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The 83 Best Family Movies of All Time

Stream these for your next family movie night with the kids

best family movies universal
TriStar Pictures/Walt Disney Pictures/Warner Bros. Pictures

Snuggling up together on the couch with the kids, an entertaining family movie and a giant bowl of popcorn is hands down one of the best ways to enjoy some quality family time (at least in my humble opinion). But deciding on a film that everybody wants to watch isn’t easy (cue the sibling bickering).

As an aunt of three very picky young nephews and a teenage niece, I know a thing or two about selecting movies that cater to diverse age groups. So, whether you’re looking for a classic flick (like The Goonies) or an upbeat musical (like The Greatest Showman or Coco), there’s something for everyone on this list. And if you prefer to keep your movie night short and sweet, we've got run times, in addition to casting details and where to watch (like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and more), plus a scariness rating for the films that our PureWow editor parents can personally vouch for (because your toddler is still scarred from watching The Little Mermaid before she was ready). From Moana to Toy Story, here are the best family movies of all time that all generations will love, including throwbacks from your own childhood. Dim the lights, prepare your snacks and enjoy.

The 63 Best Teen Movies of All Time


1. The Goonies (1985)

  • Director: Richard Donner
  • Cast: Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen, Corey Feldman
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 114 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 77%; IMDb 7.7/10
  • Scariness score: 8/10

This coming-of-age ’80s classic has got it all: hidden treasure, everlasting friendship, edge-of-your-seat thrills and a young Josh Brolin. The bad guys (the thieving Fratellis) are a little scary, there’s some not-so-appropriate humor relating to the genitalia of a nude statue and light swearing (mostly just s***), which is why I recommend saving this one for kiddies ten years and up.

If you're still having doubts about this one, then take it from PureWow's VP of News & Entertainment, Philip Mutz, who considers it a childhood favorite. He said, "I still remember watching The Goonies with my parents and younger brother as a kid (obviously both of us wished we could be one of the Goonies—honestly, I probably still do). Goonies never say die!"

2. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

  • Director: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic
  • Cast: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 92 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 59%; IMDb 7/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

If you love the classic video game, you'll want to tune in to this nostalgic film that follows Mario and his friends as they battle the one and only Bowser. It features an all-star voiceover cast, including Keegan-Michael Key, Seth Rogen and more. That said, parents should know that there’s not a lot of scariness in this movie, but it earned its rating on account of the fact that there’s a scene that features a lot of existential banter that might spark some conversations about death.

While Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint isn't a big fan of the film, it's a favorite for her kids. She said, "This movie is objectively terrible, but for some reason kids love it (I have been forced to see it twice in the movie theater) and there's something oddly hypnotic about Jack Black singing about Princess Peach."

3. The Greatest Showman (2017)

  • Director: Michael Gracey
  • Who's in it: Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 105 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 57%; IMDb 7.5/10

Get into your comfy clothes and bring out the popcorn because this family-friendly musical will keep everyone entertained—for at least an hour and 45 minutes. Hugh Jackman plays legendary Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus showman P.T. Barnum, in this film that follows his rise into showbiz and worldwide fame.

PureWow Associate Editor Chelsea Candelario said, "I'm a BIG musicals fan and this one is on the top of my must-watch list. The entire cast is phenomenal. (Um, hello Zendaya and Zac Efron's duet!) And it's such a catchy film to watch with the whole fam."

4. Moana (2016)

  • Director: John Musker, Ron Clements
  • Cast: Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House, Temuera Morrison
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 103 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95%; IMDb 7.6/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

The first of many Disney flicks on our list, this musical adventure earns extra points for its killer soundtrack (courtesy of Lin-Manuel Miranda) and total badass heroine (no prince swooping in to rescue her). Follow brave Moana as she sets out to explore the Polynesian seas with the help of demigod sidekick Maui in order to save her island. (Note: There’s a scary-ish scene at the end with a sputtering volcano that you may want to fast-forward for younger viewers and preschool kids have been known to be a little freaked out by the scene with Tamatoa.)

PureWow Associate SEO Editor Marissa Wu said, "Dwayne Johnson as Maui was hilarious (like, his theme song is 'You're Welcome,' how can you not laugh?!). But honestly, I stayed for the compelling story of a young woman searching for her identity while trying to save her people."

5. Annie (2014)

  • Director: Will Gluck
  • Cast: Quvenzhané Wallis, Jamie Foxx, Rose Byrne
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 118 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 28%; IMDb 5.4/10

If your kids like to complain about doing their chores, wait until they see what Annie has to put up with. There have been a few versions of this musical rags-to-riches story, including John Huston's 1982 classic. But I think this 2014 rendition, with its unforgettable characters and catchy tunes, is the best.

PureWow Associate Sales & Deals Editor Destinee Scott says, "Annie is my favorite, and it's not only because I have a small crush on Jamie Foxx...The movie is funny, uplifting and just so inspiring. I always feel warm and fuzzy after watching it, and everyone knows the plot, but for me, it's all about finding love in the places you least expect it."

6. The Lego Movie (2014)

  • Director: Chris Miller, Phil Lord
  • Cast: Chris Pratt, Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 100 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96%; IMDb 7.7/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

Everything is awesome in this animated movie inspired by the popular toys, especially the stellar cast. Will ordinary construction worker Emmet Brickowski be able to defeat the evil Lord Business from Kragling (i.e., gluing) the Lego universe? Guess you'll have to watch to find out.

According to PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint, "This movie is so subversive and weird—full disclosure—my husband and I first saw it in the theater without our kids. But kids also love the bananas plotlines and lessons about creative play. And my kids are ALWAYS singing the 'Everything is Awesome' song."

7. Princess and the Frog (2009)

  • Director: John Musker, Ron Clements
  • Cast: Anika Noni Rose, Bruno Campos, Michael-Leon Wooley
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 97 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 85%; IMDb 7.2/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

Tiana’s dream of opening a restaurant is put on hold when she meets Prince Naveen, who was turned into a frog by the evil villain, Dr. Facilier. From gorgeous animation to well-rounded characters, what's not to love?

Assistant Editor Delia Curtis said, "As someone who doesn’t always gravitate toward animated movies, The Princess and the Frog had me hooked!! I loved the jazzy, Southern flare that this film had. The strong, belt-it-out lyrics are fun for the whole family. It’s also a film that adults can appreciate too, with some of those silly sly jokes that only adults will pick up."

8. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

  • Director: Steven Spielberg
  • Cast: Dee Wallace, Henry Thomas, Peter Coyote
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Run time: 115 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 99%; IMDb 7.9/10
  • Scariness score: 7/10

Steven Spielberg's classic sci-fi story of an extraterrestrial stranded on planet Earth is pure movie magic. Parents will love the nostalgia throwback (baby-faced Drew Barrymore) and little ones will love the adorable E.T. and his friendship with his earthling family (although keep in mind that there is some light swearing and a few sad moments). Oh, and Reese’s Pieces are a must while watching. Just keep in mind that this one has some mild swearing, as well as a scene in which E.T. gets slightly drunk by accidentally drinking a beer; it’s also worth noting that the movie gets more intense towards the end when government violence comes into play, so sensitive viewers should proceed with caution.

"I fully believe there is no greater children's movie," said Quint. "I've watched with my 7 and 9-year-old, who are really the perfect ages for appreciating the magic while also understanding the gravity."

9. Elemental (2023)

  • Director: Peter Sohn
  • Cast: Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Ronnie del Carmen, Shila Ommi
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 103 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 73%; IMDb 7/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

The film is set in a world where elements of nature—fire, water, land and air—coexist as one community. Everything changes when Ember Lumen, a fire element, befriends Wade Ripple, a water element, and discovers their commonalities.

Rachel Gulmi, Director of Special Projects, said, "It is visually so beautiful and enticing with all the colors and how everything comes together, but I love the message behind it and it actually made me tear up."

10. Luca (2021)

  • Director: Enrico Casarosa
  • Cast: Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, Emma Berman, Saverio Raimondo
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 95 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91%; IMDb 7.4/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, this recently-released Disney and Pixar flick tells the story of a young boy, Luca, who is having the best summer of his life eating gelato and riding on a scooter with his new best friend, Alberto. There’s just one problem...the duo are sea monsters from another world below water. Bottom line: It’s a great storyline, but it’s worth noting that more sensitive children might be upset by the premise, which involves children running away from home and ditching their parents for a big adventure.

Quint calls it a "charming movie with a great message," adding, "My kids love the naughty boyhood hi-jinx, and I love feeling transported to the Amalfi coast."

daddy day care1
Columbia Pictures

11. Daddy Day Care (2003)

  • Director: Steve Carr
  • Cast: Eddie Murphy, Jeff Garlin, Steve Zahn, Regina King
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 92 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 27%; IMDb 5.6/10

When Charlie and his friend lose their jobs, they make the drastic decision of turning Charlie's home into a daycare center. Chaos ensues, however, when a rival daycare tries to shut them down.

Curtis, who rewatched the film as an adult, said, "The jokes hit different as an adult because they most definitely have some hidden meaning. I also loved that the story revolves around expectations around gender roles and undoing the stereotypes that women are the only capable caretakers. Plus, I will never get over the scene of Eddie Murphy and Jeff Garlin having a boxing match dressed as a carrot and a broccoli."

12. Stand By Me (1986)

  • Director: Rob Reiner
  • Cast: Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman
  • Rating: R
  • Run time: 89 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92%; IMDb 8.1/10
  • Scariness score: 9/10

This coming-of-age story about four 12-year-old boys in 1950s Oregon is an inspiring tale of friendship, growing up and doing the right thing. The movie has some darker themes—there are scenes that show kids smoking and drinking, plus a murder theme and a gang of criminally violent teen bullies—so this film is best for teens and up. That said, it’s a very moving watch that strikes the right balance of childhood adventure, grown-up drama and a cute Jerry O’Connell.

13. Toy Story (1995)

  • Director: John Lasseter
  • Cast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, Jim Varney
  • Rating: G
  • Run time: 81 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 100%; IMDb 8.3/10
  • Scariness score: 2/10

With enough inside jokes for adults, this animated film of toys coming to life is perfect for family movie night. It’s so good, it spawned three sequels and numerous spin-offs, setting you up for the next couple of weekends.

Quint said, "It's hard to believe this movie is from 1995—it feels so current, both in look and in message. When my kids were little, we watched it approximately 1,000 times, and it's still a favorite."

14. The Karate Kid (1984)

  • Director: John G. Avildsen
  • Cast: Ralph Macchio, Noriyuki "Pat" Morita, Elisabeth Shue
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 126 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 90%; IMDb 7.3/10

Confession: Mr. Miyagi's iconic "Wax on, wax off" scene still lives rent-free in my head. And LaRusso's final match against Lawrence? Arguably one of the best moments in cinematic history. When Daniel LaRusso enrolls at a new school, he tries to defend himself from bullies and enlists the help of Mr. Miyagi—a repairman who also happens to be a martial arts master.

15. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

  • Director: Carlos Lopez Estrada, Don Hall
  • Cast: Paul Briggs, Don Hall, Adele Lim, Carlos López Estrada
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 117 minutes
  • Reviews: Metacritic 74%; IMDb 7.3/10
  • Scariness score: 5/10

This animated film introduces viewers to a warrior named Raya, who tries to find the last dragon in an ancient civilization. To top it off, the magical creature is voiced by Crazy Rich Asians star Awkwafina.

Executive Editor Alexia Dellner's son is just one of many who enjoyed the film. She said, "My 4-year-old was definitely scared during quite a few parts of this one BUT, he ultimately loved it. The plot is really interesting (I thought so too!), the characters feel fresh and the takeaways are very sweet without being saccharine. Just maybe wait until your kid is 5 or 6 to show it to them."

16. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

  • Director: Ken Kwapis
  • Cast: America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 119 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 82%; IMDb 6.5/10

A group of best friends are preparing to spend their first summer apart. In an attempt to stay connected, they create a custody schedule…for a pair of jeans.

Curtis, who grew up watching the comedy-drama, said, "When I was a kid, finding confidence in the shape of my body was a tough thing to do in the early '00s. Magazines and TV shows glorified skinny bodies, but I’ll never forget the moment when America Ferrera, the curviest girl in the friend group, tried on the magic pants and they fit her like a glove. It made me feel seen and beautiful. A great film about friendship, connection and self-acceptance."

17. Where the Wild Things Are (2009)

  • Director: Spike Jonze
  • Cast: Lauren Ambrose, Chris Cooper, James Gandolfini, Catherine O'Hara
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 101 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes73%; IMDb 6.7/10

Where the Wild Things Are tells the story of a boy named Max, who travels to a magical island inhabited by creatures called the "Wild Things." Exploring themes of loneliness and insecurity, director Spike Jonze revisits the classic children’s story in a dreamlike atmosphere. Read the book to your 5-year-old, but save the film for your tween.

