As a long-time animation enthusiast and someone who grew up with a love for both classic and modern cartoons, I can wholeheartedly say that these animated films are truly gems in their respective streaming platforms.
As a frequent movie buff who spends most of my free time exploring various streaming platforms, I can’t help but feel the constant flux of titles leaving and entering these services is both exciting and frustrating. On one hand, the addition of new movies keeps things fresh and introduces me to hidden gems that I may not have discovered otherwise. However, on the other hand, saying goodbye to my favorite films as they get removed can be disheartening. It’s a bit like having a never-ending game of musical chairs – always having to adapt and find new favorites just as the music stops. But hey, that’s the joy and challenge of being a movie enthusiast in today’s ever-evolving streaming landscape! *winks*
Family movie night should be a enjoyable experience for everyone, not a fight over what to watch. To make it easier, here are 30 great family movies currently streaming across various platforms. Most of these films carry G or PG ratings, ensuring they’re suitable for all ages. We’ve handpicked the best offerings from each service: Expect timeless classics such as “The Wizard of Oz” and “Beauty and the Beast,” visually stunning masterpieces like “Spirited Away,” and critically acclaimed new releases, including “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-verse.” Browse this list to discover a new family-friendly movie to watch together this week, no matter which major streaming service you subscribe to.
Switch to any of these streaming platforms: Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, Apple TV+, or Paramount+.
How We Pick Our Films
Movie and TV critic Brian Tallerico explores and pens his thoughts daily on films and television shows. In compiling Vulture’s streaming lists, he delves deep into each platform’s library, unearthing notable titles that are critically acclaimed, thought-provoking, or otherwise deserving of attention. He relies on his discerning palate and extensive film knowledge, rather than relying on algorithms, to make his selections. After confirming availability, he watches each title and pens his recommendation. Herein, we showcase a selection of family-friendly movies from various streaming services. We go beyond highlighting just Oscar winners or conventional crowd-pleasers; instead, we feature films with unique concepts, significant impact on cinema, and enduring appeal to children.
Netflix
*Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2
Rating: PG
Year: 2013
Runtime: 1h 34m
Directors: Cody Cameron, Kris Pearn
In this 2013 follow-up to the 2009 hit animation, the humor is nearly on par with the original. With its brilliant visual gags and well-developed characters, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” brings back Bill Hader and Anna Faris as voices for Flint Lockwood. When Swallow Falls needs saving once more, these talented voices lead the charge in this engaging and entertaining sequel.
The Mitchells vs. the Machines
Rating: PG
Year: 2021
Runtime: 1h 54m
Directors: Mike Rianda, Jeff Rowe
Initially intended for a theatrical debut by Sony under the disappointing title “Connected“, the film was later transferred to Netflix during the pandemic. This heartwarming animated production, known for its popularity in recent times, is both intelligent and endearing. It’s a family comedy that explores the touching bond between a father and daughter while unexpectedly requiring their collaboration to save the world.
Paddington
Rating: PG
Year: 2014
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director: Paul King
In a delightful modern spin on the cherished children’s tale, “Paddington,” voiced by Ben Whishaw, journeys from the depths of “Darkest Peru” to bustling London in search of a new home. He is welcomed into the loving arms of an ordinary family headed by Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins. However, their peaceful existence is threatened when they encounter the sinister taxidermist, brilliantly portrayed by Nicole Kidman, who plots against the beloved bear. This heartwarming and amusing film will win you over with its charm; even the most cynical viewers would find it hard to dislike it.
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio
Rating: PG
Year: 2022
Runtime: 1h 56m
Directors: Guillermo del Toro, Mark Gustafson
An Oscar-winning director collaborated with talented stop-motion animators to bring this timeless classic to life, based on the cherished fairy tale of Pinocchio’s yearning to become real. Featuring exceptional voice acting, this rendition is set in an era preceding World War II, offering a fresh perspective on the themes of innocence and brutality. This heartfelt and visually stunning film is a deeply personal interpretation of Pinocchio’s story.
