Kid-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. Here’s a hand-picked roster of family movies that keep the kiddos engaged and keep you parents sane. Journey downward to find hidden gems, fresh releases, and classics your whole crew will enjoy.
Age Guide: (3+) = relaxed and peaceful | (7+) = adventurous and clean | (10+) = pushing boundaries and minor scares
Updated Mar. 27, 2026
Your trusted hub for expert, vibe-driven family movie recommendations. Every pick is curated with age-readiness, tone, mood, and family dynamics in mind—helping parents find movies that genuinely fit the night, not just the genre.
The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958) (6+)
That sound. Where do I know that sound? Let me help you. It’s Star Wars. The cyclops in The 7th Voyage of Sinbad makes the same sound as the alarm in Star Wars. There’s a reason George Lucas paid tribute (unofficially) to this classic. It’s everything Star Wars wants to be: A hero goes on an epic fantasy quest to save a princess — but done with so much style and creativity, it becomes iconic. And the film features Ray Harryhausen’s incredible stop-motion creatures, which should be all you need to know.
A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) (10+)
Few movies walk the line between good and evil like A.I. Artificial Intelligence. It’s an optimistic yet cynical story about a robot boy who seeks love and belonging. It’s based on a short story first developed by the cynical Stanley Kubrick and brought to theaters by the optimistic Steven Spielberg. From the boy’s perspective, humans seem cruel. But in their reality (and ours) he’s perceived as a tool, like a phone or Roomba, so you understand their position. I don’t feel compassion for my Roomba — especially since you always seem to miss that clump of hair under the sink, Clyde! A.I. Artificial Intelligence is a bit much for young kids with some sexual innuendo and intense moments of violence against robots, especially since your kids will likely gain empathy with the boy. Sigh. I never should have let my kids name the Roomba.
A Cat in Paris (2010) (6+)
Cats are mysterious creatures. Like, where do they go at night? In A Cat in Paris, we find out. The titular cat joins a neighborhood cat burglar to, well, burgle. But being the complex, furry creature it is, the cat also spends the days nuzzling a girl who hasn’t spoken since her father died. This tight but light thriller takes you through a delightfully animated version of Paris as the girl gets mixed up in the burgling. The story is Hitchcockian. The hand-drawn animation is artsy but fun. The jazz soundtrack is…jazzy. The good kind of jazzy, not the your mom doing jazz hands while picking out colorful sheets at Mervyns in 1989 kind of jazzy.
A Little Princess (1995) (5+)
We all possess the power to make our own lives magical. How do we do it? By using our individual — sometimes meager — bits of skill and knowledge to empower others. That’s the heart of A Little Princess. It’s about a girl who uses her high station in life to benefit herself and her friends. And when she loses that station, we see her true power. The girl’s innate, infectious drive makes magic in the story and on screen. The wonderful acting of Liesel Matthews is front and center — and she holds your attention. Director Alfonso Cuarón and his crew surround her with enchanting sets and creatively conjured costumes. Yes, that’s the Academy Award-nominated Cuarón before his Roma and Y Tu Mamá También days. But you see the pedigree here. No surprise this film earned two Academy nominations and, more impressively, made my Top 95 Best Family Films list at /Film.
A Night at the Opera (1935) (5+)
A Night at the Opera may be the Marx Brothers’ funniest film. Groucho fires out one-liners like a machine gun. The gags hit again and again. Your kids aren’t in to black and white? Casually sit down to watch this movie in their presence. Your laughs will draw them over. Before long, they’ll have forgotten it lacks color as they giggle away. A Night at the Opera is a couple of bucks to rent — about a nickel per laugh.
A Town Called Panic (2009) (5+)
A Town Called Panic commits to nonsense with total confidence. The stop-motion figures look like toys that wandered off mid-playtime, the story escalates without waiting for you to catch up, and every joke feels like it’s a beat too early. But on purpose. Stop trying to track logic. Enjoy the lawlessness. Let yourself laugh at its free-wheeling, odd-ball, handmade style.
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) (6+)
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein is one of those “monster movies” that sounds scary until you actually watch it. The Universal creatures do their usual creeping and growling, but Lou Costello panics so hard and so fast that every scare turns into a punchline. Kids figure out almost immediately that the monsters are part of the joke, not the nightmare. It’s a perfect intro-to-classic-creatures comedy that hits the sweet spot between spooky and silly.
Abominable (2019) (5+)
You find a giant, anxious yeti crouched on your apartment roof, and because life is apparently a series of escalating side quests, you’re now responsible for smuggling him across China. You know — the classic story of accidentally adopting a mythical creature and immediately becoming its full-time travel agent. Abominable throws its main character Yi (and you, basically) into a string of big, ridiculous sequences that work because the movie is an exercise of goofiness grounded with authentic characters. DreamWorks originally set out to make a film that would cash in on growing Chinese audiences. Usually that’s a disaster. But Abominable strings together enough fun moments that it clicks. Like the Yeti, the film is an offbeat and sweet discovery hiding in plain sight.
The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988) (8+)
Real actors. Real sets. (Mostly) real effects. The Adventures of Baron Munchausen feels and looks like a cartoon come to life. Director Terry Gilliam probably wishes he could just animate this classic. He had problems with shoot locations, extras, and even horses. The behind-the-scenes chaos is now infamous. On screen, we’re presented with a surreal but surprisingly coherent and witty fantasy classic. Gilliam excels at bringing make-believe to life. Baron Munchausen is one of his most make-believey. His inventiveness and creativity keep you locked in. But there are still those stunning, triumphant moments that will send your glass soaring with a cheer.
The Adventures of Milo & Otis (1986) (3+)
Dogs and cats living together? Yes, The Adventures of Milo and Otis will cause mass hysteria in your house. These cute and fuzzy friends will take your young ones on an adventure that’s never too dangerous. But it’s a taste of what it’s like to enjoy getting lost in the world around us. It’s cute and fun and will be a total hit on family film night — even for some older kids.
April and the Extraordinary World (2015) (6+)
April and the Extraordinary World is set in a steampunk-lite world where science is treasured above nature. Its exquisite 2D style anchors you to the world when the fantastic takes off — and it soars. April is trying to solve the disappearance of her parents while navigating the unexpected wonders of this reimagined world. It’s full of funny moments and creative twists.
Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood (2022) (8+)
Richard Linklater has a knack for etching out a moment in time. Apollo 10½ recreates an era when space exploration had a prominent place in classrooms, television, and hallway conversations. Linklater tells the story through his remembered perspective on how the space race impacted his everyday life. While the tone is mostly mild, there are a couple of brief moments of violence.
Apollo 11 (2019) (6+)
Built entirely from restored archival footage, this documentary relies on original mission audio, tracking shots, and on-screen instrumentation instead of narration. It gives you a peek into the technical wizardry present during the launch sequence and stage separation in orbit. You feel an emotional swell as Neil Armstrong steps on the Moon for the first time. Apollo 11 is a strong pick for kids curious about the work behind the 953,000-mile mission there and back.
Apollo 13 (1995) (8+)
This Oscar-winning true-story space thriller shows us what calm under pressure is like. It’s a meticulous reenactment of the failed Apollo 13 mission to the Moon and the in-orbit problem-solving that brought three astronauts back to Earth as the entire world watched. While the crew never lands, the movie does land thanks to incredibly detailed sets, fantastic acting, and a tense climax that pays off even though you know what happens.
