Movies that are informative, entertaining, and enjoyable for every expectant mother to include in her must-watch list.
Pregnancy is a remarkable period for women, where thoughts are often centered around babies. This guide on movies suitable for pregnancy will enhance your experience and allow you to connect with similar scenarios. While it’s recommended to rest and minimize work during pregnancy, there comes a point where the routine can feel repetitive. At that stage, traditional activities like reading pregnancy books or watching videos might not provide the expected relief.
Why not treat yourself to some movies centered around pregnancy? Observing characters experiencing similar emotions can lift your spirits. Check out a handpicked selection of pregnancy films, featuring romantic and comedic maternity stories, for your entertainment.
What To Expect When You’re Expecting
It’s too late to pull out now.
“What To Expect When You’re Expecting” is a romantic comedy featuring a star-studded cast, including Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz. The storyline follows a group of women who are navigating the rollercoaster of pregnancy hormones. From unexpected pregnancies to adoption, from televised morning sickness to smooth pregnancies, the movie tackles various pregnancy and parenting challenges in an engaging and entertaining manner.
While “What To Expect When You’re Expecting” may take a humorous approach to pregnancy, it stands out as one of the top movies that delves into the emotional challenges women encounter during this period. Get ready to burst into laughter at moments and find yourself shedding a tear or two along the way.
Nine Months
“Nine Months,” featuring Hugh Grant and Julianne Moore, is a must-see movie for expecting parents. Released in 1995, this romantic comedy follows Simon (played by Hugh Grant), a commitment-phobic man, and his girlfriend, Rebecca (played by Julianne Moore). Their nearly perfect five-year relationship takes a turn when Simon learns that Rebecca is pregnant. While Rebecca embraces motherhood eagerly, Simon comically struggles with the idea of impending fatherhood. However, in true 90s fashion, the movie concludes on a happy note. The couple comes to realize that having a baby marks not an end but the start of a new chapter in life.
Hugh Grant and Julianne Moore bring a heartwarming touch to this film. Get ready to burst into laughter, especially at the old-fashioned 90’s jokes. However, the standout character is the bumbling Russian gynecologist portrayed by Robin Williams. The delivery scene in the movie is incredibly funny, filled with screams and even fainting. Enjoy the humor!
Due Date
Peter Highman (portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.), a soon-to-be father, is on the verge of becoming a dad in just five days. His plan is to catch a flight back home to be present for the delivery.
However, due to the antics of Ethan Tremblay, a quirky aspiring actor, he misses his flight. Peter is then compelled to hitch a ride with Ethan, a journey that challenges his patience and sanity.
Although the initial hitchhiking situation is awkward, their trip eventually evolves into an unexpected adventure filled with joy.
Junior
If you’re in the mood for a movie with a pregnancy theme and an unconventional plot, consider “Junior.”
The film follows Dr. Hess, a medical researcher played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who unintentionally becomes pregnant while testing a fertility drug designed to aid endangered pregnancies.
This leads to a series of comedic events, culminating in Arnold preparing for a C-section in the delivery room. Enjoy this entertaining pregnancy movie with your partner for a delightful experience.
Away We Go
“Away We Go” follows Burt and his pregnant girlfriend, Verona, as they set off on a road trip across the country to find the ideal place to raise their baby.
While the first five months of Verona’s pregnancy go smoothly, things take a turn when Burt’s parents, Gloria and Jerry, announce their plan to move out of Colorado during the sixth month, leaving the couple without a reason to stay. Traveling to visit friends in Madison, Montreal, and Phoenix, they realize that home is truly where the heart lies.
This comedy-drama film delves into parenting, showcasing a variety of characters and parenting stereotypes. From the straightforward Lilly reprimanding her children to the intellectual LN and the beautiful yet grieving Munch, who is coping with her fifth miscarriage, viewers get a glimpse into different mothering styles and experiences.
Baby Mama
If you’re looking for a feel-good movie during pregnancy, consider watching “Baby Mama”. The movie follows Kate, a single, career-driven woman facing challenges due to her T-shaped uterus that makes conception difficult. To solve this, she enlists Angie, a carefree surrogate.
As the story unfolds, they navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy under one roof. However, their plans take a humorous turn when Kate learns a surprising truth about Angie’s pregnancy. The comical moments arise as Kate tries to shape Angie into an expectant mother, while Angie’s boldness and humor steal the spotlight. Don’t miss the hilarious scene where Angie confidently presents a squirrel picture as an ultrasound to Kate.
The Business Of Being Born
If you had to pick just one movie from this list centered on the theme of childbirth, choose “The Business Of Being Born” without hesitation. This unconventional film, not your typical rom-com, is a must-watch for every expecting mother. Ricki Lake’s maternity documentary delves into the journey of pregnancy and childbirth in the United States, exploring topics like cesarean and natural childbirth, homebirth, inductions, doulas, epidurals, and more.
