Films about adoption explore the complexities and emotions surrounding the process of adoption, shedding light on the challenges, joys, and heartaches experienced by those involved. These films often delve into themes of identity, family dynamics, and the meaning of love.
“Instant Family”, 2018
Director: Sean Anders
Inspired by a true story, this comedy-drama follows a couple who decide to foster three siblings and eventually adopt them. The film portrays the ups and downs of the adoption process and the challenges of building a new family.
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Isabela Merced, Gustavo Escobar, Julianna Gamiz, Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro, Tom Segura, Allyn Rachel, Britt Rentschler;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, comedy, family;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Instant Family” on the website imdb.com
“Lion”, 2016
Director: Garth Davis
Based on a true story, this drama follows a young Indian boy who gets separated from his family and is adopted by an Australian couple. As an adult, he sets out to find his birth family, leading to a powerful journey of self-discovery and reunion.
Starring: Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, Rooney Mara, David Wenham, Sunny Pawar, Abhishek Bharate, Priyanka Bose, Khushi Solanki, Shankar Nisode, Tannishtha Chatterjee;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
“The Blind Side”, 2009
Director: John Lee Hancock
This sports drama tells the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who is taken in by a wealthy family and eventually becomes a successful football player. The film explores themes of family, love, and the transformative power of adoption.
Starring: Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Jae Head, Lily Collins, Ray McKinnon, Kim Dickens, Adriane Lenox, Kathy Bates, Catherine Dyer;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: drama, sport, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “The Blind Side” on the website imdb.com
“Philomena”, 2013
Director: Stephen Frears
Based on a true story, this drama follows an Irish woman who enlists the help of a journalist to find the son she was forced to give up for adoption years ago. The film delves into the emotional impact of adoption and the search for lost connections.
Starring: Judi Dench, Steve Coogan, Sophie Kennedy Clark, Mare Winningham, Barbara Jefford, Ruth McCabe, Peter Hermann, Sean Mahon, Anna Maxwell Martin, Michelle Fairley;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
“The Odd Life of Timothy Green”, 2012
Director: Peter Hedges
This fantasy drama follows a couple who, unable to have children, bury a box in their backyard containing their wishes for a child. A mysterious boy named Timothy appears, and they adopt him, leading to a heartwarming and magical journey of parenthood.
Starring: Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams, Odeya Rush, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Rosemarie DeWitt, David Morse, M. Emmet Walsh, Lois Smith, Lin-Manuel Miranda;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: fantasy, drama, comedy, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 105 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” on the website imdb.com
These films offer poignant and thought-provoking portrayals of adoption, highlighting the complexities and emotional depth of the adoption experience.
In conclusion, films about adoption offer a poignant and insightful exploration of the complexities and emotional dynamics involved in the adoption process. These films showcase the resilience, love, and challenges experienced by both the adoptive parents and the children, shedding light on the universal themes of family, identity, and belonging. Through compelling storytelling and powerful performances, these movies not only entertain but also provoke thought and empathy, encouraging audiences to reflect on the diverse and profound experiences of adoption in our society.
