This list includes some of the best movies for kids of all time. How many have you seen with your family?

Looking for the best movies for kids? With the endless array of TV and movie options out there (including free full-length options on YouTube), it’s hard to pick a flick that the whole family will love. Well, bicker no more. From The Karate Kid to The Incredibles, we’ve made the decision easy with a definitive list of must-see childhood movies for children under 12. So grab some fun snacks and get that family movie night started!

1. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
There's a reason people still watch this holiday classic year after year: Parents to tweens will appreciate this timeless tale of a once-hopeless man realizing the value of his own life with the help of a guardian angel.

Not rated.

Recommended for ages 9 and up.

2. E.T. (1982)
Still one of the best science fiction movies ever, E.T. is all about friendship and childhood. From Reese’s Pieces to the classic phrase “E.T. phone home,” every moment of this movie will live with your extraterrestrial forever.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

3. Spirited Away (2002)
This animated film is a magical adventure and is considered to be one of Hayao Miyazaki's masterpieces. It stars a strong female protagonist but parents of younger kids beware: there are scary creatures, the parents turn into pigs, and in one scene a river dragon lingers on the verge of death.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 9 & up.

4. Coco (2017)
Based on the Mexican holiday, Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead, Coco tells the tale of 12-year-old Miguel who finds himself in the Land of the Dead and with the help of his musician great-great-grandfather dives deep into his family history (and their generations-old ban on music!). There are strong family vibes in this blockbuster, and your kids will love the whimsically colorful, melodic story!

A note for parents—this movie deals with the concept of mortality and could be slightly upsetting for young kids.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

5. Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019)
This Disney classic (and its sequel) is definitely one of the best movies for kids. The films about sisterhood, family, and love will surprisingly warm your hearts, fill your home with song, and should come with a disclaimer: For months afterward, your kids won’t sing anything but Let It Go, Into the Unknown, and Do You Want to Build a Snowman.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

6. Soul
This family movie from Pixar and Disney follows jazz musician and teacher Joe as he travels from life to the Great Before (instead of the Great Beyond). He's not ready for his life to be over, so he's determined to make it home. The first-rate cast including Jaime Foxx and Tina Fey, the amazing animation, and the wonderful music are just a few of the reasons to love this movie for kids.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

7. Yes Day
Inspired by the beloved children's book by the same name, Allison and Carlos decide to give their three kids a "Yes Day," where there's no saying no to anything the kids ask for or to do (within reason). Chaos ensues, and it becomes clear that all yes all the time isn't always the best idea.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

8. The Sword in the Stone (1963)
From rags to riches, it’s the story of King Arthur in true to Disney style. Your lil’ knight will be giggling, dancing and bopping to the wizarding whimsy of this animated musical.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

9. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
A shrink ray accidentally goes off and sets a group of kids on a journey back home (even though they never leave their backyard) while their parents search high and low for them.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

10. Cool Runnings (1993)
Everything seems stacked against these athletes who are completely unprepared for the cold, let alone bobsledding. Loosely based on a true story of the Jamaica national bobsled team, Cool Runnings is a real inspirational film for young dreamers.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

The Star Wars saga is one of the best movies for kids
Walt Disney Studios

11. Star Wars Series (1977-)
Now is as good a time as any to introduce this epic space opera. Your space lover will be on the edge of his or her seat during this story of lightsabers, telepathic powers, space-flight adventures, and the biggest plot twist in cinematic history. Our inner geek is giving this PSA: Please remember to start your Jedi with A New Hope and not The Phantom Menace.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

12. A League of Their Own (1992) 
If your kids ever ask you why girls don't play Major League Baseball, you can tell them, "They did"—and then show them this film, which tells the real-life story of the 1940s All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.  Tom Hanks shines as the grumpy coach. 

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 8 & older

13. Willow (1988)
For today's Harry Potter generation, a viewing of Willow will surely be of interest. The adventure is easy to follow and full of school-age humor, and two forest fairies provide comedy with their slapstick, strange voices, and snappy one-liners. Lucas' fantasy has interesting-looking characters and villages, gothic castles and, most of all, magic. Willow is an excellent choice to give young kids a taste of fantasy.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 8 & older

14. Tangled (2010)
Get lost in Disney’s retelling of Rapunzel, which is a lot more exciting than the original story. Hint: She gets to leave the tower and goes on a thrilling journey of magic, song, and self-discovery.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

15. Finding Nemo (2003) 
Laugh until your tummy hurts as this timid clownfish dad searches the great ocean for his son. Every underwater creature has a catchphrase that’ll become your guppy’s new mantra. Just keep swimming … just keep swimming!

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

16. Princess Bride (1987)
Part comedy, part romance, part adventure, part fantasy and 100% perfect—Princess Bride is the ultimate family movie for storytime lovers, big, small, boy, or girl. And yes, there is some kissing.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

17. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)
A perfect movie for the littlest film-goers, this endearing film follows A.A. Milne's classic bear as he bumbles about Hundred Acre Wood learning lessons on friendship. There's no offensive or scary content in the film, which makes it great for younger kids.

Rated G

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

18. Shrek (2001)
One unforeseeable plot twist on the classic fairytale? Coming right up! An ogre sets out to rescue a princess with a talking donkey—plus all the characters from your cupcake’s bedtime stories.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

19. The Muppet Movie (1979)
Way before Jason Segel starred in the 2011 Muppet movie, there was The Muppet Movie, which goes way, way back to before Kermit the Frog was in show business. Fans of those classic fuzzy puppets will love watching this origin story.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

20. The Lion King (1994)
Grab a tissue for that one scene (you know which one we’re talking about), but after that, the rest of the movie is all song, dance, and excitement for your lil’ monkey.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

Related: The Ultimate List of Dinosaur Movies for Kids

The Sandlot is one one of the best movies for kids
20th Century Fox

21. The Sandlot (1993)
Your short stuff will definitely relate to Scotty as he makes new friends on a ragtag baseball team and goes on grand adventures involving tree houses, rival groups, a legendary ball-eating dog, and all the things that childhood memories are made of.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

22. The Little Mermaid (1989) 
Ignore the original Hans Christian Andersen (that ending is unfortunately not very happily ever after), and opt for Disney’s The Little Mermaid for a family movie night with the kids. It’s got unforgettable songs, enchanting characters, and, best of all, a happy ending.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

23. Home Alone (1990)
This perfect Christmas movie will give your tots a movie dose of bravery, when it comes to being by themselves, as they watch a smart-aleck eight-year-old defend his home from a pair of bumbling burglars. Note: There is some sibling squabbling that isn't all that nice.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

24. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
No movie portrays the spirit of Christmas better than Miracle on 34th Street. Save this one for the holidays because it’ll definitely make your little helper feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

25. Spider-Man (2002)
If you're looking for a good starter superhero movie, this 2002 origin story follows Peter Parker (Toby Maguire) as he gets bitten by a radioactive spider and becomes the witty hero we all know and love. Some explosions and tense Green Goblin moments may frighten sensitive viewers, but most tweens will love every bit of it.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 11 & up.

26. Toy Story 1, 2, 3, 4 (1995 - 2019) 
Every kid will love the iconic warm-hearted tale of the secret life of toys. From the very first film to the fourth, which hit theaters in 2019, follow the saga of Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and their fellow toys as they navigate the trials and tribulations of being Andy's toys. Each film is special in its own right.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

 

Whale Rider is a wonderful movie for kids
South Pacific Productions

27. Whale Rider (2003)
Before Moana set out on the seas on a quest to save her village, a courageous girl named Pai did it first. The film is set in the Maori community of New Zealand, where modern culture threatens to quell ancient traditions. Twelve-year-old Pai sets out to prove that even though she is not the male heir her father wanted, she has the bravery, wisdom, and skill to lead. There are some adult themes (including a mother and child who die during childbirth, as well as some references to marijuana), but tweens and parents will appreciate the inspiring message.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 11 & up.

28. The Sound of Music (1965)
How else is your musical tot going to learn the lyrics to Do-Re-Mi? The Sound of Music is completely captivating with equal parts song, romance, and family bonding.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

29. Wadjda (2013)

The first movie to be directed by a Saudi Arabian woman, this story is of a spunky, independent 11-year-old girl who wants to ride a bike, wears Converse sneakers, and loves to compete against her (male) best friend. Beautifully done, the film explores topics such as religious traditions and laws, but it's also an incredible study of female empowerment. Follow along, and cheer for Wadjda as she fiercely makes a place for herself in the world.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages  8 & up.

