18 Totally Iconic Photos of Our Favorite Movie Moms Through the Years

With Mother’s Day around the corner, we can’t help but think about letting mom relax this year with some of her favorite movie moms. Whether it’s a tear jerker like Steel Magnolias or a literal hero in Breaking In, the mothers you’ll see here show that they’ll move heaven and Earth to protect their kids — at any cost. Some of these films also show how complicated the role between mother and child can be.

Ready to add these films to your watch list? Consider setting up a movie night with online streaming services (or virtual one, if you’d prefer). You can have fun with it and plan some themed drinks and snacks. Whether you watch one movie or cruise through our whole list, we’re hopeful that these classic movie moms put a smile on your face. Although that might come after a major cry: I’m thinking of you, Jackie, in Stepmom. And if Mamma Mia! makes your list, make sure you get off the couch when Dancing Queen comes on!