Arco (2025) (6+)
This is a beautiful, future-set sci-fi story that leans into its visuals for impact. Arco imagines a world shaped by weekly once-in-a-lifetime storms, where advanced technology keeps families safe while also keeping them apart. The animation is lush, blending 2D, 3D, and rotoscope to show off the inventive world. It’s the kind of movie where the on-screen imagery holds your attention while its eco-disaster and coming-of-age themes linger after you leave the theater.
The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman (1974) (8+)
If you want a powerful depiction of the Black American experience from slavery through the Civil Rights Movement, you can’t do better than The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. It shows Miss Jane’s difficult but rewarding journey from childhood through adulthood at a time of tragically slow transition in this country. The story is slow at times — and two hours pushes attention limits — but The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman has enough eye-opening scenes that the greater themes will likely linger with your child for a long time. It did with me.
Bad Guys 2 (2025) (5+)
Sam Rockwell is one of those rare actors who effortlessly commands attention, no matter the role, from his portrayal of George Dubya Bush in Vice to his unforgettable character in Galaxy Quest. However, it’s his role as Wolf in The Bad Guys franchise that might just be his defining performance. Rockwell completely owns the character, his larger-than-life personality drives the story and gives depth to the otherwise eccentric world around him. The Bad Guys 2 manages to stay grounded amid its zany twists, with its clever adherence to established rules that make outrageous moments work. While the movie isn’t about profound life lessons, its lighthearted approach and engaging plot make it a great choice for a family film night — fun, a little silly, and just the right amount of complexity to keep both kids and adults entertained. Read the review.
Bebe’s Kids (1992) (10+)
Bebe’s Kids was the first full-length animated film to feature a predominantly black main cast and crew and is based on the comedy routine of comedian Robin Harris. When I say the crew is black, I’m talking about the Writer, Director, Lead Animator, Art Director, Editor, Casting Director, Storyboard Artist, and more. They had $10 million and were grossly understaffed, but put together a film that’s become a cult classic. Bebe’s Kids is about a guy who takes three difficult kids to a theme park to impress their mom. It’s relatable. It’s funny. It’s an example of why representation matters at all levels of filmmaking.
Belfast (2021) (10+)
Where to watch
Belfast captures childhood the way you experienced it. Small moments feel enormous at the time, sticking with you years later. Director Kenneth Branagh shoots his own upbringing in luminous black and white. The sharp photography turns family dinners, school crushes, and neighborhood scraps into moments that feel bigger than the everyday occurrences they are. The story follows a boy trying to understand a changing world while the adults around him wrestle with hard choices. It’s funny, tender, and a reminder that even in difficult times, a strong family can make an ordinary kid feel like the center of the universe.
Big Hero 6 (2014) (5+)
Science is an outlet for grief pursued by the heroes and villains of Big Hero 6. The characters have to decide which path they’ll pursue. The inventions made by the aptly named Hiro feel playful and practical at the same time. The robot Baymax slowly moves through the world, spreading warmth and keeping Hiro on the path of good. You’ll feel joy, redemption, and your limbic system will tag the film as hilarious.
The Black Stallion (1979) (6+)
In the wake of Star Wars, America fell into a trance with a movie unlike anything being made in that era. The Black Stallion doesn’t rely on space magic to hold you. Its gravity is in its emotional imagery. The film is about a boy who loses his father and becomes trapped on an island with a wild horse. Together, they survive and return to the real world where the boy teaches the horse to race. The camera missing nothing — it captures the exotic beauty of the island, the heart-pounding thud of each hoof during extended riding scenes, and the growing bond between the horse and the boy. Natural light paints the screen. Some shots are almost dreamlike in their quality. The pace, the intensity, and the joy would all be wiped out with motion smoothing.
The Boy and the Beast (2015) (9+)
The characters and plot of The Boy and the Beast are simple. They won’t stun you. The hand-drawn world with touches of CGI will stun you. The film takes its main character (and you) into a fantasy realm that feels ripped from a Studio Ghibli film. It’s gorgeous and bustling with creativity. If your child craves action, don’t worry, you’ll find some incredible set pieces here surrounded by comical moments.
Boy & the World (2014) (5+)
Simple designs often tell the best stories. They have to if they want to keep your attention. In Boy and the World, the character designs are simple but they’re extremely effective in making you care. The story is about a child who runs away — is actually almost swept away — after his father is forced to leave home. It’s a coming-of-age journey that brings us full circle back to his home and his roots. There’s almost no dialogue but you won’t miss it thanks to the incredible art design that utilizes crayons, colored pencils, paint, and collage. Watch and you’ll understand why this Brazilian-made film earned an Academy Award nomination.
The Breadwinner (2017) (9+)
The Breadwinner will lead to questions. Good questions. Tough questions. The kind you want to handle in-house. The film is about a girl in Afghanistan growing up under Taliban rule in 2011. She chops off her hair to support her family, working as a boy. Her new freedom opens her eyes to the horror around her — and does it in an unflinching and refreshingly honest manner. Despite the heavy content, The Breadwinner remains entertaining because the art is gorgeous and the tone is optimistic. Yes, there is violence. There’s also heart and soul.
The ‘Burbs (1989) (7+)
Incredible performances, led by Tom Hanks, help The ‘Burbs transcend the bad neighbors trope. It’s great for young audiences because Hanks and company regress to their younger selves, acting and playing like kids who see something they shouldn’t have. There is a mention of a mass murder, human bones, and a few classic horror scenes on a TV, but otherwise The ‘Burbs is a safe bet for family film nights. In fact, don’t be surprised to hear more laughs than screams from your young ones.
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022) (6+)
The filmmakers behind Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers know your kids aren’t watching alone. They deliver a smart mystery that surprises you with sharp and funny riffs on nostalgia and fame. The mixed animation styles reflect different eras of show business — and attempts to alter that reflection make for some insightful Hollywood satire. Kids get to enjoy a funny cartoon ride while adults laugh at the familiarity of mid-life panic.
Coco (2017) (5+)
I never celebrated Día de Muertos. Coco made me want to. The Pixar classic makes you believe in the afterlife – or at least the kind of afterlife transition represented on screen. This beautifully animated, beautifully scored, beautifully written movie will tug at your dad strings, making you understand why it’s important to celebrate those we lost. Keep a tissue close by – for the kids, of course! Sip an appropriately stiff drink. Celebrate the season. Remember those you lost. Help your kiddos understand they’re not gone and we won’t forget them.
Crater (2023) (5+)
Despite a little too much Disney polish and too many coming-of-age tropes, this quickly forgotten gem from 2023 plants your feet on the Moon and sends you off on a path of discovery. It’s set 200 years in the future at a dystopian moon colony. After a boy loses his second parent (Disney strikes again!), he’s being shipped off to a utopia he doesn’t feel he’s earned. His friends rally for one last adventure. The science doesn’t always make sense, but it’s an imaginative look at what’s possible once humans settle the Moon.
The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie (2025) (6+)
The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie is bonkers, as expected. You get a full dose of Porky Pig and Daffy Duck. But the wackiness doesn’t stop there. Directed by Peter Browngardt, who brought us Uncle Grandpa, the film channels the unpredictable, off-the-wall energy of the Bob Clampett-era Looney Tunes. The animation is beautiful, reflecting the same vibrant style that defined the golden age of the series. The comedy is fresh, with laugh-out-loud moments. This is a movie that lets loose, embracing all the madness and humor we’ve come to love from Looney Tunes. Read the review.
