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Motherhood isn't all June Cleaver neat and tidy.
CBS Photo Archive/Getty ImagesNo disrespect to June Cleaver, but the idealized '50s version of motherhood doesn't quite capture the full picture. Motherhood is not just fulfilling, exhilarating, and transformative, but it's also filled with exhaustion, stress, anxiety, and, let’s not forget, an overwhelming amount of poop.
Fortunately, Hollywood has started to understand: Moms want their experiences reflected more honestly in media about motherhood.
Here are five top films for those seeking heartfelt, dramatic, and often humorous portrayals of real motherhood. We’ll kick things off with one that nails both "heartfelt" and "dramatic" perfectly…
5. Mask
Cher kept her iconic biker-chic appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of "Mask."
Ron Galella/WireImageWhat's the matter, never seen anyone from the planet Vulcan before?
-Florence "Rusty" Dennis
If you're in the mood for a tearjerker – and a showcase of Cher's impressive acting range – don't miss the 1985 film "Mask."
The film tells the story of a biker mom (Cher) and her son (Eric Stoltz), who struggles with a severe facial deformity. The plot takes us through their journeys of coping with the harsh realities of being different, and the love between a mother and her son in an often-cruel world.
"Mask" won accolades at both the Cannes and Oscars in 1986, making it a must-see for anyone interested in stories of motherhood, triumph, tragedy, and fresh perspectives.
Next, we dive into a mother-focused film that was ahead of its time…
4. Mr. Mom
Michael Keaton, aka Mr. Mom, seen in Westwood, California.
Barry King/WireImageMy brain is like oatmeal. I yelled at Kenny today for coloring outside the lines! Megan and I are starting to watch the same TV shows, and I'm enjoying them! I'm losing it.
-- Jack Butler
Who doesn't enjoy a good role-reversal movie? It challenges societal norms, shifts perceptions, and provides a fresh outlook on an age-old theme.
In the case of 1983's "Mr. Mom," the theme is motherhood – in all its humorous glory. Michael Keaton shines as a stay-at-home dad before the role even had a name, and his hilarious escapades in motherhood are truly entertaining. Teri Garr plays his working wife, while Martin Mull portrays her tough boss.
Give it a watch. You'll be in stitches.
Next up: It’s a bit tragic, incredibly heartwarming, maybe a touch too relatable, but thankfully, packed with humor…
3. Parenthood
Director Ron Howard is seen with his own mother, Jean Speegle Howard.
Ron Galella/WireImageNo, no, no, no. I'm too young to be a grandmother. Grandmothers are supposed to be old. They bake, sew, and tell you stories about the Depression. I was at Woodstock, for crying out loud! I peed in a field! I even hung on to The Who's helicopter as it flew off!
-- Helen Buckman
This movie has it all when it comes to parenting: troubled children (both young and grown), single moms, married moms, separated moms, job stress, mom stress, family dinners, emergency birthday party rescues, and all the other realities of raising kids.
"Parenthood" (1989), directed by Ron Howard, features an all-star cast including Steve Martin, Mary Steenburgen, Diane Wiest, Jason Robards, and Joaquin Phoenix. It’s a must-watch if you're seeking a film that beautifully portrays every aspect of motherhood – and does so with great skill.
Next up: Taking a break from the '80s, here’s a film about contemporary motherhood…
2. Stepmom
Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon feature in the heartfelt film "Stepmom."
Getty ImagesMom, if you want me to, I’ll hate her.
-- Ben Harrison
While films about wicked stepmothers are common, it’s much rarer to find a portrayal that realistically (and still entertainingly) captures the modern "other mom" dynamic, which can often be full of complications.
This 1998 film stars Ed Harris as the father, Susan Sarandon as the mother, and Julia Roberts in the challenging role of a stepmother to two children. The movie is filled with tension, honesty, and some deeply moving moments as the family navigates the difficulties of a modern, post-divorce family setup.
1. Terms of Endearment
Jack Nicholson, Shirley MacLaine, and James L. Brooks proudly display their awards.
Ron Galella/WireImageI just don't want to fight anymore.
-- Aurora Greenway
An Oscar winner, a timeless classic, an emotional chick-flick, and a massive success for Kleenex, "Terms of Endearment" (1983) stars Shirley MacLaine as the mom (with Jack Nicholson as her love interest) and Debra Winger as her daughter in a film that will surely leave you in tears.
No, more like weeping. And some laughter, too.
The narrative is both beautiful and intricate, the performances are stellar, and the dialogue is brilliantly crafted. "Terms of Endearment" stands as a timeless masterpiece about motherhood.
Watch it with your daughter – if she's old enough. This is far from the idealized June Cleaver portrayal of motherhood.
