20 Best Mother’s Day Movies to Watch with Mom

Mother’s Day isn’t just about flowers and cards—it’s about taking a moment to reflect on the love, strength, and sacrifices of the amazing women who raised us. And what better way to celebrate this special day than by curling up on the couch and watching a heartfelt movie that captures the essence of a mother’s love?

From tearjerking classics to modern-day gems, cinema has a powerful way of honoring motherhood in all its forms. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or simply holding your mom’s hand a little tighter, these 20 Mother’s Day movies will make your celebration all the more meaningful.

1. Terms of Endearment (1983)

⭐ IMDb: 7.4/10
📺 Available on: Paramount+, Prime Video

This Oscar-winning classic chronicles the complex yet beautiful relationship between a strong-willed mother and her equally independent daughter. Full of laughs, tears, and unforgettable performances by Shirley MacLaine and Debra Winger, it’s a timeless reminder of how love endures through life’s toughest trials.

2. Stepmom (1998)

⭐ IMDb: 6.8/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

A poignant story of a terminally ill mother (Susan Sarandon) and her children’s future stepmother (Julia Roberts) navigating family, jealousy, and acceptance. This film beautifully explores blended families and the selflessness of maternal love.

3. Little Women (2019)

⭐ IMDb: 7.8/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Apple TV+

Louisa May Alcott’s beloved story gets a vibrant, fresh adaptation, with Laura Dern’s portrayal of Marmee March stealing hearts. It’s a celebration of a mother who raises her daughters with courage, kindness, and creativity during the American Civil War.

4. Mamma Mia! (2008)

⭐ IMDb: 6.5/10
📺 Available on: Peacock, Prime Video

With sun-soaked scenery, ABBA songs, and a spirited Meryl Streep, this is a perfect feel-good musical to sing and dance with your mom. At its heart, it’s a sweet tale of motherhood, independence, and unconditional love.

5. Lady Bird (2017)

⭐ IMDb: 7.4/10
📺 Available on: Netflix

This coming-of-age gem by Greta Gerwig features one of the most honest and emotionally resonant portrayals of a mother-daughter relationship. Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf shine in a story that’s messy, real, and deeply touching.

6. The Blind Side (2009)

⭐ IMDb: 7.6/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

Based on a true story, Sandra Bullock’s Oscar-winning performance as a woman who adopts a homeless teen is a powerful testament to love that transcends biology. It’s inspiring, emotional, and perfect for Mother’s Day.

7. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)

⭐ IMDb: 7.9/10
📺 Available on: Showtime, Prime Video

Michelle Yeoh plays a multiverse-traveling mom trying to save the world—and her family. This genre-bending adventure is wild, hilarious, emotional, and a deeply original meditation on mother-daughter bonds and generational understanding.

8. Freaky Friday (2003)

⭐ IMDb: 6.3/10
📺 Available on: Disney+

Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis swap bodies in this fun-filled comedy that reminds us how difficult—and hilarious—it can be to walk in your mother’s (or daughter’s) shoes. A light and relatable watch for all ages.

9. The Joy Luck Club (1993)

⭐ IMDb: 7.7/10
📺 Available on: Prime Video, Apple TV+

This multi-generational story explores Chinese-American mothers and daughters, weaving personal histories and cultural legacies into a tapestry of love, pain, and resilience. It’s a profound reflection on identity, family, and motherhood.

10. Mother (2017)

⭐ IMDb: 7.7/10
📺 Available on: Prime Video

This haunting Korean thriller by Bong Joon-ho (of Parasite fame) presents a fiercely devoted mother trying to prove her son’s innocence. Gripping and emotional, it’s a darker yet riveting tribute to a mother’s unwavering love.

11. Brave (2012)

⭐ IMDb: 7.1/10
📺 Available on: Disney+

Pixar’s magical tale of a rebellious princess and her mother-turned-bear is more than just an animated adventure. It’s a moving story of understanding, growth, and the strength of maternal bonds.

12. The Farewell (2019)

⭐ IMDb: 7.5/10
📺 Available on: Prime Video, Apple TV+

Awkwafina stars in this beautiful story about a Chinese-American woman grappling with her family’s decision to hide a terminal diagnosis from their matriarch. It’s tender, humorous, and deeply introspective about family and love.

13. Dumplin’ (2018)

⭐ IMDb: 6.5/10
📺 Available on: Netflix

Jennifer Aniston and Danielle Macdonald portray a former beauty queen mom and her plus-sized daughter with charm and authenticity. With Dolly Parton tunes and small-town heart, it’s a celebration of confidence and motherly pride.

14. Room (2015)

⭐ IMDb: 8.1/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

Brie Larson delivers a gut-wrenching performance as a mother who protects her child in unimaginable circumstances. A story of survival and healing, Room is both harrowing and deeply loving.

15. Yes Day (2021)

⭐ IMDb: 5.7/10
📺 Available on: Netflix

Jennifer Garner plays a mom who loosens the reins and gives her kids a “Yes Day”—letting them make the rules. It’s a silly, heartwarming film about trust, fun, and reconnecting as a family.

16. Coraline (2009)

⭐ IMDb: 7.7/10
📺 Available on: Prime Video, Apple TV+

This animated fantasy may be eerie, but at its core is a lesson in appreciating the real, sometimes imperfect, love of our mothers. It’s a visually stunning and thoughtful story with a spooky twist.

17. Ricki and the Flash (2015)

⭐ IMDb: 5.9/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

Meryl Streep plays a rock-and-roll mom trying to reconnect with her estranged kids. With a mix of emotional beats and musical charm, this film explores second chances and the strength to make amends.

18. Tully (2018)

⭐ IMDb: 6.9/10
📺 Available on: Prime Video

Charlize Theron gives a raw, honest performance as a mother overwhelmed by newborn life. With dark humor and emotional depth, Tully is an ode to the real, unfiltered side of motherhood.

Because I Said So (2007)

⭐ IMDb: 5.7/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

Diane Keaton stars as a meddling mom determined to set up her daughter. It’s a light, funny look at overprotective parenting and the messy, endearing bond between mothers and daughters.

20. Instant Family (2018)

⭐ IMDb: 7.3/10
📺 Available on: Netflix, Prime Video

This comedy-drama follows a couple who unexpectedly adopt three siblings. With laughs and heartfelt moments, it shows how love, patience, and chaos create the most beautiful families.

Whether your mom loves musicals, tearjerkers, or quirky comedies, there’s something on this list for every kind of mother-child duo. So grab the popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and plan a movie night to remember. Rewatch an old favorite, discover a new gem, and don’t forget to dedicate it to the woman who made it all possible. Share this list with your friends and family, and let’s spread the love this Mother’s Day—one movie at a time.