18. Enchanted (2007)

  • Director: Kevin Lima
  • Cast: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, Timothy Spall
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 107 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 93%; IMDb 7.1/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

Amy Adams shines in this sweet musical comedy in which she plays a fairy-tale princess trying to live happily ever after in Andalasia. That is, until her evil mother-in-law banishes her to real-life New York City. She sings, she dances—is there anything Adams can’t do? (Fun fact: the movie is based on Gail Carson Levine's fantasy novel, Ella Enchanted, which is a retelling of Cinderella.)

pets from homeward bound the incredible journey
Touchwood Pacific Partners/Walt Disney Pictures

19. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

  • Director: Duwayne Dunham
  • Cast: Michael J. Fox, Don Ameche, Sally Field
  • Rating: G
  • Run time: 84 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 87%; IMDb 6.9/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

Craving a feel-good flick that centers on animals? Make room on the couch and let your furry friends watch this uplifting adventure film with you as lovable pups Shadow and Chance and kitty cat Sassy journey across the country to be reunited with their humans. Based on Sheila Burnford's novel of the same name, this movie—which marked Duwayne Dunham's feature film debut—is so charming and funny. Plus, it boasts an incredible voice cast.

20. The Hunger Games (2012)

  • Director: Gary Ross
  • Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Run time: 144 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 84%; IMDb 7.2/10
  • Scariness score: 9/10

In this film based on Suzanne Collins's hugely popular YA series, plucky Katniss Everdeen (played by the brilliant Lawrence) is the perfect role model for teenage girls. After volunteering as tribute to compete in the deadly Hunger Games, Katniss bravely fights against the evil Panem nation. (And there's a budding romance between her and fellow volunteer, Peeta.) And yes, it’s an enthralling movie, but it’s worth emphasizing that the central plot—a televised battle to the death between children—is pretty disturbing and involves quite a bit of gore. Plus, the aforementioned romance leads to some mild sexual tension and a few make-out scenes, so the PG-13 rating is definitely warranted.

21. Finding Nemo (2003)

  • Director: Andrew Stanton
  • Cast: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
  • Rating: G
  • Run time: 100 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 99%; IMDb 8.2/10
  • Scariness score: 5/10

Dive into this adorable underwater flick that’s got plenty of giggles and morals for younger viewers (and adults) including the importance of teamwork, embracing what makes you unique and how a little bit of determination goes a long way—provided they’re old enough to handle the perilous encounters with not-so-friendly underwater creatures, that is.

PureWow Senior Director of Special Projects & Royals, Rachel Bowie, said, "This one is such a hit in our fam! My son is ocean-obsessed and he loves to watch and call out all the sea creatures he knows. Bruce is of course his favorite, being a Great White Shark and all. My six-year-old loves to gloat about how 'not scared' he is during those scenes!"

22. Inside Out (2015)

  • Director: Peter Docter
  • Cast: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Richard Kind, Bill Hader, Lewis Black
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 102 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 98%; IMDb 8.1/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

In this feel-good Pixar flick, we follow young Riley as she’s uprooted from her childhood home and forced to move to a new city. Her emotions (Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust) try to guide her through this difficult transition but it’s not easy being an 11-year-old girl in a new place. Unsurprisingly, this one is a little more loaded with emotion than your typical animated flick, so I recommend only showing it to kids who can ride that roller coaster.

"If there's a better explanation of pre-adolescent emotions, I don't want to see it," said Quint. "I weep every time I watch, and I honestly think it helps my kids talk about their feelings."

harry potter and the sorcerer s stone
Warner Bros. Studios

23. All The Harry Potter Films (2001 - 2010)

  • Director: Alfonso Cuarón, David Yates, Mike Newell, Chris Columbus
  • Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
  • Rating: PG
  • Reviews: vary depending on the film
  • Scariness score: 8/10

Revisiting J.K. Rowling’s magical story of a young wizard fighting against evil Voldemort is one of the best parts of having children. Just kidding (sort of). Read the books first so you can get a sense of just how scary this franchise can be (there’s a curse used to inflict excruciating pain, another one for instant death, and ample violence throughout, albeit with minimal gore). If your kid can handle the books, then they’ll likely be able to enjoy the numerous film adaptations, in which case you can snuggle up for multiple weekends of world-class entertainment.

Candelario, an avid fan of the franchise, said, "I still remember getting the books as a child and then falling in love with the movies as a teen. I've been hooked on the films ever since and still watch them whenever it's on TV. I'll probably be in my 80s still mouthing the words like the true Ravenclaw I am!" While our parent editors gave this one a high scariness rating, it’s worth noting that some films (say, The Prisoner of Azkaban) are scarier than others (such as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone)

24. Elf (2003)

  • Director: Jon Favreau
  • Cast: James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Mary Steenburgen, Edward Asner
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 90 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 86%; IMDb 7.1/10
  • Scariness score: 2/10

Is Elf the best Christmas movie of all time? Quite possibly. Meet Buddy, a man who was raised as an elf in Santa’s workshop. When he ventures away from the North Pole and down to New York City in search of his real father, he’s soon confronted with a harsh reality: His dad is on the naughty list. Overall, Elf is a fun and family-friendly holiday flick, but parents should be aware that the movie does include some references to drinking, as well as scenes in which non-believers suggest that parents, not Santa, might be behind all the Christmas magic.

Curtis said, "If you ever need a silly, festive pick me up, this will do the trick. Will Ferrell running loose through the streets of Manhattan dressed as an elf, a sassy and unbothered blonde Zooey Deschanel and Christmas decorations galore?! What’s not to love? Not to mention learning about the 4 main food groups: Candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup."

25. Home Alone (1990)

  • Director: Chris Columbus
  • Cast: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 103 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 66%; IMDb 7.7/10
  • Scariness score: 6/10

While the thought of going on vacation and leaving your eight-year-old child behind is totally inconceivable, you’ll be happy the McAllisters accidentally did. This holiday classic (that makes for great viewing all year round) has got plenty of hilarious hijinks to keep the whole family entertained. Just brace yourself for some pretty relentless slapstick violence as well as a couple scenes in which said eight-year-old watches a mob movie with machine gun action.

Mutz said, "Watching Home Alone with my dad is still one of my favorite childhood memories. Obviously, I remember enjoying it, but the memory of my dad cackling at Harry and Marv getting utterly destroyed by Kevin still makes me smile."

matilda family movie
TriStar Pictures

26. Matilda (1996)

  • Director: Danny DeVito
  • Cast: Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Mara Wilson, Embeth Davidtz
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 98 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92%; IMDb 7/10
  • Scariness score: 6/10

This classic revolves around a telekinetic young girl who uses her newfound powers to defend herself and her pals from the cold-hearted Miss Trunchbull. Meanwhile, she develops a bond with a kind-hearted teacher named Miss Honey. Based on the Roald Dahl book of the same title, this story will teach your kids that with a little encouragement (and a lot of reading), they can accomplish whatever they set their minds to, which is obviously a very positive and empowering message. Still, I’d be remiss not to mention that Matilda’s encounters with abuse extend beyond just a tyrannical headmistress; her parents are abusive, neglectful and completely uncaring. This is portrayed in an exaggerated way that makes it more funny than disturbing (if that’s a thing), but it might be upsetting to sensitive viewers nevertheless.

