17 Must-Watch Movies Like Life Is Beautiful

The Tiger and the Snow is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful. Both movies are Italian cinema masterpieces that delicately touch on complex and spikey issues in a simple, fable-like manner. While Life Is Beautiful explores the Holocaust, The Tiger and the Snow tackles the war in Iraq. In both films, Roberto Benigni uses comedy as a tool to address these serious subjects without trivializing them. He creates a subtle paradox by bringing humor to the face of tragedy, making the stories even more touching. The Tiger and the Snow, like its predecessor, is a fable about love, optimism, hope, and desperation. It also explores relationships between people of different races and creeds. While the performance of Nicoletta Braschi in The Tiger and the Snow is not always one hundred percent convincing, Benigni and Jean Reno more than make up for it.

Johnny Stecchino is a delightful Italian comedy that will leave you laughing from start to finish. While it may not have the same weighty subject matter as Life Is Beautiful, it shares the same charm and wit that made the latter such a beloved film. Both movies feature Roberto Benigni and Nicoletta Braschi as the lovable leads, and their chemistry is just as endearing in Johnny Stecchino. The plot of Johnny Stecchino revolves around mistaken identity, with Benigni's character being mistaken for a snitch hiding from the mob. This sets the stage for a series of hilarious misunderstandings and comedic situations. While Life Is Beautiful tackled the dark period of the Holocaust, Johnny Stecchino takes a lighter approach, making it perfect for a lighthearted movie night.

"Romeo, Julie a tma" is a 1961 film set during World War II, where a young student from Prague hides a Jewish girl in his house. The movie beautifully captures the human costs of despotism and the bravery of ordinary people. It takes place against the backdrop of the Nazi occupation of Prague, showcasing the repercussions faced by the population after the assassination of a leading Nazi. What sets this film apart is its ability to depict the routine life that goes on even under the harshest political circumstances. The director, Jiri Weiss, does an excellent job of establishing the atmosphere, making you feel like you're present in the Prague of 1942. The young actors in the lead roles deliver moving performances, and the range of vividly-drawn characters adds depth to the story. What makes this film noteworthy is its lack of propagandistic elements, a rarity given its time and place of production.

You Disturb Me is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful, transporting you to a world of love, humor, and imagination. While Life Is Beautiful tackles the heart-wrenching backdrop of the Holocaust, You Disturb Me takes a lighter approach, exploring love and disturbance. Short stories are intertwined, showcasing people falling in love after intense fights and someone always being in their way. Both movies share the same Italian charm and comedic genius of Roberto Benigni, who not only directs but also stars in both films. However, while Life Is Beautiful delves into the depths of war and its atrocities, You Disturb Me remains mysterious, leaving you searching for the red thread connecting the stories. It's a delightful and hilarious ride, although it may occasionally veer into moments of boredom. So, if you've enjoyed the uplifting emotions and thought-provoking themes of Life Is Beautiful, hop on this journey of love and disturbance with You Disturb Me.

The Monster, also known as Il mostro, is a hilarious Italian comedy that will have you laughing from start to finish. While it may not be as critically acclaimed as its counterpart, Life Is Beautiful, it definitely shares the same charm and wit that made the latter so beloved. In The Monster, we follow the story of Loris, an innocent man who gets mistaken for a serial killer. Jessica, a policewoman in undercover, tries to induce him to commit a murder. The plot may seem absurd, but Roberto Benigni's talent shines through in both his writing and acting, making the storyline surprisingly plausible and entertaining. One of the standout moments is when Loris finds himself on a scaffolding, creating a hilariously awkward situation. The unexpected encounters with a neighbor, as Loris tries to avoid his caretaker while walking on his haunches, add a touch of both humor and tenderness to the film.

