Hunting for the best family movies on Netflix is never as easy as we’d like. The Children & Family Movies section on the big red streaming machine is chock-full of titles, but their neon soaked posters and meager plot descriptions don’t give you a whole lot to go on — or knowledge about what to expect.
Fortunately, Netflix is not exactly short on good family movies. No matter how many movies Disney Plus takes away — Mary Poppins Returns, Ralph Breaks the Internet and The Incredibles 2 come to mind — there’s still something the whole family can watch. The latest entry to this list, The Mitchells vs. The Machines, comes from the folks behind the instant-classic Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (which is headed to Netflix).
The best family movies on Netflix aren’t always easy to find, which many parents and family members out there can attest to, after hours of scanning the rows of bright and shiny posters, looking for quality. So, we’ve put together a master list of the best family movies on Netflix, to help you schedule some quality TV time with films everyone can enjoy.
We consider ratings from both Common Sense Media and Rotten Tomatoes, but neither is exactly the end-all be-all for deciding what’s truly one of the best family movies on Netflix.
HBO Max brought bringing a great roster of family friendly movies, including the Studio Ghibli films and The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo. Consider our best Netflix shows list for something to binge after the kids nod off. And be sure to research the best Netflix VPN if you’re on a family vacation and want to keep them entertained with their favorite shows.
The best family movies on Netflix today
The Mitchells vs. The Machines
The latest addition to this list of the best family movies on Netflix, The Mitchells vs. The Machines is an animated film that has something for everyone. Its visuals astound (as we expected from the team behind Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse), and its cast is filled to the brim with top players including Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Eric Andre and Olivia Colman.
And the story is simple until it’s chaos: the Mitchell family is out for a road trip right before daughter Katie starts film school. But, then, the robot uprising begins. You know, all our smart tech has finally had enough of us, and is going to take over. It’s the inevitable moment we all saw coming, and the exact last thing a family would want when they’re on the road and reliant on technology.
97% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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Hook
One of the most critically under-appreciated movies on this list, Hook is a gem that will hopefully not get lost in the sands of time. And the odds of that minor tragedy decreased now that it’s available on Netflix for younger generations to stream. Hook is what happens when you bring top-tier talent (Dustin Hoffman, Bob Hoskins, Robin Williams and Julia Roberts) to liven up an old-fashioned fairy tale. Here, we see Peter Pan (Williams) all grown up and boring, and needed to save the day when Capt. Hook (Hoffman) and Smee (Hoskins) are up to no good.
29% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
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Enola Holmes
Families looking for a fun and lively action-filled mystery should stream Enola Holmes. The film stars Stranger Things’ Millie Bobby Brown, who brings modern sensibilities to days of yore. And, yes, Enola is from that Holmes family. But her brothers Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Clafin) are among those who don’t know quite what to make of how their little sister is remarkably free-spirited for her time. Brown thrives in the role, mixing the fourth-wall breaking fun that seems to only make it to older female characters such as Fleabag. But parents don’t need to worry about the show being too adult, aside from some fight scenes employing knives and guns.
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
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Rango
Titular lizard Rango (voiced by Johnny Depp) is a chameleon having trouble taking the form of the one thing he really wants to be: a hero. But life has a way of pushing Rango into the role of his destiny. Somehow, Rango finds himself in a weird town named Dirt that’s basically like a version of the wild west, but with an all creepy and crawly cast, instead of humans. Rango looks to become the law, as sheriff of Dirt, but local politics over water supplies and a massive treacherous snake stand in his way. Oh, and that snake has a gatling gun, which makes him extra dangerous. Far more sophisticated than the average animated tale, Rango comes from respected director Gore Verbinski, and has earned comparisons to Chinatown of all films. Kids might not even realize it, but parents who have been looking for a great film to share with the family will.
88% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 9 and up
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Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey
Seemingly a near-instant classic, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is the unexpected holiday season hit is one of the best family movies on Netflix — especially during the holiday season. A gigantic musical film, filled with joy and excitement — plus a top-tier cast — this John Legend-produced film has won applause all over, from critics to fans. We’ll keep plot details minimal, but the film centers around a toymaker who’s lost his smile, but may get his exuberance back when he’s reunited with his intelligent granddaughter.
92% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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Mirai
This beautifully hand-drawn animated film will connect with all members of the household. It starts with a familiar tale — four-year-old Kun finds his life shaken up when a new baby sister gets all the attention — that goes wild and weird quickly. A teenage version of his new sibling Mirai arrives, and soon Kun and the older Mirai go on adventures together, where they meet a myriad series of peculiar characters from their past and future. Warm, caring and unlike most bright and neon kids movies made today, Mirai will show your family that the Kids section on Netflix is more diverse than they know.
90% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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Mr. Peabody & Sherman
Sometimes we can get a classic reboot without it being a dark and dry mess. That’s the case with this solid modernization of the “Peabody’s Improbable History” segments from the old Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoons. The story is full of fun but slightly convoluted shenanigans, as you’d expect when time travel is involved. The story here, if you’re not familiar, finds the genius talking canine Mr. Peabody having built the “WABAC” machine, a time-travel device that allows his a bit dim-witted from Sherman to wreak havoc in the universe. And — of course — he does it to impress his female friend Penny.
81% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up
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The Willoughbys
Silly yet grounded in real emotional truths, The Willoughbys is a success that proves the Netflix animated films team should be up there with the best. The story is relatable as well, with Willoughby siblings Tim (Will Forte), Jane (Alessia Cara), Barnaby A and Barnaby B (both voices by Seán Cullen) devise the ultimate plan for freedom from their parents. And the kids aren’t wrong for this either: mom and dad are too occupied with their never-ending love for one another to care for the kids. The Willoughby kids plan, though, is a bit crazy: sending their parents on a vacation so dangerous that the kids will likely be orphaned by the end.
90% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch
Are your kids not exactly traditional? Parents of kids with particularly unique and slightly mature tastes in TV and movies should consider John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch for the next movie night. In this film, the titular comedian (who is also great on HBO Max’s The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo) runs through all of the standard kids content tropes with a sly wit and a lot of kindness. Younger kids may not “get” it, but parents who are fans of Mulaney’s will likely wonder why all kids-friendly content can’t be this intelligent. It’s also got musical numbers, to keep the especially young crowd from getting bored.
96% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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Pokemon Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution
A CGI remake of the original Pokemon film, Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution is both familiar but new. It focuses on what happens when the iconic Pokemon trainer Ash (and his fellow trainers) discover the massively powerful Mewtwo, a psychic Pokemon who is a massive threat. While it’s not high art, it’s still a decent choice for family movie night if and when your kid just got into the Pokemon world. Especially since the original is not on Netflix. Mewtwo will also teach kids about when you shouldn’t judge others.
44% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
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Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus
Netflix rebooted the Nicktoon classic Invader Zim with this 71-minute film that’s easily one of the best family movies on Netflix — especially for younger parents. Just like the classic show, Florpus offers a wild manic energy with some jokes that kids won’t get and parents will chuckle at. Reviews point to the film’s amazing eye candy and endearing energy levels, and small nods to other classic animated shows. If your kids love this film, maybe it’s time to dig up the original series or get them started on Adventure Time.
100% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
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The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind
This inspiring film — set in a small farming village in Malawi — will pull audiences in with the presence of lead actor (and director) Chiwetel Ejiofor. The award-winning actor doesn’t take up too much of the film, though, giving proper time to lead Maxwell Simba, who plays a 13-year-old boy named William. While William’s story may read like a middle-school assignment, his education is taken away before he conceives a windmill-power generator to solve his town’s problems, it’s the kind of motivational story that science-obsessed kids might love.
85% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 12 and up.
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The Main Event
Yes, we’re recommending a wrestling movie. The Main Event is one of the best family movies on Netflix for a reason, though, thanks to the endearing performance of lead actor Seth Carr, who plays Leo, an 11-year-old who discovers a magical mask that lets him perform as well as his heroes in WWE. The film is grounded in realism, though, as Leo and his father (played by Adam Pally) are dealing with the departure of his mother, who left them to fend for themselves. Leo also has to deal with the ramifications of his selfishness, which quickly alienates his friends. Levity is found in and around the squared circle, thanks to comedy veteran Ken Marino and a star-making performance by pro wrestler Keith Lee. If you or your child are a fan of pro wrestling, but want something with a little more story, this is definitely one of the best family movies on Netflix.
26% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 7 and up
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Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling
For slightly older kids and parents on the younger end, Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling is both proudly progressive and delightfully nostalgic. Not only does the series match the original Nicktoon’s vibe, but its approach to identity and transgender roles should be inspiring to other family programming looking to take the leap. And at only 45 minutes, this special won’t take a huge bite out of your night.
