In the realm of character-driven dramas, ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’ is a masterpiece of emotional storytelling. Lasse Hallström’s 1993 film, featuring Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio’s unforgettable performances, perfectly captures the complexities of family bonds, personal sacrifice, and small-town life. For those who’ve been deeply moved by Gilbert’s journey and are seeking similar emotional resonance, we’ve curated a definitive list of films that share its intimate storytelling and profound human connections.
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Understanding the Appeal of Movies Like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
The enduring appeal of ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’ lies in its authentic portrayal of family dynamics, mental disability, and the weight of responsibility. Through Gilbert’s story, we witness the delicate balance between personal dreams and family duty, all set against the backdrop of small-town America. The following selections share this commitment to genuine character development and emotional depth while offering their unique perspectives on human connection.
15 Must-Watch Movies Similar to What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
1. Forrest Gump (1994)
Robert Zemeckis’s beloved classic follows the extraordinary life journey of Forrest Gump, a kind-hearted man with intellectual disabilities who unwittingly influences several defining historical events while pursuing his childhood love. Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ the film masterfully balances humor with profound emotional depth in portraying neurodivergent characters.
Tom Hanks delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Forrest, alongside Robin Wright as Jenny and Gary Sinise as Lieutenant Dan. Released in the summer of 1994, this 142-minute epic showcases Zemeckis’s exceptional ability to weave personal stories into broader historical narratives.
The film was a critical and commercial triumph, earning over $678 million worldwide and securing six Academy Awards. It holds an 8.8/10 rating on IMDb, 71% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 82 on Metacritic.
Currently streaming on Netflix and Paramount+, with rental options available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+.
Fans of ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’ will appreciate the sensitive portrayal of a character with developmental differences and the exploration of unconditional love and family bonds.
2. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
This coming-of-age drama follows Charlie, an introverted freshman navigating high school life while dealing with mental health challenges and past trauma. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ intimate approach to depicting personal struggles and family dynamics.
Written and directed by Stephen Chbosky, based on his novel, the film stars Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller. This 103-minute feature perfectly captures the vulnerability and intensity of adolescent experiences.
With an impressive 8.0/10 on IMDb and 85% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film earned $33.4 million worldwide while garnering critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of complex themes.
Available on Netflix and Hulu, with additional rental options on various digital platforms.
The film’s delicate treatment of mental health issues and family relationships will resonate strongly with admirers of ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ emotional depth.
3. Stand By Me (1986)
Rob Reiner’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novella offers a poignant exploration of friendship and coming-of-age in small-town America. Four young friends embark on a journey that forces them to confront mortality and their innocence.
The film features outstanding performances from young actors River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell. Running for 89 minutes, it captures the essence of childhood friendship and loss of innocence.
‘Stand By Me’ earned $52.3 million at the box office and maintains an 8.1/10 rating on IMDb and 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. Its enduring popularity speaks to its authentic portrayal of youth and friendship.
Currently available on Netflix and for rent on major digital platforms.
Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ this film depicts the complexities of growing up in a small town while dealing with family expectations and personal growth.
4. Rain Man (1988)
Barry Levinson’s classic follows Charlie Babbitt’s journey of discovery as he builds a relationship with his autistic brother Raymond. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ sensitive portrayal of developmental disabilities and family relationships.
Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise delivered remarkable performances in this 133-minute drama that won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Hoffman.
The film grossed over $354 million worldwide and holds an 8.0/10 on IMDb and 89% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Available on HBO Max and for rental on multiple streaming platforms.
Viewers who appreciated ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ handling of disability will find similar depth and authenticity in ‘Rain Man’s’ portrayal of brotherly love and understanding.
5. My Girl (1991)
This touching coming-of-age story follows 11-year-old Vada Sultenfuss as she navigates childhood, death, and first love in the early 1970s. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ ability to balance heavy themes with moments of genuine warmth and humor.
Anna Chlumsky and Macaulay Culkin star in this Howard Zieff-directed film that runs for 102 minutes. Dan Aykroyd and Jamie Lee Curtis round out the talented cast.
The film earned $121.5 million worldwide and maintains a 6.9/10 on IMDb, with strong audience appreciation for its honest portrayal of childhood experiences.
Streaming on Netflix and is available for rent on various platforms.
Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ this film expertly handles themes of loss, family dynamics, and growing up in a small town.
6. A River Runs Through It (1992)
Robert Redford’s lyrical adaptation of Norman Maclean’s memoir explores the complex relationship between two brothers in early 20th-century Montana. Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ the film masterfully depicts family bonds against a backdrop of small-town American life.