The documentary questions the modern dependence on medical interventions during childbirth and highlights how birth is often treated as a medical crisis rather than a natural process. In essence, this film equips you with essential knowledge about childbirth, preparing you for delivery by presenting the comprehensive facts.
Father Of The Bride 2
For those who found inspiration in “Father of the Bride” while planning their wedding, this pregnancy film is a must-watch. The beloved characters return in this entertaining sequel, following George’s journey as he anticipates becoming a father for the third time and welcoming his first grandchild.
The movie delves into the intricacies and emotions of pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of family unity during challenges and exploring themes of late-in-life parenthood. It’s a top choice for expecting mothers.
During her pregnancy, Falak, a mother and blogger, enjoyed this movie along with other baby-themed films. She expresses her fondness for both parts but finds the sequel particularly hilarious. Watching it with her husband, Fizz, she envisions him embodying the fatherly character portrayed by Steve Martin in the future.
Babies
“Babies” is a charming documentary lasting one hour and 20 minutes, filled with the joy of babies. This engaging film chronicles the lives of four babies from different corners of the globe: Japan, Mongolia, Namibia, and California. From birth, the filmmakers capture these adorable infants, offering a fascinating glimpse into the unique ways babies experience the world. Despite cultural and geographical contrasts, the documentary highlights the universal nature of babies. While the movie lacks dialogue, its cinematography is exceptional.
Among the babies, the mischievous Mongolian baby stood out for us. You should watch him with your friends or little ones – they will be captivated!
Labor Pains
To prevent getting fired, Thea, a daring secretary working for a conceited publisher, pretends to be pregnant. Her scheme succeeds, securing her job. She borrows a baby bump from a mannequin and maintains the charade while contemplating her next steps.
As time passes, Thea starts to relish the perks and attention that come with her fake pregnancy to the point where the situation begins to feel genuine to her.
Riding In Cars With Boys
“Riding In Cars With Boys” tells the tale of Drew Barrymore, a high school student who unexpectedly falls in love. This movie, a top choice for pregnancy-themed films, portrays the journey of a single mother overcoming life’s challenges to obtain her master’s degree. Unlike typical feel-good movies, it delves into drug issues, shattered dreams, and marital struggles. However, the strong bond between Barrymore and her son shines through as an inspiration.
“Riding In Cars With Boys” is a rollercoaster of emotions – moving, humorous, heartbreaking, and heartwarming all at once. The young boy’s words in the film will leave you reflecting on your own parenthood journey, especially when he sweetly says, “You look beautiful, Mommy.” For deeper insight into the storyline, consider reading the book with the same title.
Juno
“Juno” is a movie that can evoke strong emotions, especially when hormones are high. The storyline follows Juno, a high school student who faces an unplanned pregnancy and sets out to find the perfect adoptive parents for her baby, eventually choosing a couple from Pennysaver.
Released in 2007, “Juno” made a significant impact, shedding light on the challenges of teenage pregnancy. Juno navigates social obstacles like missing out on prom and dealing with gossip while proudly displaying her pregnancy. The stellar performances by Michael Cera and Ellen Page shine in this coming-of-age tale, with witty dialogues and Juno’s sharp sarcasm adding depth. Rooting for Juno becomes inevitable as you laugh, cry, and find yourself drawn to rewatch the film repeatedly.
Knocked Up
“Knocked Up” presents a hilarious take on pregnancy, offering a light-hearted perspective. Ben Stone, a carefree young man, finds himself in a whirlwind when a one-night stand with Katherine Heigl’s character results in an unexpected pregnancy. While Alison quickly decides to keep the baby, the real challenge lies in determining if Ben is prepared to embrace fatherhood.
Follow this unlikely couple as they navigate their new reality in “Knocked Up,” where every aspect of pregnancy, from morning sickness to discovering unread baby books, is humorously depicted. A word of caution though, the movie includes a very vivid childbirth scene towards the end that might make you cringe.
Waitress
“Waitress” tells the story of Jenna (Kerri Russell), a waitress in an unhappy marriage, who enters a pie-baking contest to earn money to leave her husband. Along the way, she develops feelings for her married obstetrician. As she prepares for the contest, Jenna discovers she is pregnant. Initially reluctant about the baby, she gradually forms a bond with her unborn daughter. To see if this expectant mother finds happiness, you’ll have to watch the movie.
Despite addressing abuse and domestic violence, “Waitress” is a charming and heartening film. Jenna’s unconventional pie names, like Bad Baby Pie, add a humorous touch. Her unique response to impending motherhood will surely bring moments of joy. This inspiring movie offers hope to all mothers who may feel overwhelmed by the idea of parenthood.
She’s Having A Baby
At the moment of childbirth, it’s not only a baby that is born, but also exceptional fathers and husbands. “She’s Having A Baby,” a comedy film by John Hughes, follows the journey of newlyweds Kevin and Elizabeth as they navigate the challenges of marriage and parenthood.
The movie even showcases a young Alec Baldwin before he rose to fame.
