The 70+ Best Mother-Daughter Movies Ever Made
When it comes to heartwarming films that hit right in the feels, the best mother-daughter movies have a special place on our watchlists. These flicks capture the complex, beautiful, and sometimes hilariously messy relationships between moms and their girls. They're the films that make you want to hug it out with your own mom, whether you just finished laughing or crying together. From the tearjerker moments in Stepmom to the body-swapping antics of Freaky Friday, these stories deliver relatable family drama that's both endearing and entertaining.
Now, movies for moms and daughters aren't just about shared family drama; they're a bonding experience - a way to spark conversations or simply enjoy quality time packed with laughs or heartfelt moments. These films come in handy whether you're planning a cozy movie night in or looking for that perfect Sunday afternoon flick to enjoy with your mom or daughter. So, grab a cozy blanket and maybe a box of tissues - just in case - because we've rounded up some timeless picks that celebrate the unique bond that only moms and daughters understand. Be sure to vote on your favorites to help us determine which movie reigns supreme.
- 1Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan
Everything Everywhere All at Once showcases an enthralling journey of a housewife, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh, who discovers astonishing abilities within herself, fostering an unforgettable bond with her daughter. This brilliant and emotional film intertwines elements of action, drama, and humor to highlight the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. While captivating audiences with its inventive storytelling, the Best Picture winner's cinematography is applauded for its distinctive style.
- 2Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Mark Harmon
Freaky Friday, a whimsical and heartwarming family comedy, stars the dynamic duo of Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan as a mother and daughter who unexpectedly switch bodies. Entertaining audiences with humor and poignancy, the film demonstrates the transformative power of empathy in strengthening the complex bond between mothers and daughters. Both Curtis and Lohan deliver exceptional performances that resonate with viewers across generations.
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- 3Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson
Brave, a visually stunning and heartwarming Pixar film featuring the vocal talents of Kelly Macdonald and Emma Thompson, follows a young Scottish princess, Merida, as she defies traditional gender roles alongside her caring mother, Queen Elinor. The vibrant animation, combined with its powerful themes, earned the film an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Ultimately, the tale of courage and forgiveness embodies the resilient and loving connection between mother and daughter.
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- 4Julia Roberts, Susan Sarandon, Ed Harris
Stepmom, a deeply moving and uplifting drama, stars Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts as they portray the evolving relationship between a terminally ill mother and her children's stepmother. The film poignantly showcases an emotional journey of acceptance, love, and selflessness amidst the looming tragedy. The Academy Award-nominated performances by the cast are a testament to the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and the unwavering bond between mothers and their daughters.
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- 5Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth
Mamma Mia!, a vibrant and enchanting musical, captivates audiences with its irresistible tunes and the impressive ensemble cast, including Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried, who vividly portray the beautiful relationship between an adventurous mother and her spirited daughter. Set against the stunning Mediterranean backdrop, the film's delightful exploration of love, sacrifice, and the perseverance of family bonds has made it a beloved favorite. The success of Mamma Mia! has truly solidified its status as a timeless ode to mother-daughter connections.
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- 6Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, Jack Nicholson
Terms of Endearment, a timeless and poignant drama renowned for its powerful portrayal of mother-daughter dynamics, features Shirley MacLaine and Debra Winger in their Oscar-winning and -nominated roles, respectively. The film seamlessly weaves together laughter and tears as it delves into the intricacies of love, loss, and the unwavering bond between family members. Its emotionally charged narrative has earned it numerous accolades, including five Academy Awards, ensuring its place in the annals of classic cinema.
More Terms of Endearment - 7Jodie Foster, Forest Whitaker, Dwight Yoakam
Panic Room, a thrilling and suspenseful film directed by David Fincher, showcases the exceptional talents of Jodie Foster and Kristen Stewart as a mother and daughter grappling with dangerous intruders in their new home. The movie's intense narrative highlights a mother's unwavering love and determination to protect her child at all costs. Panic Room, with its unforgettable performances and gripping plot, takes viewers on a heart-pounding journey that underscores the limitless depth of the mother-daughter connection.
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- 8Barbara Harris, Jodie Foster, John Astin
Freaky Friday, a lighthearted and endearing comedy, stars the unforgettable Barbara Harris and Jodie Foster as an exasperated mother and her defiant daughter, who inadvertently switch bodies for a day, leading to a series of comic misadventures. The film's captivation of audiences with its innovative narrative and humorous antics emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding within mother-daughter relationships. The original Freaky Friday remains a perennial favorite, showcasing the incredible performances and chemistry between Harris and Foster.
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- 9Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette
Little Miss Sunshine, an endearing and quirky comedy-drama, follows a dysfunctional family, including Toni Collette and Abigail Breslin as mother and daughter, as they embark on a cross-country adventure to a beauty pageant. Acclaimed for its honest portrayal of complex family dynamics, the film resonates on multiple levels with audiences. With two Academy Awards and numerous accolades, Little Miss Sunshine holds a special place in the hearts of many.
