10 Movies & Shows Like Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

Description: The Royal Tenenbaums, like Little Miss Sunshine, is a dark comedy-drama that delves into dysfunctional family dynamics. Both films feature eccentric characters, a mix of humor and melancholy, and a narrative that explores the complexities of familial bonds. The visual aesthetics of both films are distinctive, with a focus on vibrant colors and stylized settings.

Fact: The film marks the third collaboration between director Wes Anderson and actor Owen Wilson. The character Margot Tenenbaum's wardrobe was inspired by the style of French New Wave actress Anna Karina. The film's soundtrack features songs by Nico, The Rolling Stones, and Elliott Smith.

Description: The Squid and the Whale shares Little Miss Sunshine's exploration of family dysfunction and the impact of parental relationships on children. Both films use dark humor to address serious themes, and their narratives are driven by the characters' emotional journeys. The performances in both films are raw and deeply affecting.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on writer-director Noah Baumbach's childhood. The title refers to a diorama at the American Museum of Natural History. The film was shot in just 23 days on a budget of $

Description: Little Miss Sunshine is the reference film, known for its blend of comedy and drama, focusing on a dysfunctional family's road trip to a child beauty pageant. The film's themes of perseverance, family unity, and embracing individuality resonate deeply with audiences.

Fact: The film was shot in just 30 days on a budget of $8 million. Abigail Breslin was only 9 years old during filming. The iconic yellow VW bus used in the movie had a non-functional horn, so the honking sounds were added in post-production.

Description: Juno shares similarities with Little Miss Sunshine in its quirky, heartfelt storytelling and focus on unconventional family dynamics. Both films blend humor with poignant moments, exploring themes of adolescence, personal growth, and the complexities of family relationships. The protagonists in both films are young individuals navigating challenging life situations with a mix of wit and vulnerability.

Fact: Ellen Page was only 20 years old when she played the titular role of Juno. The film's screenplay, written by Diablo Cody, won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The iconic hamburger phone in the movie was a real prop purchased from eBay.

Description: The Darjeeling Limited shares Little Miss Sunshine's road trip premise and exploration of familial relationships. Both films use humor and visual storytelling to delve into themes of reconciliation, personal discovery, and the quirks of family dynamics. The distinctive visual style and ensemble casts are also points of similarity.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in India, primarily in the state of Rajasthan. The brothers' luggage in the film was custom-made by Louis Vuitton. The train used in the film was a real Indian railway train, repainted for the movie.

Description: The Way Way Back shares similarities with Little Miss Sunshine in its coming-of-age narrative and focus on a young protagonist navigating family issues. Both films balance humor with emotional depth, and feature transformative journeys that lead to personal growth. The ensemble casts in both films deliver standout performances.

Fact: The film marks the directorial debut of Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, who also wrote the screenplay. Sam Rockwell improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's spontaneous feel. The water park scenes were filmed at Water Wizz in East Wareham, Massachusetts.

Description: Moonrise Kingdom, like Little Miss Sunshine, features young protagonists on a journey of self-discovery. Both films blend whimsy with emotional depth, and their narratives are driven by the characters' unique perspectives and resilience. The visual aesthetics of both films are carefully crafted to enhance the storytelling.

Fact: The film's setting is inspired by New England's coastal landscapes. The young actors, Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward, had no prior acting experience. The film's score features music by Benjamin Britten, a composer known for his works for children.

Description: Captain Fantastic, like Little Miss Sunshine, explores unconventional family structures and the challenges of parenting. Both films feature road trips that serve as catalysts for personal and familial growth. The themes of individualism, societal norms, and the bonds of family are central to both narratives.

Fact: Viggo Mortensen performed all his own stunts in the film. The cast lived together in a remote cabin during filming to build authentic family chemistry. The film's title is a nod to the 1972 album by Elton John.

Description: Lady Bird shares Little Miss Sunshine's focus on a young protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the complexities of family relationships. Both films balance humor with poignant moments, and their narratives are driven by strong, relatable characters. The themes of identity, ambition, and familial love are central to both films.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, inspired by writer-director Greta Gerwig's upbringing in Sacramento. Saoirse Ronan learned to drive for her role in the film. The film was shot in just 22 days, with many scenes completed in one take.

Description: Eighth Grade, like Little Miss Sunshine, captures the awkwardness and vulnerability of adolescence with humor and heart. Both films feature young protagonists navigating personal challenges, and their narratives are marked by authenticity and emotional resonance. The themes of self-acceptance and growth are central to both stories.

Fact: Bo Burnham wrote the screenplay based on his own experiences and observations of modern adolescence. Elsie Fisher, the lead actress, was actually in eighth grade during filming. The film's soundtrack features original music by Burnham, who is also a musician.