27. Minions (2015)

  • Director: Pierre Coffin, Kyle Balda
  • Cast: Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson, Lucy Lawless
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 91 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 56%; IMDb 6.4/10
  • Scariness score: 3/10

How did the Minions originate? Where did they come from? And how did they first cross paths with Gru? If you've seen Despicable Me, I can assure you, this prequel has loads of answers (and laughs!). Fun fact: Minions was the fifth highest-grossing film of 2015 and the tenth-highest-grossing film of all time.

28. Spirited Away (2001)

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 125 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96%; IMDb 8.6/10

Studio Ghibli’s beautiful and surreal animation about a young girl trying to save her family after they’ve all been turned into pigs by an evil witch will captivate young audiences. In fact, you might even enjoy it more than your kids. Believe it or not, Spirited Away made history as Japan’s highest-grossing film of all time, and it held the record for 19 years. Per Time magazine, it surpassed $300 million at the local box office after it was re-released in 2021.

29. Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

  • Director: Doug Atchison
  • Cast: Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett, Keke Palmer
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 112 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 86%; IMDb 7.4/10

Akeelah and the Bee follows 11-year-old Akeelah as she tries to compete in the National Spelling Bee. This movie is super c-u-t-e and chock-full of important lessons for kids, including how to stand up to peer pressure and how to work hard to achieve your goals. (Not to mention how much it’ll help them with their spelling.)

30. Frozen (2013)

  • Suitable for: Kids ages 5+
  • Rating: PG
  • Who's in it: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad, Jonathan Groff
  • Run time: 102 minutes

Fact: Every child loves this movie. The sweet story of two sisters living in a perpetual winter, plus the ridiculously catchy songs, will warm your grown-up heart. But the real star of the movie? My favorite snowman, Olaf.

Quint says, "For better or worse, I know every word of every song, having watched this preschool favorite something like 100 times. And you know what? I don't hate that about myself."

31. The Princess Bride (1987)

  • Director: Rob Reiner
  • Cast: Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Chris Sarandon
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 98 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96%; IMDb 8/10
  • Scariness score: 6/10

Before she ruled on Capitol Hill, Robin Wright starred in this fantasy adventure comedy about a farm girl (Buttercup), her one true love (Wesley) and their quest to be together, despite the odds. There’s a bit of sexual tension and humor throughout the movie, and a good dose of peril to keep things exciting. If that’s not a dealbreaker then I’d say it’s inconceivable that your family won’t totally love it. (See what I did there?)

While speaking with NPR, Cary Elwes, who plays Wesley, explained that the classic was a sleeper hit. He said, "The film came and did some modest business—respectable, modest, but not the kind of money that they hoped. It wasn't until about almost a decade later when VHS came out that the film found its legs again—from a film that had been mostly dead, it was suddenly alive again. And then it became this huge hit."

32. Coco (2017)

  • Director: Adrian Molina, Lee Unkrich
  • Cast: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 105 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97%; IMDb 8.4/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

This Oscar-winning film follows Miguel on his quest to become an accomplished musician, despite his family’s ban on music. Through a series of unfortunate events, he finds himself in the Land of the Dead where he meets some interesting characters and learns about his family's mysterious past. A thoughtful film that tackles a difficult subject matter beautifully.

33. Paddington (2015)

  • Director: Paul King
  • Cast: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent
  • Rating: G
  • Run time: 95 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97%; IMDb 7.3/10

Follow this adventurous (and not to mention, totally adorable) Peruvian bear as he travels to London in search of a home. After finding himself lost in Paddington Station, his luck begins to change when he meets the kind Brown family. For a fun-filled weekend, watch the first movie on Friday night and then enjoy the just-as-good sequel on Saturday. Don't forget the popcorn.

34. Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

  • Director: Rich Moore
  • Cast: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 108 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 87%; IMDb 7.7/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

Youngsters who can’t get enough of video games will love this sci-fi comedy about an arcade game villain who decides to rebel against his role and fulfill his lifelong dream of being a hero instead. But things don’t go quite according to plan, and Ralph has to save the arcade world from his own mess. Hilarity ensues, of course.

the land before time
Universal Pictures

35. The Land Before Time (1989)

  • Director: Don Bluth
  • Cast: Gabriel Damon, Candace Hutson, Judith Barsi
  • Rating: G
  • Run time: 69 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 65%; IMDb 7.4/10
  • Scariness score: 2/10

Bring out the tissues for this sweet flick, which follows orphaned Brontosaurus Littlefoot (sob!) and his dino pals as they journey to the Great Valley to reunite with their families. (No really, you will need tissues.)

According to film director Don Bluth, the most heartbreaking scene almost didn't make it into the film. He told Vulture, “I remember we came to that moment in The Land Before Time, and everyone said, ‘Oh, this is too hard—no, no, we don’t want kids to see this. It was Steven Spielberg who said, ‘Wait a minute. We all are born, we all live to a certain age, and then we all go. And someday we come back again. Everyone has to go through it. This is a moment called the great circle of life.’”

36. The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

  • Director: Chris Renaud
  • Cast: Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet, Jenny Slate, Kevin Hart
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 90 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 70%; IMDb 6.5/10
  • Scariness score: 2/10

From the creators of Despicable Me, this adorable family film gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at exactly what pets do when their owners aren’t home. (Ahem, eat all of your food and get totally lost roaming around the city.)

Quint said, "We watched this one as a family when my kids were little, and it was one of the first examples of all four of us truly enjoying a film. Silly, exciting and great, memorable characters."

37. Jurassic Park (1993)

  • Director: Steven Spielberg
  • Cast: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Run time: 127 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92%; IMDb 8.2/10
  • Scariness score: 9/10

You probably remember the story of a remote island where real dinosaurs come to life thanks to dormant DNA, but you’ll be surprised at how the special effects and suspense still hold up. (I actually rewatched this movie last week and was kind of taken aback by just how violent and downright scary it is—particularly with regard to the constant threat of death that two little kids face—so don’t say I didn’t warn you.)

Quint said, "I may not win mom of the year for showing this one to my 6 year-old. But you know what? She loved it. And still talks about getting eaten off a toilet seat."

38. Jumanji (1995)

  • Director: Jake Kasdan, Joe Johnston
  • Cast: Robin Williams, Kirsten Dunst, David Alan Grier
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 104 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 76%; IMDb 6.7/10
  • Scariness score: 8/10

Forget the reboot, the original movie is guaranteed fun for the whole family. When two youngsters find a magical board game, they release a world full of excitement (including Alan Parrish, who’s been trapped inside the game for decades) and relentless dangers that can only be stopped by finishing the game.

