As millennials and their parents grow older, movie recommendations become a two way street. While parents may have introduced their kids to Star Wars, The Godfather or Back to the Future, millennials are now suggesting films that speak to their own generation’s experiences, whether through modern storytelling, nostalgia or themes of identity, relationships and change. These 15 movies are millennial favorites that they keep telling their parents, “You have to watch this!”
The Social Network, 2010 – The Birth of Facebook and the Millennial Tech Boom
Parents may use Facebook daily, but do they know the dramatic, ruthless story behind its creation? Millennials grew up watching the internet evolve and this film perfectly captures the ambition, betrayal and power struggles behind the tech giants they rely on today. Why Parents Will Love It: Sharp, witty dialogue thanks to Aaron Sorkin’s masterful screenplay. A fast-paced, gripping drama about real world events.
Lady Bird, 2017 – A Mother-Daughter Story That Feels Too Real
A perfect film for parents and daughters to watch together, Lady Bird is funny, heartfelt and painfully relatable. Millennials resonate with Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson’s struggle for independence, while their parents will see themselves in her loving but tough mother. Why Parents Will Love It: A nostalgic 2000s setting that parents will appreciate. A touching mother daughter dynamic that feels real and emotional. Beautifully captures the challenges of growing up and letting go.
Knives Out, 2019 – A Modern Whodunit With Classic Charm
A fresh take on the classic murder mystery, Knives Out is a film that parents and millennials can both enjoy. It has Agatha Christie style twists, a brilliant cast and a sharp social commentary that makes it both entertaining and thought provoking. Why Parents Will Love It: Daniel Craig as the unforgettable detective Benoit Blanc. A classic whodunit feel with a modern twist. Engaging mystery and sharp humor.
The Big Short, 2015 – Explaining the 2008 Financial Crisis Like Never Before
Millennials entered adulthood during the 2008 financial crisis and The Big Short breaks down what really happened, with humor and style. It is both educational and entertaining, and parents will appreciate how it explains a complicated issue with wit and clarity. Why Parents Will Love It: Smart, fast paced storytelling with plenty of humor. An engaging way to understand the biggest economic crash in recent history. Brilliant performances from a star studded cast.
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The Farewell, 2019 – A Heartfelt Story About Family and Tradition
A deeply emotional film about family, cultural differences and the weight of tradition, The Farewell tells the story of a Chinese American woman returning to China to visit her dying grandmother, who does not know she is dying. Why Parents Will Love It: A beautifully crafted story about family and love. Universal themes of generational conflict and identity. Awkwafina’s breakout dramatic performance. 7. Arrival 2016, A Sci-Fi Film Wi
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Arrival, 2016 – A Sci-Fi Film With a Philosophical Twist
This thoughtful and intelligent sci-fi film is not about aliens attacking Earth, it is about communication, time and human connection. Millennials love it for its deep themes and emotional weight and parents will appreciate its intellectual storytelling. Why Parents Will Love It: A deeply emotional, thought provoking ending. A unique, intelligent take on alien contact. Amy Adams’ stunning performance.
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The Grand Budapest Hotel, 2014 – A Whimsical and Stylish Adventure
With stunning visuals, witty humor and a nostalgic feel, The Grand Budapest Hotel is a film that parents and millennials can both admire. It is lighthearted yet profound, with a story about friendship, legacy and time passing. Why Parents Will Love It: Ralph Fiennes in one of his best performances. Gorgeous cinematography and unique storytelling. A mix of humor, adventure and heartfelt moments.
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Coco, 2017 – A Heartfelt Celebration of Family and Legacy
One of Pixar’s most emotional films, Coco tells the story of Miguel, a young boy who accidentally finds himself in the Land of the Dead. As he embarks on a journey to discover the truth about his family’s past, he learns about love, sacrifice and the importance of remembering those who came before us. Why Parents Will Love It: The music, especially “Remember Me,” will bring tears to their eyes.
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Jojo Rabbit, 2019 – A Satirical Yet Heartwarming War Comedy
A rare blend of comedy and deep emotional impact, Jojo Rabbit follows a young boy in Nazi Germany who idolizes Hitler, until he discovers his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home. Directed by Taika Waititi, the film is both hilarious and profoundly touching, reminding audiences of the importance of love over hate. It is also a powerful story with a unique comedic twist.