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up.
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Mary and The Witch’s Flower
If you’re looking for a new twist on solid tropes, check out Mary and The Witch’s Flower from Academy Award nominee Hiromasa Yonebayashi, whose credits include Studio Ghibli masterpieces Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Ponyo. This animated film centers around a young girl named Mary who finds herself surrounded by the utterly fantastic: a magic flower that grants magical powers, a broomstick that she flies above the clouds, and the magic university of Endor College (no, there aren’t any Ewoks). Features voice acting by Kate Winslet and Jim Broadbent.
86% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
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White Fang
Inspired by Jack London’s novel, White Fang will capture the imaginations of those who love pets and nature. Tracing the story of a wolfdog’s life, as he moves between three masters, this wonderful animated movie comes to us from France, where it was originally titled Croc-Blanc. Voice acting work comes from beloved names such as Parks and Recreation stars Rashida Jones and Nick Offerman, as well as Paul Giamatti.
88% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up.
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Next Gen
Parents looking for a futuristic animated film for their middle-school-aged (and up) kids that successfully manages to be appropriate and entertaining should check out Netflix’s Next Gen. Featuring voice acting from John Krasinski (The Office) and Charlene Yi (Paper Heart), who play an AI and a young girl, respectively, who unite to stop a baddie. Next Gen is a sci-fi adventure movie that keeps its action scenes kid-friendly with laser blasts and explosions, while staying away from the more grizzly stuff.
60% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
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Pokemon The Movie: I Choose You!
Parents who loved the Pokemon games and anime can use this film (which breaks from conventions) to introduce it to their kids. If you can believe it, Pokemon The Movie: I Choose You! is the 20th Pokemon movie in the series, which is so storied and complicated that the franchise began to run itself into the ground of predictability. This chapter, though, thrives by breaking the rules. Sure, some fans were incensed by the decision to have Pikachu speak any words that aren’t their own name, but that’s one of a handful of choices that – in the end – made the movie better. Younger viewers will hopefully not be so attached to the Pokemon franchise that they’ll feel betrayed by the absence of Brock and Misty.
43% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 7 and up.
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Pee-wee’s Big Holiday
Parents of a certain age, who would be eager to introduce their kids to Pee-wee Herman and his manic energy, will find Pee-wee’s Big Holiday to be one of the best family movies on Netflix. It may not provide as many laughs per minute as previous capers, reviews noted it offers a sweetness that will delight existing fans and kids who can handle some surreal humor.
80% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 11 and up.
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The Little Prince
Netflix’s exclusive adaptation of The Little Prince is as sincere, heartfelt, and visually striking as the beloved Antoine de Saint-Exupery book that inspired it. Mark Osborne directed the film, in which a young girl (Mackenzie Foy) strikes up a friendship with an old pilot (Jeff Bridges). The pilot spins an extraordinary yarn about a friend from his past: a Little Prince (Riley Osborne) from another planet. Read the book together beforehand, if you can.
93% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up.
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Disney’s The Princess and the Frog
In the 1910’s in New Orleans, a young girl named Tiana dreamed of one thing and one thing only: owning her own restaurant. She encounters a lot of road blocks on her path to that dream, including a prince who is turned into a frog — and even getting turned into a frog herself. Praised for its animation style reviving the old-school hand-drawn Disney aesthetic and breaking a color barrier for Disney princesses, The Princess and the Frog is a great family film for parents looking for some quality wholesome goodness.
85% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up.
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Miracle
Young hockey nuts (or at least parents who regularly buy NHL tickets) will be enjoy streaming this sports drama about the US men’s hockey team during the 1980 Winter Olympics. Starring Kurt Russell (as the coach who pushed the team to success), Miracle got praise for rising above the land of cliches that many expected it would trod in.
80% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
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The Rugrats Movie
Super-young audiences and their 90’s-kid parents will have fun watching Tommy Pickles dealing with sharing his parents with a new, younger, sibling. Of course, this all starts when the maniacal Angelica convinces Tommy that his parents will literally forget about him once their new bundle of joy arrives. The zaniness occurs, though, when Tommy tries to return baby Dil (get it, because they’re the Pickles family) to the hospital. Also a fun way for expecting parents to show their only child there’s nothing to worry about.
59% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 4 and up.
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