Brad Pitt and Craig Sheffer star as the Maclean brothers, with Tom Skerritt as their minister father. This visually stunning, 123-minute feature was directed by Robert Redford and won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography.
The film earned $43.4 million at the box office and maintains a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb and 83% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics particularly praised its beautiful portrayal of family relationships and coming-of-age themes.
Available on Amazon Prime Video and for rent on various digital platforms.
The film’s exploration of brotherly bonds and family obligations will deeply resonate with fans of ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ familial themes.
7. Boyhood (2014)
Richard Linklater’s groundbreaking film, which was shot over 12 years with the same cast, follows Mason’s journey from childhood to college. Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ it offers an intimate portrait of family life and growing up in America.
Starring Ellar Coltrane, Patricia Arquette, and Ethan Hawke, this unique 165-minute drama captures authentic moments of growth and change in real-time.
The film received universal acclaim, earning $47.6 million worldwide and numerous awards, including an Oscar for Patricia Arquette. It holds a 7.9/10 on IMDb and 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently streaming on Netflix and available for rent on major platforms.
Viewers who appreciated ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ authentic portrayal of family dynamics will find similar truth and emotional depth in ‘Boyhood’s’ unique approach to storytelling.
8. The Cider House Rules (1999)
Lasse Hallström, who directed ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,’ brings similar sensitivity to this adaptation of John Irving’s novel about an orphan who must choose between his mentor’s wishes and his path in life.
Tobey Maguire leads the cast alongside Michael Caine, who won an Oscar for his performance. This 126-minute drama showcases Hallström’s talent for balancing emotional depth with moral complexity.
The film earned $88.5 million worldwide and won two Academy Awards. It maintains a 7.4/10 on IMDb and 71% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Available on Hulu and for rent on various streaming services.
Sharing a director with ‘Gilbert Grape,’ this film exhibits similar attention to character development and moral complexity.
9. Good Will Hunting (1997)
This profound drama follows Will Hunting, a genius janitor at MIT, as he confronts his past trauma and potential future with the help of a therapist. The film shares Gilbert Grape’s exploration of hidden potential and personal growth.
Matt Damon and Robin Williams deliver powerful performances in this 126-minute film directed by Gus Van Sant. Ben Affleck co-stars and co-wrote the Oscar-winning screenplay with Damon.
The film was both a critical and commercial success, earning $225.9 million worldwide and winning two Academy Awards. It holds an impressive 8.3/10 on IMDb and 98% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Streaming on Netflix and available for rent across multiple platforms.
The film’s emotional depth and exploration of personal struggles will appeal to fans of ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ character-driven narrative.
10. Manchester by the Sea (2016)
Kenneth Lonergan’s powerful drama follows Lee Chandler as he returns to his hometown to care for his nephew after his brother’s death. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ themes of family obligation and emotional trauma.
Casey Affleck delivers an Oscar-winning performance alongside Michelle Williams and Lucas Hedges in this 137-minute emotional journey.
The film earned $79 million worldwide and received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards. It maintains an 8.3/10 on IMDb and 96% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Available on Amazon Prime Video and for rent on other platforms.
Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ this film portrays family responsibility and grief in a small-town setting.
11. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
This quirky family drama follows the Hoover family as they embark on a cross-country journey to support their daughter’s beauty pageant dreams. The film shares Gilbert Grape’s blend of humor and heart in exploring family dynamics.
The ensemble cast includes Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Steve Carell, and Alan Arkin, who won an Oscar for his role. This 101-minute feature delivers both laughs and profound emotional moments.
The film was a surprise hit, earning $100.5 million worldwide and winning two Academy Awards. It holds a 7.8/10 on IMDb and 91% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently streaming on HBO Max and available for rent on various platforms.
Gilbert Grape fans will appreciate the authentic portrayal of an unconventional family dealing with their struggles together.
12. This Boy’s Life (1993)
Based on Tobias Wolff’s memoir, this powerful drama follows young Toby and his mother as they search for a better life, only to find themselves living with an abusive stepfather. Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ it features a young Leonardo DiCaprio in a compelling coming-of-age story.
The film stars DiCaprio alongside Robert De Niro and Ellen Barkin, with Michael Caton-Jones directing this 115-minute exploration of family dynamics and survival.
Though it had a modest box office performance of $4.1 million, the film holds a strong 7.3/10 on IMDb and 75% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics particularly praising DiCaprio’s breakthrough performance.
Available to stream on HBO Max and for rental on various digital platforms, including Google Play and YouTube Movies.
Fans of DiCaprio’s performance in ‘Gilbert Grape’ will appreciate his equally nuanced portrayal here, demonstrating his early mastery of complex emotional roles.