30. Despicable Me, 2 & 3 (2010, 2013, 2017) 
Kids and adults alike will love this bad-guy-turns-good-guy fairy tale about a curmudgeonly villain who learns to love an orphaned trio of little girls. The sequels are just as much fun as the original.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

31. Free To Be You And Me (1974)
In a compilation of shorts that were edgy at the time of this film's release, Free To Be You And Me explores things like gender roles, working mothers, and racial stereotyping with the help of celebrities including Mel Brooks, Alan Alda, Marlo Thomas, and a young Michael Jackson.

Not rated.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

32. Harry Potter & The Sorcerer's Stone (2001)
Your magical creatures won’t be able to get enough of the Harry Potter adventures. Everything from the food to the spells is a unique discovery. Start off with The Sorcerer's Stone, which introduces the wizarding world. The film series is completed, but the rest of the films skew for an older audience.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

33. Bedknobs & Broomsticks (1971)
Starring the legendary Angela Landsbury and Mary Poppins alum David Tomlinson, this classic Disney film focuses on three siblings who are evacuated from London during World War II and end up in the care of an apprentice witch. Chaos ensues, and there's a fun animated section where they all end up on the island of Naboombu. While the slow parts may bore young children, and the presence of Nazi invaders might bring up questions, all and all, this is a fun classic film for families.

Rated: G

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

34. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
Julie Andrews fans can rest assured that this remake by Rob Marshall is an ode to the near-perfect original. Emily Blunt charms, Lin-Manuel Mirada shines, and the sequel plot means that viewers will see how Jane and Michael are faring some 20 years after Mary Poppins first came into their lives. Be on the lookout for a very special cameo from the one and only Dick Van Dyke!

Rated: PG

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

Related: Not-So-Spooky Halloween Movies for Kids

How to Train Your Dragon is a great movie for kids
Dreamworks Studio

35. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
Follow the adventures of the reluctant dragon-slayer Hiccup, who, after capturing the rarest dragon of all—the Night Fury—befriends it instead of killing it. Raucous adventures follow as Hiccup shows his fellow Vikings that not all dragons are dangerous. Note: Sensitive kids may be troubled by the initial scenes of violent dragons attacking the village. 

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

36. The Karate Kid (2010) 
This remake of the 1984 classic is geared toward a slightly younger audience with the help of the talented Jaden Smith, who stars as the new kid on the block who struggles to learn karate to fend off bullies and win the girl.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 9 & up.

37. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Tim Burton’s delightful holiday fantasy film redefines Christmas for all our lil’ lovers of spook. Get carried away into a new world that celebrates two holidays in one—candy and presents? Every tot’s dream.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

38. Moana (2016)
Girl power is at its best in this modern Disney classic that puts a strong-hearted young girl on a mission to return the "heart of the ocean" to its rightful owner. Besides the memorable songs and moving story, this film stands apart from most Disney flicks in that there are no princes (or romances of any kind) to be found during the whole 113 minutes.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

39. Beauty and the Beast (2017) 
The "tale as old as time" gets a modern retelling that stays true to its trademark Disney sweetness, with Emma Watson starring as a Belle every little girl will want to be. Note: Because it's live-action, some of the scenes (like the ones with the wolves chasing Belle) can be a little scary.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

40. Walking with Dinosaurs (1999)
Excellent BBC six-part series that takes viewers on a journey from the beginning of dinosaurs to their demise. Educational but fun, this is perfect for older dino lovers.

Rated: NR

Recommended for ages 9 & up.

41. Bend it Like Beckham
Featuring a diverse cast, this story of a British girl of Indian descent who hides her passion for the game of soccer from her parents is ultimately a wonderful show in strength and determination to go after your dreams.

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

An American Tail
Amazon

42. An American Tail (1986)
Long before Nemo and his dad were separated by oceans, a lanky immigrant mouse named Fievel journeyed to find his family "somewhere out there." One of the most classic family movies of the '80s, it's just as sweet today as you might remember.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

43. Spellbound (2003)
Kids will be spelling out E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G after watching this fun documentary that follows a group of elementary school students across America as they prepare for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The uplifting film shows the value of hard work and studying (your kids' teachers will approve!).

Rated G

Recommended for ages 8 and up.

44. Freaky Friday (1976)
Like mother, like daughter—the hilarity that ensues when this mom and daughter duo switch bodies also gets across the important lesson of family bonding.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

45. The Secret of Nimh (1982)
This movie has some scary parts, but kids ages eight and up will love the tale of extraordinary courage. The story centers around a group of super-intelligent rats who escape an animal laboratory and a family of field mice who enlist their help.

Warning: Sensitive children may find some scenes disturbing (including a sword fight that ends in the death of one rat).

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

46. Space Jam (1996)
Animation, live action, comedy, and sports—it’s time to introduce your sports fan to the legend that is Michael Jordan and his greatest achievement… Space Jam. 

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

47. Free Willy (1993) 
Animal lovers will enjoy seeing this feel-good film about a boy becoming best friends with an orca. Your swimmers will be so engaged, that they might even shed a tear or two for Willy.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

48. Fern Gully (1992)
If you were a '90s kid, then you'll know (and probably love) this classic eco-toon. Featuring the voices of some of the most famous actors of the time (Samantha Mathis, Christian Slater, Robin Williams, Tim Curry), join fairy-queen-in-training Cyrsta as she resues surfer-dude Zak from falling trees, and himself. Featuring a strong environmental message, it's a wonderful way to help show kids the value of a strong ecosystem. And, the music rocks, too.

Note: There are a few scary parts, in particular when Hexxus is released from the tree. 

Rated G

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

Related: 16 Kids’ Movies That Parents Love Too

Carmen and Juni in Spy Kids
Buena Vista Pictures

49. Spy Kids
Adventure-loving kids will love this rollicking action movie about Carmen and Juni, the children of two infamous spies (who have gone undercover as boring parents). When their parents are kidnapped, the resourceful kids must summon their courage and jump into action.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

50. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Golden ticket. Chocolate factory. Everything candy. Your sugarplum will remember the zany world of Willy Wonka for the rest of their life, though sensitive kids may be frightened by some scary moments.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

51. Charlotte’s Web (1973)
This animated musical about Wilbur, the runt of the litter, and Charlotte, a friendly spider, is as touching as the novel by E.B. White. Prepare a package of tissues for the ending: It’s both sad and happy.

Note: We also love the 2006 remake, which features an adorable Dakota Fanning as Fern. 

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

52. Lassie (1994)
Loyal, brave, and affectionate… your youngest will want a Collie after seeing all the extraordinary feats Lassie can do, from saving his owner from a mountain lion to snuggling with him all night.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

53. Babe (1995)
Perseverance, friendship, and making your dreams come true—who knew a pig could teach us all that? Psst … at the start of the film, there is a bit of frightful honesty about animals being used for food, so keep an eye on your tiniest animal lovers.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

54. Enchanted (2007) 
Fairytale characters are thrown into the modern world in this live-action musical that shows what happens when a young maiden from the fictional "Andalasia" falls in love with a jaded New York City lawyer. Julie Andrews narrates this infectiously-sweet story. Note: There is a scary part at the end featuring a fire-breathing dragon that may rattle sensitive tots.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

55. The NeverEnding Story (1984)
For enthusiastic readers with a wild imagination, The Neverending Story will take them for an exciting ride as a young boy tries to save the world of Fantasia.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

56. A Boy Named Charlie Brown (1969)
This was the first of the Peanuts movies, and it introduces Charlie Brown as the sweet and sensitive little boy who can't seem to get anything right. The film follows him as he works to compete in a national spelling bee with the help of his faithful buds, Linus and Snoopy.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

57. ELF
Will Farrell is at his best in this classic holiday film about a boy raised as one of Santa's elves but sets out at age 30 to find his real father in New York City.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

 

Related: 10 Best ’90s Movies to Watch with Your Kids

Up is one of the best family movies of all time
Pixar Animation

58. Up (2008)
An upbeat boy and a grumpy old man make an unlikely team… inside a floating house. They go on a journey that has a little bit of danger, a lot of humor, and a grander story of love.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

59. Newsies (1992)
This Disney musical inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 follows a group of street-savvy kids who form a union and go on strike against the money-hungry newspaper typhoons of their time. The movie features catchy music and energetic dance numbers—and inspired the 2012-2014 Tony Award-winning Broadway show.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 9 & up.

