GUEST COLUMN: Movies That Talk About Family History

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Movies That Talk About Family History

by Kevin Faber

Family history is the source of many great tales, struggles, and triumphs found in every culture from continent to continent. The world of cinema is one that loves to expose these family stories and shape them in a way that draws in viewers from all backgrounds and cultures. In this article, you will discover some of the most notable movies that talk about family history.

1. Roots

Roots is one of the most classic movies that deal with themes of family history and ancestry. The content may be difficult to watch at times due to its unfiltered presentation of the past, but the themes are important and timeless. Roots is a human story that showcases the wrongs of the past while highlighting the strength and integrity of the human spirit.

2. Coco

Coco is an exemplary family history movie. The plot follows the journey of Miguel as he strives to understand his family's past and follow his true passion of playing music. Similar to movies that feature unique cultural pasts like 1950 census records, Coco is quick to inform the audience of popular traditions in Hispanic culture while also tracing the bloodline back to the present day.

Coco is also unique because it is an animated film that features some of the most alluring animations in recent memory. The soundtrack has also spawned a life of its own, claiming several awards and capturing the hearts of people all around the world. If you are looking for a feel-good movie about family history, Coco is a great place to start.

3. Anastasia

Anastasia is another wonderful animated film that is loosely based on the story of the daughter of a Russian czar. Family history is a strong theme of the movie, as it illuminates the trials of growing up in a political environment and relates them to universal concerns. Uncovering your ancestry can yield profound discoveries, and Anastasia is the perfect representation of this.

4. Elizabeth

If period pieces surrounding family structures and histories are more your speed, then you may want to watch the 1998 film Elizabeth starring Cate Blanchett. The story of the film centers around the British monarchy, namely the early life of Queen Elizabeth. The movie itself was a box office hit, showcasing the value of Blanchett's performance. 

5. Cheaper By The Dozen

Cheaper By The Dozen stars the famous comedian and actor Steve Martin as he corrals a large family, with each member tussling with their own issues. The film is a remake of one from the 1950s. Both iterations have received lavish praise for their comedic take on deep family dynamics.

6. Big Fish

Big Fish carries a unique storybook quality that traces the family origins of one man as he relives the stories his father shared with him as a child. Whimsical humor and fantastical elements trace a complex lineage that gives rise to several practical family considerations and historical discoveries. Directed by Tim Burton and starring Ewan McGregor, the film is sure to stun audiences with its original take on family history.

7. The Royal Tenenbaums

Heralded as one of the greatest Wes Anderson films, The Royal Tenenbaums follows the lives of an aristocratic family as they deal with revelations that impact each one of them. The movie is charming and hilarious. The stylistic flourishes of the set design and outfits add even more allure to this modern classic.

8. What's Eating Gilbert Grape

This seminal classic follows the story of a family in rural America. It not only shares resonating themes of family history but also touches on other sensitive subjects such as body positivity and persons with disabilities. The film has staying power due to some incredible performances from both Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp.

Movies that focus on family history and bloodlines are fascinating to examine from several lenses. When you are in the mood for a story that centers around families and their complex histories, remember to check out some of the films discussed in this list.