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- 10Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin
My Sister's Keeper, an emotional and compelling drama, stars Cameron Diaz as a dedicated mother who faces a heart-wrenching decision involving her daughters, portrayed by Abigail Breslin and Sofia Vassilieva. With powerful performances and a gripping storyline, the film explores the difficult moral dilemma at its core while illuminating the fierce bond between mother and daughters. A testament to the courage and resilience of family ties, My Sister's Keeper leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
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- 11Shelley Long, Craig T. Nelson, Betty Thomas
Troop Beverly Hills, an entertaining and uplifting comedy, follows Phyllis Nefler, portrayed by Shelley Long, as she endeavors to reconnect with her daughter by leading a group of privileged wilderness scouts. With its lighthearted humor and heartwarming moments, the film charmingly emphasizes the great lengths a mother will go to strengthen her bond with her child. Troop Beverly Hills remains a delightful tribute to the wonderful, sometimes zany world of mother-daughter relationships.
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- 12Michelle Krusiec, Joan Chen, Lynn Chen
Saving Face, a tender and funny romantic comedy, follows a Chinese-American surgeon, played by Michelle Krusiec, who navigates love, cultural identity, and familial expectations, while building a bridge of understanding with her traditional mother, portrayed by Joan Chen. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant Chinese community in New York City, the film brilliantly captures the intricate emotions and evolving relationship between mother and daughter. With its engaging plot and empathetic characters, Saving Face celebrates the power of unconditional love and acceptance.
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- 13Cher, Winona Ryder, Bob Hoskins
Mermaids, a delightful and thought-provoking comedy-drama, stars Cher and Winona Ryder as an eccentric mother and her introspective daughter struggling to find common ground amidst the whirlwind of life changes. Cher's captivating performance as the free-spirited mother and Ryder's earnest portrayal of a hesitant adolescent beautifully capture the evolving relationship between mothers and daughters. With its charming combination of humor and heart, Mermaids remains a cherished ode to the everlasting connection between family members.
- 14Melissa McCarthy, Gillian Jacobs, Maya Rudolph
Life of the Party, starring the hilarious Melissa McCarthy, is an exuberant comedy showcasing the adventures of a recently divorced mother who enrolls in college alongside her daughter. As they embark on this unexpected journey, the film effortlessly captures the joy, heartache, and growth of their intertwined lives. The witty humor and compelling performances make this cinematic delight a tribute to the unwavering bond between mothers and daughters.
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- 15Holly Hunter, Evan Rachel Wood, Nikki Reed
Thirteen, a powerful and thought-provoking drama, offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of adolescence and the complex relationships between mothers and daughters, featuring hard-hitting performances by Holly Hunter and Evan Rachel Wood. Hunter's immersion into her role as a loving yet struggling single mother earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Thirteen's poignant exploration of familial bonds and the challenges faced by modern-day teenagers makes it an unmissable cinematic experience.
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- 16Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders
Coraline, a visually stunning and mesmerizing stop-motion film directed by Henry Selick, follows a young girl's eerie adventures as she stumbles upon an alternate reality, where she encounters an enigmatic version of her mother that may not be as perfect as she first appears. Through innovative storytelling, Coraline brilliantly emphasizes the importance of family and appreciating one's true mother. The movie's extraordinary animation and captivating plot continue to resonate with audiences, weaving a tale of love, courage, and maternal bonds.
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- 17Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Kate Winslet
Sense and Sensibility, a sumptuous adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel, features an impeccable cast led by Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet as sisters who navigate love, loss, and societal expectations alongside their doting mother. Directed by the visionary Ang Lee, this period drama masterfully conveys the resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds between mothers and daughters. Garnering numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Thompson's screenplay, Sense and Sensibility has earned a revered place in the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
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- 18Julia Louis-Dreyfus, James Gandolfini, Catherine Keener
Enough Said is a touching, thought-provoking comedy-drama starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus and James Gandolfini, in which a divorced mother, Eva, forms an intriguing friendship with her daughter's best friend. Simultaneously, Eva navigates a blossoming romance, all while grappling with her daughter's impending departure for college. The nuanced performances of the cast and the compelling exploration of mother-daughter dynamics make this film an endearing and poignant experience.
More Enough Said - 19Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine
Steel Magnolias, a heartfelt and touching dramedy, assembles an all-star cast including Sally Field and Julia Roberts as a mother and daughter whose lives, dreams, and losses are intertwined in their small Southern town. A testament to the power and resilience of female relationships, the film artfully balances humor and heartbreak while shining a spotlight on the unbreakable bonds between mothers and daughters. Steel Magnolias continues to captivate and resonate with audiences through its poignant and relatable exploration of love, friendship, and family.
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- 20Rosalind Chao, Tamlyn Tomita, France Nuyen
The Joy Luck Club, a soul-stirring and emotionally resonant film, weaves together the interconnected narratives of four Chinese-American daughters and their immigrant mothers as they grapple with cultural identity, generational divides, and past heartaches. Adapted from Amy Tan's celebrated novel, the cinematic masterpiece artfully explores the intricate web of familial bonds with poignancy and sensitivity. The ensemble cast expertly brings these complex and endearing characters to life, capturing the hearts of audiences and solidifying The Joy Luck Club as an iconic film celebrating mothers and daughters.
