10 Fantasy Films That Celebrate Adoptive Families

Description: Sarah Crewe, a young girl, is sent to a boarding school in England while her father fights in World War I. She forms a bond with her fellow students, creating a makeshift family, and her story is one of resilience and hope.

Fact: Shirley Temple, who played Sarah, was one of the most popular child stars of her time, and this film was one of her biggest successes.

Description: Jen, a Gelfling, is raised by the Mystics after his family is killed. His quest to restore balance to the world of Thra is supported by his adoptive family, the Mystics, and his friend Kira.

Fact: The film was directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, known for their work on "The Muppets," and it was one of the first films to use advanced puppetry and animatronics.

Description: Bastian, a lonely boy, finds solace in a magical book where he becomes part of the story, forming a bond with characters like Atreyu and Falkor, creating a family through shared adventure.

Fact: The film's theme song, "The NeverEnding Story," became a hit single in several countries.

Description: Mary Lennox, an orphan, discovers a hidden garden at her uncle's estate, where she forms bonds with her cousin Colin and a local boy, Dickon, creating a family of sorts through their shared secret.

Fact: The film was shot in England, with the garden scenes filmed at Fountains Hall in Yorkshire.

Description: This iconic film introduces us to Harry Potter, who discovers he's a wizard and is taken from his neglectful adoptive family, the Dursleys, to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The theme of finding a true family among friends and mentors is central to Harry's journey.

Fact: The film was shot at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, which served as the exterior of Hogwarts. The role of Harry Potter was almost given to another actor before Daniel Radcliffe was cast.

Description: Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary high school student, learns she's the princess of a small European country. Her journey involves adjusting to royal life with her grandmother, Queen Clarisse, who becomes her adoptive family figure.

Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays Queen Clarisse, was initially hesitant to take the role due to the age difference with Anne Hathaway, but was convinced by her grandchildren who loved the book.

Description: Coraline Jones moves into a new home where she discovers a parallel world with her "Other Mother" and "Other Father." This film explores themes of neglect and the search for a more attentive family, albeit in a dark and twisted way.

Fact: The film was the first stop-motion animated feature to be shot in stereoscopic 3D.

Description: Jess and Leslie create an imaginary kingdom called Terabithia, where they escape from their troubles. Their friendship and shared adventures form a bond akin to family.

Fact: The film was adapted from Katherine Paterson's novel, which was inspired by the tragic death of her son's friend.

Description: After moving into their great-aunt's estate, the Grace children uncover a magical world. Their journey through this world strengthens their bond, turning them into a tight-knit family unit.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Seth Rogen, who voices a character named Hogsqueal.

Description: Sophie, an orphan, is taken by the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) to Giant Country. Their bond grows as BFG becomes a surrogate father figure, teaching her about dreams and the importance of family.

Fact: The film was directed by Steven Spielberg, who had been trying to adapt Roald Dahl's book for over 20 years.