Bro-sis for life! Hollywood movies that celebrate sibling bonds

Most of us have spent our childhood alongside some of the most annoying people on earth—our siblings. They have gotten on our nerves and troubled us a million times, but they hold a special place in our hearts. Despite the occasional disagreements, the bond between siblings is one of the strongest relationships of our lives. Siblings Day is celebrated on April 10th each year. This day honours the bond between brothers and sisters and reminds us to cherish them.

Siblings Day can be celebrated by spending quality time with our siblings, exchanging gifts, memes or quotes on brothers and sisters or doing something we love, like watching movies together. Hollywood has beautifully captured this bond in various movies, so let’s explore some of the films that celebrate this unique relationship siblings share.

You Can Count on Me (2000)

You Can Count on Me is a heartfelt drama that dives into the complex relationship between a brother and sister, played by actors Mark Ruffalo and Laura Linney. The film beautifully portrays the challenges and joys of siblinghood, highlighting the unconditional love and support that siblings provide for each other, even in the face of personal struggles. Through moments of conflict and support, the movie captures the bond between this particular set of siblings.

Boyhood (2014)

Richard Linklater’s film Boyhood follows the life of a boy named Mason, played by Ellar Coltrane, as he grows up over the course of 12 years. Throughout the film, viewers witness the evolving relationship between Mason and his sister, Samantha. The movie uniquely captures the progression of their sibling dynamics, from childhood moments to teenage disagreements. The movie highlights the lasting impact of sibling relationships on our growth and development.

Sister (2012)

A French drama, Sister explores the close bond between a young boy named Simon and his older sister, Louise. The siblings face numerous challenges and rely on each other for love, support and survival. The film succinctly portrays the sacrifices and struggles of siblinghood. It emphasises the protective and nurturing role of an older sister and the connection that binds two people together.

What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)

What’s Eating Gilbert Grape is a drama that centres around the Grape family, particularly the relationship between Gilbert and his autistic younger brother, Arnie. The film portrays the challenges and responsibilities of caring for a sibling with special needs. It highlights the love, patience and sacrifices involved in sibling relationships. The movie deals with the impact of family bonds on personal growth and self-discovery.

Gretel & Hansel (2020)

Gretel & Hansel is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale, albeit focussed on the bond between siblings Gretel and Hansel. The film explores their journey through a haunting and eerie landscape and highlights their loyalty and support for each other in the face of supernatural threats and challenges. Gretel & Hansel showcases the extraordinary courage siblings often show for each other. The film also deals with universal themes of love, protection and survival.

Escape to Witch Mountain (1975)

Escape to Witch Mountain is a beloved Disney classic that follows the adventures of two siblings, Tony and Tia, with extraordinary psychic abilities. The film captures their bond and determination to uncover the truth about their origins. Through thrilling and magical encounters, the movie celebrates the power of teamwork between siblings.

Kate & Leopold (2001)

Kate & Leopold is a romantic film that deals with the lives of Kate, a modern-day career woman and Leopold, a 19th-century duke. Although the film primarily focusses on their romantic relationship, it also explores the relationship between Kate and her brother, Charlie. The story introduces us to a great brother, one that’s protective and supportive. It highlights the important role family bonds play in our happiness.

Our Idiot Brother (2011)

Our Idiot Brother is a comedy-drama that centres around the life of Ned and his relationship with his three sisters. The film explores the complexities of sibling dynamics, from love and loyalty to rivalry and misunderstandings. Through humour, the film throws light on the special bond siblings share. The 2011 movie also teaches us how love for siblings go beyond life’s challenges and differences.

Jack and Jill (2011)

Jack and Jill is a comedy film that follows the humorous relationship between Jack, played by Adam Sandler and his twin sister, Jill, also portrayed by Adam Sandler! The movie explores the ups and downs of sibling rivalry through laughter and light-hearted moments. We see Jack and Jill celebrate their special bond through the lens of humour but that doesn’t take anything away from poignant plot. The movie showcases the love and connection between the siblings—those which withstand the test of time and differences.

Dark River (2017)

Dark River is a gripping drama that centres around the complex relationship between siblings Alice and Joe. Returning to their family farm after the death of their father, the siblings confront painful memories and traumas from their past. The film delves into their bond, exploring themes of love, loss and forgiveness. Dark River highlights the impact of sibling relationships on healing.

The Fighter (2010)

The Fighter is a biographical sports drama that focusses on the lives of professional boxers Micky Ward and his half-brother Dicky Eklund. The film explores the tumultuous relationship between the two siblings. Even amidst massive challenges, the power of family bonds and the unbreakable connection that binds siblings together come up in this award-winning film.

Hollywood has, through decades, portrayed various facets of sibling bonds. Whether through dramas, comedic tales or adventures, these movies beautifully and poignantly capture the essence of sibling relationships. On this special day, sit back and watch one of these movies with your siblings.