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- 21America Ferrera, Lupe Ontiveros, Ingrid Oliu
Real Women Have Curves, an empowering and heartwarming coming-of-age story, portrays the relatable struggles of Ana, a Mexican-American teenager played by America Ferrera, as she navigates societal expectations and her mother's traditional values. The inspiring film sheds light on body image, self-worth, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships within a bi-cultural context. With its excellent cast and timely themes, Real Women Have Curves leaves a lasting impression on the hearts of viewers.
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- 22Winona Ryder, Gabriel Byrne, Trini Alvarado
Little Women, a beloved and evocative adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, features an extraordinary cast, including Winona Ryder, Susan Sarandon, and Kirsten Dunst, who bring the heartwarming story of the March sisters and their mother, Marmee, to life. Uniting audiences across generations with its rich themes of familial love, female empowerment, and personal growth, this endearing film earned three Academy Award nominations, cementing its place in the annals of cherished cinema about mothers and daughters.
More Little Women - 23
Little Women
Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence PughLittle Women, based on Louisa May Alcott's timeless novel, portrays the charming and enduring story of the four March sisters, played by a stellar cast, including Saoirse Ronan and Laura Dern, as they discover the joys and heartaches of life and love under the guidance of their devoted mother, Marmee. This beloved coming-of-age tale, expertly adapted by Greta Gerwig, reflects the strength and importance of mother-daughter relationships while weaving a tapestry of sisterly bonds. Awards and critical acclaim have followed various adaptations of Little Women, attesting to the universality of its themes and the enchanting portrayal of motherly love.
- 24Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman
Matilda, a whimsical and heartening adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic novel, follows the journey of Matilda, portrayed by Mara Wilson, as she discovers her powers while seeking solace and guidance from her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey, played by Embeth Davidtz. Their unique relationship develops into a loving, parental bond that transcends biology, delving into the beauty and strength of an unconventional mother-daughter connection. Matilda's blend of comedy, fantasy, and sentiment has endeared it to audiences, leaving a lasting impression of the power of love and family.
- 25Nicole Beharie, Kendrick Sampson, Alexis Chikaeze
Miss Juneteenth, a touching and evocative drama, showcases a devoted mother's unyielding love for her daughter, as portrayed by the talented Nicole Beharie and Alexis Chikaeze. Through beauty pageants, personal struggles, and the rich cultural legacy of the Juneteenth holiday, the film transcends conventional storytelling to engage viewers with its authentic representation of a mother's dreams for her child. Miss Juneteenth's celebrated narrative demonstrates the indomitable spirit of mother-daughter bonds.
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- 26Alison Lohman, Robin Wright, Michelle Pfeiffer
White Oleander, an emotional and gripping drama, showcases the tumultuous journey of a teenage girl, played by Alison Lohman, navigating the foster care system after her mother, portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer, is incarcerated for murder. The film masterfully unravels the complexities of mother-daughter relationships in the face of adversity, providing searing performances that leave an indelible impression upon viewers. White Oleander's poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and resilience solidifies its position as a captivating testament to the perseverance of family bonds.
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- 27
I, Tonya
Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison JanneyI, Tonya, a striking biographical film featuring the stellar performances of Margot Robbie and Allison Janney, delves into the tumultuous life of figure skater Tonya Harding and her complex relationship with her fierce, ambitious mother. Janney's captivating portrayal of LaVona earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The movie's exceptional storytelling and intricate mother-daughter dynamics serve as an engrossing exploration of personal struggles, ambition, and triumph.
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- 28Cher, Nicolas Cage, Vincent Gardenia
Moonstruck, a charming and enchanting romantic comedy, features Cher in her Academy Award-winning role as Loretta, a superstitious Brooklyn woman grappling with her attraction to her fiancé's estranged brother while living with her feisty mother, played by Olympia Dukakis. The film's witty repartee, sublime performances, and the nuanced portrayal of Loretta's relationship with her mother underscore the enduring bond that mothers and daughters share. With three Oscars, including one for Best Original Screenplay, Moonstruck enchants audiences with its delightful exploration of love, family, and the power of maternal connections.
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- 29Sidney Poitier, Shelley Winters, Elizabeth Hartman
A Patch of Blue, a thought-provoking drama, highlights the relationship between a blind girl, played by Elizabeth Hartman, and her determined and compassionate mother, portrayed by a brilliant Shelley Winters. A Patch of Blue earned several Academy Award nominations, including a Best Supporting Actress win for Winters.
- 30Sandra Bullock, Ellen Burstyn, Fionnula Flanagan
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, a poignant and enchanting film, unravels the intricate lives of four Southern women whose decades-long friendships nurture and transform their relationships with their families, including the bond between mother Siddalee, played by Ellen Burstyn, and daughter Viviane, portrayed by Sandra Bullock. Adapted from Rebecca Wells' bestselling novel, the film resonates with audiences through its stellar ensemble cast, capturing the essence of mother-daughter connections and the challenges of understanding one another across generations. The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood provides a touching and unforgettable tribute to the everlasting bonds between mothers and daughters.
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