resilience, and the desire for escape and independence. Starring Robert De Niro as Dwight and Leonardo DiCaprio as Tobi, This Boy's Life offers a raw and poignant portrayal of a teenager's struggle for identity and self-preservation.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, This Boy's Life delves into the complexities of parent-child relationships and the characters' quest for a sense of belonging and purpose. Both films navigate themes of trauma and the lasting impact of family dynamics on individuals seeking to break free from toxic environments. Through its intense performances and emotional depth, This Boy's Life captures the essence of resilience and the harrowing journey towards self-realization.
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- Photo: The Virgin Suicides / Paramount Pictures220 VOTES
The Virgin Suicides is a drama film directed by Sofia Coppola, adapted from Jeffrey Eugenides' novel, depicting the lives of the Lisbon sisters as seen through the lens of a group of fascinated neighborhood boys. The film explores themes of adolescent mystery, repression, and the devastating consequences of societal expectations on the girls' lives. With an ensemble cast including Kirsten Dunst, Josh Hartnett, and James Woods, The Virgin Suicides offers a haunting and evocative portrayal of teenage struggles and secrets.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, The Virgin Suicides delves into the complexities of parent-child dynamics and the impact of external pressures on characters grappling with their identities. Both films navigate themes of repression and the toll it takes on individuals seeking independence and understanding.
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- Photo: Gia230 VOTES
Gia is a biographical drama film directed by Michael Cristofer, starring Angelina Jolie as the iconic supermodel Gia Carangi, exploring her rise to fame in the fashion industry and tragic descent into drug addiction. The movie looks into themes of beauty, fame, self-destruction, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Through Jolie's powerful performance, Gia offers a compelling portrayal of a woman battling her inner demons and the destructive allure of substance abuse.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Gia focuses on the ravaging effects of addiction on individuals and their relationships, portraying the tumultuous journey of self-destruction and redemption. Both films explore the complexities of personal struggles and the impact on familial bonds, highlighting the fragility of human connections amidst the chaos of addiction.
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- Photo: Rachel Getting Married241 VOTES
Rachel Getting Married is a drama film directed by Jonathan Demme, following the titular character's sister, Kym, played by Anne Hathaway, as she returns from rehab to attend the family wedding, unveiling the family's deep-rooted tensions and secrets. The movie explores themes of addiction recovery, forgiveness, and the impacts of past traumas on relationships and self-acceptance. With standout performances from Hathaway and Rosemarie DeWitt, Rachel Getting Married offers a poignant and intimate portrayal of a family struggling to confront their past.
Similar to Beautiful Boy, Rachel Getting Married delves into the complexities of addiction recovery and the strained relationships within families affected by substance abuse, portraying the fragile dynamics and emotional chaos faced by the characters. Both films navigate themes of personal growth and the quest for forgiveness amidst the shadows of past mistakes, shedding light on the resilience and vulnerability of individuals striving for redemption. Through its authentic and emotionally charged storytelling, Rachel Getting Married captures the essence of resilience and the enduring power of love.
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- Photo: Four Good Days251 VOTES
Four Good Days is a drama film directed by Rodrigo García, starring Glenn Close and Mila Kunis, depicting the tumultuous relationship between a mother and daughter as they navigate the daughter's struggle with drug addiction. The movie explores themes of addiction, recovery, and the complexities of familial bonds strained by the challenges of substance abuse. With compelling performances from Close and Kunis, Four Good Days offers a raw portrayal of the characters' battle against addiction and the hope for redemption.
In parallel with Beautiful Boy, Four Good Days explores the devastating effects of addiction on individuals and their families, portraying the relentless battles and strained relationships faced by those grappling with substance abuse. Both films delve into the intricate dynamics of parent-child relationships and the characters' internal struggles to overcome their demons and find their place in the world. Through its poignant storytelling and intense character portrayals, Four Good Days captures the essence of resilience, love, and the enduring quest for personal growth amidst the shadows of addiction, echoing the themes of familial turmoil and personal redemption depicted in Beautiful Boy.
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