You’ve been carefully planning and organizing your move, and not to mention endless hours spent on packing! You need a break, and now it’s the perfect time to take a few hours out of your day, relax and watch the following movies about moving.
The movies on our list shed light on different situations that can happen during moving and you might relate to them more now than ever! There are some great choices for the whole family to enjoy and some are more censored for adults. All the movies showcase a different moving situation, simply check out what they’re about and when you come across the one you like- press play!
We’ve divided the movies by categories, this way it’ll be easier for you to find what you’re looking for.
Movies About Moving
Movies for kids
1. Toy Story (1995)
This animated classic was released in 1995 and it tells a story about Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and other toys coming to life while no one is around and trying to get back home before their owner Andy and his family moves away.
‘’Toy Story’’ is a great movie that the whole family gets to enjoy, especially if you’re moving with your little ones. Whether moving for the first time or you’ve done it before, it is always a major event in your life. Your children get affected by moving the most, and this is a great and fun way to ease their transition into the new chapter of their lives.
2. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
‘’My Neighbor Totoro’’ is a great animated movie that tells a story about two girls who moved to the countryside with their father to be next to their ill mother. They meet some fantastical creatures along the way and Totoro is one of them, who helps them deal with loneliness and different feelings they face when moving to a new place.
Movies about moving to a big city
3. Cheaper By The Dozen (2003)
After watching this family-friendly comedy you will definitely feel less stressed about your move, because can you imagine moving homes with 12 children?! Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt plan and execute an interstate move from a small town to a busier Chicago suburb with their 12 children, and that’s where the real fun begins.
‘’Cheaper By The Dozen’’ is a great comedy that will make the entire family laugh, and show some real-life insight into how it can be when moving from a smaller place to a big city.
Movies about moving to a small town
4. Footloose (1984)
Moving from a big city to a smaller town can be tough, especially for teenagers. They have to leave their school, friends, and everything they’ve known and settle somewhere new. A little twist in the movie ‘’Footloose’’ is that Kevin Bacon, who is playing Ren McCormack, is moving to a town that has a ban on dancing!
This musical has one of the most popular soundtracks of all time, and it’s a good example of the culture shock you face when moving somewhere new.
Scary movies about moving
5. The Conjuring (2013)
If you are not in the mood for animated movies or comedy, we have something else in store for you. ‘’The Conjuring’’ is one of the scariest mainstream horror movies in the past decade. While the majority of the movie you will be scared to the bones because there is paranormal activity haunting the house, this movie also shows a tight-knit family of five daughters and how they handle moving to a rural area.
Before you decide to watch this movie, please advise it is really scary and put it on once your little ones go to bed.
6. Twilight (2008)
This movie became famous world-wide, and it’s a story about a teenage girl Bella, played by Kristen Stewart who moves from Phoenix, Arizona to the little rainy town of Forks, Washington to be with her dad. She’s a quiet girl who keeps to herself, until she meets a boy Edward Cullen played by Robert Pattinson, falls in love with him and finds out he’s a vampire.
This interesting drama/romance is a great story that happens often when moving.. Well, minus the vampire part.
A movie about professional movers
7. Blue Valentine (2010)
While we showed animated, scary, and comedy movies related to moving, it is inevitable to mention the heartbreaking ‘’Blue Valentine’’. Although this movie is not specifically about moving, yet it is a rare case where the life of a professional mover is shown on camera.
This drama jumps back and forth between Ryan Gosling’s and Michelle Williams’s romantic relationship(where Ryan Gosling works as a professional mover) and their separation years later. This movie is also projecting situations we all go through in real life.
Movies related to real estate
8. The Money Pit (1986)
Tom Hanks and Shelly Long star in this comedy where the couple buys and moves into this house that falls apart. Now that might be funny, but not for those who just purchased a fixer-upper.
This movie gives a good example of misfortunes awaiting anyone who makes a speedy move without the help of relocation services. Take a good look at the home you are buying, make sure you inspect everything before handing over your money, or else as the movie’s called you’ll be stuck in a ‘’Money Pit’’.
Movies about moving to D.C.
9. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Considered as one of the best movies to emerge from the MCU. The Winter Soldier is the second in a trilogy of Captain America movies. Steve Rogers aka Captain America finds himself living quietly in Washington D.C. and trying to adjust to the modern world. When the S.H.I.E.L.D colleagues come under attack, Steve becomes entangled in this that puts the whole world at risk.
This is one of the best rated movies out there, plus you’ll see the streets of Washington D.C. and the important landmarks.
10. Night At The Museum: Battle Of Smithsonian (2009)
You will have a great laugh putting this comedy on! This movie tells a story about Larry Daley played by Ben Stiller who is a divorced father that is having trouble finding work, and when he applies at American Museum of natural History as a night guard. His job seems easy at first, but an interesting twist happens when an ancient spell has caused the exhibits of the museum to come to life.