Pinocchio, released in 2003 and directed by Roberto Benigni, is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful. Both movies, despite their differences in genre and tone, share a common thread of using imagination and humor to navigate difficult situations. Life Is Beautiful tells the story of a Jewish waiter and his son in a Nazi concentration camp, while Pinocchio follows the adventures of a wooden puppet guided by the Blue Fairy and his father. In both films, the protagonists face adversity but manage to find hope and courage through their unique perspectives. However, Pinocchio falls short in capturing the heart, magic, and charm found in the book and the Disney adaptation. Roberto Benigni's casting as Pinocchio feels miscast, with his overacting becoming embarrassing. The supporting cast, with the exception of Nicoletta Braschi, also fails to impress, and the dubbing is subpar.

A Bag of Marbles is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful in its portrayal of the hardships faced by Jewish families during World War II. Both movies showcase the resilience and ingenuity of young Jewish boys as they navigate the perils of Nazi occupation. While Life Is Beautiful tells the story of a father using humor and imagination to shield his son from the horrors of the Holocaust, A Bag of Marbles follows two brothers who display remarkable courage and resourcefulness in their quest to reunite their family. The films share key topics such as war child, World War II, and the Holocaust, offering poignant perspectives on the strength and determination of individuals in the face of adversity. However, A Bag of Marbles distinguishes itself through its exquisite attention to detail, capturing the atmosphere of occupied France with its breathtaking cinematography and exceptional art direction. The film's perfect casting, particularly the remarkable performance of Dorian Le Clech as the lead, adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotional depth.

The Little Devil, also known as "Il piccolo diavolo," is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful. Both movies are Italian comedies that showcase the incredible talent of Roberto Benigni, who not only stars in both films but also directs them. While Life Is Beautiful tells the heart-wrenching story of a Jewish father's efforts to protect his son during the Holocaust, The Little Devil takes a lighter approach, following the misadventures of a priest during an exorcism. Despite their different subject matters, both movies share a unique blend of humor and charm that keeps the audience engaged throughout. So, if you loved Life Is Beautiful and want to see Benigni's comedic genius in action, be sure to check out The Little Devil.

Suite Française is a captivating film that takes us back to World War II, just like Life Is Beautiful. While Life Is Beautiful tells a heartwarming story of a Jewish father who uses humor to protect his son in a concentration camp, Suite Française explores the complexities of a forbidden romance between a French villager and a German soldier during the Nazi occupation of France. Both films delve into the human experiences during wartime, highlighting the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of ordinary people. However, Suite Française also delves into themes of inequality and dispossession, shedding light on the social, economic, and political constraints that shape the characters' lives. Moreover, the film emphasizes the need for kindness, understanding, and tolerance in a world filled with spitefulness and pettiness. Suite Française offers a powerful message that resonates with today's troubled times, making it a film worth watching.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful because both movies take place during World War II and explore the impact of Nazi occupation. In Life Is Beautiful, an open-minded Jewish waiter uses humor and imagination to protect his son from the dangers of a concentration camp. Similarly, in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a writer forms an unexpected bond with the residents of Guernsey Island as she decides to write a book about their experiences during the war. While Life Is Beautiful is a mix of comedy, drama, romance, and war, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society focuses more on the drama, romance, and war genres. Both movies offer a unique perspective on the human spirit and resilience in the face of adversity, making The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society a must-watch for those who enjoyed the heartfelt and uplifting storytelling of Life Is Beautiful.

Saving Private Ryan takes you into the heart of World War II, just like Life Is Beautiful transports you to a concentration camp. While the latter uses humor and imagination to shield the son from the horrors of the Holocaust, the former plunges you into the chaos, bloodshed, and sacrifice of D-Day. Both films explore the themes of love, courage, and the lengths a person will go to protect their loved ones, but Saving Private Ryan does so with a raw and intense portrayal of war. It's a gut-wrenching roller coaster that leaves you emotionally spent, just like Life Is Beautiful. So, if you've already experienced the heartwarming and uplifting journey of Life Is Beautiful, hop on board for a harrowing and eye-opening ride with Saving Private Ryan. It's a war film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