60. Hook (1991)
For all the inspiration that Peter Pan gives a rambunctious child, Hook shows how grown-ups can still have fun. Your Lost Boy (or Girl) will be hugging you tight throughout this movie.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

61. BIG (1988)
For every kid who talks about growing up all the time, have them watch BIG because jumping from 12 years old to 30 years old is only a good idea in theory… and on film.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

62. Labyrinth (1986)
Set in a bizarre world that’ll delight the most imaginative kiddo, Labyrinth will captivate your imagination with Muppets, riddles, and a lighthearted sense of danger.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

63. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) 
This animated Spidey film follows a teen who becomes a new Spider-Man and meets a slew of other Spider-people from parallel universes. It's a little less intense than the live-action Spider-Man iterations, making it a better choice for younger viewers. Still, there is a lot of violence, including weapons and two major characters are killed—so be wary if you don't want your kids to be exposed.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

64. Trolls (2016)
With an awesome pop-rock soundtrack that you'll want to download, like, asap, this light-hearted flick is about a duo of trolls (Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick) who partner up to rescue their friends from the troll-hungry bad guys.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

My Neighbor Totoro is a good movie for kids
Studio Ghibli

65. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Another masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki, this family movie is appropriate for all ages. Two girl protagonists move to the countryside in 1950s Japan and are befriended by the magical creature, Totoro, who helps them when they have a problem related to their mother, who is dealing with a long-term illness.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

66. Alice in Wonderland (1951)
Everyone loves this classic tale of a little girl who falls asleep and gets whisked into a nonsense world where "Everyone is mad."  Alice grows bigger and smaller and encounters all sorts of wild characters—some of which are mildly inappropriate (like the hookah-smoking caterpillar and a head-chopping queen), but all in all this tale of silliness is fun and engaging.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 4 & up

67. LEGO Movie (2014)
An ordinary LEGO minifig must save the universe from a tyrannical business lord. Forget Frozen, your LEGO maniac will be singing Everything is Awesome even before the movie ends.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

68. Mary Poppins (1964)
A magical nanny uses her unique brand of lifestyle to bring a family back together. If your munchkins loved Sound of Music, this one is a must-add to their movie list.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

69. The Dark Crystal (1982)
Fantasy lovers will jump right into the dark world of The Dark Crystal. Think of it as a more family-friendly version of Lord of the Rings—it’s a hero’s story about an elf-like creature on a quest to restore balance to his world.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

Princess and the Frog is a classic movie for kids
Disney Studios

70. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
A twist on the classic tale: A beautiful girl kisses a frog (who is actually a prince) and instead of him getting turned back into a human, she gets turned into a frog! With a jazzy New Orleans vibe keeping things cool, this modern fairy tale is also the first Disney movie to feature an African-American heroine, Tiana. Also unlike Disney's long-ago damsels, Tiana is strong and hardworking and doesn't need a man to get by in the world (though she doesn't mind having one as a friend).

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 and up.

71. Ghostbusters (1984)
So your tiny Ghostbusters may not be old enough to appreciate Bill Murray, but that doesn’t mean they can’t start now! It’ll be hard to find a “scary” movie that’ll have you crying from laughter like this one.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

72. The Parent Trap (1961/1998) 
A pair of twins set out to reunite their separated parents. Cue the chaos, humor, and aww moments! We’ll leave it up to you to decide to show the classic 1961 or 1998 one—both are that good.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

73. Aladdin (1992)  
Disney's retelling of the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp, is filled with memorable music and a wise-cracking genie voiced perfectly by the late, great Robin Williams, who will entertain the grown-up viewers almost more than the kiddos.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

74. Cinderella (1950) 
Bippity bobbity boo! A story of a love so simple that even the smallest slipper wearer can watch this Disney classic in one sitting.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

75. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Ruby red slippers, flying monkeys, catchy songs, and the breathtaking transition from a world of black-and-white to color, The Wizard of Oz is a timeless story that’ll inspire your kiddo for ages.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

76. Big Hero 6 (2014) 
Disney's adaptation of the Marvel comic about a boy named Hiro and his robot creation, a "personal health companion" named Baymax, will delight little robot fans. But be forewarned: Much of the film deals with the idea of grief since the boy's older brother dies at the beginning of the film. Despite the sad beginnings, this family movie has lots of heart and a sweet ending.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

77. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
In a realm known as Kumandra comes the Oscar-nominated mythical tale of when dragons and humans fought together to fight the Druun. Fast forward hundreds of years, and one girl is determined to find the last dragon to join the fight again. The imagery and strong female protagonists, not to mention a funny water dragon, make this a great movie for kids of all ages.

Rated: PG

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

Related: Batter Up! 16 Movies About Baseball That Kids Will Love

Lionsgate

78. Akeela and the Bee (2006)
A little girl from a tough neighborhood in LA learns she's got a knack for spelling—and that she doesn't need to change herself to fit in. Lawrence Fishburn stars as the spelling tutor who coaches her to the Scripps National Spelling Bee while teaching her to believe in herself. Note: There is some mild profanity in the film, so parents who have a no-tolerance policy toward this may want to wait a few more years.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

79. Matilda (1998) 
Tiny magic lovers will be entranced by this film, based on the classic Roald Dahl book about a brilliant little girl who uses her special powers to right the wrongs in her school and at home.  

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 9 and up. 

80. Fly Away Home (1998) 
Anna Paquin stars in this inspiring story of a motherless little girl who learns to fly an ultralight aircraft so she can fly her adopted flock of geese south for the winter. Note: The death of the girl's mother at the beginning of the film may be upsetting for kids.

Rated PG.

Recommended for kids 6 & up.

81. Inside Out (2015)
Kids may not understand the big concepts at the heart of the movie (that they're watching the personified emotions inside a little girl's brain), but they'll be entertained just the same. We think the real value is for Mom and Dad, who may actually learn a little something about what's going on in their kids' crazy little heads.

Rated PG.

Recommended for kids 7 & up.

82. Peter Pan (2003)
This live-action remake has magic galore and will be a hit with big kids who have graduated from cartoons.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 9 & up.

83. Wall-E. (2008)
While there is minimal dialogue throughout the whole movie (not a word is spoken in the first 22 minutes of the film), the lovable little robot who is stranded on a trash-filled future Earth will steal your family's heart and make you think twice about your recycling habits. Messages about environmentalism—as well as our reliance on technology—ring loud and clear, even without words.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

 

The Incredibles
Pixar Animation

84. The Incredibles (2004)
Superhero family. Pixar. What more can we say? This spectacular animated film is simply made for a movie night with mom, dad, sis, brother, and babe.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 7 & up.

85. Ratatouille (2007)
Kids will love this cute story about a French rat who wants to be a gourmet chef; grown-ups will appreciate the jokes intended only for them. Overall, this tale about a little rodent defying the odds is fun and inspiring. And, if you're lucky, it'll teach your tot a thing or two about food.

Rated G

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

86. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)
Sing-a-long adventures in a flying car! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a comical adventure with a dash of danger. Fun fact: The script was co-written by Roald Dahl.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

87. Chronicles of Narnia (2005)
If your reader is devouring the book series, the movies are pretty captivating too. Your Narnian won’t believe that Azlan is made up of special effects and not a real lion.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

88. Cinderella (2015)
Disney's remake of its 1950 classic is just as magical with dazzling special effects and a live-action spin. Younger princesses may still prefer the original (this one has no songs), but parents longing to revisit the Cinderella story with their kids will find it to be a faithful and gorgeous retelling.

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

89. Monsters Inc. (2001) 
Middle-of-the-night monsters won't be so scary anymore after kids watch this film and learn that they're the ones who have all the power.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

90. Vivo
A fun romp with fantastic music from Lin-Manuel Mirada, this story is about a monkey who travels from Cuba to Miami in the name of love, and "one last song" will have everyone singing from the start.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 5 & up

91. Encanto
Another hit collab from Disney and Lin-Manuel Mirada, this movie tells the tale of the magical Madrigal family and their village hidden in the mountains of Columbia. When the magic is in danger, the only member of the family to not receive a magical gift, Mirabel, might be their last hope. 