This comedy takes action at Smithsonian Institution museums (including the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History) which gives you great insight into these Washington D.C. landmarks.
Movies about moving to Maryland
11. Sleepless In Seattle (1993)
One of the most iconic romantic comedies of the 90’s ‘’Sleepless In Seattle’’ featured many shots in Baltimore. In the movie Meg Ryan plays Annie Reed, a news reporter from the Baltimore Sun. Many of the scenes were filmed around Mount Vernon, the Baltimore Sun building and Fells Point in the Inner Harbor. Fells Point is one of Baltimore’s premier spots for dining, shopping and nightlife and it makes it such a great place to film.
Movies about moving to Atlanta
12. Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Mocking Jay part 1 & 2 (2008 & 2013)
This interesting movie is about post-apocalyptic worlds, and the annual Hunger Games in which 2 teenagers from 12 Districts are randomly chosen to fight to death. The city’s picturesque wan House stands as President’s Snow’s mansion, while the Goat Farms Art Center serves as District 12, home to heroine Katniss Evergreen played by Jennifer Lawrence.
If you’re a real fan of this movie, check into Atlanta’s futuristic Marriott Marquis hotel, where Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutchinson’s characters prepared for the fatal games.
Best of Hollywood moving stories
Get ready for an incredible movie marathon featuring captivating films about moving and relocation. Hollywood has produced numerous movies over the years that explore the theme of moving, whether it’s a physical relocation or an emotional journey (often, those two collide, creating the best scenarios).
These films often capture the challenges, excitement, and transformative experiences associated with starting anew in a different place. Here, we’ll delve into a selection of notable Hollywood movies that revolve around the theme of moving.
13. Lost in Translation
Under Sofia Coppola’s directorial magic, a cinematic masterpiece unfolds, delving into the extraordinary bond forged amidst the exciting streets of Tokyo. In this critically acclaimed movie, we follow the journey of Bob Harris (portrayed by the incomparable Bill Murray) and the beautiful Charlotte (brought to life by the captivating Scarlett Johansson). Amidst the dissonance of a foreign land, unpredictable fate sparks an unexpected and transformative encounter for both characters.
14. La La Land
Who doesn’t love musicals?! There is something incredibly captivating and magical about them. La La Land has certainly become one of the most emotional and popular Hollywood movies of the past decade. The film beautifully explores the sacrifices and challenges of following one’s dreams, depicting the bittersweet realities of love, success, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment. The story is not only about physically moving away from your loved ones but also touches on important issues of the emotional journey.
15. The Pursuit of Happyness
Inspired by a true story, this biographical drama stars Will Smith as a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son (played by his real-life son Jaden Smith) while pursuing an internship that could lead to a better future. The film depicts their emotional and physical journey as they face adversity, highlighting the importance of determination and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Moving is incredibly challenging and often daunting, and we believe this movie captures all the right notes and emotions.
TV Shows that feature moving
Television shows often explore the theme of moving away to another city, showcasing the challenges, adventures, and personal growth that accompany such a significant life change. These shows take us on journeys of self-discovery, friendship, and new beginnings.
16. Emily in Paris
It’s no wonder that this lovely and romantic show is at the very top of our list. Everything starts with Emily’s move to Paris. She comes to the city of love following her dream job but ends up staying there following her heart. We couldn’t recommend a better show if you like something a bit cheesy and lighthearted. You will laugh with Emily as she discovers new culture and life, doing everything in her power to embrace new Parisian life to the fullest.
17. Friends
This iconic show simply had to be on our list of shows about moving. In later seasons, the show explores the characters’ individual paths as some of them move away from the iconic Central Perk coffee shop and embark on new adventures in different cities. This is a show that impacted so many generations, and its popularity is still going strong.
18. The Last of Us
This show will be a special treat for all the game lovers out there. Based on a popular video game, the show follows Joe (played by the fantastic Pedro Pascal) as he tries to fight a deadly global virus. Joe is constantly moving, struggling to protect the wild and unpredictable teenager, Ellie. This is a show about survival and resilience, and finding the strength to keep moving forward no matter what it takes. Trust me, you will enjoy it!
Additional recommendations
With so many fantastic options to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of intriguing recommendations that will transport you to different worlds. Grab your favorite blanket, gather some cherished company, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained by these extraordinary movies.
- Harry Potter and Philosopher’s Stone
- Julieta (2016)
- All About my Mother
- In the Mood for Love
- The Lobster
Enjoy the art of moving, in every sense of the word!
Whether you find yourself in the midst of relocation or are simply planning one, these movies offer valuable insights into the challenges and experiences that come with such a momentous transition.
From depicting various situations and issues that may arise during a move to showcasing the stunning landmarks and locales associated with these new places, these films provide an engaging perspective on the moving process. And remember, if you’re in need of comprehensive moving services to ensure a seamless relocation, Zip Moving & Storage is here to assist you every step of the way.