Look Who’s Talking
Mollie, played by Kirstie Alley, is an accountant faced with single motherhood after her partner leaves her for another woman. The film tracks Mollie’s quest to find a suitable father figure for her son Mikey. Along the way, Mollie unexpectedly falls for James, portrayed by John Travolta, a taxi driver with dreams of becoming a pilot – an unlikely match for her.
The movie offers a unique perspective by narrating from the newborn Mikey’s point of view. The humor in delving into the minds of babies is both hilarious and distinctive. You’ll enjoy Mikey’s witty and sarcastic nature, voiced by Bruce Willis. His lines and banter capture the essence of the 80s era.
For Keeps
“The groundbreaking movie “For Keeps” was the first of its kind to address the topic of teenage pregnancy. Starring the iconic figure of 80s cinema, Darcy (played by Molly Ringwald), the film follows the story of a high school paper editor who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant by her long-term boyfriend Stan (portrayed by Randall Batinkoff) just before heading off to college. Despite disapproval from both sets of parents, Molly and Stan are resolute in facing the challenge and choose to keep the baby.
Parenting is a challenging journey, regardless of age, yet it is undeniably rewarding. The film delves into the realities of postpartum depression and the early stages of parenthood in a candid and engaging manner.”
The Back-Up Plan
“The Back-Up Plan,” featuring Jennifer Lopez, is a romantic comedy that follows a woman’s journey of opting for artificial insemination to embrace motherhood, after growing weary of searching for Mr. Right.
After becoming pregnant, she unexpectedly encounters the man of her dreams, altering the course of her life.
This movie encompasses all the elements typically found in a romantic comedy, leaving viewers with a cozy and heartwarming sensation. True to the genre, the film concludes with the couple exchanging vows.
Parenthood
Steve Martin’s timeless portrayal of Gil Buckman in this film narrates the journey of an extended family, sharing diverse parenting tips and experiences throughout a single summer.
The movie portrays Steve, a perfectionist, grappling with his children’s shortcomings, believing they mirror his parenting failures. His siblings further contribute to the mounting stress in his life. This captivating movie will keep you engaged until the closing credits.
Baby Boom
The movie “Baby Boom” follows the story of J.C. Wiatt (Diane Keaton), a career-driven woman whose life takes a drastic turn when she unexpectedly becomes the guardian of a toddler named Elizabeth. Balancing her job and motherhood in New York City becomes overwhelming, leading J.C. to make a life-changing decision to move to Vermont, leaving her job and boyfriend behind.
Despite facing challenges like a rundown house and emotional stress, J.C. finds success by launching a high-end baby food business. While motherhood doesn’t come naturally to her, J.C.’s transformation into the determined “Tiger Lady” is truly touching. Watching this film might even inspire thoughts of starting your own baby food venture, especially considering the rollercoaster of emotions that come with pregnancy.
Three Men And A Baby
You should definitely watch this movie with your partner. In New York, three bachelors enjoy a carefree and adventurous life until a baby is left on their doorstep. One of them is the father, but who could it be? As they grow attached to the baby, her mother, Sylvia, returns to take her back.
This film is a thrilling ride filled with well-timed humor. You’ll enjoy watching these men make hilarious mistakes while looking after the baby. And who can resist Tom Selleck with his iconic mustache?
Life As We Know It
“Life As We Know It” shares a storyline similar to “Baby Boom”. In this film, Josh Duhamel and Katherine Heigl find themselves becoming guardians of their goddaughter after their closest friends tragically die in a car accident. The story unfolds as these two individuals, who can barely tolerate each other, must unite to raise the baby.
Katherine’s character is portrayed as a straightforward woman, while Josh’s character takes time to adjust to fatherhood and warm up to the baby. The movie’s romantic scenes are heartwarming, and the baby is undeniably adorable! It’s a delightful choice to watch, especially during pregnancy.
Friends With Kids
“Friends with Kids” delves into the shifts in relationships between couples after the arrival of a baby. The film follows two best friends embarking on parenthood together while preserving their friendship.
Witnessing the significant changes in their friends’ lives post-baby, their aim is to shield their relationship from similar challenges. However, life has unexpected twists in store for them.
Where The Heart Is
“Where The Heart Is” is an emotional and reflective film that follows the story of 17-year-old pregnant girl Novalee Nation, portrayed by Natalie Portman. Abandoned by her boyfriend, Novalee relocates in secret, only to be discovered after giving birth to her child.
The movie then fast-forwards five years, depicting Novalee’s journey of rediscovering life with the support of a few dear friends.
A Happy Event
Nicholas and Barbara share a beautiful love story, yet their only missing piece is a child. When Barbara becomes pregnant, complications arise in her relationship with Nicholas and his family. She experiences a mix of anxiety and anticipation.
“A Happy Event” is a heartwarming French film that delves into themes of love and self-discovery. It serves as a journey of maternal exploration, capturing the challenges and joys of pregnancy and postpartum experiences.
