Just like the myriad types of moms we celebrate today, there’s an equal number of movies that evoke feelings, remind us of an important relationship, inspire, delight, or challenge us. Here are some of our Picture House staff’s Mother’s Day picks. 

Let us know your Mother’s Day film favorites. Comment on social or email us at info@thepicturehouse.org

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Angels in the Outfield (1994)

On Mother’s Day last year, my sons – who are in their thirties now – Zoomed in and we watched Angels in the Outfield together, one of our favorites from long, long ago! It has everything – angels, sight gags, sweet kids, baseball, and a very hopeful line I still use: “It could happen!” — Laura deBuys, President and Executive Director 

The Blind Side (2009)

This movie has something for everyone in the family, but mainly it has an amazing performance by Sandra Bullock playing a badass mom that doesn’t take no for an answer when trying to get the best out of her kids. — Clayton Bushong, Director of Programming 

Imitation of Life (1959)

I remember seeing this film for the first time with my Mom when I was young. Growing up, our t.v. was frequently tuned to Turner Classic Movies, and I wasn’t usually interested in watching what I thought were old, cheesy (or “cringy” as the kids say) films. But I was completely absorbed by Imitation of Life – I will never forget that funeral scene! It’s an absolutely gorgeous film, with Oscar-nominated performances by Juanita Moore and Susan Kohner. Given that it tackles issues of feminism and race through a 1930’s lens, and this version was made in the 1950’s, there are casting choices and Hollywood stereotypes that are problematic. But it tackles these issues nonetheless, ahead of its time, and provides plenty of topics for discussion if you’re watching along with older children. For yourself on Mother’s Day, watch it to indulge in a melodrama that is beautifully acted, an incredible cameo by Mahalia Jackson, and a good cry. — Francile Albright, Director of Education 

20^th Century Women (2016)

Annette Bening shines in her Oscar nominated portrayal of an imperfect single mom of a teenage boy who realizes she needs support and seeks out an unconventional and unlikely group to help with his upbringing. Set in 1970s Santa Barbara, amidst cultural change and adolescent rebellion, this film reminds us that it’s more than okay to lean on others and not have all the answers as parents. Plus it has a stellar cast, scene-setting soundtrack, and a strong screenplay written by Michael Mills.  — Amy Cole, Director of Communications 

Boyhood (2014)

This tender and profound movie, which follows a boy and his family over a dozen years in real time, is a meticulously textured work set to the rhythm of life. I loved watching Mason (Ellar Coltrane) and his parents (Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke) grow up on film. Directed by the renowned Richard Linklater. — Andrea Gottfried, Communications and Development Manager 

Lady Bird (2017) 

I don’t know what it’s like to be a mom or a daughter but if I was a mom or a daughter I think I would want it to be this dramatic. — Jamal Pedro, Theater Manager