Shrek
Rating: PG
Year: 2001
Runtime: 1h 30m
Directors: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
Growing up, I was a huge fan of traditional fairy tales. The enchanting stories filled me with wonder and imagination. However, when I saw that film back in 2020, it completely flipped my perspective on those tales. Its skewering of fairy tales felt culturally seismic to me.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-verse
Rating: PG
Year: 2023
Runtime: 2h 20m
Directors: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson
As a longtime fan of superhero movies, I can confidently say that this is how you craft a captivating and successful sequel for a big-budget blockbuster. Building upon the themes established in the initial film, this production not only satisfies but also sets the stage for what promises to become one of the most remarkable trilogies in superhero cinema history. The intricacy and ingenuity poured into every frame leave me in awe, making it an experience I eagerly anticipate revisiting multiple times.
Wendell & Wild
Rating: PG-13
Year: 2022
Runtime: 1h 46m
Director: Henry Selick
As a longtime fan of stop-motion animation and a lover of dark, imaginative tales, I was thrilled to hear that Henry Selick, the brilliant mind behind “A Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Coraline,” has graced us with a new project. Having grown up watching Selick’s earlier works, I can attest to his mastery of bringing inanimate objects to life in the most captivating ways.
Disney+
Beauty and the Beast
Rating: G
Year: 1991
Runtime: 1h 32m
Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
As a movie critic, I had the pleasure of witnessing a groundbreaking moment in Disney’s history with the release of this enchanting 1991 animated film. This masterpiece was the first animated feature to earn a nomination for Best Picture at the prestigious Oscars, and in my humble opinion, it deserved the win. The visuals are stunningly beautiful, the retelling of the classic legend is emotionally moving, and the original songs are unforgettable. The artistry behind this production radiates with an undeniable passion that is unfortunately missing from some Disney films. It’s no wonder why it remains one of the biggest successes in the animation genre.
Inside Out
Rating: PG
Year: 2015
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director: Pete Docter
Pixar’s masterpiece introduces us to Riley (voiced by Kaitlyn Dias), a teenage girl whose thoughts and feelings are brought to life by personified emotions – Joy (Amy Poehler) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). This animated adventure takes us on an intriguing journey inside Riley’s mind, showcasing stunning visuals and spot-on voice acting. An underlying message resonates with younger audiences about the importance of experiencing both happiness and sadness in life. The upcoming sequel faces a significant challenge in surpassing the original’s brilliance.
The Lion King
Rating: G
Year: 1994
Runtime: 1h 33m
Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff
As someone who grew up with Disney animations, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to “The Lion King.” This timeless classic is more than just a movie to me; it’s a part of my childhood memories. The story of Simba has left an indelible mark on my life, inspiring sequels, theme park attractions, and even a successful Broadway show that continues to captivate audiences. I’ve watched this film countless times, and with each viewing, I find myself drawn back into the world of Pride Rock. For me, “The Lion King” is not just a movie; it’s a story that gets passed down from generation to generation, earning new fans every single day. It brings joy, nostalgia, and a sense of wonder to people all over the world, and I’m proud to be one of them.
The Princess Bride
Rating: PG
Year: 1987
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director: Rob Reiner
As a longtime film enthusiast with a soft spot for fantasy and romance, I can confidently say that The Princess Bride is one of my all-time favorite movies. Adapted from William Goldman’s beloved book, this timeless classic was an instant hit when it was released and continues to delight audiences young and old.
Ratatouille
Rating: G
Year: 2007
Runtime: 1h 52m
Director: Brad Bird
Brad Bird is undeniably among the greatest family filmmakers, boasting an impressive portfolio that includes “The Simpsons,” “The Iron Giant,” and “The Incredibles.” Yet, his talent extends beyond these renowned projects with the creation of this exquisite rat-themed tale set in Paris. An enchanting story about realizing unexpected dreams, it ranks among Pixar’s finest works, showcasing Bird’s unparalleled mastery in animation.