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Moonlight, 2016 – A Poetic and Powerful Coming-of-Age Drama
An intimate and visually stunning film, Moonlight follows the life of Chiron, a young Black man growing up in Miami, as he struggles with identity, love and finding his place in the world. The film won Best Picture at the Academy Awards and its deeply human storytelling makes it a must watch for all generations. Its also a story that encourages empathy and understanding.
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Dune, 2021 – A Visually Stunning Sci-Fi Epic
Based on the classic sci-fi novel by Frank Herbert, Dune is a spectacular adaptation that brings the story of Paul Atreides and the desert planet Arrakis to life. The film combines politics, prophecy and breathtaking visuals, making it a must watch for fans of epic storytelling. Stunning cinematography and jaw dropping world building A grand scale sci-fi adventure reminiscent of Star Wars. An engaging mix of action, drama and intrigue.
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Whiplash, 2014 – A High-Intensity Drama About Ambition and Sacrifice
A gripping film about the cost of greatness, Whiplash follows a young drummer pushed to his absolute limits by a relentless music instructor. With intense performances and heart pounding music sequences, it is a movie that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats. Why Parents Will Love It: A powerful, adrenaline fueled viewing experience. A gripping story about passion and dedication. J.K. Simmons delivers a terrifyingly brilliant performance.
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Her, 2013 – A Beautiful Reflection on Love and Technology
In a world where technology increasingly shapes our lives, Her tells the unconventional love story between a lonely man and his AI companion. Joaquin Phoenix delivers an incredibly touching performance and the film’s themes of loneliness, connection, and what it means to be human resonate across generations. It raises questions about the role of technology in our lives. A unique and thought provoking look at relationships. A heartfelt, emotional performance by Joaquin Phoenix.
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The Peanut Butter Falcon, 2019 – A Heartwarming Adventure
A feel good, heartfelt adventure, The Peanut Butter Falcon follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome who runs away from a nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. Along the way, he teams up with a troubled fisherman, Shia LaBeouf and their unlikely friendship becomes the heart of the story.
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The Martian, 2015 – A Smart and Thrilling Survival Story
One of the most entertaining sci-fi survival movies in recent years, The Martian follows astronaut Mark Watney, who is stranded on Mars and must use science, ingenuity and humor to survive. The film is both intense and surprisingly funny, making it a perfect blend of drama, suspense and lightheartedness. Matt Damon’s charismatic and witty performance A gripping survival story with plenty of humor. Incredibly realistic and scientifically accurate storytelling.
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Each of these 15 films offers something unique, whether it is mind blowing sci-fi, emotional storytelling, gripping drama or laugh out loud comedy. Millennials love these movies because they reflect their experiences, challenges and perspectives, but they also carry universal themes that parents can relate to. If you are looking for a film to recommend to your parents or one to watch together, any of these picks will spark conversation, emotion and connection
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Underappreciated Comedy Stars Who Deserve More Recognition
Comedy is a tough business and while some comedians become household names, others remain criminally underrated. Despite their talent, unique style and hilarious performances, these stars often do not get the mainstream recognition they deserve. Whether it is stand up, TV or film, these comedians have delivered top tier comedy but have not reached the level of fame they should. Here are some of the funniest underappreciated comedy stars who deserve more love.
Read it here: Underappreciated Comedy Stars Who Deserve More Recognition
14 Unforgettable Comedy Duos Of The Decade
Great comedy is often about chemistry and few things make audiences laugh harder than a perfectly matched duo. Whether it is witty banter, slapstick antics or hilarious opposites clashing, these partnerships have defined humor over the past decade. From dynamic pairings in movies to unforgettable TV duos, these comedic teams prove that two funny minds are always better than one. Here are 14 comedy duos that left audiences in stitches.
Read it here: 14 Unforgettable Comedy Duos Of The Decade
15 Hidden Messages About Society In Animated Movies
Animated films may seem like simple entertainment, but many of them carry deep messages about society, human nature and the world we live in. Filmmakers often use colorful characters and fantastical settings to explore real world issues, sometimes in ways that only adults fully understand. From political commentary to critiques of consumerism, these movies are filled with hidden themes that make them more than just cartoons. Here are 15 animated films that cleverly reflect important aspects of society.
Read it here: 15 Hidden Messages About Society In Animated Movies
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