39. The Incredibles (2004)

  • Director: Brad Bird
  • Cast: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell, Spencer Fox
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 115 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97%; IMDb 8/10
  • Scariness score: 4/10

In this 2004 animated film, the Parrs are just trying to live a normal, quiet suburban life. But that’s not exactly easy when you’re a family of undercover superheroes. Kids of all ages will love watching to find out if these guys manage to save the world from a superhero wannabe.

Easily one of the best superhero movies of all time, The Incredibles scored two Academy Awards (including Best Animated Feature). It also spawned a sequel, The Incredibles 2, which grossed over $1.2 billion worldwide.

40. Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)

  • Director: Travis Knight
  • Cast: Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson, Ralph Fiennes, George Takei
  • Rating: PG
  • Run time: 101 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97%; IMDb 7.7/10

Featuring an A-list voiceover cast and seriously impressive animation, this stop-motion action-adventure follows a young boy, Kubo, as he sets out to locate a magical suit of armor that once belonged to his father. With some dark and scary themes, this one's better to watch with older kids.

While chatting with Deadline, director Travis Knight revealed that the film's core message is "the sustaining love of family." He added, "It offered us an opportunity to pay homage to a beautiful cultural tradition and art style that we typically don’t see on the big screen, and that’s something that’s rooted in Japan."

41. The Kissing Booth (2018)

  • Director: Kids ages 14+
  • Cast: Joey King, Jacob Elordi, Joel Courtney
  • Rating: TV-14
  • Run time: 105 minutes
  • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 15%; IMDb 5.9/10

Tweens and teens will appreciate this fun adaptation of Beth Reekles's book. In the film, Elle and Lee created a list of friendship rules when they were kids, and they still abide by them today. However, when Elle goes behind Lee’s back to pursue a romantic relationship with his off-limits older brother, Noah, Elle is forced to choose between friendship and love.

42. A Bug's Life (1998)

    • Director: John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton
    • Cast: Dave Foley, Kevin Spacey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus
    • Rating: G
    • Run time: 95 minutes
    • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92%; IMDb 7.2/10
    • Scariness score: 4/10

    Flik is a misfit ant and inventor who really wants to make a difference. However, his inventions are always causing problems for his ant colony. When he accidentally destroys their hard-earned food storage, they’re forced to distract Hopper while they fix the problem. I love that this film tackles real-life issues (like colonialism and violence) without losing its humor and charm. It'll appeal to fans of all ages.

    43. The Addams Family (1991)

    • Director: Barry Sonnenfeld
    • Cast: Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd
    • Rating: PG-13
    • Run time: 99 minutes
    • Reviews: Metacritic 57%; IMDb 6.9/10
    • Scariness score: 6/10

    The Addams Family is thrilled when Gomez’s missing brother, Fester, suddenly reappears. That is, until Morticia realizes that something about his sudden arrival is...off. This iconic Halloween favorite never disappoints, but parents should know the humor is macabre and both violence and sexual innuendo crop up throughout the film.

    BTW, Huston's performance was inspired by a longtime friend of hers. She told The Guardian, "I based Morticia on Jerry Hall. With the Addams Family everything white is black and everything good is bad, but Morticia is the most lenient, understanding and wonderful mother. I’ve always seen Jerry as a perfect example of motherhood." Fortunately, Huston received not one, but two Golden Globe nominations for her role.

    44. Brave (2012)

      • Director: Brenda Chapman, Mark Andrews
      • Cast: Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson, Julie Walters
      • Rating: PG
      • Run time: 93 minutes
      • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 79%; IMDb 7.1/10
      • Scariness score: 4/10

      Meet Merida, the daughter of Scottish King Fergus and Queen Elinor. When she receives an ill-fated wish from a witch (voiced by the brilliant Julie Walters), she must undo the curse before it’s too late. Brave was the first Pixar movie to be released with a female protagonist, and it was originally called The Bear and the Bow. Plus, it scored the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film.

      45. Over the Moon (2020)

      • Director: Glen Keane
      • Cast: Cathy Ang, Phillipa Soo, Ken Jeong, John Cho
      • Rating: PG
      • Run time: 95 minutes
      • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 82%; IMDb 6.3/10

      This is the story of a young dreamer named Fei Fei, who is mesmerized by the legend of the moon goddess, Chang’e. Directed by Glen Keane, the musical fantasy was nominated for an Oscar for Best Animated Feature and won a Golden Globe. Also, it only took one week for Over the Moon to become Netflix’s most-watched movie.

      46. Maleficent (2014)

      • Director: Robert Stromberg
      • Cast: Angelina Jolie, Sharlto Copley, Elle Fanning, Sam Riley
      • Rating: PG
      • Run time: 97 minutes
      • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 54%; IMDb 6.9/10

      In this dark retelling of Sleeping Beauty, Maleficent is shocked when an invading army threatens her idyllic life. After engaging in an epic battle, Maleficent places a curse on the king’s newborn daughter, only to realize it was a mistake. Fans of the original fairy tale are in for a treat, and Jolie delivers an unforgettable performance as the iconic villain.

      47. The Willoughbys (2020)

      • Director: Kris Pearn
      • Cast: Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews
      • Rating: PG
      • Run time: 92 minutes
      • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91%; IMDb 6.4/10
      • Scariness score: 5/10

      Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby used to be an adventurous couple, but they’re too caught up in everyday life to spend time with their four children. This prompts the neglected kids to take their nanny on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the modern world. With stunning animation, great dialogue and fascinating characters, it's impossible not to enjoy this gem. Oh, and did I mention that it features the best soundtrack?

      48. Beauty and the Beast (2017)

        • Director: Bill Condon
        • Cast: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Kevin Kline
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 139 minutes
        • Reviews: Metacritic 65%; IMDb 7.1/10
        • Scariness score: 6/10

        In this live-action version of the Disney classic, Belle switches places with her father, who was locked up in a dungeon by an arrogant prince. With the help of the mansion’s enchanted servants, Belle discovers the Beast isn’t as tough as he seems.

        While speaking with CNN, Watson, who plays Belle, revealed she wanted to bring authenticity to the role. She said, “My Belle wears riding boots, and she’s got mud on her, and she has bloomers underneath her dress so she can kick her legs over a horse, and she’s got these big pockets we created for her so she can carry books around with her all the time. And you see a very tender side of Belle in this film.”

