This list gets frequently refreshed as films come on and go off from Amazon Prime Video. New arrivals are signified with an asterisk.
As a movie enthusiast scouring Amazon Prime’s streaming service for family-friendly films, I can’t help but feel like a diamond hunter sifting through pebbles. But fear not! This guide is here to help you navigate the treasure trove of titles and uncover some hidden gems. From timeless classics that may have slipped your memory to new releases suitable for everyone from young kindergarteners to wise great-grandparents, this guide has got you covered. And for easy reference, I’ve even included the MPAA rating next to each title. Enjoy the journey!
How We Pick Our Films
As a passionate movie lover who immerses myself daily in the world of films and television, I delve into Amazon Prime Video’s vast library each month to unearth engaging family-friendly titles that cater to both children and adults alike. Guided by my keen taste and extensive knowledge gained from decades of cinema exploration, I carefully select movies that may not necessarily be top algorithm picks.
Before sharing my recommendations, I meticulously verify that these treasures are still accessible for your viewing pleasure. Once confirmed, I sit down to watch them, penning my thoughts along the way. We don’t shy away from highlighting more than just the crowd-pleasers – family movies may be geared towards kids, but their artistic merit and thought-provoking ideas are often just as captivating for grown-ups. So, peruse this list to discover your next favorite film!
Cinderella
Year: 2021
Runtime: 1h 53m
Director: Kay Cannon
Rating: PG
As a movie enthusiast, here I am again, gearing up for another retelling of the timeless fairytale, Cinderella. This time, the magic unfolds on Prime Video, where pop sensation Camila Cabello has donned the glass slipper. With her star power from the music realm, she breathes life into this musical adaptation of our beloved tale. You’ll recognize some old favorites among the soundtrack, mixed with a few fresh tunes. It might not be everyone’s dream Cinderella, but it could very well become your perfect fit.
The Dark Crystal
Year: 1982
Runtime: 1h 33m
Directors: Jim Henson, Frank Oz
Rating: PG
Check out this film! It’s not just Muppets, it’s a children’s movie… with a twist! While it does feature puppets, it’s more than that – it’s a complex, sometimes frightening adventure story that doesn’t patronize children. This movie was revolutionary for its use of puppetry, special effects, and innovative approach to writing children’s entertainment. It continues to influence the industry, which is why Netflix revisited its world nearly four decades later.
Early Man
Year: 2018
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director: Nick Park
Rating: PG
Aardman Animations, famed for creations like Wallace & Gromit and more recently Shaun the Sheep, are undeniably exceptional in their field of stop-motion animation. Among their diverse portfolio, a 2018 production stands out – a comedy featuring a Stone Age tribe battling against bronze-age invaders in a game of football. Directed by Nick Park, this film might not be Aardman’s finest work, but for fans of the studio, it’s a family-friendly film worth watching.
Hotel Transylvania: Transformania
Year: 2022
Runtime: 1h 27m
Directors: Derek Drymon, Jennifer Kluska
Rating: PG
In early 2022, due to the pandemic, the popular Hotel Transylvania film series, which was previously owned by Sony, moved exclusively to Amazon Prime Video for viewing. This latest installment, expected to be the final one in the series, has an unexpected twist: Dracula (Adam Sandler) turns human, while his son-in-law (Andy Samberg) transforms into a monster. As we all know, it’s what’s inside that truly matters.
*How to Train Your Dragon 2
Year: 2014
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director: Dean Deblois
Rating: PG
When discussing the greatest film trilogies ever made, it’s often overlooked that those based on Cressida Cowell’s books about a boy and his fire-breathing companion are included. These movies boast stunning animation and truly emotional content. The second installment, available now on Prime Video, might even surpass the others in quality.
IF
Year: 2024
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director: John Krasinski
Rating: PG
A less controversial view would be to acknowledge that Krasinski’s emotional film about imaginary friends (often referred to as I.F.) may not instantly become a timeless classic, but it certainly surpasses the harsh criticism it initially received upon release. It carries a tremendous amount of warmth, which can sometimes make all the difference for a streaming platform that doesn’t have an extensive collection of family-oriented films.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Year: 1946
Runtime: 2h 10m
Director: Frank Capra
Rating: PG
This classic movie, cherished by many, isn’t solely meant for holiday viewing. The valuable life lessons it presents, along with one of the most memorable performances in cinema history by Jimmy Stewart, can be enjoyed and appreciated at any point throughout the year.