Dog Man (2025) (6+)
I didn’t expect Dog Man, a movie about the goofy, almost nonsensical book my kids read, to entertain me this much. Dog Man is silly, absurd, wacky, and may have you wiping away a tear at the end. There are emotional moments peppered throughout about loss and loneliness because, apparently, losing your head and your body is traumatic. In the end, characters are forced to make decisions about who they are. Everything changes. Kids learn a good lesson about how bad choices don’t define them. Read the review.
Family Pack (2024) (6+) (subtitles)
Family Pack is a rare werewolf-friendly film for families, mixing light horror with themes of transformation and regret. Based on the tabletop game Werewolves of Millers Hollow, the story follows a family who are transported to a medieval village plagued by werewolves. They must learn how to work together to overcome the creatures and strengthen their bond. The film has its share of fish-out-of-water moments, balanced by clever dialogue and humor that makes it fun for both kids and adults. While the werewolves won’t win any SFX awards, they provide a few jump scares, and the film’s mature themes are handled tastefully. Just be aware — it’s in French, so either prepare for subtitles or switch to the English dub. Read the review.
Flight of the Navigator (1986) (6+)
Alien abduction is always a hit with the kids. The kidnap beam. The restraining slime. The probing finger. Eh, on second thought, maybe not. The good news, Flight of the Navigator features none of those things. It does feature time travel, non-threatening aliens, and a Pee-wee Herman-voiced robot. Flight of the Navigator is a cult favorite with sci-fi fans not just because of the spacey vibes. It features some of the earliest CGI effects in film and is one of the first Hollywood films to feature an entirely electronic score. So — beam the kids to the couch, restrain them with treats, and probe their senses with this ‘80s classic.
Flow (2024) (5+)
There are no words for Flow. Literally no words. The movie conveys its meanings through emotive animals and shifting environments — not dialogue. If you let yourself go with the flow, you’ll be swept away on an exciting, surprising journey that explores the importance of friendships when experiencing and recovering from trauma. Don’t worry; you won’t drown in the messaging. Read the review.
Flushed Away (2006) (5+)
It’s hard to tell what comes at you faster — the jokes or the action. The pace barely lets up, and at times it’s a little overwhelming, but the sharp voice work keeps everything grounded, landing lines that slyly poke at class division. Kids will latch onto the nonstop gags. Adults will appreciate the quick, cutting banter. And the soundtrack feels like a jukebox stuffed with quarters, jumping tracks recklessly, yet confidently landing each time.
Fly Away Home (1996) (5+)
There’s something deeply soothing about this true-ish story of a girl and her dad leading a flock of orphaned geese south for the winter. Fly Away Home is the kind of film that reminds you that people once bonded over shared purpose instead of shared Wi-Fi. The story is tender and hopeful. The cinematography is sky-wide. It sweeps you off your feet (or butt) and slows your pulse to a gliding pace.
Forbidden Planet (1956) (8+)
Literally going where no sci-fi flick has gone before. Forbidden Planet inspired Star Trek, Doctor Who, and Star Wars with its Academy Award-nominated special effects, eye-popping backgrounds, and groundbreaking electric score. Leslie Nielsen isn’t as dense as his Naked Gun character. Commander John J. Adams is the kind of guy who sips on scotch, policing the galaxy, while surveying foreign planets for forbidden fruits. You know the kind. Forbidden Planet is from the ‘50s. The misogyny at times is more a wolf whistle than a dog whistle — that unfortunately comes with the era. Despite that, there are clever sci-fi concepts and themes explored in this cinematic space that make Forbidden Planet worthy of family film night.
Frankenweenie (2012) (6+)
Frankenweenie is Tim Burton’s affectionate tribute to classic monster movies. Shot in black-and-white stop-motion, the film follows a boy who brings his beloved dog back to life with a science experiment gone wonderfully wrong. Burton fills the story with playful nods to old horror films while keeping the heart of the story focused on friendship and loyalty. It’s spooky but sweet, and one of the easiest ways to show kids how the black-and-white aesthetic can still feel electric.
The General (1926) (5+)
Despite the efforts of the Jackass cast, there is no Buster Keaton of our era. The stunts in his movies will leave your jaw agape. You’ll constantly wonder, ‘How did he pull that off?’ Roger Ebert says it best: “He seems like a modern visitor to the world of the silent clowns.” The General is Keaton’s best from his catalog of comedic masterpieces. Yes, it’s black and white. Now is the time for your kids to get over that. Sit them down. Don’t tell them you’re watching a movie. Say you’re watching a stunt performance. The story is almost secondary, anyway. When the stunts get going, they’ll want to see what Keaton does next. You will, too. This is your Trojan horse into a deep well of non-color (and non-sound) classics.
The Halloween Tree (1993) (6+)
Watching The Halloween Tree is like being transported back to the 1990s. There wasn’t much quality kids Halloween programming back then, right Mr. Boogedy? This one stands out. ABC turned a Ray Bradbury classic into this hidden gem. Your kids will learn about the history of Halloween and may get spooked out a little while you enjoy the classic Hannah Barbera animation.
Heidi (1937) (4+)
Heidi is Shirley Temple’s best film. Funny enough, it’s not her only film about helping a supposedly invalid child defy their supposed deficiencies to learn to walk. Developmental issues were common at the time and it was very Victorian to believe proper upbringing could heal the body. Heidi defied that notion with her rebellious positivity and sparkling can-do spirit. You can see why she was a depression-era star. In this adaptation of the 1880s book, the singing and dancing wunderkind is shipped off to live with her grumpy hermit grandfather and upends his lonely life in the Swiss Alps. Their bond grows — and when she’s taken away to be a rich child’s play toy, he barrels down the mountain to get her back. Even though it’s an antique of a film, Heidi isn’t boring. There’s a chandelier monkey incident, an aggressive butting goat, and even a horse-drawn sleigh chase.
Hidden Figures (2016) (7+)
Hidden Figures does and doesn’t shy away from the racism and sexism of the ‘60s. The film’s family-friendly sheen glosses over some of the harsher realities of racism and sexism at the time. And that’s what makes it a great entry point for discussing civil rights, sexism, and even the space program. Your kids will learn about a group of brilliant women who helped NASA win the space race and break down barriers here on Earth and in space. Hidden Figures also shows how those in power can lift others when they speak up (a round of applause for John Glenn, everyone).
The Hobbit (1977) (7+)
Gollum is good and evil in one slimy little package. He has Sméagol’s good heart but it’s been poisoned by the One Ring, which is fighting to get back to its master, Sauron. You know Sméagol has a good heart because the ring couldn’t fully corrupt and escape him for centuries, until that trickster Bilbo came along. But a funny thing happened. Bilbo detected Gollum’s lingering humanity and took pity on him, which benefited Middle-earth. The Hobbit — I’m talking the Rankin/Bass creation, not that abomination made in the early 2010s — features other morally ambiguous characters, such as the distrustful elves and the greedy dwarves. They disagree, but in the end come together to fight the goblin army in glorious hand-painted animation made by a team of artists who would later join Hayao Miyazaki when he started Studio Ghibli.