        49. Despicable Me (2010)

        • Director: Pierre Coffin, Kyle Balda, Chris Renaud
        • Cast: Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand, Miranda Cosgrove, Kristen Wiig
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 95 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 80%; IMDb 7.6/10
        • Scariness score: 4/10

        Gru (voiced by Carell) is on a mission to steal the moon, so he adopts three orphan girls as a means of furthering his plan. When he starts to feel parental love for his adopted brood, he soon realizes family isn’t so bad after all.

        "I kinda think there's no greater children's movie franchise," said Quint. "My kids have loved those damn minions from the moment they first saw them. And Steve Carrell as an evil genius with a heart of gold is pretty great for grownups too."

        50. The Red Balloon (1956)

        • Director: Albert Lamorisse
        • Cast: Pascal Lamorisse
        • Rating: TV-G
        • Run time: 34 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96%; IMDb 8.1/10
        • Scariness score: 1/10

        Inspire your child’s inner cinephile with this 34-minute French film from 1956. The fantasy comedy-drama follows a young child named Pascal who traipses around Paris with, yep, a red balloon. Fun fact: Albert Lamorisse, who wrote, produced and directed the film, selected his real-life son, Pascal, for the main role. His daughter, Sabine, also appears as a young girl. Très cute.

        51. Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)

        • Director: Kyle Balda
        • Cast: Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson, Lucy Lawless
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 87 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 70%; IMDb 6.5/10
        • Scariness score: 4/10

        Minions: The Rise of Gru (also known as Minions 2) takes place in the ’70s, when Gru is considering joining the Vicious 6 supervillains. Of course, things don’t go according to plan.

        According to Quint, "The coming attraction for this movie got my family through the pandemic. And we were the first in the theater when it came out. Spoiler: the historical romp through Gru's childhood did not disappoint."

        52. Soul (2020)

        • Director: Pete Docter
        • Cast: Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Graham Norton, Rachel House
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 100 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95%; IMDb 8/10
        • Scariness score: 4/10

        We’re total suckers for a good Disney-Pixar movie, but this flick is especially good. Soul tells the story of a musician who has lost his passion for music. When he’s transported out of his body, he must find his way back with the help of an infant soul. (Bonus points: The characters are voiced by Fey and Foxx.)

        53. Aladdin (1992)

        • Director: Ron Clements, John Musker
        • Cast: Scott Weinger, Robin Williams, Linda Larkin
        • Rating: G
        • Run time: 90 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95%; IDMb 8/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Introducing another Disney classic. Who doesn’t love this Arabian nights musical featuring Robin Williams in one of the most iconic roles of his career? Clear your living room carpet and have a family sing-along to “A Whole New World” as Aladdin tries to win the heart of Princess Jasmine.

        54. Mulan (2020)

        • Director: Niki Caro
        • Cast: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen, Tzi Ma, Jason Scott Lee
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 115 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 72%; IMDb 5.8/10

        This live-action version of the Disney classic features Yifei Liu as a brave girl named Mulan, who disguises herself as a man so she can serve in the Rouran army in Imperial China. Unfortunately for fans of the animated version, none of the original songs were used. Still, it features a remake of "Reflection," and a not-so-subtle nod to "I'll Make a Man Out of You."

        55. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

        • Director: Susan Johnson
        • Cast: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish, Anna Cathcart, Madeleine Arthur, Emilija Baranac
        • Rating: TV-14
        • Run time: 99 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96%; IMDb 7/10

        Lara Jean is content with her life as a nearly invisible high school junior. Everything changes when five of her secret love letters accidentally get mailed out to their recipients—including her friend Josh, who happens to be dating her older sister, Margot. In an attempt to convince him it meant nothing, she quickly enlists the help of Peter Kavinsky to fake a romance.

        56. Upside-Down Magic (2020)

        • Director: Joe Nussbaum
        • Cast: Izabela Rose, Siena Agudong
        • Rating: TV-PG
        • Run time: 96 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 49%; IMDb 5.4/10

        When two best friends enroll in Sage Academy (a prestigious magic school), they must learn to utilize their special powers against the forces of evil. If the title sounds familiar, it's probably because the movie is based on the fantasy book series by Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle and Emily Jenkins. Also, it was directed by Joe Nussbaum, best known for titles like Sleepover and Sydney White.

        57. Secret Magic Control Agency (2021)

        • Director: Aleksey Tsitsilin
        • Cast: Nicholas Corda, Sylvana Joyce, Alyson Rosenfeld
        • Rating: NR
        • Run time: 105 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52%; IMDb 6.2/10

        Remember Hansel and Gretel? Well, they’re now acting as secret agents in this family-friendly film. The animated flick, directed by Aleksey Tsitsilin, documents the duo as they use their magic to find a missing king, demonstrating teamwork along the way. Tsitsilin said in an interview, "We wanted not to remake [the original], but to rethink. Leave the logic of the narrative and string some additional details. The story begins to play with new colors, it becomes different, but at the same time you realize that it is all the same Hansel and Gretel."

        58. We Can Be Heroes (2020)

        • Director: Robert Rodriguez
        • Cast: YaYa Gosselin, Lyon Daniels, Andy Walken, Hala Finley
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 110 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 74%; IMDb 4.7/10

        When Earth’s superheroes are kidnapped by alien invaders, the government takes in all their children to protect them against evil forces. Everything changes when Missy Moreno devises a plan to use all of the kids’ powers to escape the safe house and save their parents. FYI, according to Variety, Netflix has already confirmed that a sequel is in the works, thanks to the first film's success.

        59. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

        • Director: Gabriele Muccino
        • Cast: Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Jaden Smith
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 117 minutes
        • Reviews: Metacritic 64%; IMDb 8/10

        When Chris Gardner, a San Francisco salesman, is evicted from his apartment, he and his young son embark on a challenging and life-changing journey. Inspired by true events, this poignant flick is bound to make you smile, but it will also make you reach for the tissue box.

        PureWow Assistant Editor of News and Entertainment, Karelle McKay, said, "Will Smith's character truly cared about his son, who was played by the actor's actual son, Jaden Smith. Despite the adversity they faced throughout the film, there were some sweet, tender moments that you can't help but smile at. This movie really showed the unconditional love between a father and son."

        60. Little (2019)

        • Director: Tina Gordon
        • Cast: Regina Hall, Issa Rae, Marsai Martin
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 119 minutes
        • Reviews: Metacritic 49%; IMDb 5.5/10

        Regina Hall stars as Jordan, a woman whose life gets flip-turned upside-down when she magically turns into her younger self. Luckily, her faithful assistant April is more than happy to step up in her absence. BTW, did you know that Martin served as an executive producer for the film at just 14 years old? This made her the youngest person to ever hold the title on a Hollywood production.