The Amazing Mrs. Holliday takes us back to the 1940s, where the charming Deanna Durbin stars as the daughter of a China missionary. In her efforts to outwit the U.S. government and save eight orphan children, she pretends to be the new, young bride of a shipping magnate. This delightful romantic comedy is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful, but with a different backdrop. While Life Is Beautiful explores the power of love, optimism, and courage in the face of the Holocaust, The Amazing Mrs. Holliday showcases the determination and wit of a missionary trying to smuggle Chinese orphans into the country. Both films tug at your heartstrings, but in their own unique ways. So, if you loved Life Is Beautiful and want to be charmed by a heartwarming tale set in the 1940s, The Amazing Mrs. Holliday is a must-watch.

The Gentle Sex is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful, but with a different twist. While Life Is Beautiful uses humor and imagination to protect a son from the dangers of the Holocaust, The Gentle Sex tells the stories of seven British girls who decide to "do their bit" and help out during World War II. Both films explore the themes of war, but in contrasting ways. Life Is Beautiful takes a more serious and emotional approach, focusing on the Jewish experience during the Nazi occupation, while The Gentle Sex aims to bolster morale and pay tribute to the ordinary British women serving in the war. Despite their differences, both movies highlight the resilience and courage of individuals in challenging times. If you enjoyed Life Is Beautiful and want to see another film that sheds light on the human spirit in the face of adversity, The Gentle Sex is a must-watch.

"The Americanization of Emily" is a charming film that shares similarities with "Life Is Beautiful." Both movies take place during World War II and blend comedy and drama to tell their stories. While "Life Is Beautiful" focuses on a Jewish waiter using humor and imagination to protect his son in a concentration camp, "The Americanization of Emily" follows an American Naval Officer who falls in love and is sent on a dangerous mission. Both films use the backdrop of war to explore deeper themes of love, courage, and the futility of conflict. However, "The Americanization of Emily" has a different tone, with James Garner delivering a quintessential performance as a charming, scheming man trying to avoid combat. The film also features a memorable supporting cast and a wonderful soundtrack by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer.

Their Finest is a charming and entertaining film that captures the spirit of resilience and creativity amidst the chaos of World War II. Set in war-torn London, the movie follows a former secretary, Catrin Cole (played brilliantly by Gemma Arterton), who joins a movie production crew to make a propaganda film about Dunkirk. As she navigates the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, Catrin finds her calling both professionally and personally. The film beautifully blends comedy, romance, and drama, offering a unique perspective on the power of storytelling during times of crisis. The stellar cast, including Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy, delivers strong performances, bringing the characters to life with depth and charm. While Their Finest may not reach the same emotional depths as Life Is Beautiful, it shares a similar theme of finding hope and joy in the midst of adversity.

The Singapore Grip is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful, even though they are set in different time periods and locations. Life Is Beautiful, a heartwarming and emotional film, takes place during the Holocaust, while The Singapore Grip is set in South East Asia during World War Two. Both movies explore the theme of love and the lengths a parent would go to protect their child. Life Is Beautiful tells the story of a Jewish waiter who uses humor and imagination to shield his son from the horrors of the concentration camp. Similarly, The Singapore Grip revolves around a British family's son who becomes entangled in a love triangle. Despite their differences, both films highlight the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. While Life Is Beautiful is a critically acclaimed masterpiece, The Singapore Grip offers a delightful British costume drama with engaging performances and an intriguing historical context. So, if you enjoyed Life Is Beautiful and want to experience another captivating story set against the backdrop of war, give The Singapore Grip a fair go.

At War with Love is reminiscent of Life Is Beautiful in its setting during World War II and the blending of comedy, drama, romance, and war genres. However, while Life Is Beautiful focuses on the Holocaust and the resilience of a Jewish father and son, At War with Love tells a tender love story set in Sicily during the allied conquest. Despite their differences, both movies capture the human spirit in times of adversity. If you enjoyed Life Is Beautiful, you should watch At War with Love to experience a different perspective of wartime Italy and witness how love can flourish amidst chaos.