Hoppers (2026) (5+)
Pixar dips its toes into body-swap comedy and achieves near-classic Pixar status. Hoppers is about a girl transferring her consciousness into a robot beaver to save a pond she visited with her grandmother. Of course it works. Small stakes in the Pixar world often result in a big payoff. Most of the humor comes from the cartoonish sociology of pond life. There are rules and rivalries — even a hierarchy. Pixar sneaks in science about ecosystems and coexistence without turning Hoppers into a lecture.
How to Train a Dragon (2010) (5+)
How to Train Your Dragon is an exhilarating ride. Dragons speed you through battles as spears fly by. There’s danger at every turn. But underneath that scaly exterior, there’s something more. The story focuses on listening with empathy and choosing a different path than the one handed to you. How to Train Your Dragon is all about breaking cycles. Violence gives way to understanding. Tradition bends. A community learns how to change. That idealism stands out in today’s social climate, which is why the series and specials work so well. They show us the cost of peace and how to build a world where conflict doesn’t always lead to war.
In Your Dreams (2025) (6+)
In Your Dreams drops two siblings into a shared dreamworld where they face challenging, often bizarre obstacles to save their fracturing family. The sister struggles with her little brother, which means of course the dream world magic forces them to team up. The movie moves fast, mixes solid slapstick with sharp visual jokes, and never drags. It’s got a clear emotional core without getting mushy, and the brother is legitimately hilarious.
The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957) (6+)
There’s nothing complex here — except maybe the photography. The Incredible Shrinking Man is based on one of my favorite books, written by Richard Matheson. The story is simple. A man begins to shrink. The everyday world around him becomes terrifying. His transformation is shown through oversized sets and forced perspective shots. This makes for a fantastic Saturday afternoon popcorn-munching, couch-cuddling matinee with the kiddos.
The Kid Who Would be King (2019) (6+)
A modern take on King Arthur isn’t a new take. But The Kid Who Would Be King is still a fresh take because it’s less interested in destiny than in how kids treat each other. The fantasy elements are fun and imaginative without overpowering the story. The film’s real strength is how honestly it captures the shifting power dynamics of middle school — the formative, but often overlooked years of our childhood where we’re often lost in daydreams about things like becoming a hero of legend.
KPop Demon Hunters (2025) (6+)
K-pop isn’t my jam, but throw in catchy tunes, monster hunting, and killer animation, and I guess it is. KPop Demon Hunters is a wild ride blending anime approach to character and background animation with the style of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. And its earworm songs will burrow into your brain. Beneath the surface of this flashy outside lies a surprisingly deep story about identity, the toll of hiding who you are, and the power of art to connect us to something bigger than ourselves. Read the review.
Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) (6+)
Kubo and the Two Strings is a gorgeous and creative mix of stop-motion animation on CGI-enhanced backgrounds. The unusual characters visually pop on screen. Their emotive animations drive home an emotionally immersive story about storytelling and family. Animators feel free to explore ideas on screen. They create a strange but beautiful world that you enjoy exploring. Despite the adventurous nature of the artists’ creativity, every detail feels precise; every motion feels important. As you can imagine, Motion Smoothing adds fake fluidity that distorts the artists’ intentions.
Lady in White (1988) (8+)
There aren’t many movies like Lady in White. It’s set on Halloween – and has the excitement of the holiday – but it’s a bit of a slow burn you don’t feel until the dread is draped around you. Lady in White is not for all audiences. It’s about a town navigating a string of child murders. The adults pursue action in court. The kids fear a supernatural presence. One kid gets stuck in school overnight and makes a discovery that starts to unravel the mystery.
The Last Unicorn (1982) (6+)
The Last Unicorn feels different from most fantasy because it’s about the loss of magic instead of its rediscovery — and that mourning gives the story an emotional weight kids can feel. The sometimes frightful animation leans into kindertraumic unease, which can be a bit tense for young audiences though it never becomes outright scary. And the dark, melancholic style comes from — !!!surprise!!! — Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass. You know them as the creators of every great oddball Christmas special of the 20th century. Like those specials, The Last Unicorn is slightly off-key in a good way, which is why a film that struggled to sell tickets in 1982 is still talked about decades later.
Little Amélie or the Character of Rain (2025) (5+)
A gentle but profound animated experience. Little Amélie or the Character of Rain is a gentle but powerful exploration of wonder and loss. The story follows a curious toddler whose tiny world — bound by her family’s Japanese garden — blooms into something much larger as she learns about what it means to belong. This beautifully rendered 2D animation feels like a storybook come to life, with enough heart to make grown-ups reach for a tissue.
Long Way North (2015) (6+)
Teen rebellion. It’ll cause us dads a few years of sleepless nights. But rebelliousness, in the end, is better than blanketed compliance — which will keep us up worrying for decades. Long Way North is about a young Russian aristocrat rebel who abandons her comfortable life to search for her lost grandfather in the great north. You know who else rebelled? The art team. They shunned the usual black outlines for a patchwork of mostly hand-drawn images. Yet it pops. As does the sound production. Crank up the Dolby Atmos!
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977) (Fetus+)
This is a sticky-sweet collection of A.A. Milne stories beautifully hand-drawn — some of Disney’s best work from the era. Pooh and his (mostly) friendly and lovable neighbors wholesomely engage one another in three stories. It’s safe enough for the youngest minds and charming enough for the oldest. And when I say the youngest, I mean it. This is the best and safest choice for the first film your toddler watches.
March of the Wooden Soldiers aka Babes in Toyland (1934) (4+)
March of the Wooden Soldiers is a wild, silly, sometimes psychedelic holiday classic starring the charming and ridiculous Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. You may fear your kids won’t watch this 1934 film because it’s black-and-white — and ancient. But there’s a good chance they will. Its fantastical sets draw their eyes in. The wacky story keeps them intrigued. Add to your list if you’re looking for something much different this holiday season. Pro Tip: Watch it after the kids go to bed and you’re in an altered state. Streaming free on YouTube.
Meet the Robinsons (2007) (4+)
Meet the Robinsons starts as a hyperactive sci-fi comedy before transforming into an thoughtful story about failure, optimism, and choosing your own family. The humor comes from unexpected places, like a villain who can’t stop narrating his own failures and a dinosaur joke that keeps escalating. In fact, several background gags quietly snowball toward the climax, which wraps up its sincere emotional arc. Meet the Robinsons is one of the better Disney films of the mid-2000s — which is not saying much, but this one is light years better than Brother Bear or Home on the Range.
Merry Little Batman (2023) (5+)
BAM! There’s new holiday classic about…Batman? It’s probably not what you expected to see, but KABOOM! Merry Little Batman is a charming, fun newcomer you’ll want to PLOP! into your annual holiday lineup. It’s a little stocking stuffer of a movie that might be your best gift for family film night. It has more than a ZAP! of Batman but focuses on his son, who gets into some merry little trouble. You may find yourself shouting AIEEI! each year you get to return to this gem of a movie.
Mirai (2018) (5+)
This is the first anime not made by Studio Ghibli to earn an Academy Award nomination. I’m not surprised. Like the best anime, Mirai is beautifully hand-drawn with CGI flourishes. Its story meets that level of craftsmanship. Mirai is about a boy who feels overwhelmed by his newborn sister and escapes into a secret garden where he meets an older version of his younger sister and other family, including his great grandfather. Through these interactions, he learns to grow up in the little ways that will make him a better brother and person. This one grabs your heart and holds on. Not in a hostile Disney-like way with dead parents driving the emotion, but in a pleasing, loving way.
