A Curated List of Family-Friendly Movies on Netflix
Netflix offers a vast collection of movies, but finding the right ones for family movie night can be quite challenging. To make things easier, here is a carefully selected list of films that are perfect for all ages, featuring a mix of original content and beloved classics.
Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017)
This film, directed by David Soren, is a clever and funny adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s popular book series. While it didn’t perform well at the box office, it remains a sweet story about friendship, creativity, and heroism. The film features a villain named Professor Poopypants, making it an entertaining choice for kids and adults alike.
*Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 (2013)
This animated sequel is just as funny as the original. It continues the adventures of Flint Lockwood, voiced by Bill Hader and Anna Faris, as they return to Swallow Falls to save the day. The film is inventive and very fun, making it a great option for family viewing.
*Despicable Me 4 (2024)
The latest installment in the Minions series, directed by Chris Renaud, is a huge hit. It features Steve Carell's Gru and has grossed almost a billion dollars worldwide. This film is a must-watch for fans of the franchise and anyone looking for a fun and engaging movie.
Klaus (2019)
This animated Christmas adventure was critically acclaimed and even competed with Pixar and DreamWorks for an Oscar. It tells the story of a postman who meets a reclusive toymaker named Klaus, offering a delightful Santa Claus origin story. The film's old-fashioned style makes it a joyous choice for the whole family.
Kubo & the Two Strings (2016)
Directed by Travis Knight, this film is a masterpiece that has been hard to find on streaming platforms. It follows a young boy on a journey to defeat his evil aunts with the help of a snow monkey and a beetle. The film is both gorgeous and deeply moving, making it one of the best family films of the 2010s.
The Lego Movie (2014)
This film, directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, is a clever family film that comments on its own existence. It stars Chris Pratt as an ordinary LEGO guy who embarks on an extraordinary journey. The film highlights the power of imagination and is a captivating story that appeals to all ages.
Matilda (1996)
The musical version of the Roald Dahl classic was added to Netflix in 2024, along with the 1990s edition. Mara Wilson plays the title character, and Danny DeVito directs this charming film. Although it bombed in theaters, it developed a following on VHS and DVD, making it a hidden gem for families.
The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)
Originally planned for a theatrical release, this film was sold to Netflix during the pandemic. It is an incredibly smart and sweet family vacation movie that focuses on the relationship between a father and daughter. The film also includes a plot where they have to save the world together, making it a fun and engaging choice.
Nimona (2023)
Based on the comic by ND Stevenson, this queer parable features a shape-shifter who refuses to adhere to society’s rules. The film blends 2-D and 3-D animation and explores themes of friendship and identity. It is a beautiful and thought-provoking movie that appeals to a wide audience.
Orion and the Dark (2024)
Written by Charlie Kaufman, this animated film is reminiscent of Pixar classics like Toy Story and Inside Out. It follows a kid who overcomes his fears with the help of the literal dark. The film is clever and engaging, making it a great choice for families.
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022)
This Oscar-winning director's stop-motion animation retells the classic fairy tale. It explores themes of innocence and violence, making it a deeply personal and beautiful film. The voice work is spectacular, adding to the film's appeal.
*The Polar Express (2004)
This motion-capture film, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. Tom Hanks stars in multiple roles, telling the story of a boy who finds a train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The film is a timeless classic that works any time of year.
Rise of the Guardians (2012)
Based on the book series The Guardians of Childhood, this film is the directorial debut of Peter Ramsey, who later directed Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. It features a high-powered voice cast and tells the story of how imaginary children’s characters save the world.
The Sea Beast (2022)
This film, directed by Chris Williams, is a blend of various genres, including How to Train Your Dragon, Moana, and Pirates of the Caribbean. It is a detailed adventure film that appeals to everyone in the family.
*The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
This film from Illumination features Louis C.K. and Eric Stonestreet in key roles. It tells the story of a spoiled house pet whose life is turned upside down when a new dog joins the family. The film is fun and entertaining, making it a great choice for families.
A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon (2019)
This film is a brilliant Netflix original from Aardman Animations. It follows Shaun the Sheep as he helps a stranded alien return to his own kind. The silent comedy star leads one of the most consistently hilarious franchises of all time.
Sing (2016)
This charming jukebox musical stars Matthew McConaughey as a koala who needs to put on a show to save his theater. It features great tunes and an excellent voice cast, making it a simple but charming film.
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (2025)
After 21 years, this film brings back the cheese-loving inventor and his trusty sidekick. It features a robot gnome and a villainous Feathers McGraw, making it a hilarious and clever family comedy.
The Wild Robot (2024)
This award-winning adaptation of the novel by Peter Brown stars Lupita Nyong’o as a service robot who mothering a goose. It is a beautiful and moving piece of family filmmaking that appeals to viewers of all ages.
The Willoughbys (2020)
This inventive 2020 comedy is inspired by Tim Burton's films. It follows four kids who decide to replace their apathetic parents with ones that actually care. The film includes voice work by Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews, and Ricky Gervais, making it a unique and engaging choice.
Post a Comment