This curated list of family films set in 1945 provides a unique window into a pivotal year in history, offering both entertainment and education. These films capture the essence of the time, showcasing the resilience, unity, and spirit of families during and immediately after World War II. They are perfect for family viewing, providing a blend of nostalgia, heartwarming stories, and historical context that can be appreciated by viewers of all ages.

A Christmas Carol (1938)
Description: This adaptation of Dickens' classic tale, while not set in 1945, reflects the spirit of the time with its themes of redemption and family, often shown during the holiday season.
Fact: This version is notable for being one of the earliest sound adaptations of the story, starring Reginald Owen as Scrooge.


The Human Comedy (1943)
Description: While set slightly before 1945, it captures the spirit of the era with its story of a family dealing with the war's impact, including scenes set in 1945.
Fact: Mickey Rooney's performance was critically acclaimed, earning him an Academy Award nomination.


The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
Description: Although released just after the war, this film captures the return of three WWII veterans to their families in 1945, dealing with the challenges of reintegration into civilian life.
Fact: This film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was praised for its realistic portrayal of post-war life.


The Miracle of Morgan's Creek (1944)
Description: Set during the war, this comedy revolves around a small-town girl who gets pregnant by a soldier, leading to a series of comedic events in 1945.
Fact: The film was controversial for its time due to its subject matter but was a box office success.


The Bells of St. Mary's (1945)
Description: This sequel to "Going My Way" features a nun and a priest working together to save a school, with scenes set in 1945, highlighting community and family values.
Fact: It was the highest-grossing film of 1945 and received eight Academy Award nominations.


The Clock (1945)
Description: A romantic drama about a soldier on a 48-hour leave in New York City who meets and falls in love with a woman, capturing the essence of wartime romance.
Fact: Judy Garland and Robert Walker star in this film, which was one of the first to be shot entirely on location in New York.


The Story of G.I. Joe (1945)
Description: This war drama follows the life of an American infantry unit, with scenes set in 1945, focusing on the soldiers' experiences and their longing for home.
Fact: The film was based on the columns of war correspondent Ernie Pyle, who was killed in action in


The Diary of Anne Frank (1959)
Description: While not set entirely in 1945, the film's climax occurs in that year, focusing on the life of a Jewish family hiding from the Nazis, offering a poignant family story.
Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Supporting Actress for Shelley Winters.


Since You Went Away (1944)
Description: This film follows a family's life on the home front during WWII, with scenes extending into 1945, showcasing the impact of the war on family dynamics.
Fact: It was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was one of the highest-grossing films of


The Valley of Decision (1945)
Description: A romantic drama set in Pittsburgh in 1945, where a maid falls in love with the son of the steel mill owner, exploring class differences and family ties.
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction.