The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021) (5+)
The Mitchells vs. the Machines is one of the best family films of the last few decades, and I can’t believe I haven’t recommended it sooner. The robot apocalypse is just backdrop — the real story is a father and daughter who’ve drifted out of sync and have to find their way back to each other. The film’s visual style feels like a teenager editing her life in real time: doodles, glitter pops, memes, and scrapbook-style bursts of emotion. It’s playful, but it’s also honest about how hard communication can be in a family that loves deeply and talks past each other. The 4K version gives the movie’s mix of hand-drawn textures and digital sharpness room to breathe, especially in fast and emotional sequences. It feels handcrafted and vivid in a way streaming can’t quite replicate.
Moana (2016) (5+)
Moana is a modern classic because it’s willing to be odd in ways Disney often polishes away. The movie happily detours into the creepy ‘did-you-see-that?’ Realm of Monsters, lets Maui brawl with coconut pirates, and lands some of Disney’s best jokes since The Emperor’s New Groove (I love shark head!). But why Moana resonates is its heart. A young girl responsibly rebels and sets a course that’s her own but is still reflective of her ancestors’ path. Alongside Frozen, Encanto, Big Hero 6, and Zootopia, it marks a new golden era of Disney animation — character-driven, emotionally sharp, and breaking its own mold (except for the parent killing part). Seriously, I think this is the second best Disney era.
My Extraordinary Summer with Tess (2019) (7+) (subtitles)
Summer vacation can feel like a side quest. Then something (or someone) unexpectedly reshuffles your life-quest priorities. That shift often comes from trying to outwit boredom, especially when you’re used to being alone. My Extraordinary Summer with Tess follows a boy who isolates himself out of fear of loneliness — until Tess pulls him out of that rut.
Beachy summer vibes radiate from this one: the beach, the dunes, the quiet coastal town. There’s not a lot going on in the town itself. And sometimes that’s exactly why kids experience so much growth during summer. They’re forced to get creative just to stay entertained. Or someone else like Tess, equally trapped in a seemingly endless summer, yanks them free from that boredom.
You might have to dig to find this Dutch-German coming-of-age dramedy. Hopefully someday it will see wider U.S. distribution.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988) (5+)
The fear you feel when a family member is sick doesn’t immediately boil over. It simmers in the background. Even when they recover, you still experience trauma related to life changes during treatment and not knowing what will happen in the end. On the exterior, My Neighbor Totoro is about an enormous and cuddly cat-bear-like creature who, with the help of his magic cat bus, helps two girls explore the magic of their new home in the country. On the inside, it’s about how two imaginative girls process their new lives as they await their mother’s recovery from illness. It’s sweet and whimsical and innocent — the perfect film to experience together with kids who will someday have to face their own simmering fear about a sick loved one. My Neighbor Totoro is a beautiful, smile-inducing Studio Ghibli classic — one of the best family films ever made
My Octopus Teacher (2020) (5+)
After watching My Octopus Teacher, I will never <stomach gurgle> eat calamari again. Not after the co-star of the film suctioned her sticky tendrils to my heart. My Octopus Teacher is about a former professional photographer who is burned out by his career, and forms a relationship with an inquisitive octopus. The underwater video he captures over several months is breathtaking. Their first touch. The shark chases. The evasive intuition — which <stomach gurgle> indicates a higher level of intelligence in a creature whose destiny deserves more than to be <stomach gurgle> breaded and dunked in spicy marinara. Shut up stomach! Octopuses have short lives. We see a nearly full circle of life through this photographer’s capable lens. In the end, you see how his relationship with this mollusk helped teach him how to reconnect with people on land. <gurgle>
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) (7+)
A planet ravaged by war. Most ecosystems are left uninhabitable. Humans survive in pockets of livable spaces. But there’s hope that the planet can be saved. Tell me if you’ve heard this story before. I’ll tell you in response, you haven’t seen a telling of the story like this. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is one of the first Studio Ghibli films. Its hand-drawn world is as creatively rich as you’d expect. But it’s more than eye candy. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is an epic story about the power of optimism. It’s a magnificent, family-friendly sci-fi film that will introduce your kids to a hero they can easily root for.
Ne Zha 2 (2025) (8+)
Ne Zha 2 hits like a demon-powered info dump. There’s a blur of backstory, characters, and conflict shifts that can feel overwhelming if you haven’t seen the first film. However, once the chaos settles, the appeal becomes obvious. Every character has history, every scene builds tension, and every frame erupts with jaw-dropping donghua animation. The movie uses A.I. — not for art (allegedly) — only for rendering. There’s a bit of tonal as whiplash heavy emotions compete for attention with gross-out gags. But the finale features an epic showdown that will feel at home to anime fans. Ne Zha 2 is a 2.5-hour whirlwind that just may sweep off your feet. Read the review.
The NeverEnding Story (1984) (5+)
For us parents, The NeverEnding Story is a straight shot of nostalgia — no chaser. For children, it’s a pulp fairy tale that’ll stalk them through mucky forests and drown them in sorrow. And like any good fable, it’ll send them soaring with a sense of wonder. The special effects in this film are dated, but that’s what makes them fun. The animatronics and puppetry are timeless. They bring the film’s fantastical creatures and characters to life. The NeverEnding Story is corny but charming; childish but with a dark edge. Most importantly, the power of the imagination is on full display here — a hallmark of the era where special effects were performance art, captured in motion, not in post-production. I have no problem with live-action films that rely heavily on CGI, but I still appreciate the on-set craftsmanship we see with Falkor, Morla, Gmork, and Pyornkrachzark the Rock-Biter. Despite my enthusiasm for these creatures, please don’t ask me to list them from memory.
Night of the Zoopocalypse (2025) (6+)
Night of the Zoopocalypse is a solid entry in the realm of kids’ horror, based on an unpublished short story by Clive Barker. While it’s far from the intensity of Hellraiser, the film manages to raise some hell with moments of true horror, including zombie chases, body transformations, and mutant attacks, all wrapped in moody fog and dramatic lighting. The $12 million budget clearly posed challenges, with some dialogue feeling murky and voice acting relying on exaggerated accents. Yet, despite these limitations, the film is a solid pick for a family movie night, offering enough thrills and laughs to keep kids entertained. Read the review.
October Sky (1999) (8+)
Science is infectious. You see it happen and you can’t help but want to try yourself. In October Sky, a boy infatuated with rockets tries to reach the stars from the Earth. The film treats science like something you can learn with your hands. It takes you out of the classroom. The story is a reminder that curiosity, patience, and a ton of stubbornness can carry you a long way.
Okko’s Inn (2018) (5+)
After losing her parents, a young girl moves into her grandmother’s countryside inn, where she discovers that not all guests are alive. But don’t expect scares. This is the gentlest ghost story imaginable. Like the best Studio Ghibli films, Okko’s Inn turns grief into growth through kindness, food, and everyday acts of care. It’s a film about making peace with yourself — and the spirits around you. This one is free on Hoopla, if you have a library card.
