Family movie nights might seem like a simple way to get your kids to simmer down for the evening. But once they grow up, the time you all spend together huddled under blankets on the couch and munching away on popcorn will truly become cherished memories.
If we're being honest, though, finding a film that keeps both the little ones and the grown-ups entertained can be a tall order. That's why we've rounded up the best family movies of all time. Some are classics, while others are newer, but they each strike that perfect balance of heart and humor that will get everyone engaged.
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Pixar
Pixar's Inside Out takes viewers on a journey into the mind of an 11-year-old girl named Riley as she grapples with a big life change: moving to a new city. Directed by Peter Docter, this beautifully animated film brings Riley's emotions of Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust to life, giving kids and parents alike a creative way to talk about feelings.
Inside Out is rated PG, clocks in at 102 minutes long, and features an all-star voice cast, including Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Richard Kind, Bill Hader, and Lewis Black.
Columbia Pictures
In this hilarious movie, Eddie Murphy plays Charlie, a man who loses his corporate job and teams up with a buddy to open a daycare out of his own home. As it turns out, a lot can go wrong.
Directed by Steve Carr, Daddy Day Care is a laugh-out-loud comedy that pokes fun at traditional gender roles while still delivering a sweet message about parenting and perseverance. It's rated PG, has a runtime of 92 minutes, and is perfect for families who love a bit of silliness.
20th Century Fox
This feel-good musical premiered in 2017 and quickly captured the hearts of viewers everywhere, bringing the story of P.T. Barnum to life.
Hugh Jackman leads a star-studded cast that includes Zac Efron, Zendaya, and Michelle Williams. The Greatest Showman also features a ton of catchy tunes, so at 105 minutes, it's a great choice for families into showbiz.
Pixar
We'd be remiss if we didn't include Finding Nemo, Pixar's timeless underwater adventure that has stood the test of time. It follows Marlin, a cautious clownfish, as he teams up with the forgetful but lovable Dory to search for his son Nemo, who's been scooped up by a diver and placed in a fish tank.
Directed by Andrew Stanton and rated G, this film is 100 minutes of humor, lovable characters, and important lessons about bravery, independence, and trust.
Universal Pictures
Another cultural phenomenon that still tugs at our heartstrings decades later is E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. This sci-fi tale of a gentle alien stranded on Earth and the boy who befriends him is packed with wonder and a few emotional gut punches.
It's rated PG-13, is 115 minutes long, and is best suited for older kids who can handle some mild language and more intense scenes towards the end. Also, parents will get to see young Drew Barrymore again!
Sony Pictures
Paddington is a modern classic based on the beloved children's books, following a polite bear from Peru who finds himself lost in London's Paddington Station. Then, the kind Brown family takes him in.
Directed by Paul King, this G-rated film is only 95 minutes long and will draw viewers of all ages in with its clever humor and heartfelt themes. Plus, if you fall in love with the first Paddington film, there's an equally good sequel you can watch as well.
Pixar
7. Up (2009)
This Pixar movie follows Carl, a widowed 78-year-old balloon salesman who decides to fulfill his lifelong dream of visiting South America by tying thousands of balloons to his house and floating away. Along for the ride is Russell, a spirited Boy Scout who's just as eager for the adventure.
Featuring the voices of Ed Asner and Jordan Nagai, Up is rated PG, lasts 96 minutes, and has some emotional moments, including a famous opening montage that may cause you to shed some tears.
Warner Bros
Last but certainly not least is Where the Wild Things Are, which takes Maurice Sendak's classic book and transforms it into a thoughtful film about childhood emotions and imagination.
The story follows Max, a lonely boy who runs away from home and finds himself in a mysterious land filled with large, furry creatures. With a PG rating and a 101-minute runtime, the film is better suited for tweens who can appreciate its slower pace and introspective themes.
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