The Best Movies for New Parents to Watch

Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies for New Parents to Watch
Voting Rules
Films about babies and new parents. Vote up the best films new parents should watch.
Becoming a parent is the biggest decision you’ll probably ever make, and one of the most terrifying! What better way to calm your pregnancy and new baby nerves than to watch a great movie about new parents! What are the best movies for new parents to watch? Vote up the best below and see where your favorites rank!
 
This list has the best movies for new parents to watch together, ranked as the best by the community. Some of these films offer a comedic, humorous look at the challenges of having a new baby in the house, while others tell heartwarming, touching stories of the joys of being a new parents.
 
This list features the best movies for new parents to watch including, Little Fockers, About Time, Hours, The Hangover Part 3, Knocked Up, Three Men and a Baby, Junior, Look Who’s Talking, Baby Boom, What to Expect When You’re Expecting, and She’s Having a Baby. Vote up the best films below or add one that helped you as a new parent if it isn't already on the list.
Most divisive: For Keeps
Ranked by
  • Mr. Mom
    1
    Michael Keaton, Teri Garr, Ann Jillian
    202 votes
    • Released: 1983
    • Directed by: Stan Dragoti

    In this charming comedy, a father unexpectedly becomes the primary caregiver after losing his job, forcing him to adapt to new household responsibilities and challenges. As he navigates these unfamiliar roles, the film showcases humor and heartfelt lessons on the importance of family, teamwork, and flexibility in parenting. New parents will appreciate the relatable struggles and the reminder that it's okay to ask for help and embrace change within the family dynamic.

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  • Three Men and a Baby
    2
    Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, Ted Danson
    194 votes
    • Released: 1987
    • Directed by: Leonard Nimoy

    This endearing movie follows three bachelor friends who suddenly find themselves caring for an infant left on their doorstep, teaching them the complexities of parenthood as they fumble through diaper changes and late-night feedings. Through hilarious antics and unexpected emotional growth, the men learn valuable life lessons about responsibility, selflessness, and the power of unconditional love. New parents will enjoy watching the characters evolve and can celebrate the beauty of forming extraordinary bonds with their children.

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  • Raising Arizona
    3
    Nicolas Cage, Holly Hunter, Trey Wilson
    189 votes
    • Released: 1987
    • Directed by: Joel Coen

    In this quirky comedy, a childless couple resorts to kidnapping a baby in a desperate attempt to build a family, leading to a series of unpredictable and comedic adventures. As the couple faces the consequences of their actions, they ultimately learn important lessons about what truly makes a family and the sacrifices necessary in parenthood. The film's unique take on family dynamics and its poignant message of love and commitment will resonate with new parents.

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  • Look Who's Talking
    4
    John Travolta, Kirstie Alley, Olympia Dukakis
    210 votes
    • Released: 1989
    • Directed by: Amy Heckerling

    This delightful movie takes a unique perspective by presenting the story from the viewpoint of a baby, complete with witty inner monologue and amusing observations about the adult world. As the unconventional family navigates relationship challenges and parental responsibilities, the film emphasizes the importance of communication, understanding, and connection. New parents will enjoy the clever storytelling and appreciate the insightful exploration of the joys and challenges of raising a child.

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  • Father of the Bride Part II
    5
    Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Martin Short
    157 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: Charles Shyer

    This heartwarming sequel features the simultaneous pregnancies of a newlywed daughter and her middle-aged father, creating plenty of laughs as they navigate the ups and downs of expectant parenthood together. The film highlights themes of generational differences, family support, and the ever-changing dynamics of parenting. New parents will relate to the challenges of balancing new responsibilities while cherishing the bonds between parents and their children.

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  • Grown Ups
    6
    Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock
    187 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Dennis Dugan

    This hilarious ensemble comedy follows a group of childhood friends who reunite as adults and find themselves grappling with parenthood and the complexities of raising their own children. Through laugh-out-loud antics and relatable parent-child dilemmas, the film emphasizes the importance of friendship, loyalty, and maintaining a sense of humor through the trials of parenting. New parents will appreciate the camaraderie and the reminder to cherish the sometimes-messy journey of raising a family.