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

Related: The Best Movies & TV for Kids That Shatter Gender Stereotypes

The black stallion is a classic movie
Amazon

92. The Black Stallion (1979) 
This Francis Ford Coppola-directed film about a boy stranded on a desert island with a wild stallion who saves his life is a must-see, whether or not you're into horses. The film morphs from a wilderness survival tale to a root-for-the-underdog horse race. Note: The beginning shipwreck scene may be disturbing, even for adults, so feel free to skip to the island and go from there.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

93. Happy Feet (2006) 
This inspiring story about a penguin who can't find his song—but sure can dance—has a killer soundtrack and an uplifting message. Basically, you be you, penguin. There are also some not-so-subtle messages about environmental stewardship, as the penguins find themselves in a perilous race against a dwindling food source. 

Note: Some scenes with a particularly vicious sea lion might scare younger viewers. 

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 6 & up. 

94. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) 
Three loyal pets escape and journey through the West Coast to find their beloved owners in San Francisco. Your sidekick is going to be asking for a furry family addition after this classic family movie.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 6 & up.

95. Cars (2006)
Every kid who loves going "vroom vroom" with his toy cars will love this fast-paced film about a smooth-talking race car who learns the meaning of true friendship and the joy of the open road when he gets stuck in the small town of Radiator Springs.

Rated G.

Recommended for ages 5 & up.

96. The Absent-Minded Professor (1961)
A classic family-friendly film that features a befuddled professor who, at the expense of his own wedding, manages to create an amazing compound he calls flubber. You'll root for the Professor to outwit the greedy Alonzo Hawk, and the silly stunts (like basketball players that can jump to crazy heights) will make the whole family laugh.

97. The Mighty Ducks (1992)
If your budding athlete loves the sports-movie formula of losers becoming winners, then she'll love this movie that follows a ragtag hockey team as they shape up and learn the value of teamwork and friendship. 

Rated PG.

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

98. Zootopia (2016)
After an otter goes missing, it's up to bunny cop Judy Hopps and her fox-with-a-criminal-record sidekick Nick Wilde to solve the crime. Along the way, the duo meets some of the unique citizens that make up Zootopia and learn to appreciate (love, actually) each other's differences.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

99. The Incredibles 2 (2018)
The nearly 20-year-long wait for the sequel to one of Pixar's most popular movies was worth the wait. Watch Mrs. Incredible (aka Elastagirl) go back to work and leave Bob (Mr. Incredible) at home with a moody tween, homework, and a baby with multiple powers. Look for the return of fan-favorite Edna, and fellow superhero Fro-Zone. Some violence might be scary for younger kids, but the all-around message of teamwork is a home run for families.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 8 & up.

100. The Kid Who Would Be King (2019) 
This modern retelling of the legend of King Arthur has been described as a mixture of "Goonies" and "Lord of the Rings." The story follows a schoolboy who is chosen to save the world with the help of the mystical sword. There are some scary moments—including tense battle scenes and the destruction of a school—but older tweens will love it.

Rated PG

Recommended for ages 10 & up.

 

 

These classic ’90s movies will take you back to your childhood

The Roaring Twenties. The Swingin’ Sixties. The Nostalgerific Nineties. Okay, that last one is not an official title for the decade following The Goonies but preceding Harry Potter. But if we were gonna peg our favorite decade with a phat nickname, well, there you go.

It’s the decade that gave us All That’s big-screen spinoff, Good Burger; Emilio Estevez’s claim to hockey fame, The Mighty Ducks; and the fantastic slew of animated gems that make up the Disney Renaissance, including Mulan, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast. It’s also the decade that celebrates humor, heart, and family-friendly entertainment.

Ahead, we’re rounding up our favorite ’90s movies for kids. Like a nostalgic time capsule, our list includes animated adventures, heartwarming tearjerkers, and even Oscar-worthy dramas, ensuring that not only will the little ones stay entertained, but the parents in the room won’t be tempted to reach for their earbuds.

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast is a classic 90s movie
Walt Disney Pictures

A tale as old as 1991, Beauty and the Beast was the first full-length animated feature to be nominated for Best Picture. Though that may not be much of a selling point for the kiddos in the room, the hospitable dinnerware that can sing and dance, the enchanting tale of a bookworm befriending a cursed prince, and the intriguing mysteries hiding around every corner of the beast’s French Rococo castle certainly are.

Available on Disney+.

Mouse Hunt

Mouse Hunt
Dreamworks Animation

It’s always a good time when auteurs with elevated resumes take a break from more mature content and give kids fare a go. Gore Verbinski, the helmer of highbrow horror like The Ring and A Cure for Wellness, and the Pirates franchise, takes on this fun comedy about two unlucky brothers who inherit a crumbling mansion, along with the headstrong critter who already calls it home. A clever mix of humor and visual appeal, Mouse Hunt is the crowd-pleaser you’re in pursuit of.

Available on Amazon Prime.

Good Burger

Good Burger is a 90s kids movie
Nickelodeon

After their winning sketch comedy series, All That was followed by their own titular spinoff, Kenan & Kel, it was only natural that stars Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell would get their time to shine on the big screen. Enter: Good Burger. A feature-length comedy adapted from the guys’ popular recurring skit on All That, the fast-food frenzy sees the two in peak goofball form as they try and keep their burger joint from going under. Pro tip: You definitely want fries with that.

Available on Paramount+.

Harriet the Spy

Harriet the Spy is a one of the best 90s movies for kids
Nickelodeon

When her secret notebook is discovered by her friends, an 11-year-old master spy risks losing her close buddies and her secret identity. Michelle Trachtenberg makes her film debut in Nickelodeon’s very first movie, and if you have little ones who love a good sleuthing, then we spy a winner here. Beyond good-humored espionage for the pint-size, the role model relationships on display, especially the sweet bond between Harriet and her nanny, will surely engage the adults in the room.

Available on Tubi or Max.

The Lion King

The Lion King is one of the best '90s movies for kids
Walt Disney Pictures

The House of Mouse cranked out animated gems like a well-oiled machine in the ’90s. Enjoying what cinephiles like to call a “golden era,” Disney graced us with Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, Toy Story, and Hercules, but my goodness, when Simba, Nala, and Mufasa welcomed us to Pride Rock and taught us all about the circle of life, a new animated king was crowned. A roaring adventure engrained with Shakespearean nods and Elton John tunes, this classic ’90s movie for kids is a master of its domain.

Available on Disney+.

Matilda

Matilda is a classic 90s movie
TriStar Pictures

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Witches, The BFG: The works of Roald Dahl run deep with pure imagination. With this fanciful tale, adapted for the screen by Danny DeVito, whimsy comes in the form of a 6-year-old girl whose wit and intelligence confound her parents but enthuses her peers, as she leads a spirited rebellion against her school’s mean old headmistress. With themes of courage and compassion embedded in a tale of magic and enchantment, Matilda is A+ fare.

Available on Netflix.

The Iron Giant

The Iron Giant is a classic '90s movie
Warner Bros.

Action film extraordinaire Brad Bird caps off the decade with an animated Cold War fable about a nine-year-old boy, the steely alien he befriends, and the untrusting government officials determined to destroy that which they don’t understand. Bird’s film is actually quite the emotionally hefty cartoon, with themes of empathy, prejudice, and sacrifice at play. So, a post-movie conversation might be in little ones’ best interest.

Available on Max.

The Parent Trap

The Parent Trap is a '90s kids movie
Walt Disney Pictures

Children of the ’90s can all relate to the joy this gift from the film gods brings: a rom-com with not one, but two Lindsay Lohans! Not only did this Disney remake launch the career of its leading dual-role actress, but it’s had millennials living La Vita Lohan ever since. For today’s youth, the farfetched plot of estranged identical twins reuniting and then hatching a plan to rekindle their parent’s flame may be outdated, but the movie’s summer camp pranks and sisterly bonds never get old.

Available on Disney+.