Paddington in Peru (2025) (4+)
Paddington in Peru takes the beloved bear on a journey out of London and into the heart of the Amazon, where he searches for his missing aunt and uncovers more about where he came from. The film stays fresh by embracing little details like cut-away gags, clever camera reveals, and foreshadowing payoffs. While the emotional themes of family and identity come through strongly, the sweetness can get a little sticky, but the cast pulls it off with charm. At its core, though, Paddington himself — a combination of CG SFX artistry and wonderful acting — is what makes us care so much about this little bear. Read the review.
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie (2023) (3+)
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie is not as bad as you’d think. The series and 2021 movie are mind-numbing. The Mighty Movie is a step above. There’s a plot. There are character arcs. There are jokes that might even put a smile on your face. And it delivers a nicely packaged theme about overcoming fear. Perfect for timid little sponges who want to share a snuggle with you for an hour and twenty minutes.
Pleasantville (1998) (10+)
Pleasantville begins in color, with two teenagers are transported into the safe, predictable world of their favorite 1950s sitcom. Once they land inside that black-and-white TV universe, their presence changes the people around them in ways the show was never built to handle. The film uses that shift to explore what happens when curiosity and desire overpower repression. It’s funny and clever, making you see what happens when people open themselves to new ways of thinking.
Porco Rosso (1992) (7+)
If you can’t raise a glass to Porco Rosso, a slightly romantic, mostly exhilarating animated film about an ace pilot pig who escapes fascist control to become a seaplane-flying bounty hunter, then you don’t have arms. Or wine. And that’s okay. You can still cheer during air battles. You can laugh at the absurdity. You can gasp when beautifully drawn planes soar through hand-painted skies. Porco Rosso is a Studio Ghibli gem that’s perfect for dads and kids.
Project Hail Mary (2026) (8+)
Project Hail Mary turns science into high-octane wonder, shaped into a hilarious buddy film about the end of the world. Despite the stakes, there’s an incredible amount of joy on screen, which is only matched by the joy in the audience. It’s a film that defies genre expectations. A disaster film with no disaster. An action film with almost no violence. It makes science fun. Amazingly, Ryan Gosling and a puppet rock become one of the most charming duos in cinema history. Project Hail Mary is one of the best family movies of this generation.
Pure Luck (1991) (7+)
Martin Short is a funny person. He can make you laugh with his clever line delivery and theatrical acting. But there’s something about watching him repeatedly pummeled by life that gets better as the film goes on. It’s like a Super Smash Bros. hit combo that builds until the slightest flinch or poke has you and your kids howling. You laugh yet still cheer for this man to find a path that won’t try to kill him. Pure Luck is charming fun that’ll inspire a chorus of giggles and guffaws from kids of all ages.
Queen of Katwe (2016) (8+)
Chess movies rarely move you. However, this Queen is unburdened by the micro-sub-genre at its core. It moves freely, knocking over your expectations by putting you in a place that you don’t know. Katwe is a slum in Uganda’s capital city Kampala. There’s crime and grime and beauty. The people in Queen of Katwe are pawns in a system that often doesn’t let them move beyond the square they began in. But a teacher who believes in the kids of Katwe introduces them to chess and shows the world how a little hope and persistence can completely change the rules of your game. Queen of Katwe is based on a true story. You’ll meet them during the credits — it’s worth sticking around.
Real Genius (1985) (9+)
A group of teenage prodigies get recruited to build a laser and realize it’s meant for something they didn’t sign up for. Their scientific solution? Controlled chaos. They push back against their school administrators and the military contractors who want the laser. Val Kilmer sets the tone. Everything falls into place — at about 32 feet a second.
The Red Balloon (1956) (3+)
This is the kind of film that would play in a 1980s library during a rainy recess. Even if you haven’t seen The Red Balloon, its nostalgia will hover around you. It’s about a boy and his balloon wandering through the gray streets of postwar Paris. That’s it. There are almost no words. Yet it feels big. Epic but peaceful. The balloon follows, teases, comforts, and ultimately lifts him — and us. It’s only 34 minutes long, but its weightlessness lingers.
The Red Turtle (2016) (8+)
Much like the incredible 2024 family film Flow, The Red Turtle conveys its themes and emotions through character expression and actions. Unlike Flow, The Red Turtle features a person — and, as you can imagine, a red turtle. The man’s relationship with the turtle becomes fraught, leading to some violence and other odd behaviors that make this one for older kids only. Your child may pepper you with questions after your viewing. Take notes. This one’s a journey during your viewing and after.
Return to Oz (1985) (7+)
Academy Award-winning editor and sound mixer Walter Murch directed just one film: Return to Oz. It’s a dark reimagining of the second book in the Frank Baum series. Critics and audiences at the time wanted another bright and shiny Wizard of Oz. But Return to Oz was more inline with the books than the family film classic. The dark edge and tone are why this film continues to find an audience 40 years after release. It’s classic kindertrauma — almost gateway horror — with creatures and characters whose frightful designs likely made more than Fairuza Balk cry. Even if your young one is a fan of the original film, Return to Oz may be a little too much for them. It’s unsettling and can be off-putting. But it’s also wildly creative, taking you into a fantasy world created with animatronics, prosthetics, acrobats, and puppeteers.
Robot & Frank (2012) (10+)
Charming. Funny. Some F-bombs. This may be closer to Too Soon? than Short Circuit because of a few choice words. But don’t let that get in the way of seeing this smart and sentimental dramedy. Critic Ryan Gilbey says it perfectly in his review: “The whimsical but whip-smart tone suggests a live-action version of a Pixar movie.” It’s about an aging ex-con who gets his AI caretaker to help him on a few gigs. Frank Langella is intense as Frank. Robot brings some levity. Peter Sarsgaard counters his intensity as the affable but numb Robot. In the end, Frank learns about the importance of connecting to other beings while Robot doesn’t learn anything because it’s a robot and was not programmed to learn. Didn’t see that twist coming. You will see the twist in Robot & Frank a mile away. It’s a little much — but worth the rest of this journey
Ron’s Gone Wrong (2021) (4+)
A socially awkward middle schooler meets a malfunctioning robot. They become best friends. What makes the AI relatable and lovable is that it’s faulty. It screws up. The AI struggles, which gives it some of that humanity that’s missing from Hooroo’s Carriage Ride or whatever it’s called. The mistakes lead to misadventures, which lead to growth — and the acceptance that life is messy. That’s what makes life fun: It happens regardless of your plans.
Robot Dreams (2023) (7+)
Robot Dreams is a wordless journey of loneliness, loss, and the beauty of reconnecting. The film follows a dog who orders a robot to be his friend, and after a few joyful weeks, the robot is lost, leaving the two to navigate dreams of reunion. The animation is nostalgic, evoking the look of a Trapper Keeper or Sunday funnies, with fluid 2D characters and bustling cityscapes that bring the world to life. The playful, toe-tapping score sets the perfect mood, letting the emotional weight of the story unfold without a single word. It’s a heartwarming, slightly heartbreaking film that captures the essence of friendship and moving on — perfect for both kids and adults. Read the review.
Science Fair (2018) (4+)
Seventeen hundred kids go in. One kid comes out. No, it’s not The Hunger Games. It’s more exciting. Seriously. Kids showing off their science experiments is more exciting than flaming chariots, flaming Stanley Tucci, and flaming tribute fireball explosions. Why? Science Fair is the perfect mixture of underdog likability and escalating suspense. It also gives brilliant, young minds the same bright stage as those who hit balls with sticks. Like the Little League World Series, you feel the emotional rollercoaster these kids go through. The wins. The losses. The love of the game.
