Tae's Top 5: Mother's Day Edition

As another Mother’s Day approaches, this time of year is often a rough patch for me with my mom not here. Each year I have a tradition of watching movies that remind me of her, bringing back nostalgic memories I had as a child, teen, and young adult watching these films, keeping memories of her close to me. Here are my top 5 movies I like to watch in honor of my mom.

1. Monster-in-Law

This 2005 rom-com is definitely a favorite of me and my mom’s. I can honestly remember it like it was yesterday watching this movie for the first time, hysterically laughing and entertained by Jane Fonda and her antics. My mom also loved her portrayal as Viola and the friendship dynamic of her and Wanda Sykes’s character, Ruby. Monster-in-Law is definitely a comical, comfort film. Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, & YouTube.

2. Anywhere But Here

I was introduced to this mother-daughter movie around age 10, and gives me coming-of-age vibes so much. I love how this movie examines the highs and lows of a complex mother-daughter relationship. Anywhere But Here depicts the good days and the bad, and how realistic Adele and Anne’s bond was even if we could relate or not. It's very carefree and heartfelt for any mother and daughter to enjoy together.

Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, & YouTube.

3. Imitation of Life (1959)

Okay, I’m not ashamed at all to say I enjoy watching this movie. My mom and aunt (who has also transitioned) introduced me to this film when I was very young, and it stuck with me so much. This movie definitely tackles some heavy topics including race, class, and gender - all relative to the time period of the story's setting and realistic setting when this movie was filmed. I remember the first time watching this with my mom, my sister, and my aunt at my aunt’s house. I loved the friendship between single mothers, Lora and Annie, as they shared a common bond of raising young daughters, while also dealing with their own personal complex relationship of motherhood. Despite coming from two obvious opposite backgrounds, their friendship remained truly genuine. An annual revisit during Mother’s Day and the holidays on occasion. Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, & YouTube.

4. Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins

Whenever I need a good laugh, I turn this on. This star studded film is truly one for the books! It’s so quotable and all around hilarious. The first time I watched this I believe back when we had our bootleg guy - yes, bootleg guy - he gave us a DVD of this movie and laughter filled the house. Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins is definitely a feel-good comfort movie that would tickle me and my mom from beginning to end. Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, & YouTube.

5. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Hookey never looked so fun - that is until Ferris Bueller showed us how to accomplish that successfully! Another movie I was introduced to as a kid and definitely loved watching - and still do to this day! I revisit this movie because I remember a time my mom told me this film was one of her all-time favorite 80s movies. I don’t blame her! I love how this movie captures Chicago in such a fun, compelling way and has many iconic lines and moments that are unforgettable. Not to forget Cameron’s dad’s car! Ditching school and taking a joyride around the city in a Ferrari? I'm all in!!!

Streaming on Paramount+. Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, & YouTube.

Wishing all the amazing moms a Happy Mother's Day! And to those whose mothers have transitioned - remember you're not alone and her spirit is always with you.