The Sandlot

The Sandlot is a classic 90s movie for kids
20th Century Fox

Every family-friendly movie from the ’90s comes with a lesson. Some spill sage advice still useful today (hakuna matata forever), while others elevate their stories with morals that hit it out of the park. With The Sandlot, you get just that. One of the most classic coming-of-age ’90s movies for kids that plays ball with Smalls, Benny “The Jet,” and the rest of their Sandlot crew through an eventful summer of 1962, this underdog gem proves legends aren’t just made in the majors, but off the bats of anyone who dares to dream big.

Available on Starz.

Space Jam

Space Jam is a classic '90s movie
Warner Bros.

The court’s most legendary baller, Michael Jordan, teams up with the animated realm’s looniest toon, Bugs Bunny, for a sports comedy that blends live action, slapstick comedy, and hand-drawn animation into one star-studded romp. The zany action tips off when Bugs, MJ, and company take on the Monstars, a team of space goons equipped with the talent of the NBA’s finest. Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, and more grace the screen. Our favorite cameo, though? Granny Webster!

Available on Max.

Related: 15 TV Shows from the ’90s Your Kids Will Love

The Mighty Ducks

The Mighty Ducks is a '90s movie for kids
Walt Disney Pictures

“Quack, quack, quack!” Nope, that’s not the flock that forgot to fly south; it’s actually the onomatopoeic cheer that roars louder as everyone’s favorite underducks go from being a nameless peewee hockey team to the high-flying Mighty Ducks. Led by Coach Bombay (played by Emilio Estevez), this team of ragtag slapshooters learn that determination, teamwork, and friendship are how you win on and off the ice.

Available on Disney+.

Cool Runnings

Cool Runnings
Walt Disney Pictures

If you’re not including a John Candy flick in your roundup of classic ’90s movies for kids, you’re not doing it right. That said, John Candy isn’t even the best part of this Jon Turteltaub crowd-pleaser. That superlative goes to Leon, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis, and Malik Yoba, the actors who portray the Jamaican bobsleigh team at the heart of the film. Loosely based on the country’s 1988 Winter Olympics debut, this sports comedy is not only an easy watch, but it’s a burst of pride and glory.

Available on Disney+.

Mrs. Doubtfire

Mrs. Doubtfire is a good 90s movie for kids
20th Century Fox

Robin Williams is a national treasure. And even though the comedic genius has left this world, his work on screens big and small lives on. A fun way to introduce littles to the actor’s varied talents is to queue up Mrs. Doubtfire, a charmer about a divorced father going incognito as a busty housekeeper to spend time with his kids, who live with their mom. It costars Sally Field, another huge plus, and gives Williams the floor to show off his impressions, energy, and rapid-fire wit.

Available on Tubi or rent on Amazon Prime.

Mulan

Mulan is a classic '90s Disney movie
Walt Disney Pictures

Strength knows no gender in this animated classic ’90s movie for kids. Mulan, a 16-year-old maiden who disguises herself as a soldier to join the Chinese Army in her ailing father’s place, battles her way to warrior status and solidifies her character as one of the greatest heroines in the pantheon of Magic Kingdom legends. Of course, it wouldn’t be Disney without a few laughs. So, count on Eddie Murphy’s Mushu, a little red dragon with a whole lot of attitude, to keep them giggling.

Available on Disney+.

My Girl

 

The bittersweet nostalgia of youth takes the form of a precocious 11-year-old named Vada Sultenfuss in this essential coming-of-age tearjerker. A budding writer, Vada grapples with some pretty heavy complexities, particularly death. Her mom died right after giving birth to her, so now she lives with her father who runs a funeral home out of their abode. Worry not, though, the serious stuff finds balance with lighter fare, namely adventures with the adorable Thomas J.

Available on CWTV or rent on Amazon Prime

Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke is a Studio Ghibli 90s movie for kids
GKIDS

Set in ancient Japan, Princess Mononoke tells the story of Ashitaka, a young Emishi prince on a quest to find the cure for a curse put on him while fighting for his village. This journey leads him to uncover the truth behind the conflict between humans and forest spirits, who are led by an enigmatic wolf girl named San, a.k.a. Princess Mononoke. This one comes from Studio Ghibli, Japan’s premier animation studio, so you can expect vibrant animation and a thematically rich watch.

Available on Max.

Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges is a great 90s movie for kids
Walt Disney Pictures

The first African American child to attend an all-white elementary school, Ruby Bridges became a civil rights icon at the wee age of six, with bows in her hair and buckles on her Mary Janes. This pick, an ABC made-for-television movie that was just one of several Wonderful World of Disney small-screen productions, takes place in New Orleans in November 1960 and chronicles that time a little girl paved the way for desegregation in schools across the nation.

Available on Disney+.

The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden is a classic 90s movie
Warner Bros.

Curiosity and imagination are given room to bloom in this adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s same-name novel first published in 1911. About a little girl who is sent from India to England to live on her uncle’s estate after her parents are killed in an earthquake, this enchanting tale sees her unlock the best-kept secrets Mother Nature has up her floral sleeve. Adventure, mystery, and magic abound—and trust us, it’s enchantment that will grow on both girls and boys.

Available on Prime Video.

Cinderella

Roger & Hammerstein's Cinderella
Walt Disney Studios

Once upon a time, Brandy and Whitney lit up the screen as the time-honored belle of the ball and the fairy godmother who gets her there in this Disney retooling of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic fairy tale. There’s singing and dancing that will keep the younger set entertained, and comedic stylings from industry greats like Whoopi Goldberg and Bernadette Peters parents will appreciate. It’s a win-win. Just watch it before midnight, or the kiddos might turn into pumpkins.

Available on Disney+.

Life With Mikey

Life with Mikey is a great 90s movie
Walt Disney Pictures

Christina Vidal stars as Angie Vega, a spunky kid with street smarts who’s about to make Mikey (Michael J. Fox), a former child actor now running a talent agency, a lotta dough. It all begins when Mikey spies Angie on the streets of the Big Apple turning on the charm to get out of some pickpocket trouble. Sure she could be the next big star he’s looking for, he talks her into auditioning. And the rest, as they say, is a wrap. Lots of laughs, lessons, and Nathan Lane to enjoy with this one.

Available on Prime Video.

Related: 10 ’80s Movies That Your Kids Need to See

A Little Princess

A Little Princess is a great 90s movie
Warner Bros.

The grown-ups in the room will appreciate this little nugget of film trivia: A Little Princess was not only directed by the stellar Alfonso Cuarón but it was also nominated for two Oscars in 1996, cinematography and art direction. As for the littles? They’ll enjoy the story about Sara, a little girl forced to work as a servant after her father is presumed dead from war. Sounds harsh, but it’s here where she finds compassion, friendship, and the family she deserves.

Available on Prime Video.

Muppet Treasure Island

Muppet Treasure Island is a classic 90s' kids movie
The Jim Henson Company

Adventure is always better with the Muppets. So, hop aboard the Hispaniola with Kermit, Gonzo, and the rest of Jim Henson’s felted friends for a swashbuckling journey to find sunken treasure. The bones of the story are, of course, based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, a literary classic, but because we are dealing in the Muppetverse here, you and yours can expect more of a bonkers high-seas musical that shivers the timbers and tickles the funny bone.

Available on Disney+.

Toy Story

Toy Story is a classic 90s kids movie
Pixar Studios

We’re not crying, you’re crying; okay, everybody’s crying. Disney’s Pixar Studio is a master class in transcendent animated films that tug at the heartstrings. Perhaps its biggest case-maker is this 1995 gem. Tom Hanks lends his voice to Woody, a pull-string cowboy whose favorite-toy status is being threatened by a chatty space ranger that comes with all kinds of bells and whistles. The first in a five-movie franchise, Toy Story is one of the best representations of the passage of time.

Available on Disney+.

These new Netflix kids’ shows and movies coming in October are perfect for when the kids need downtime

Fall is officially here, which means chillier days and many excuses to relax on the sofa. Netflix’s October lineup is jam-packed with new releases and family favorites. No matter what you like to watch, there are plenty of new Netflix kids’ shows and movies this month. Family favorite Kung Fu Panda is back and there are a few new additions for Halloween, too. All that’s left is to decide what they want to watch first.

