Parenthood is a joyous experience that can get demanding at times. The challenge increases twofold when you have to navigate the journey of parenthood alone as a single mom or dad without help from a partner. Looking after your child while balancing personal and professional life can sometimes get exhausting. So, to boost your morale, here is a list of some of the best movies that show single parents facing various challenges, overcoming them, and leading a happy life despite all the hurdles they have to face.
Erin Brockovich (2000)
This movie is based on a true story. In the film, Julia Roberts fights for her community and seeks justice for her people. It shows the witty, intelligent single mom and legal assistant Erin Brockovich single-handedly bringing down a California power company accused of polluting the city’s water supply.
One Fine Day (1996)
This charming romantic comedy stars Michelle Pfeiffer (who plays Melanie) and George Clooney (who plays Jack) as single parents. Melanie’s son Sammy and Jack’s daughter Maggie missed their school trip due to Jack’s forgetfulness. The parents now have to keep an eye on them, apart from fulfilling their professional commitments. Both agree to watch the kids for the day jointly, resulting in twelve hours of hilarious misadventures with one unexpected twist.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
A story of a single father struggling to make ends meet has been portrayed well by Will Smith in this heart-touching movie about single parents. Based on a true story about a man named Christopher Gardner, the film shows Smith (playing Christopher Gardne) taking up an unpaid internship in a brokerage firm after losing his life’s earnings selling a product he invested in.
Due to his financial condition, his wife leaves him, and he is left with the custody of his young son. How he survives and turns his life around forms the rest of the story. The best part is that the “Bad Boys” star’s real-life son, Jaden Smith, plays the young boy’s role.
Enough Said (2013)
If your kids are soon going to leave for college and you are terrified of this thought, then this movie is a must-watch. A single mother, Eva, enjoys her profession as a masseuse but worries as her daughter is about to begin college. Soon, she meets Albert, a fellow single parent struggling with empty nest syndrome, and romance quickly blossoms between them. However, Eva discovers that Albert is her new friend’s ex-husband.
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
This movie about single parents might leave you teary-eyed. Realizing that his dad, Sam, has still not come to terms with his mother Maggie’s death, eight-year-old son Jonah forces Sam to call a national radio talk show, hoping to find him a companion. Does Jonah’s prayers get answered? Watch this sweet story where the son plays Cupid to find the answer.
Single Moms Club (2014)
When five struggling and underappreciated single moms put aside their differences to form a support group, they find inspiration and laughter in their new sisterhood. Later, their precious bond inspires the members, and they hope to overcome obstacles to start a new chapter in their lives.
You can also watch “Maid in Manhattan,” “Little Man Tate,” “Bruised,” “Chocolat,” and “Hope Floats.” These movies about single parents will lift your spirits and inspire you to keep going.
So, free up your weekend and watch these movies with your kids or fellow single parents. Even if you aren’t a single parent, watch them with your partner, as who doesn’t love a good plot? Also, in the comment section below, do mention which film inspired you the most.