        61. Queen of Katwe (2016)

        • Director: Mira Nair
        • Cast: David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o, Madina Nalwanga
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 124 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 94%; IMDb 7.4/10

        This feel-good flick is based on a true story and is sure to inspire some interesting family discussions after viewing. Katwe (pronounced Kah-tway) is from one of Uganda's poorest slums but manages to overcome impossible hurdles to become a teenage chess champion. (And don’t worry—this film is in English and no knowledge of chess is required.)

        62. Mary Poppins (1964)

        • Director: Robert Stevenson
        • Cast: Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson
        • Rating: G
        • Run time: 139 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97%; IMDb 7.8/10
        • Scariness score: 2/10

        From the catchy tunes to the formidable cast...there’s a reason why this fantastical technicolor movie is a classic. I'd even go as far as to say that this story of a magical nanny who sweeps into the Banks home to take charge of the children is “practically perfect in every way.” (Note: Our scariness score does not refer to anything remotely scary, except for the very long runtime, which might be daunting for kids and parents alike.)

        Bowie said, "We're just introducing this one to our six-year-old, but he cannot stop laughing at some of the scenes—like when Mary Poppins gets the kids to clean the nursery or when Bert (all hail Dick Van Dyke) dances with the penguins who are all trying to impress Mary. We sometimes skip around, but it is a delight that still feels totally timeless!"

        63. Remember the Titans (2000)

        • Director: Boaz Yakin
        • Cast: Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 113 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71%; IMDb 7.9/10

        This is the ultimate sports movie (inspired by a true story) about a newly integrated high school football team in 1971 Alexandria, Virginia. Full of ups and downs, this all-star flick (yep, that’s a young Ryan Gosling singing in the changing room) gives parents an opportunity to talk to kids about race and prejudice. Plus, the film—directed by Boaz Yakin—boasts an amazing soundtrack, including songs by Bob Dylan, The Hollies, Marvin Gaye, James Taylor and The Temptations.

        64. Hidden Figures (2016)

        • Director: Theodore Melfi
        • Cast: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kevin Costner
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 126 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 93%; IMDb 7.8/10

        This Academy Award-nominated film tells the story of the unsung heroes of NASA’s early days: three brilliant African American women who played pivotal roles in launching the manned spaceflight program. Based on an inspiring true story, this family film will teach young minds about perseverance and teamwork, as well as give them an important look at the racial tensions of the Civil Rights era. Henson, Spencer and Janelle give Oscar-worthy performances here.

        65. Hugo (2011)

        • Director: Martin Scorsese
        • Cast: Ben Kingsley, Sacha Baron Cohen, Asa Butterfield
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 127 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 93%; IMDb 7.5/10
        • Scariness score: 5/10

        Your kids may be too young for Goodfellas, but this kid-friendly Martin Scorsese flick is just as entertaining. The ode to cinema is set in a romantic Parisian atmosphere and follows the adventures of Hugo Cabret, a young orphan who tries to solve an important mystery and find a new home. It has enough adventure and laughs to keep kids of all ages enthralled. Fun fact: Hugo received 11 Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture, and it won a total of five Oscars: Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing and Best Visual Effects.

        66. Encanto (2021)

        • Director: Byron Howard, Jared Bush
        • Cast: Stephanie Beatriz, María Cecilia Botero, John Leguizamo
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 109 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91%; IMDb 7.2/10
        • Scariness score: 4/10

        Meet Mirabel Madrigal, a Colombian girl who’s dealing with the fact that she’s the only one in her family who was born without powers. But when her magical home comes under threat, she discovers that she could be the key to saving it. The musical fantasy, which grossed $256 million worldwide, won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. I can see why, given how the film tackles important issues like family dynamics and generational trauma.

        67. The Adam Project (2022)

        • Director: Shawn Levy
        • Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Walker Scobell, Addison Tusing, Mark Ruffalo
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 106 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 68%; IMDb 6.7/10

        The story follows Adam as he travels back in time to reunite with his younger self. Together, they must eliminate time travel…before it’s too late.

        In her honest review, PureWow Senior Editor Greta Heggeness said, "The story is as silly as it sounds, resembling more of a family flick than an edge-of-your-seat thriller. (Disclaimer: It has some action scenes and language references that might be inappropriate for young audiences.) Still, the movie is loaded with nostalgic references that will delight every millennial."

        68. Sing (2016)

        • Director: Garth Jennings
        • Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 110 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71%; IMDb 7.1/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Prepare to sing along as this talented group of animal performers rehearse for their next musical extravaganza. The question is: Can Buster Moon convince a busy rock star to join the cast?

        Quint said, "When I first showed this to my son (age 5) he freaked out because the animals were 'scary.' But a few years later and upon a rewatch, it's become a family favorite. The songs—ranging from a heart-filled 'I'm Still Standing' to a cheeky 'Shake it Off" are in constant rotation on the family playlist."

        69. Shrek (2001)

        • Director: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
        • Cast: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 90 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 88%; IMDb 7.9/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Shrek’s isolated lifestyle is turned upside-down thanks to Lord Farquaad. When the ogre cuts a deal with the dictator, he’s tasked with rescuing Princess Fiona. The problem? She’s hiding a deep, dark secret. (Psst, after this, do yourself a favor and watch the sequels: Shrek 2, Shrek the Third and Shrek Forever After.)

        70. Vivo (2021)

        • Director: Kirk DeMicco
        • Cast: Zoe Saldana, Juan de Marcos, Brian Tyree Henry
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 99 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 86%; IMDb 6.7/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        The movie highlights a musically gifted duo: Andrés Hernández and his kinkajou—a tropical rainforest mammal—named Vivo. After a tragic event, Vivo embarks on a dangerous journey to fulfill Andrés’s last wishes. There are no real scares in this one, but it can be a bit stressful due to the significant peril.

        Quint said, "I've always maintained that this movie didn't get the attention it deserved. The songs are so catchy, and my kids love the message of 'marching to the beat of your own drum.'"

        71. Turning Red (2022)

        • Director: Domee Shi
        • Cast: Rosalie Chiang, Sandra Oh, Ava Morse
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 107 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95%; IMDb 7/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        In this Oscar-nominated coming-of-age comedy, Mei Lee is a confident 13-year-old who struggles to balance school and adolescence with her overbearing mom. Not only that, but whenever she gets a little too excited, she morphs into a giant red panda.