New Netflix Kids’ Shows and Movies Coming in October

Oct. 1

The Adventures of Tintin

This animated film is based on the comics of the same name. When young journalist TinTin buys a miniature version of a legendary pirate ship, he is unknowingly thrust into an adventure that involves traveling the world, looking for sunken treasure, and avoiding some nasty pirates. And he does it all with the help of his trusty sidekick Snowy.

The Amazing Spider-Man, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 

While the Andrew Garfield version of New York’s favorite superhero might not be the favorite of the comic book film adaptations, these movies are still action-packed fun for the whole family.

Casper 

This modern take on a classic cartoon character spins the story of an afterlife therapist and his daughter becoming friends with a friendly spirit after they move into a crumbling mansion.

Drake & Josh: Season 1-3 

In this classic Nickelodeon series, two stepbrothers learn to live together and navigate high school even though they’re very different people.

Kung Fu Panda 

Go back to where it all began for Po and his ninja master friends. Enjoy the discovery of the dragon warrior all over again with this animated classic.

The Little Rascals 

Based on the classic “Our Gang” movie shorts from the ’20s and ’30s, Little Rascals follows the adventures of Alfalfa, Darla, Stymie, Spanky, Waldo, and more.

Megamind

This hilarious animated film about an overly smart reformed super-villain alien is back on Netflix. Starring the voice talents of Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Tina Fey, Brad Pitt, and many more, this is a perfect choice for family movie night.

Oct. 2

Strawberry Shortcake and the Beast of Berry Bog

In an all-new special, the Berry Scary Fright Night Carnival has arrived in Big Apple City and Strawberry Shortcake must solve the mystery of who is trying to spoil the fun.

Oct. 10

Blippi’s Big Dino Adventure

If you didn’t catch Blippi’s feature film debut this summer, here’s your chance. In this 60-minute length film, Blippi and Meekah set out on their biggest and best dinosaur adventure yet. They’ll meet up with friends like Park Ranger Asher and help to find some missing dino eggs before they hatch.

Oct. 12

LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising: Season 1: Part 2

The key to stopping the MergeQuakes from reaching their tipping point lies in the Dragon Cores. Can the Ninja find all three before it’s too late?

Oct. 13

Spy Kids, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams, Spy Kids 3: Game Over

Now that you’ve seen the remake, how about going back to the beginning with the original trilogy? Follow Juni and Carmen as they follow in their super spy parents’ footsteps and help save the world with the help of some super cool spy gear.

Oct. 16

Oggy Oggy: Season 3 

Kind and curious kitty Oggy Oggy wants to spread joy to all his friends and neighbors. But sometimes, he gets into playful mischief instead. Miaow!

Oct. 17

I Woke Up A Vampire 

On her 13th birthday, Carmie discovers that she’s half vampire—and she must learn to navigate middle school while learning to control mythical powers like strength, super speed, and power blast. A fun new TV show for tweens.

Oct. 23

Princess Power: Season 2 

When there’s trouble in the Fruitdoms, these princess pals join forces to help each other—because sometimes problems are too big for just one princess!

Oct. 24

Minions

Gru’s sidekicks get their own feature-length film with this spin-off of the Despicable Me franchise. Find out where the minions came from and why they are obsessed with bananas.

Oct. 25

Life on Our Planet

Life as we know it has fought an epic battle to conquer and survive on Planet Earth. There are 20 million species on our planet in 2023, but that number is just a snapshot in time—99% of Earth’s inhabitants are lost to our deep past. The story of what happened to these dynasties—their rise and their fall–is truly remarkable.

Related: New, Original Family Movies You’ll Only Find on Netflix, Disney+ & Apple TV in 2023

Kids’ Titles Leaving Netflix in October

A League of Their Own

Jumanji

Nanny McPhee

Mr. Peabody & Sherman

Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie

 

 

Forget Frozen. Try something from our list instead

When it comes to picking an all-around crowd-pleaser for family movie night, the struggle is real. After all, finding a foolproof family friendly flick that’ll entertain kids and parents alike is often like a Goldilocks dilemma: Choosing the perfect film that’s not too infantile, not too mature, but just right for all audiences. From animated gems to reimagined classics, check out our picks of 16 movies for kids and parents. 

Cruella (2021)

For a younger generation that has grown up watching Descendants, it’s not difficult for them to reimagine classic Disney villains with streaks of humanity that are deeper and more colorful than their backstories. For grownups accustomed to seeing the world in black and white, it can be harder for us to root for the bad guys. That said, as villain origin stories go, Emma Stone’s portrayal of Cruella de Vil is a masterclass in flamboyance, pathos, and originality, and this daring and complex live-action retelling of the Disney animated classic will leave the entire family wanting more Cruella.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

For many parents and grandparents, watching the 1971 movie adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, starring Gene Wilder and retitled Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, will elicit pangs of nostalgia. However, movie auteur Tim Burton’s polarizing 2005 remake is less sentimental, truer to the source material’s surrealistic conceit, and arguably better than its predecessor. Johnny Depp’s loopy performance as Willy Wonka is, in equal measures, sinister and sincere, and the candy-coated set and yummy costume designs are a visual feast to behold.

Enchanted (2007)

When it comes to various tropes about princesses and damsels in distress, the original Walt Disney Studios undoubtedly can be credited with (or blamed for) creating virtually all of them. But that doesn’t mean modern-day Disney also can’t subvert the unrealistic, happily-ever-after vibes that they established back in the day, either. Enchanted’s smart and self-referential take on fairy tales will delight wide-eyed kids as well as the most-jaded parent who might doubt that true happy endings are still possible.

Related: 100 Movies Your Kids MUST See Before They Grow Up

Annie (2014)

© Sony Pictures Entertainment

 

While there have been plenty of cinematic and television retellings of the “Little Orphan Annie” story, the 2014 remake starring Quvenzhané Wallis in the title role breathes new life into this oldie but goodie by bringing the American musical classic into the social media age. The star-studded cast features Jamie Foxx as tech entrepreneur Will Stacks (a modern-day interpretation of Daddy Warbucks), Cameron Diaz as a cranky-but-lovable Miss Hannigan, and celebrity cameos from Sia, Rihanna, and Ashton Kutcher, among many others. Mixing songs from the original Annie songbook with contemporary tunes will have kids and parents singing and bopping along.

Harry Potter Movie Series (2001–2011)

Few movie franchises have created a world of such adventure, depth, and complexity as the Harry Potter movie series. JK Rowling’s fantastical literary vision of a wizarding world has captured the attention and hearts of millions of children and adults worldwide, and every one of the movie adaptations of the beloved books is as engaging and intriguing as the next. 

Freaky Friday (2003)

There’s nothing freaky about this most recent remake of the 1976 Disney classic movie. Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis rock as daughter and mother who switch bodies and come to realize that their respective lives aren’t always as easy as they might seem to the other. Kids will sympathize with Curtis as Lohan’s knock-out performance as a petulant-yet-precocious child trapped in an adult body, while adults will resent (but understand) having our aged looks compared to the crypt keeper.

Elf (2003)

SNL-alum Will Ferrell has seemingly cornered the market on joyously hilarious giant man-child roles, and his turn as Buddy the Elf is no exception. At turns charming and ridiculous, Elf is a new holiday classic that’s fun to watch year-round for anyone who still believes in the magic of Christmas—no matter how old (or tall) they are.

The Princess Bride (1987)

"The Princess Bride" is a classic movie for kids and parents.
© Disney Plus

 

Years before Shrek came along, The Princess Bride was the original family friendly movie about a beautiful maiden kidnapped by an evil king who desires to marry her. Set as a story within a story, Gen X and elder Millennial parents have long swooned over this enduring fairy tale classic, which hits all of the right notes of comedy, romance, adventure, and satire. Featuring a pitch-perfect cast of good guys and bad guys as well as a luminous Robin Wright as the titular princess, The Princess Bride offers fun entertainment for little ones and plenty of quotable lines for adults. Inconceivable!

School of Rock (2003)

Actor-musician Jack Black was no slacker when it came to nailing his tailor-made performance as a down-on-his-luck musician who picks up a side gig as a substitute teacher at an uptight elementary school to help pay off personal debt. School of Rock’s mix of precocious kids and social satire makes this a fun movie for kids and parents. 