Toy Story
Rating: G
Year: 1995
Runtime: 1h 24m
Director: John Lasseter
Just as Snow White is synonymous with Disney, representing their most beloved and pioneering character, Woody and Buzz hold the same significance for Pixar. Their groundbreaking debut film marked a pivotal moment for Pixar, revolutionizing animation and capturing the imagination of children worldwide. The notion that toys might come to life was a universal childhood fantasy, and Pixar brilliantly brought this idea to life in their iconic movies, now available on Disney+ for re-watching.
Max
Harry Potter
Rating: PG to PG-13
Year: Various
Runtime: Various
Director: Various
J.K. Rowling may be controversial nowadays, yet her creations, including the “Harry Potter” books and movies, continue to captivate a devoted fanbase. The “Harry Potter” films come and go on streaming platforms like Max and Peacock, and currently, they’re available for families to enjoy a marathon viewing experience of the Boy Who Lived’s tale. As with any large franchise, the series exhibits varying degrees of quality, but “Prisoner of Azkaban” and “Goblet of Fire” stand out as exceptional installments.
My Neighbor Totoro
Rating: G
Year: 1988
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
In this enchanting children’s film from 1988, skillfully crafted by a renowned animation director, two young girls form an extraordinary bond with a friendly spirit. After their mother falls ill and they relocate to an ancient house, the girls discover the magical presence of woodland spirits. This marks the beginning of a delightful journey in one of the greatest animated movies ever made.
Spirited Away
Rating: PG
Year: 2001
Runtime: 2h 4m
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Nearly all Studio Ghibli films are available for streaming on Max, which is currently their exclusive platform. This renowned animation studio, considered a major force in the modern world, boasts an Academy Award-winning masterpiece like “Spirited Away” as one of its greatest accomplishments in animated storytelling. Begin with watching “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” and “Castle in the Sky.” You’ll find it hard to pause.
Teen Titans Go to the Movies
Rating: PG
Year: 2018
Runtime: 1h 24m
Directors: Peter Rida Michail, Aaron Horvath
As a movie buff who’s always on the lookout for smart and entertaining superhero content, let me tell you that I find Teen Titans Go! to be one of the most brilliantly written cartoons of this era. Their first feature film is often overlooked, but trust me, it’s a hidden gem.
The Wizard of Oz
Rating: G
Year: 1939
Runtime: 1h 41m
Director: Victor Fleming
If I’m hesitant about revisiting “The Wizard of Oz,” perhaps I haven’t seen it since my childhood days? In that case, I should give Dorothy’s adventure another look and discover the magic anew.
Hulu
*Enchanted
Rating: PG
Year: 2007
Runtime: 1h 48m
Director: Kevin Lima
Amy Adams, along with James Marsden, shines particularly brilliantly in this witty retelling of the Disney princess story. This isn’t merely a mockery of classics like “Cinderella” and “Sleeping Beauty,” but rather an inventive tale about an enchanted princess named Giselle who accidentally ventures into reality. The result is an endearing blend of humor that appeals to children and adults alike.
The Fantastic Mr. Fox
Rating: PG
Year: 2009
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director: Wes Anderson
In this enchanting animated film based on the 1970 classic children’s novel, the acclaimed director of “The Royal Tenenbaums” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” brings the story to life with stop-motion animation and an exceptional voice cast. Featuring George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe, and Owen Wilson, the film follows the adventures of the title character as his family is pursued by three farmers. A visual treat for all ages.
The Secret Garden
Rating: PG
Year: 2020
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director: Marc Munden
Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 novel “The Secret Garden” has been brought to life on screen numerous times throughout the last century, with the most recent adaptation being released in 2020 under the direction of Marc Munden. In this version, Dixie Egerickx portrays the orphaned protagonist who stumbles upon a magical garden hidden in her uncle’s backyard. She is joined by esteemed actors Colin Firth and Julie Walters in this heartwarming tale. Although it leans towards sentimentality, its intentions are noble, which isn’t always the case with children’s entertainment.
Steven Universe: The Movie
Rating: TVY7
Year: 2019
Runtime: 1h 23m
Director: Rebecca Sugar
Following the conclusion of “Steven Universe” on Cartoon Network in 2019, they released a film that beautifully preserves the show’s unique combination of fantasy and comedy. A majority of the main cast reappears for an additional tale about the Crystal Gems safeguarding all living beings on Earth. “Steven Universe” is an exceptional series, making this movie an ideal concluding chapter to its enduring legacy. (Additionally, the series can be found on Hulu.)