13. October Sky (1999)
This inspiring true story follows Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son who dreams of building rockets despite his father’s disapproval. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ themes of small-town life and pursuing dreams against the odds.
Jake Gyllenhaal leads the cast as Homer, with Chris Cooper delivering a powerful performance as his father. Joe Johnston directs this 108-minute biographical drama with remarkable sensitivity.
The film earned $34.7 million at the box office and maintains an impressive 7.8/10 on IMDb and 91% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently streaming on Peacock and available for rent on major digital platforms.
Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ this film expertly captures the tension between family obligations and personal aspirations in a small-town setting.
14. Mud (2012)
Jeff Nichols’ atmospheric drama follows two young boys who discover a mysterious man named Mud living on an island in the Mississippi. The film shares ‘Gilbert Grape’s’ coming-of-age themes and small-town American setting.
Matthew McConaughey delivers a captivating performance as Mud alongside Tye Sheridan and Jacob Lofland. This 130-minute feature combines elements of thriller with profound character study.
The film grossed $21.6 million worldwide and holds a 7.4/10 on IMDb and 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Available on Netflix and for rent across multiple streaming platforms.
The film’s exploration of youth, loyalty, and complex family relationships will resonate with fans of ‘Gilbert Grape.’
15. Sling Blade (1996)
Billy Bob Thornton writes, directs, and stars in this powerful drama about Karl Childers, a man with intellectual disabilities who returns to his small town after years in a mental hospital. The film shares many thematic elements with ‘Gilbert Grape,’ particularly in portraying disability and small-town life.
Thornton leads an exceptional cast, including Dwight Yoakam and John Ritter, in this 135-minute character study that earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
The film grossed $24.4 million domestically, maintaining an 8.0/10 on IMDb and 96% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video and available for rent on various platforms.
Like ‘Gilbert Grape,’ ‘Sling Blade’ offers a sensitive portrayal of disability while exploring themes of friendship, protection, and moral complexity.
Complete Summary Table: Movies Like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
| Movie Title | Year | IMDb Rating | Runtime | Where to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forrest Gump | 1994 | 8.8/10 | 142 min | Netflix, Paramount+ |
| The Perks of Being a Wallflower | 2012 | 8.0/10 | 103 min | Netflix, Hulu |
| Stand By Me | 1986 | 8.1/10 | 89 min | Netflix |
| Rain Man | 1988 | 8.0/10 | 133 min | HBO Max |
| My Girl | 1991 | 6.9/10 | 102 min | Netflix |
| A River Runs Through It | 1992 | 7.3/10 | 123 min | Prime Video |
| Boyhood | 2014 | 7.9/10 | 165 min | Netflix |
| The Cider House Rules | 1999 | 7.4/10 | 126 min | Hulu |
| Good Will Hunting | 1997 | 8.3/10 | 126 min | Netflix |
| Manchester by the Sea | 2016 | 7.8/10 | 137 min | Prime Video |
| Little Miss Sunshine | 2006 | 7.8/10 | 101 min | HBO Max |
| This Boy’s Life | 1993 | 7.3/10 | 115 min | HBO Max |
| October Sky | 1999 | 7.8/10 | 108 min | Peacock |
| Mud | 2012 | 7.4/10 | 130 min | Netflix |
| Sling Blade | 1996 | 8.0/10 | 135 min | Prime Video |
Choosing Your Next Watch: Final Thoughts on Movies Like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
Each film in this collection offers its own unique perspective on themes that made ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’ so memorable: family dynamics, personal growth, and the complexity of human relationships. Whether you’re drawn to coming-of-age stories, family dramas, or character-driven narratives, these selections provide similar emotional depth and authenticity.
Remember that while streaming availability may vary by region and time, most of these films can be found through various digital rental services if they’re not available on your preferred streaming platform.
Meta Title: 15 Must-Watch Movies Like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (2025 Guide)
Meta Description: Discover 15 powerful dramas similar to What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. From Forrest Gump to Sling Blade, find your next emotional journey with our comprehensive guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of movie is What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?
It’s a character-driven drama that explores themes of family responsibility, love, and personal growth, known for its authentic portrayal of small-town life and mental disability.
Are there more movies featuring strong character-driven dramas?
Yes, films like ‘Manchester by the Sea,’ ‘Good Will Hunting,’ and ‘Boyhood’ offer equally compelling character studies with deep emotional resonance.
Where can I watch these movies online?
Most of these films are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max. Many can also be rented through digital services like iTunes and Google Play.
Which movie from this list is most similar to What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?
‘Sling Blade’ and ‘The Cider House Rules’ share the most thematic similarities, particularly in their exploration of small-town life and complex family dynamics.
