If you loved the quirky charm and heartfelt moments of Little Miss Sunshine, you’ll be delighted to explore more films in the same vein. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 17 movies that share the same offbeat humor and poignant storytelling. Click here to dive deeper into the genre of dramedy (drama-comedy) that makes these films so captivating.
1. The Way Way Back
The Way Way Back is a coming-of-age story about a shy 14-year-old boy who finds an unexpected mentor in the manager of a water park. Starring Steve Carell, Toni Collette, and Sam Rockwell, this film beautifully balances humor and heartfelt moments.
2. Juno
Juno follows the journey of an independent-minded teenager who faces an unplanned pregnancy and the subsequent decisions she must make. Ellen Page, Michael Cera, and Jennifer Garner deliver standout performances in this witty and touching film.
3. The Royal Tenenbaums
Directed by Wes Anderson, The Royal Tenenbaums tells the story of a dysfunctional family of geniuses who reunite after years of estrangement. The film features an all-star cast including Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
4. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is a touching dramedy about a high school senior who befriends a classmate diagnosed with cancer. Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler, and Olivia Cooke bring this heartfelt story to life.
5. Moonrise Kingdom
Another Wes Anderson gem, Moonrise Kingdom follows two young lovers who run away from their New England town, prompting a local search party. The film stars Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward, and Bruce Willis.
6. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Based on the novel by Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a touching story about an introverted freshman who is taken under the wings of two seniors. Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller star in this moving film.
7. Garden State
Garden State follows a young man who returns to his hometown for his mother’s funeral and reconnects with his past. Zach Braff, Natalie Portman, and Peter Sarsgaard deliver compelling performances in this indie favorite.
8. The Skeleton Twins
The Skeleton Twins centers on estranged twins who reconnect after both experience life-altering events. Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig star in this darkly humorous yet touching film.
9. 500 Days of Summer
500 Days of Summer is a non-linear story about the rise and fall of a romantic relationship, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel. This film captures the complexities of love and heartbreak with a unique storytelling approach.
10. Captain Fantastic
Captain Fantastic tells the story of a father raising his six children in the wilderness, who must reintegrate into society after a family tragedy. Viggo Mortensen leads the cast in this thought-provoking and heartwarming film.
11. The Station Agent
The Station Agent follows a man who seeks solitude in an abandoned train station, only to form unexpected friendships. Peter Dinklage, Patricia Clarkson, and Bobby Cannavale star in this charming and poignant film.
12. Safety Not Guaranteed
Safety Not Guaranteed is a quirky dramedy about a group of journalists investigating a classified ad seeking a time travel partner. Aubrey Plaza, Mark Duplass, and Jake Johnson bring this unique story to life.
13. The Darjeeling Limited
Wes Anderson’s The Darjeeling Limited follows three brothers on a train journey across India in an attempt to bond after their father’s death. The film stars Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman.
14. Lars and the Real Girl
Lars and the Real Girl is a quirky tale about a socially awkward man who forms an emotional relationship with a life-sized doll. Ryan Gosling, Emily Mortimer, and Paul Schneider star in this touching and unique film.
15. The Grand Budapest Hotel
Another Wes Anderson masterpiece, The Grand Budapest Hotel recounts the adventures of a legendary concierge and his trusted lobby boy. The ensemble cast includes Ralph Fiennes, Tony Revolori, and Saoirse Ronan.
16. Away We Go
Away We Go is a heartfelt dramedy about an expectant couple traveling across the country to find the perfect place to start their family. John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph star in this charming film.
17. The Kids Are All Right
The Kids Are All Right centers on a same-sex couple whose teenage children seek out their biological father. Annette Bening, Julianne Moore, and Mark Ruffalo deliver powerful performances in this family dramedy.