Labyrinth
Year: 1986
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director: Jim Henson
Rating: PG
In this rephrased version: Jim Henson, renowned for creating The Muppets, skillfully directed a captivating fantasy movie, which left an indelible mark on its audience. None other than the iconic David Bowie played the role of Jareth, the Goblin King, who abducts Sarah’s half-brother, portrayed by Jennifer Connelly. While parts may seem a bit outdated, it carries an endearing charm that evokes nostalgia for when family films could sometimes be a delightful oddity. The movie in question is Labyrinth.
My Spy
Year: 2020
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director: Peter Segal
Rating: PG-13
Due to the pandemic, the release date of this action-comedy was postponed and adjusted, eventually premiering on Amazon Prime Video in June 2020. The film received mixed feedback from critics. Starring Dave Bautista as a CIA agent who finds himself stuck with a clever nine-year-old girl, it may be too intense for young viewers but is worth watching for Bautista’s performance. Excitingly, there’s another installment planned for summer 2024!
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
Year: 2022
Runtime: 1h 42m
Directors: Joel Crawford, Januel P. Mercado
Rating: PG
In this revised version, I’ve aimed to keep the original essence while making it more accessible and engaging:
Initially, there wasn’t much hope that this upcoming sequel to “Puss in Boots” would surpass the excellence of the original, but it has proven undeniably superior. One significant factor contributing to its success is the visually stunning design, with noticeable influences from “Spider-verse.” However, what sets it apart is its depth as an animated film. Unlike typical animations, it delves into a profound theme of mortality that underpins its heroism, giving it an emotional weight not usually found in such films. It’s earned a substantial sum: half a billion dollars globally. Given its quality, if there isn’t another sequel, fans shouldn’t wait another decade for the next installment.
*The Secret of NIMH
Year: 1982
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director: Don Bluth
Rating: G
As a passionate movie-goer, I’d rephrase it like this: Back in 1982, animation master Don Bluth stepped into the director’s seat for the first time with a captivating fantasy film that was far from sugarcoated. This wasn’t about making movies for the faint-hearted or those who need constant hand-holding. Based on Robert C. O’Brien’s enchanting novel, it transformed the ordinary lives of field mice into an intricate, fantastical realm. For those of us from a certain era, its visuals might have given us nightmares as kids. If you’re up for it, pass on the thrill – and perhaps a touch of trauma – to your children!
The Secret of Roan Irish
Year: 1995
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director: John Sayles
Rating: PG
Instead of immersing yourself in fantasy alone, let’s introduce your children to an enchanting rendition of an old Irish folktale by John Sayles – a story they’ll remember forever. Captured beautifully by the legendary Haskell Wexler, this film tells the story of a young girl in Ireland who learns that her brother was taken by a selkie (a mythical sea creature) as a baby. It’s a magical journey through Irish legends and culture unlike any other.
Sounder
Year: 1973
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director: Martin Ritt
Rating: G
Instead of sticking to the usual family-friendly fare like Minions, why not occasionally introduce your kids to something more grounded and realistic, such as Sounder? This film isn’t just about a dog; it’s a powerful story set in the Deep South during the Great Depression. The performances by Paul Winfield and Cicely Tyson are truly exceptional, earning them Oscar nominations. In fact, the movie itself was also nominated for Best Picture.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Year: 2023
Runtime: 1h 39m
Directors: Jeff Rowe, Kyler Spears
Rating: PG
Drawing heavy influence from the latest “Spider-verse” films, the newest escapade for the pizza-loving ninja turtles is widely considered their best adventure yet. This time around, the story strays further from the goofy past movies and delves deeper into the comic book roots, exploring themes of brotherhood and how individuals who feel like outsiders can either choose to become heroes or villains. With a sequel highly anticipated, there’s a strong possibility that it could surpass this installment.
Transformers One
Year: 2024
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director: Josh Cooley
Rating: PG
Instead of always sticking with live-action for the Transformers movies, perhaps they could consider fully animated versions instead? The 2024 animated hit, one of the most well-regarded films in the lineage of Hasbro toy-based movies, significantly altered the trajectory of this franchise. However, it didn’t perform exceptionally well at the box office (due in part to a problematic and misleading trailer). So, if you want to see a Transformers Two, you might want to increase viewership on Prime Video.
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2025-07-22 22:57