Great Movies to Watch as a Family

Sometimes summer is just too hot to handle. After a full day of playing outside or running through the sprinklers, watching a movie as a family can be a great way to wind down and spend time together. What takes even longer than watching a movie though, is picking one. Spending hours scrolling through Netflix or Disney+ with very opinionated family members can be a huge downer, so here are some great family-friendly movies on a few different streaming platforms for you and your family to enjoy together. 

1. Coco – Disney+

This beautiful family film may cause a few tears to be shed, but the storyline is incredibly interesting and it’s a great movie for your kids to be entertained while learning about a different culture. Coco follows Miguel as his family celebrates Dia de los Muertos and he is transported to the realm of the dead and he gets to meet a family he never knew he had. The beautiful colors and music will keep even the youngest of kids engaged, and the story and humor will have the rest of the family entertained. 

2. Robin Hood – Disney+

This Disney classic may have been one of your childhood favorites, and Disney+ has brought it to you without having to break out your VHS player. This old-time classic, as well as almost every other classic Disney movie, are on Disney+ for you and your family to enjoy. 

3. Fantasia – Disney+

Another old favorite, the magic of Disney’s Fantasia is sure to keep your whole family entertained for hours. For families with younger children, some of the “scary” parts may need to be skipped, but it is up to you to use your discretion on what your family may not enjoy. This old-time Disney film will bring you all the nostalgia while allowing you to share some of your favorite childhood memories with your kids. 

4. Mary Poppins Returns – Netflix 

A modern take on a classic film, Mary Poppins Returns employs the talents of Emily Blunt and Lin Manuel Miranda to bring you catchy music and insanely colorful cinematography. Whether or not you’ve seen it yet, this movie brings joy and entertainment every time you watch it. But keep in mind that Netflix only has this movie until 2021, when it moves over to Disney+. 

5. Sharkboy and Lavagirl – Netflix 

This is a movie that will bring nostalgia to any teenagers in your home. Released in 2005, this movie follows a boy named Max who has extraordinary dreams. If you just so happen to have some 3D glasses  lying around, this movie was made to be watched in 3D, so it’s time to break out the old blue and red shades and enjoy a super cool film. 

6. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms – Netflix 

A beautiful cinematic take on a classic ballet, this film is not a bore. Starring Mackenzie Foy and featuring Morgan Freeman, the incredible costumes and sets of this movie are reminiscent of Narnia, as Clara is transported into the magical world of the four realms. 

7. Smallfoot – Hulu 

You may recognize some of your personal favorite actors and actresses on this cast list. This adorable animated film flips the script on the classic Bigfoot story and stars Channing Tatum, Lebron James, James Corden, Danny Devito, and many more unexpected stars. This is a funny, heartwarming story that follows a clan of Yeti like creatures in the snowy mountains, who discover a human. 

8. Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who – Hulu

An animated movie take on a book you may have read to your kid’s hundreds of times, Horton Hears a Who is a fun, colorful movie. Jim Carrey and Steve Carell are hilarious characters that will allow you to enjoy this movie right along with your kids. 

10. Free Willy – Hulu

Another older favorite movie of many, Free Willy is perfect for your ocean animal enthusiasts. This movie is best for families with older kids who will understand the storyline but is still a great pick for any family movie night. 

Take this time together to snuggle your kids close and enjoy one of your childhood favorite films like Robin Hood, or discover a new family favorite like Smallfoot. Whether you use these movies or find one of your own personal favorites, these movies are sure to keep your kids happy and entertained as long as they have some popcorn.