10 Similar Movies to Lion That Will Leave You Speechless

Lion, a captivating biography-drama film, takes you on a heartwarming journey of a five-year-old Indian boy who gets lost and is adopted by an Australian couple. As he grows up, the desire to find his lost family becomes an unbreakable force. If Lion left you speechless, get ready for our curated list of ten similar movies that will leave you equally mesmerized.

1) Slumdog Millionaire

Slumdog Millionaire is a film that captivates you from the very beginning. It tells the story of a Mumbai teenager who finds himself accused of cheating on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?". The movie's overall sweep is reminiscent of Lion, with both films taking the viewer on a rag-to-riches journey. However, what sets Slumdog Millionaire apart is its ability to seamlessly blend gritty realism with a heartwarming fairytale narrative. The fragmented time structure, which uses flashbacks triggered by the protagonist revisiting the game show questions, adds an extra layer of suspense and engagement. Visually, the film is a treat, capturing the vibrant colors of India and immersing the audience in its rich atmosphere. The cinematography, editing, and direction are all top-notch, making Slumdog Millionaire a visual spectacle.

Release date: February, 2009
IMDB Rating: 8
16 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Slumdog Millionaire

2) The Man Who Knew Infinity

The Man Who Knew Infinity is reminiscent of Lion in that both films explore the journey of a remarkable individual against all odds. While Lion tells the true story of a five-year-old Indian boy who gets lost and is adopted by an Australian couple, The Man Who Knew Infinity focuses on the life of Srinivasa Ramanujan, a pioneer Indian mathematician. The films share similar themes of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's passion. However, The Man Who Knew Infinity delves into the academic world of mathematics and the mentor-protege relationship between Ramanujan and Professor G.H. Hardy. It captivates the audience with its intelligent writing, sincere performances, and beautifully rendered Indian landscapes. Although the film falls short of being flawless and could have explored Ramanujan's groundbreaking work more, it succeeds in making mathematics interesting and accessible, much like A Beautiful Mind did for me.

Release date: April, 2016
IMDB Rating: 7.2

3) Life of Pi

Life of Pi is reminiscent of Lion in its exploration of human connection and resilience in the face of adversity. While Lion follows the journey of a man searching for his lost family after being adopted, Life of Pi tells the story of a young man who survives a disaster at sea and forms an unexpected bond with a fearsome Bengal tiger. Both movies take viewers on emotional and captivating journeys, highlighting the strength of the human spirit. However, Life of Pi adds an extra layer of fantasy and adventure with its focus on survival and the unexpected connection between the protagonist and the tiger. The stunning CGI and breathtaking visuals make the film a visual feast for the eyes. With its heartwarming story and impressive cinematography, Life of Pi is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed the heartfelt and uplifting narrative of Lion.

Release date: January, 2013
IMDB Rating: 7.9

4) Three Identical Strangers

Three Identical Strangers is a documentary that explores the bizarre and sinister mystery surrounding the lives of three young men who were separated at birth and later reunited in 1980 New York. Reminiscent of Lion, this film dives into the topic of adoption and the search for identity. While Lion follows the journey of an Indian boy adopted by an Australian couple, Three Identical Strangers delves into the lives of triplets who were adopted into different families. Both films explore the emotional impact of adoption and the desire to uncover the truth about one's origins. However, Three Identical Strangers takes a darker turn, delving into a sinister mystery surrounding the triplets' separation. With its captivating storyline and thought-provoking exploration of nature versus nurture, Three Identical Strangers is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the complexities of human identity.

Release date: June, 2020
IMDB Rating: 7.6

5) Nayika Devi: The Warrior Queen

Nayika Devi: The Warrior Queen takes you back to ancient India in the 12th century, just like Lion transported you to modern-day Australia. While Lion explored the emotional journey of a lost boy searching for his family, Nayika Devi delves into the captivating tale of India's first female warrior. Both movies beautifully capture the spirit of their respective time periods, showcasing the strength and resilience of their characters. Lion, with its heartwarming storyline and stellar performances by Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman, left audiences deeply moved. Similarly, Nayika Devi boasts a talented cast led by Khushi Shah, who proves her versatility once again. So if you enjoyed the emotional rollercoaster of Lion and want to embark on a thrilling historical adventure, Nayika Devi: The Warrior Queen should be on your watchlist. Get ready to be transported to a bygone era and witness the awe-inspiring tale of India's legendary warrior queen.

