Family Films About Missing Mothers

Description: This film follows the Salmon family as they deal with the sudden disappearance and murder of their daughter, Susie, whose spirit watches over them from the afterlife. It's a poignant exploration of grief, healing, and the enduring love of a mother.

Fact: The film was adapted from Alice Sebold's best-selling novel. Saoirse Ronan was nominated for a BAFTA Rising Star Award for her role as Susie Salmon.

Description: Lily Owens, a young girl, escapes her abusive father with her caretaker Rosaleen, finding solace in a family of beekeepers. The story explores themes of maternal love, loss, and the search for a mother figure.

Fact: The film was based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd. Queen Latifah's performance as August Boatwright was critically acclaimed.

Description: While not directly about a missing mother, this film focuses on Chris Gardner's struggle to provide for his son after his wife leaves them. It's a story of perseverance and the unbreakable bond between father and son.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in the film, mirroring their real-life relationship.

Description: Liesel Meminger, a young girl, finds solace in books and her foster parents after her mother leaves her during World War II. The film explores themes of loss, love, and the power of words.

Fact: The film was adapted from Markus Zusak's novel. Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson were both nominated for various awards for their performances as Liesel's foster parents.

Description: Michael Oher, a homeless teenager, is taken in by the Tuohy family, where Leigh Anne Tuohy becomes a surrogate mother, guiding him to success in football and life.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy. The film is based on the true story of Michael Oher.

Description: After losing their son, Becca and Howie Corbett struggle to cope with their grief, with Becca's mother, Nat, playing a pivotal role in their healing process. This film captures the essence of family dynamics in the face of loss.

Fact: Nicole Kidman won the Hollywood Film Award for Best Actress for her role as Becca. The film was adapted from David Lindsay-Abaire's Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

Description: Matt King must navigate his family through the aftermath of his wife's boating accident, which leaves her in a coma. The film explores themes of family, forgiveness, and the search for closure.

Fact: George Clooney was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Matt King. The film was adapted from Kaui Hart Hemmings' novel.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a family separated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, focusing on the mother's struggle to reunite with her family.

Fact: Naomi Watts was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Maria. The film was shot in Thailand, where the actual events took place.

Description: Duncan, a shy teenager, finds a surrogate family at a water park where he works, helping him cope with his mother's new boyfriend and the absence of his father.

Fact: The film was co-written and directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, who also won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for "The Descendants."

Description: Jack and his mother, Joy, have lived in captivity for years. After their escape, Joy must navigate the complexities of reintegrating into society while dealing with the trauma of her past.

Fact: Brie Larson won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Joy. The film was adapted from Emma Donoghue's novel.