Animated Movies for Kids and Parents

Moana (2016)

"Moana" is a great movie for kids and parents
© Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

 

Aside from Frozen, which every parent has probably watched at least a bajillion times with their little ones, Moana is quite possibly the most sing-along-able Disney movie of all time. Thanks in large part to music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, and transcendent performances by Auli’i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, Moana pulls at heartstrings while also tickling funny bones.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Director Hayao Miyazaki’s anime masterpiece is both magical and melancholy, and for many viewers, serves as the gateway to other terrific Studio Ghibli animated films like Spirited Away and Kiki’s Delivery Service. The subtleties and details of My Neighbor Totoro are acquired only through multiple viewings, preferably without the kids.

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

Best-known for helming quirky and beautifully composed cult films like The Royal Tenenbaums and The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou, writer-director Wes Anderson’s first foray into animation resulted in the quirky and beautifully composed stop-motion animated movie Fantastic Mr. Fox. Based on the beloved and similarly titled Roald Dahl book, and featuring an all-star cast led by George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, and Owen Wilson, this visually stunning, whimsical, and heartfelt film will elicit smiles from viewers of all ages.

© Pixar x Walt Disney Pictures

Inside Out (2015)

With so many modern classics in its stellar film catalog, it’s nearly impossible to pick just one Pixar movie for kids and parents to include on this list. Inside Out makes the cut because while it’s ostensibly a kids’ movie about a young girl’s journey to getting in touch with her feelings, the sincerity and emotional depth of the movie will resonate with adults even more.

Sing (2016)

Set in a world of singing anthropomorphic animals, one of the great joys of watching Sing is hearing your favorite pop songs as performed by some of your favorite movie stars, including Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taren Egerton, and Jennifer Hudson. And, if you haven’t seen Sing 2 yet, it’s a must-watch movie for kids and parents too! 

Paddington (2014) and Paddington 2 (2017)

Everyone loves bears, and Paddington is arguably the most beloved of them all. The two contemporary film adaptations of the 1958 children’s book, A Bear Called Paddington, combine computer-generated graphics and live action to great effect. Charming and entertaining, children will marvel at all of the adventures that a little bear can get himself into, while parents will want to take care of the little bear themselves.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

The Spider-Man character is a lot like the Energizer Bunny: Sequels, prequels, and reboots just keep going and going and going. While Spider-Man fatigue could have easily set in with so many Spidey options, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse surprised audiences by being an animated movie that kids and adults thoroughly enjoyed. With its clever storyline, plenty of inside jokes and references, and eye-popping comic-book animation design, this Spider-Man lived up to its well-deserved hype.

Related: The Best Family Movies Streaming Right Now

Struggling with costume inspiration this year? Spirit Halloween to the rescue! The retailer just dropped 2021 costume trends that are wickedly good for both trick or treating and adult work parties.

Get the whole crew in on the fun with the Creepy Families theme, featuring broods from popular franchises. Spirit forecasts that Beetlejuice, Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Pocus, Corpse Bride and the Addams Family will be on trend this season.

Speaking of throwback entertainment, the ’90s are coming in hot! Specifically the shows of your childhood, like Teletubbies, Space Jam, Care Bears and Killer Klowns from Outer Space. It might be tricky to suit up in a full-blown Teletubby costume, but you might also win the night at your office party. Worth it?

But if there’s one thing the whole family can agree on, it’s that snacks are life. Why not put the “treat” in trick or treating? Spirit suggests searching out the Cheetos Flamin’ Hot costume, or you could dress up as an avocado, pickle, banana, PB&J or milk and cookies!

You can find all these looks online (or in store) at Spirit Halloween, the largest Halloween specialty retailer in the country. There are more than 1,425 locations nationwide and more opening every spooky season. The countdown is on to October 31!

—Sarah Shebek

Feature image courtesy of Spirit Halloween

 

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Need some breakfast inspo? We’ve got you covered, for cereal.

General Mills just announced two limited-edition cereals and four new permanent offerings, featuring one of your favorite ’90s movies, a dance icon and another twist on Lucky Charms.

Snag the limited edition Space Jam: A New Legacy cereal from shelves starting May 31. It combines berry flavored puffs with bunny and basketball marshmallows and retails for $2.50. Team Cheerios: Frosted Berry celebrates the upcoming Olympics and also won’t last long. Combining frosted, blueberry and strawberry Cheerios for a taste explosion, you can buy this one for $3.99 starting today.

If you miss out on these, you’ll have plenty more to choose from! Now you can have your favorite kids’ cereals in instant oatmeal form: Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs, and Trix. They’ll be available exclusively at Wal-Mart in June in June and expand to other stores after, retailing at $2.48.

TikTok star Jojo Siwa has her own new breakfast offering, Strawberry Bop cereal. Think strawberry flavored puffs and Jojo-themed marshmallows! It’s available permanently starting in June for $3.99.  Nature Valley just launched the granola form of their popular Sweet & Salty bars, in Dark Chocolate Pretzel Peanut and Salted Caramel Cashew. Grab each for $4.49 starting in mid June.

––Sarah Shebek

Images courtesy of General Mills

 

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As theaters slowly continue to reopen, studios are starting to release movies they’ve pushed back over the past year. That’s great news for fans of family movies because there are tons of awesome flicks to look forward to this summer and beyond. Plus, even if you’re not ready to go to a theater yet, there are also plenty of new movies to choose from on streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Keep reading to find out what’s in store for the rest of 2021.

Cruella

Instagram

What makes one of Disney’s most infamous villains just so villainous? And what’s with her obsession with dalmatians? Find out in Cruella, the origin story of Cruella de Vil, which is based in 1970’s London and features Emma Stone as the title character.

Directed by: Alex Timbers and Craig Gillespie
Starring: Emma Stone, Joel Fry, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Paul Walter Hauser, Emma Thompson
Studio: Disney
Opening on: May 28, 2021

Spirit Untamed

Cartoon Brew

Horse lovers, take note! This movie follows a city slicker who moves to a small frontier town and befriends a wild mustang named Spirit.

Directed by: Elaine Bogan and Ennio Torresan
Starring: Mckenna Grace, Eiza González, Jake Gyllenhaal
Studio: DreamWorks
Opening on: June 4, 2021

Wish Dragon

Rotoscopers

Friendly dragons are having a moment, and we’re not mad about it! This movie follows Din, a college student who’s desperate to reconnect with his childhood best friend with help from a wish-granting dragon.

Directed by: Chris Appelhans
Starring: John Cho, Jimmy Wong, Constance Wu, Jimmy O. Yang
Studio: Netflix/Sony
Opening on: June 11, 2021

Luca

Common Sense Media

Follow along as an unusual friendship develops along the Italian Riviera between a local human and a sea monster in this new original movie from Pixar.

Directed by: Enrico Casarosa
Starring: John Ratzenberger, Drake Bell
Studio: Disney Pixar
Opening on: June 18, 2021

Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway

Common Sense Media

Everyone’s favorite talking rabbit will find himself in new surroundings in this sequel, having left the farm for the big city. You can bet the beloved rabbit will be knee-deep in mischief and will find some pretty hilarious ways to get out of trouble. The movie is currently slated to open in theaters, but given the uncertainty of Covid restrictions this, as well as the release date, can change.

Directed by: Will Gluck
Starring: James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, David Oyelowo, Elizabeth Debicki
Studio: Sony Pictures Entertainment
Opening on: June 18, 2021

Space Jam: A New Legacy

Wikipedia

LeBron James and Bugs Bunny star in this long-awaited sequel which puts LeBron and Company up against an evil A.I. basketball team. In order to get back home, they must win the game.  

Directed by: Malcolm D. Lee
Starring: LeBron James, Don Cheadle
Studio: Warner Bros
Opening on: July 16, 2021, with a simultaneous release on HBO Max

Cinderella

Common Sense Media

This reimagining of the fairytale features Camila Cabello as Cinderella, Billy Porter as her genderless fairy Godmother, and Idina Menzel as the stepmother. With musical powerhouses like that, it’s sure to be a fantastic live-action version of the classic. Plus, James Corden is producing and starring as one of the famed mice, along with John Mulaney. Music, laughs and magic? Sign us up.

Directed by: Kay Cannon
Starring: Camila Cabello, Billy Porter, Idina Menzel
Studio: Sony Pictures
Opening on: July 16, 2021

Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans

Executive producer Guillermo del Toro brings this popular trilogy to a close with Rise of the Titans. The heroes are back for another epic adventure in Arcadia. Your favorite characters are reunited on a quest to control the magic that connects them. 