Release date: May, 2022
IMDB Rating: 7.3

6) Million Dollar Arm

Million Dollar Arm is reminiscent of Lion because both movies are based on true stories and explore the theme of culture clash. While Lion tells the story of a young Indian boy who is adopted by an Australian couple and embarks on a journey to find his lost family, Million Dollar Arm follows a sports agent who recruits talented Indian cricket players to play Major League Baseball. Both films beautifully capture the challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating unfamiliar territories and finding their place in the world. However, Million Dollar Arm injects a dose of humor and lightheartedness into its narrative, making it a delightful and heartwarming watch. With a superb cast and a feel-good storyline, it is a must-see for anyone who loves sports movies or enjoys heartwarming tales of unlikely friendships. So, grab some popcorn and prepare to be entertained and inspired by this charming and uplifting film.

Release date: May, 2014
IMDB Rating: 7

7) Rudhramadevi

Rudhramadevi is a historical epic that tells the story of Rudramadevi, a warrior princess who became one of the most influential rulers of the Kakatiya dynasty in the Deccan Plateau. The film is reminiscent of Lion, not only because both movies are based on true stories, but also because they explore themes of identity, courage, and the pursuit of one's roots. While Lion focuses on a lost boy's journey to find his family, Rudhramadevi follows the life of a brave queen who defied societal norms to protect her kingdom. Both films feature strong performances from their lead actors, with Anushka Shetty delivering a standout portrayal as Rudramadevi. However, unlike Lion's more contemporary setting, Rudhramadevi immerses us in the medieval times of India, offering a grand spectacle with its stunning visuals and epic battle scenes.

Release date: October, 2015
IMDB Rating: 5.6

8) Cloud Capped Star

Cloud Capped Star (Meghe Dhaka Tara) is a captivating film that shares similarities with Lion. Both movies fall under the Biography and Drama genres and have a people vote average of 8 or higher. While Lion tells the story of a five-year-old Indian boy who gets adopted by an Australian couple and later embarks on a journey to find his lost family, Cloud Capped Star focuses on the life of Ritwik Ghatak, a struggling artist who never compromised for personal gain, fame, or profit. The film delves into Ghatak's time spent in a mental asylum and showcases his struggles, inner contradictions, and disappointments. It also highlights his passion for using film as a medium to portray the struggles of common men. With its powerful storytelling, Cloud Capped Star provides a thought-provoking exploration of Ghatak's life and the social and political challenges faced by intellectuals in India.

Release date: June, 2013
IMDB Rating: 8.2

9) The Indian Priest

The Indian Priest takes you on a captivating journey into the life of a Catholic missionary priest from India who finds himself in a modern and secular country, Sweden. While Lion tells the heartwarming story of a young Indian boy adopted by an Australian couple, The Indian Priest explores the contrasting experience of a priest who has left his native India behind. The documentary beautifully captures the struggles and challenges faced by the priest in a country that is far removed from his spiritual roots. As the film follows him through difficult times in both Sweden and India, it offers a fascinating insight into the life of a missionary working in a secular society. Unlike Lion, where the focus is on the reunion of a lost family, The Indian Priest delves into the clash between spirituality and administrative work in a foreign land. The film provides a thought-provoking exploration of the priest's ambition to offer his spiritual self to his parish, amidst the administrative obstacles he encounters.

Release date: January, 2016
IMDB Rating: 8.4

10) Viceroy's House

Viceroy's House, released on March 3, 2017, is a captivating movie that bears some resemblance to Lion. While Lion follows the incredible journey of a five-year-old Indian boy who gets adopted by an Australian couple, Viceroy's House delves into the historical events surrounding the final Viceroy of India overseeing the transition to independence. Both films explore the complexities of India's past and the impact of colonialism, albeit through different perspectives. Lion presents a heartfelt story of a mother-son reunion, while Viceroy's House delves into the clash of different sides during a monumental period of change. With its beautiful cinematography, powerful performances, and thought-provoking narrative, Viceroy's House is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by history, politics, and the enduring human spirit.

Release date: March, 2017
IMDB Rating: 6.7

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