Prime Video
The Bad Guys
Rating: PG
Year: 2022
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director: Pierre Perifel
In the 2022 movie adaptation of Aaron Blabey’s graphic novels, audiences were delightfully surprised by its wit and amusement. Simultaneously raking in substantial revenues worldwide, this animated film managed to thrive even as families began venturing back to cinemas during the easing pandemic restrictions. An illustrious voice cast, featuring Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Awkwafina, and Craig Robinson, brought to life the story of a band of criminal animals feigning reform, only to uncover that their leader might not have been deceiving them after all.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Rating: PG
Year: 1946
Runtime: 2h 10m
Director: Frank Capra
An endearing classic movie isn’t limited to being watched solely during the holiday season. Its insightful messages about life priorities and an outstanding acting performance by Jimmy Stewart can be enjoyed and resonate with us at any point in the year.
The Secret of NIMH
Rating: G
Year: 1982
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director: Don Bluth
Don Bluth, a renowned animator, began his directorial journey with this intriguing 1982 fantasy film, filled with twists and darkness, demonstrating his commitment to creating films that challenged and engaged audiences rather than talking down or pampering them. Based on Robert C. O’Brien’s novel, the movie breathes life into the ordinary existence of field mice, transforming it into an intricately crafted fantasy realm. Those of a certain age likely recall its haunting visuals from their childhood. Share the experience with your kids!
TMNT: Mutant Mayhem
Rating: PG
Year: 2023
Runtime: 1h 39m
Directors: Jeff Rowe, Kyler Spears
Drawing significant influence from the “Spider-verse” films, the most recent journey for the pizza-loving ninja turtles is considered their finest adventure to date. This installment leans more heavily on the source material from the comic books than the previous, lighter movies. It explores themes of brotherhood and the complexities of how outcasts cope with their outsider status by either embracing heroism or succumbing to villainy. With a potential sequel on the horizon, this installment could potentially surpass its predecessor.
Peacock
Despicable Me
Rating: PG
Year: 2010
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director: Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin
It’s amazing how the story of an unconventional supervillain named Gru (portrayed by Steve Carell), who unexpectedly falls for three orphaned girls, became the foundation of one of the most successful film franchises in history. After its release, this heartwarming tale gave rise to two sequels (with a third on the way), as well as two “Minions” movies, numerous toys and merchandise, specials, video games, and even a theme park attraction. The world of Gru has truly taken over.
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
Rating: PG
Year: 2023
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director: Joel Crawford
Surprisingly, the assumed-dead Shrek franchise produced another remarkable spin-off sequel in 2022, which defied predictions. This unexpected hit, titled “The Last Wish,” is a visually stunning and emotionally moving tale that takes an unanticipated turn – focusing on Shrek’s encounter with mortality. With a vibrant style closer to “Into the Spider-verse” than traditional DreamWorks animation, this film delivers humor, intelligence, and an enduring impact.
Apple TV+
Wolfwalkers
Rating: PG
Year: 2020
Runtime: 1h 43m
Directors: Tomm Moore, Ross Stewart
In early 2021, the animated film “Wolfwalkers” by Cartoon Saloon deserved to receive an Oscar. The last installment in their “Irish Folklore Trilogy,” it tells the captivating tale of Robyn Goodfellowe, whose father is hired to exterminate wolves. During her adventure, she forms a bond with a shape-shifting girl who is both human and wolf. This unique narrative combines contemporary storytelling with Irish folklore and stunning visuals, making it a must-see masterpiece.
Paramount+
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Rating: PG
Year: 2022
Runtime: 2h 2m
Director: Jeff Fowler
As a movie enthusiast, I’ve noticed that for some time now, those movies featuring the swift little blue character have seemed like the pioneering megafranchise of the pandemic era. They’ve been passing back and forth between streaming platforms, and with another one set to hit theaters soon, it feels like the perfect moment to discover what makes them so popular.
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2024-07-22 19:04