The Secret Garden (1993) (5+)
There’s no magic in The Secret Garden, but it may cast a spell on you with its cheerful gothic vibes. The story, based on a classic book, is about a girl sent to her uncle’s estate after her parents die. She meets her sickly cousin, who starts to recover thanks to her stubborn charm. There’s something pleasing about watching things coming back from the brink of death — be it children or gardens. There’s enough exploration and discovery of this mysterious estate that even many action-seeking kiddos will fall under its spell. There are six versions. The 1993 version is by far the best.
The Secret of Roan Inish (1994) (5+)
The Secret of Roan Inish defies time. It takes place in 1946 but takes place in a community where nature, not machines, rule the land. Part of the magic is off screen. The cinematography, folk music, coastal village setting draw you in to this world where family and the stories shared by the hearth warm your soul. A girl, who is sent to live with her grandparents, helps them navigate the changing times by going into their past. The film taps into Celtic folklore about seals, which are highly regarded for their human-like spirit. By connecting the girl to her past, the seals guide the family through crisis to a new, better life.
Short Circuit (1986) (6+)
There are some, uh, questionable choices on the production side, namely casting — which may require a proactive explanation beforehand — and which means you may just want to steer clear of Short Circuit until your child is older. That said, you can’t question the humanity of Johnny #5. He’s not programmed with humanity. That’s impossible. No, he learns from the humans he forms a relationship with. This is one of the great film tropes: Technology that learns to care. Short Circuit does this with comedy and adventure
Silent Running (1972) (6+)
F*** you. I won’t do you what you tell me. In Silent Running, Bruce Dern truly rages against the machine…with help from machines. It’s a post-apocalyptic space movie you’ve probably never heard of. He and his robot crew are maintaining a space station greenhouse to allow future generations to see the magnificent plant species that once grew on Earth. When he’s told to destroy it to make room for cargo, he and his buckets of bolts revolt. Don’t expect eco-Star Wars, but there is a fantastic and relevant sci-fi story here. And the special effects are incredible — no surprise, considering director Douglass Trumbull oversaw the visual effects in Blade Runner, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Singin’ in the Rain (1952) (5+)
Confess. Most of you have not seen what is one of the best films ever made. The dance sequences are electric. The comedy is still sharp. The expertly written story is an insider’s look at Hollywood’s transition from silence to sound. You know the song. You’ve likely seen a clip of the dancing sequence. You don’t realize what you’re missing if you haven’t seen Singing in the Rain. I bought the 4k UHD disc because my kids, who first saw this at ages 4 and 6, continually ask to watch it again. Each spring, my wife sips a fizzy drink while I shake up an old fashioned. We settle in to marvel at the master craftsmanship on display. You don’t like musicals? Sip that old fashioned and settle into your couch’s time-honed ass-groove. Trust me, you’ll get over it fast.
Sketch (2025) (8+)
Sketch blends horror and family-friendly fun with a unique twist that draws you into its offbeat style of storytelling. Angel Studios, known for Christian films, took a risk by backing Sketch. The good news is, it doesn’t lean into religious themes. It does tackle grief and trauma in a grounded way. When a daughter’s violent sketches come to life after falling into a magical pond, things get creepy fast. The film walks the line between gateway horror and emotional depth, making it a solid pick for everyone to enjoy family film night. Read the review.
Song of the Sea (2014) (5+)
Yes, this is another Irish magic seal movie. Yes, this is a movie you and your kids will love. Let’s start with the art. Song of the Sea is mostly hand-painted with some 3D elements. The backgrounds, both natural and urban, delightfully use light, shadow, stunning colors, and thematic imagery to create a magical world. The people, pets, and creatures are expressive even though they’re minimalistically drawn. The original music is no less magical, plucking at your emotions as a family struggles to recover from the loss of a mother. Watching them come together is emotionally buoying. If you get a chance, see Song of the Sea in the theater. It’s an immersive experience.
Spellbound (2002) (4+)
There’s a reason ESPN covers the Scripps National Spelling Bee. It’s a compelling competition that gives you a peek at the kids trying to spell “clavecin” or “heleoplankton.” Those are words that send home two children in Spellbound, a documentary that follows eight children competing in the 1999 Spelling Bee. They’re real kids facing real pressure. Unlike the ESPN event, Spellbound takes you deep into their lives. We get a feel for their diverse backgrounds, family cultures, and social lives. They have one thing in common: D-R-I-V-E. These kids are persistent in their pursuit of the championship. A tip: Make sure closed captioning is off so you don’t spoil any big moments.
Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002) (5+)
Sometimes you need a to let down your mane and romp around the countryside. Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron has plenty of romping as horse and person run, jump, and fight for their freedom. The world they ride through is an incredible mix of hand-drawn and computer 3D art. Yes, you’ll have to suffer through a couple of Bryan Adams power ballads. But if you stick it out, you’ll be rewarded with powerful action scenes that have heavy consequences to the characters and story.
Spirited Away (2001) (6+)
Greed and gluttony have an evil connotation (thanks a lot The Bible and Se7en), but they stem from the basic human instinct to survive. We all feel greedy and gluttonous at times. And it’s okay. While Spirited Away explores these motivations, director Hayao Miyazaki (same guy as above) dazzles us with his hand-painted backgrounds, bizarre but beautiful characters, and attention to detail. The film oozes detail. In some scenes, you can practically smell it. Standing up and standing out in all of this animated magnificence is Chihiro, who keeps us grounded as we explore this unique, wondrous world. She discovers that the greedy, gluttonous, and seemingly ill-intentioned characters have more depth once she looks beyond their outward appearances and actions.
Storks (2016) (5+)
Parenting brings anxiety. Making fun of it helps reduce anxiety. Storks leans into that universal truth by turning worry, overplanning, and control into a central theme. Then the jokes swoop in and peck away at those concepts. Kids get a fast, silly adventure. Parents laugh at the relatable turbulence of parenthood. Andy Samberg’s impeccable timing and delivery bring it all home.
Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) (5+)
Star Wars: A New Hope redefined the blockbuster and launched a universe showing no sign of slowing down. For kids, it’s like candy: lightsaber battles, bickering droids, cantina laser fights, and ominous villains whose twisted features hide behind darkened hoods. For adults, it’s structurally pleasing. Every character has a clean story arc. Every location expands the world. It’s paced impeccably. The jokes land. When it first came out, A New Hope felt like one chapter in a book. Decades later, that book is still being written, with new chapters exploring the worlds and ideas first set in motion here.
Summer 1993 (2017) (7+) (subtitles)
Change is hard. Losing a parent. Leaving the only city you’ve known. It can be a struggle to recover. But summertime has a magic that soothes and eases pain. Especially in the country. Especially spent with family. Summer 1993 is about a girl learning to process her mother’s death. Director Carla Simón’s filmmaking style is simple and natural — it often feels improvised. The pacing moves like a slow summer day. And when it ends, you crave more.
Parents will feel a sense of nostalgia as Summer 1993 captures the raw, insecure, and joyful moments of childhood. Children will learn about grief, resilience, and how love can grow in unfamiliar places. It’s a gentle story with lasting warmth.