        Director Domee Shi told Deadline, "This film is one of the first, if not the first film, at least from Pixar, that really shines a light on and highlights the Chinese Canadian community. The protagonist is this Chinese girl struggling with this very specific yet universal issue of her mom being super protective. It’s so important and amazing to see that this film...has been embraced globally."

        family movies cinderella
        Walt Disney Television

        72. Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1997)

        • Director: Robert Iscove
        • Cast: Brandy Norwood, Whitney Houston, Jason Alexander, Whoopi Goldberg
        • Rating: G
        • Run time: 85 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 86%; IMDb 6.7/10

        From Whitney Houston’s dazzling golden ensemble to Brandy Norwood’s catchy musical numbers, this fairytale remake still stands as one of the best (and most diverse) Cinderella adaptations ever made. I can still vividly recall singing along to "Impossible" and "In My Own Little Corner" while watching it as a kid.

        In a previous review, I wrote, "Cinderella is a bit more complex. She's got an active imagination and a knack for bringing out the good in people. But more importantly, she has hopes and dreams that go far beyond attending a lavish ball, as evidenced in her rendition of 'In My Own Little Corner.'"

        73. Good Burger (1997)

        • Director: Brian Robbins
        • Cast: Kenan Thompson, Kel Mitchell, Abe Vigod
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 103 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 33%; IMDb 5.8/10

        Who knew that a simple comedy sketch from All That could inspire this timeless cult classic? In Good Burger, Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell steal the show as two employees who go out of their way to save the popular fast-food joint from crumbling. The movie spawned a sequel, Good Burger 2, which follows Dexter and Ed reuniting at their old workplace and unveiling a major secret.

        74. Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)

        • Director: Walt Becker
        • Cast: Jack Whitehall, Darby Camp, Tony Hale, Sienna Guillory
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 96 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 58%; IMDb 5.9/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        I love a feel-good film that takes me back to my childhood. Inspired by Norman Bridwell’s classic book series, this adaptation is about a young girl who receives a tiny red puppy. But little does she know that her furry friend will turn into a giant ten-foot dog.

        FYI, if you need a compelling movie to keep the kids distracted, then this is your best bet. Quint said, "This is the movie I put on for my daughter while administering a two-hour lice comb-out. That's all you need to know."

        75. Up (2009)

        • Director: Pete Docter
        • Cast: Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 96 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 98%; IMDb 8.3/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Carl Fredricksen is a 78-year-old widower who has always dreamed of traveling to South America and finding the mysterious Paradise Falls. To fulfill his promise to his late wife, he attaches thousands of balloons to his house and embarks on his biggest adventure, along with his new friend and young Boy Scout, Russell. The Pete Docter film was originally called Heliums, and it spawned a Diesny+ sequel series called Dug Days.

        76. Anastasia (1997)

        • Director: Don Bluth, Gary Goldman
        • Cast: Meg Ryan, John Cusack, Kelsey Grammer
        • Rating: G
        • Run time: 94 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 83%; IMDb 7.1/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Anastasia is the last surviving member of the Russian royal family—but she doesn't know it. Determined to learn more about her history, she teams up with two mischievous con men and heads back to Paris, while the evil Rasputin sets out to destroy her. The Oscar-nominated film spawned multiple adaptations, including a stage musical and a spin-off film called Bartok the Magnificent.

        77. The Parent Trap (1998)

        • Director: Nancy Meyers
        • Cast: Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson, Lindsay Lohan
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 128 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 87%; IMDb 6.7/10
        • Scariness score: 2/10

        After being separated at birth and raised by just one of their parents, siblings Annie and Hallie wind up attending the same summer camp and are stunned to find out that they're identical twins. Before heading back home, the sisters hatch a plan to switch places so they can get their parents back together. But unfortunately, something is standing in their way: their father's new gold-digging girlfriend.

        family movies alvin chipmunks
        20th Century Fox

        78. Alvin & The Chipmunks (2007)

        • Director: Tim Hill
        • Cast: Jason Lee, David Cross, Cameron Richardson
        • Rating: PG
        • Run time: 91 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 29%; IMDb 5.2/10

        The movie follows a businessman and aspiring composer who becomes fast friends with three talented chipmunks and then adopts them as his own. These lovable furry creatures will totally appeal to kids and adults alike. The musical comedy made a whopping $361.3 million worldwide and led to three sequels: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked and Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip.

        79. Dr. Dolittle (1998)

        • Director: Betty Thomas
        • Cast: Eddie Murphy, Ossie Davis, Oliver Platt, Norm MacDonald
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 90 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 42%; IMDb 5.4/10
        • Scariness score: 4/10

        Meet Dr. John Dolittle, an eccentric veterinarian who can communicate with a variety of exotic animals. His ability, however, causes his wife to suspect that he's going insane, landing him in a mental institution. Can his animal friends rescue him?

        Quint watched the movie with her family and said, "It has an awful Rotten Tomato rating, but I watched it last week with my kids and aside from having an all-star cast, it has a lot of jokes that truly land. Well…at least with the under 10 set."

        80. Bend It Like Beckham (2003)

        • Director: Gurinder Chadha
        • Cast: Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 112 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 85%; IMDb 6.7/10
        • Scariness score: 3/10

        Jess is extremely passionate about football (soccer to us Americans). Unfortunately, her strict conservative family refuses to let her play because of her gender. So, Jess steps out of her comfort zone and secretly joins the local women’s football team. BTW, did you know that the film's title refers to David Beckham's curling free kick technique, which is also called bending?

        81. The Secret Life of Bees (2008)

        • Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
        • Cast: Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys
        • Rating: PG-13
        • Run time: 114 minutes
        • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 60%; IMDb 7.2/10

        In an attempt to learn more about her late mother, Lily Owens travels to a small South Carolina town. While there, she meets the Boatwright sisters, who take her in and teach her about beekeeping. Based on Sue Monk Kidd's equally compelling novel of the same name, this coming-of-age story deftly tackles racism, religion, loss and forgiveness.

        82. Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022)

          • Director: Josh Gordon, Will Speck
          • Cast: Shawn Mendes, Javier Bardem, Constance Wu, Winslow Fegley
          • Rating: PG
          • Run time: 106 minutes
          • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71%; IMDb 6.1/10

          Meet Josh, a young boy who’s struggling to fit in after moving to New York City. Everything changes, however, when he befriends a singing crocodile named Lyle. Aside from the star-studded cast, this musical fantasy is heart-warming and funny enough to make any kid smile. Plus, adults will appreciate the solid storytelling and catchy tunes.

          83. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

          • Director: Hiyao Miyazaki
          • Cast: Dakota Fanning, Elle Fanning, Tim Daly
          • Rating: G
          • Run time: 86 minutes
          • Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 94%; IMDb 8.1/10
          • Scariness score: 1/10

          Miyazaki’s breakthrough film has stood the test of time—namely because of the beautiful animation and the low-key storyline, which brings the children's emotions to light in the most magical way and boasts positive messages about siblings and friendship. This poignant fantasy is sure to stir the hearts and minds of viewers of all ages.


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