Directed by: Johane Matte, Francisco Ruiz-Velasco, Andrew L. Schmidt
Starring: Nick Frost, Nick Offerman, Diego Luna, Steven Yeun, Kelsey Grammer, Charlie Saxton
Studio: Netflix
Opening on: July 21, 2021

Hotel Transylvania: Transformania

iStock

We can safely say this fourth installment makes Dracula and fam an official franchise. Expect more “bleh bleh bleh,” but specifics for the plot aren’t being released just yet. But really, who doesn’t know what to expect from these fun films by now?

Directed by: Derek Drymon, Jennifer Kluska
Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez
Studio: Sony Pictures
Opening on: July 23, 2021

Jungle Cruise

Disney

This long-awaited movie, which was originally pushed back because of the pandemic, will be released in theaters this summer Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt will take fans on quite the adventure down the Amazon in this movie based on Disneyland’s ride. In an alternate move, Disney is so far only releasing this one in theaters and not on Disney +.

Director: Jaume Collet-Serra
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Édgar Ramírez, Jack Whitehall, Jesse Plemons, Paul Giamatti
Studio: Disney
Opening on: July 30, 2021

Paw Patrol: The Movie

kids shows on youtube

It was only a matter of time before everyone’s favorite furry pals got their own movie. Kids can follow Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Zuma, Everest and Tracker as they head out on a major rescue mission.

Directed by: Cal Brunker
Starring: Dax Shepard, Iain Armitage, Tyler Perry
Studio: Paramount
Opening on: August 20, 2021

The Boss Baby: Family Business

IMDB

The sequel to the Oscar-nominated blockbuster Boss Baby brings the Templeton brothers back together and on a mission to start a family business (with some direction from a new boss baby).

Directed by: Tom McGrath
Starring: Amy Sedaris, James Marsden, Jeff Goldblum, Alec Baldwin
Studio: Dreamworks
Opening on: September 17, 2021

The Addams Family 2

IMDB

Featuring an all-star cast headed up by Charlize Theron and Oscar Isaac, this sequel to the popular 2019 animated film follows everyone’s favorite spooky family as they encounter more crazy adventures.

Directed by: Greg Tiernan, Conrad Vernon
Starring: Charlize Theron, Oscar Isaac, Chloë Grace Moretz
Studio: Universal Pictures
Opening on: October 1, 2021

Ron’s Gone Wrong

Locksmith Animation

This sci-fi story takes a look at friendship in the social media age. Follow awkward middle schooler Barney and his new best friend: a walking, talking, digitally connected device named Ron.

Directed by: Sarah Smith and Jean-Philippe Vine
Starring: To be announced
Studio: Twentieth Century Studios
Opening on: October 2021

Clifford the Big Red Dog

IMDB

Clifford gets a live-action computer-animated makeover in this new film that follows a young girl and her giant puppy.

Directed by: Walt Becker
Starring: Darby Camp, Sienna Guillory, Rosie Perez
Studio: Paramount
Opening on: November 5, 2021

Encanto

Common Sense Media

This film follows a magical family in Colombia where one daughter doesn’t have any magical powers like the rest of her family. With songwriting brilliance from Lin-Manuel Miranda, we’re sure this movie will boast quite a few songs to remember.

Directed by: Jared Bush
Starring: Stephanie Beatriz
Studio: Disney
Opening on: November 24, 2021

Sing 2

IMDB

This sequel to the toe-tapping 2016 film follows Buster Moon and his friends as they try to persuade a reclusive rock star to join them for the opening of a new show. We're betting that this one will have an amazing soundtrack!

Directed by: Garth Jennings, Christophe Lourdelet
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Selena Gomez, Shawn Mendes, John C. Reilly, Idina Menzel, Reese Witherspoon, Nick Kroll, Scarlett Johansson
Studio: Illumination
Opening on: December 22, 2021

Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Adventure

iStock

This animated feature from Netflix will tell the story of the 1969 moon landing from two very different points of view.

Directed by: Richard Linklater
Starring: Zachary Levi, Jack Black, Glen Powell, Josh Wiggins, Samuel Davis
Studio: Netflix
Opening on: 2021

Vivo

IMDB

Vivo is an animated musical adventure featuring songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and tells the story of music and friendship. Specific plot points are being kept under wraps, but expect dazzling locales not seen before in animated film.  

Directed by: Kirk DeMicco
Starring: To be announced
Studio: Sony Pictures
Opening on: 2021

— Jesseca Stenson

 

Featured image: iStock

 

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The Looney Tunes characters your littles love, LeBron James and a host of other NBA stars will light up the small and big screen this summer in the newest Space Jam flick. Whether you’re all-in for the nostalgia of the Space Jam sequel or you can’t wait to share the animated basketball adventure with them, now you can extend the fun of Space Jam: A New Legacy with two family-friendly board games.

Hasbro recently announced the release of Monopoly: Space Jam: A New Legacy Edition and Connect 4 Shots: Space Jam: A New Legacy Edition game. Inspired by the soon-to-be hit movie, each game is themed after the 2021 film’s characters and story-line.

The new Monopoly edition (for ages eight and up) is packed with Space Jam artwork, cards, and more. The A New Legacy-based game also includes a plastic basketball hoop and launcher that fit onto the game board. Players can launch balls and sink baskets to earn points. Look for the game (suggested retail price of $24.99) at retailers nationwide, including Target.

Along with the new Monopoly edition, Hasbro will also debut a Space Jam: A New Legacy Connect 4 Shots game (for ages eight and up). This fun-filled pick pits the Tunes vs. the Goons, with players battling it out to line up four in a row. You can also find this new Connect 4 game ($19.99) at retailers nationwide and Target.

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Hasbro

 

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HBO Max recently dropped the trailer for Space Jam: A New Legacy and it’s more than just a nostalgia-packed sequel. Like the 1996 original, which featured Michael Jordan, A New Legacy’s central human character is one of the top current NBA stars.

By now fans of the franchise already know that the new Space Jam flick stars none other than LeBron James. If you haven’t really thought much about Space Jam for the past few decades or you’re not completely into the NBA, the new trailer will take you back to ’96—but in a whole new way.

Of course, a super-star celeb NBA player isn’t the only similarity between the original Space Jam and its highly anticipated sequel. Along with James, the new big screen adventure also stars Looney Tunes faves.

Space Jam: A New Legacy features the voices of Zendaya (Lola Bunny), Jim Cummings (Tazmanian Devil), Jeff Bergman (Bugs Bunny), Gabriel Iglesias (Speedy Gonzales) and Eric Bauza (Daffy Duck). Sonequa Martin-Green, Cedric Joe and Don Cheadle head the cast of human characters—obviously, along with James.

Fans will also get to glimpse plenty of NBA and WNBA stars in cameo roles. These include Klay Thompson, Damian Lillard, Chris Paul, Anthony Davis, Kyle Kuzma, Draymond Green, Chiney Ogwumike, Nneka Ogwumike and Diana Taurasi.

Look for Space Jam: A New Legacy in theaters and on HBO Max starting Jul. 18.

—Erica Loop

Feature photo: HBO Max via YouTube

 

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Warner Bros. Pictures’ Space Jam: A New Legacy hits theaters this summer—but fans won’t have to wait to get in on the Looney Tunes fun. Moose Toys recently announced the launch of a new line of Space Jam products.

The toys will feature fave characters, such as Bugs Bunny, Lola Bunny, Marvin the Martian and Tazmanian Devil, along with figurines featuring their human co-star, LeBron James.

Ronnie Frankowski, chief marketing officer, Moose Toys shared in a press release, “To put our excitement about this partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products into basketball terms, it’s like shooting a nothing-but-net-three-point-buzzer-beater to win the game.”

Frankowski added, “Working closely with Warner Bros., every attention to detail was paid to make sure our toys bring that big screen action into the hands of the fans. Our toys deliver awesome replicas of the stars of the movie, along with fresh new ways to play. We cannot wait for fans to bring their favorite characters home.”

The new line of Space Jam: A New Legacy toys includes figures, plushes, collectibles, play sets and more. Score one (or all) of the toys in retailers across the nation, starting Apr. 18, 2021.

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Moose Toys

 

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