Summer Days with Coo (2007) (8+) (subtitles)
River swimming. Shaved ice. Cicadas singing. Countryside bike rides. The, ahem, dismembering of a mythical creature. Summer Days with Coo is a double-bladed sword. It’s kind of an E.T. clone; about a strange creature filling the void of a missing parent. It’s full of childhood nostalgia as the two become friends. But it doesn’t pull any punches either. A violent death early in the film and some hardcore bullying mean this one is not for the youngest crowd. Which is fine — they’re not ready for subtitles anyway, right? Summer Days with Coo still charms with its summer vibes and delivers an uppercut message about how people treat the creatures around us.
Superman (2025) (8+)
James Gunn knows how to throw a cinematic party, and he’s done it again with Superman. While the film doesn’t hit the emotional depth of Guardians of the Galaxy, it shines with its well-developed characters, stunning visuals, and relevant themes. Superman looks at the power of public perception and how it can be used to tear down even the most well-intentioned heroes. The violence might be a bit much for younger viewers, but Gunn balances it with playful moments — especially thanks to Krypto, whose antics had my five-year-old laughing and cheering. Just sit back, enjoy the ride, and remember: if you’re not having fun, it’s probably because you’re trying too hard. Read the review.
Suzume (2023) (8+)
Many animators preach about the purity of the pen and shy away from computer animation. Not director Makoto Shinkai. He embraces computer graphics to create worlds that are vibrant, beautiful, and alive. Suzume is his most kid-friendly offering. It’s about a teen girl who turns her life upside down to close otherworldly doors before the forces inside them destroy her world. I saw this in the theater when it came out. I was stunned. Don’t worry; it’s still impressive on your big screen at home.
Them! (1954) (6+)
Are you tired of green screen schlock? This mechanical marvel of the ‘50s is just what you’re looking for. An army of special effects wizards bring these giant nuclear bugs to life using mechanical puppets. Given the subgenre (giant bug invasion) , you may assume the effects will be corny. But they aren’t. They work. This movie is why we saw an invasion of giant insect films. Most are garbage. Them! rocks.
Togo (2019) (6+)
Disney continues to build its “Dogs on Sleds Save the Day” catalogue, and Togo is the one that feels the most real — probably because it actually happened. Willem Dafoe plays a musher who’s unfazed by the Arctic cold until a powerful winter storm knocks him off track. He survives by leaning on the smallest dog in his team, the one whose grit and instinct end up driving the entire run. That reliance gives the movie its edge, turning a historical footnote into a tense, beautifully shot fight to stay alive.
Toy Story (1995) (4+)
Toy Story proves how far a simple setup can go when the storytelling is airtight. A handful of toys, mostly confined to a bedroom, become the center of an adventure that’s funny, tense, and unexpectedly emotional. The voice cast makes you believe every second of it. Woody’s insecurity. Buzz’s misplaced confidence. The rest of the gang, each distinct, yet all fiercely loyal to their child, Andy. Kids may miss the theme of fleeting childhood. Parents don’t. We see the change happening in real time. Toy Story lets you feel that ache, then steadies you. You realize growing up, being replaced, figuring out where you belong — that’s how you discover who you are. It’s an emotional ride. The sequels, specials, and shorts keep the momentum going.
Turning Red (1954) (6+)
When the fur arrives, humans see the biggest transformation of their lives. In Turning Red, that fur also marks a transformation for Pixar. Animators created a plush, oversized, emotionally responsive fur system — one that expands, settles, and shifts along with Mei’s feelings instead of just obeying physics. It’s a visual language for growing up: suddenly your emotions feel big, loud, and right on the surface. The film treats that change with humor and warmth, grounding the chaos in a family that’s trying to understand each other. It’s what makes it a fantastic Your Changeling Body film. The 4K version keeps the brushy textures, color gradients, and fur detail intact, which makes the emotional expressions pop on screen — as the animators intended.
The Vast of Night (2020) (7+)
There are no aliens in this movie about a possible alien invasion. And that’s okay. The Vast of Night probes the minimalist style of filmmaking, though it still penetrates your senses. You feel the deft camerawork that creates tension and mood. You feel the setting, which oozes nostalgia. You’ll feel the actors performances as they execute a tight, smart, and fun script. The Vast of Night — a film with a miniscule budget — is an evening abduction you will want to submit to.
What About Bob (1991) (6+)
Dr. Marvin: “You think he’s gone? He’s not gone. That’s the whole point. He’s never gone!”
Bob: “Is this some radical new therapy?”
Damn that Bob is annoying. But damn that Bob is charming. I get why Bob (Bill Murray) is able to derail the life of psychiatrist Dr. Leo Marvin (Richard Dreyfus) — who is just trying to hang with the fam at Lake Winnipesaukee. I also get why the fam falls for Bob. He gets under your skin but starts to baby step into your heart. What About Bob? is one of the rare non-animated films that had my daughters laughing again and again at Bob’s jokes and physical comedy. No nudity or violence. Very little swearing. Very big laughs.
The Wild Robot (2024) (5+)
Kindness is a survival skill. We see this. We hear this. We feel this throughout The Wild Robot. The children’s book adaptation is about an AI service bot who crash-lands onto an island teeming with wildlife. With the animals’ guidance, the robot transforms from ROZZUM unit 7134 to a mother, Raz. She, in turn, transforms these wild creatures by demonstrating that persistent kindness is an asset and not a liability. Read the review.
Wolfwalkers (2020) (6+)
Wolfwalkers is layered with pencil lines and watercolor textures that feel warm and alive. The world feels in motion even when characters stand still. The story follows a cautious girl and a wild-hearted friend as they learn to trust each other and question the rules they’ve grown up with. It’s a film about friendship, bravery, and looking at the world with new eyes. The 4K version highlights texture in the artwork and the subtle shifts in color and light, making the film’s handmade qualities easy to appreciate. It’s a movie that invites you to feel the art while you watch the exciting story unfold.
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) (9+)
Young Sherlock Holmes introduces us to a young Sherlock Holmes (surprise!) and John Watson — but this mystery has supernatural and Spielbergian vibes. The famous duo are students at a London Academy when a string of spooky murders take over the city. The violence and hallucinogenic sequences may be a bit too much for younger kids. But it may be worth pushing them forward because the movie is fun. No surprise, given the screenwriter is Chris Columbus (Gremlins, Goonies), the director is Barry Levinson (The Natural, Rain Man), and the executive producer is actually Steven Spielberg (every film you loved as a kid).
Your Name. (2016) (8+)
This is a standout of the new era of anime — where CGI is embraced to fill the screen with wondrous cityscapes, culinary treasures, and charming characters who charm their way past your tough guy defenses. It’s about two star-crossed teenagers whose bodies are swapped. They set out to find each other and <turns the cheese up to 11> find themselves in the process. Despite this being a pubescent body-swap film, Your Name. is safe for younger viewers.
Zootopia 2 (2025) (6+)
Zootopia 2 builds on what made the first movie work by digging into a real social issue without losing its spark. Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde stumble into a case involving reptiles pushed out of their neighborhoods, and the story finds fresh tension in how each cop sees the city. The movie moves fast, packs in great jokes, and expands the world in ways that feel earned instead of recycled. It’s one of those rare sequels that deepens the characters and has something to say.
Check out all the new family movies on streaming, in theaters, and on disc this month!
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