Moving gets a bad rap. Stressful, emotional, costly, moving is also just a lot of work! Still, as Rachel Wolchin says, “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.”
While that doesn’t change the difficulties that often accompany moving, it can help to shift your perspective and consider the excitement and entertainment that can be found in relocating. After all, it’s a new adventure. And sometimes, the right story reflected in technicolor can help make these transitions easier, if not more meaningful.
In that spirit, we’ve curated a list of movies about moving, organized by audience. These are thoughtful, comforting, sometimes funny, and often very relatable for anyone who has ever packed up and braved a new beginning.
Movies About Moving
For Families & Kids
Toy Story (1995)
A move to a new house brings change and adjustment for the whole family, including the toys. This movie can help younger kids recognize that change is normal and manageable.
Inside Out (2015)
When Riley’s family moves across the country, she experiences sadness, frustration, and growth. This is an excellent movie to watch with kids and talk about feelings — or shall we say emotions? — afterward.
If you are packing up with little ones, don’t miss our blog post about moving with kids and how to make it easier for all involved.
For Adults or More Mature Viewers
Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948)
Really throwing it back, this classic comedy captures the chaos of renovations, relocation, and starting fresh. Lighthearted and comforting for families in the thick of logistics.
For a more modern take on a similar theme, don’t miss The Money Pit (1986), starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long as they move into their “dream” home and quickly feel the financial strain as they find themselves at the mercy of disingenuous contractors. Spoiler alert: everything will be fixed in two weeks.
Make Way for Tomorrow (1937)
A more emotional film about aging, loss, and moving later in life, this movie gives a glimpse of what big transitions can feel like for older adults.
On that note… consider the following books and movies if you’re helping an elderly loved one embark on a new chapter in their lives.
- The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011) – A story about community, aging, and finding purpose in new surroundings, featuring some major names of the screen and stage, including Judi Dench and Bill Nighy.
- A Man Called Ove (2016) – While not directly about moving, this narrative beautifully explores how community and connection reshape where “home” lives inside us. A new version of this movie was released as “A Man Called Otto,” starring Tom Hanks in 2022.
Once unpacked, check out these 5 steps to help make your new house smell like home.
Bonus Features for Family Movie Night
Here are a few more family-friendly choices that help inspire conversations about change through meaningful narratives.
- The Peanuts Movie (2015) – Charlie Brown deals with new situations and bravery in small steps. Good grief!
- The Odd Life of Timothy Green (2012) – About family, belonging, and making a home.
- Up (2009) – While emotionally deep (seriously, get the tissues!), it’s a powerful story about love and starting fresh.
Movie Magic for Moving Magic!
When you think about it, a move is more than just a change in location. It can be a seismic shift in how a family lives, interacts, and grows. As with any milestone or transition in life, stories can help us process those shifts, understand our feelings, and anchor ourselves during change. We hope you’ll enjoy — and find some comfort while watching — these titles.
While we can’t do the emotional heavy lifting for you, we’re here for the rest of it! Reach out and request your moving quote or estimate today!
