Philomena, the adoption film and true story about a woman who was forced to give up her child when she became pregnant as a teenager, will have a powerful presence at the Oscars this year, receiving four nominations for Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score. Although a critical hit, it still surprised many by making such a presence as an Academy Award nominee. We’re thrilled to see such a powerful story making a strong impact. These stories are valuable not only from a historical perspective, but it is important that all are aware of the many challenges the adoption world has endured, including periods where many mothers across the world who were forced to give up children they were desperate to parent.
In honor of the movie, here’s a look at some of our favorite adoption-themed films. Click on the links to see trailers for each!
Any Day Now
This film, starring Alan Cumming, tells the story of a gay couple in the 70s who take in a mentally handicapped child and then have their relationship questioned as they begin a legal battle to become the child’s permanent guardians.
Stuart Little
Stuart, a mouse, is adopted by the Littles when discovered at an orphanage they visited upon deciding to adopt a little brother for their son, George. A caper-filled comedy that’s absolutely adorable, and perfect for your little ones!
Off and Running
This is a beautiful story about a girl named Avery Klein-Cloud, a black teenager who grew up with two Jewish lesbian foster mothers in Brooklyn alongside two other adopted brothers, each of different ethnicities. Encouraged by her mothers to contact her birth mother, Avery does, and the film follows the journey of self-discovery this ignites.
Approved for Adoption
This multi-award winning film is the animated adaptation of a graphic novel written by a South Korean boy who chronicles his life with his adopted Belgian family, away from his home country.
My Flesh and Blood
Susan Tom is the single mother of 11 children, each of whom deal with special needs or long term illnesses. This powerful documentary follows Susan as she looks after her children, showing the many emotional and physical challenges she endures on a daily basis.
