Cinema loves a good family drama. Whether it’s the generational clash, the weight of an ancestral burden, or the love and loyalty that bind families together, films exploring family legacies dive deep into what it means to belong to something bigger than oneself.

Family legacies are a cinematic treasure trove because they touch on universal themes: inheritance, identity, and the often messy interplay of tradition and progress. So, let’s delve into some recent films that unpack the beauty, complexity, and chaos of family legacies.

Why Are Family Legacies Such a Fascinating Theme?

Family legacies shape us in ways we often don’t realize. They’re a mix of genetic traits, learned behaviors, and cultural or societal expectations. For filmmakers, this rich tapestry offers endless storytelling possibilities, from heartfelt sagas to heartwrenching conflicts.

On screen, family legacies can serve as a mirror—showing us where we come from and challenging us to define where we’re headed. Here is just a few examples of recent blockbusters that touch on this theme.

Recent Films Tackling Family Legacies

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

What happens when the fate of the multiverse rests on the shoulders of an overwhelmed laundromat owner? In Everything Everywhere All at Once, family legacy is explored in the most chaotic, poignant, and visually stunning way imaginable.

Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh) is thrust into a universe-hopping adventure where she must reconcile with her estranged daughter Joy (Stephanie Hsu) while also confronting her own regrets and the expectations of her immigrant parents. The film masterfully blends absurd comedy, martial arts, sci-fi madness, and heartfelt family drama, showing how our relationships shape our legacies—whether we want them to or not.

The Fabelmans (2022)

Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film, The Fabelmans, is a deeply personal exploration of family and the legacy of storytelling. Young Sammy Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle) discovers his passion for filmmaking amidst the turbulence of his family’s dynamics.

Through the lens of his camera, Sammy not only captures moments but also begins to understand the complexities of his parents’ marriage and his own identity. The Fabelmans is a love letter to the power of art and the way family influences the stories we tell.

Encanto (2021)

Disney’s Encanto dives into the magical side of family legacies with the story of the Madrigal family. Blessed with extraordinary gifts thanks to a miracle, every member of the family has a role to play—except Mirabel, who feels like the odd one out.

As Mirabel uncovers cracks in the foundation of their family’s legacy, the film beautifully explores themes of generational pressure, individuality, and unconditional love. With its vibrant animation and unforgettable songs (Hello We Don’t Talk About Bruno), Encanto proves that family legacies are as much about healing and understanding as they are about tradition.

Conclusion: Why Do These Stories Resonate?

Family legacy films hit close to home because they reflect universal experiences. Whether it’s the pressure to live up to expectations, the weight of carrying forward traditions, or the joy of carving out your own place in the world, these stories remind us that family shapes us in profound ways.

Plus, these films strike a delicate balance—they’re deeply personal yet widely relatable. Watching characters grapple with their heritage or repair broken bonds often feels like watching a piece of our own lives play out on screen.

From the multiverse-spanning madness of Everything Everywhere All at Once to the nostalgic warmth of The Fabelmans and the vibrant magic of Encanto, these films showcase the many ways cinema explores family legacies. Whether they make us laugh, cry, or reflect, these movies remind us of one undeniable truth: family isn’t just where we come from—it’s part of who we are.