The 20 Best Movies for Kids on Netflix Right Now

Category: Recommendation

Trying to find a movie that would be amenable to a family in the grand stage that is Netflix, becomes uniquely difficult. From these new animated adventures to innovative retellings of classic tales, the treasure trove of films sometimes becomes more overwhelming when one has to choose the perfect movie for a family movie night. What really keeps Netflix very different is the fact that whatever one's interest may be—be it fun, frolic, and laughter or heart-pounding stories, or even movies with life lessons to share—there's always something to engage everyone.

Here's a look at our list of the top 20 Netflix movies for kids that will entertain, educate, and leave them inspired. Each title on this list has been handpicked for its quality and appeal to the young audience and their parents alike. Each one of these movies is sure to make family movie nights memorable, providing hours of engaging content that everyone will enjoy.

Read the full blog post for the top movies you should add to your watchlist. Looking for something sweet in animation or trying a new spin on that familiar story? We've got the perfect pick for you to create fun and bonding time with the whole family. Get all the scoop below!

List of the Best Kids Movies on Netflix 

1. Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood (2022)

Director: Richard Linklater
Runtime: 1h 38m

Plot: It is Richard Linklater's sweet animated film, set in the 1960s, where a fourth-grader imagines himself to be the first man to walk on the moon. While daydreaming through his conquests in space, it also flashes back to his life in suburban Houston at the height of the Space Race. The story skillfully intertwines these childhood fantasies with historical events into a hugely nostalgic journey that reflects the excitement and wonder of the times.

Why Watch: The movie gives a shade of historical backdrop with a very extensive imaginary storyline that will appeal to both children and adults. It's an ode to the excitement of space exploration and childhood imagination.

2. Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017)

Director: David Soren
Runtime: 1h 28m

Plot: Plot Summary: Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is a theatrical translation of the beloved children's books series by Dav Pilkey, brought to life with deep, evocative animation and a hearty dose of humour. The movie tells a story: 2 prankster boys in the 4th grade, George and Harold, hypnotise their principal, Mr. Krupp, into thinking that he is a comic superhero wearing nothing but underpants—Captain Underpants. What the guys now have to do is fight off villains in a series of crazy adventures to keep everybody, and themselves, from the hilarious trouble brought about by this hypnotic mishap.

Why Watch: Featuring a wry sense of humour and an all-new animation style that truly brings to life the playfulness of the books, this is a real family piece that will foster the imaginative spirit and the power of friendship, with loads of belly laughs for kids and grown-ups.

3. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 (2013)

Directors: Cody Cameron, Kris Pearn
Runtime: 1h 34m

Plot: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 continues where the first film left off, with the inventor Flint Lockwood returning to his hometown of Swallow Falls. His latest invention, a machine that turns water into food, has run wild and is now creating food-based creatures inhabiting the island. Flint and his friends reunite in this colourful, creative, and hilariously funny adventure to save the day by taming these crazy creatures, from  to .

Why Watch: The sequel retains enough of the imaginative charm of the original, along with some visually stunning world-building, that is so full of inventive food creatures and has such lively humour. It's an absolute feast for the eyes—the type of heartwarming tale that combines with points of friendship and innovation, really a must-watch for family movie night.

4. Klaus (2019)

Director: Sergio Pablos
Runtime: 1h 38m

Plot: Klaus is an engaging story about Jesper, a spoiled and selfish postman, who is sent away to a remote Arctic Circle town as retribution for his laziness. Here, he encounters Klaus, an enigmatic toymaker, and the two set off on a mission to achieve what seems to be impossible and raise the village's existence. The film, in a new touching story, reinvents Santa's origin within the fold of folklore.

Why Watch: Hand-drawn and absolutely beautiful, Klaus comes with a touching, creative story that is a classic modern-day Christmas tale that will live on after the season. As one delves deeper inside, powerful themes of kindness, friendship, and community are simmered into this great atmosphere and will remain a timeless tale for all viewers.

5. The Little Rascals (1994)

Director: Penelope Spheeris
Runtime: 1h 22m

Plot Summary: The Little Rascals is a wonderfully amusing live-animation update of the endearing "Our Gang" comedy heroism in which the world discovers the genius pranks taken by Spanky, Alfalfa, and the remainder of the gang. The story follows their efforts to save their clubhouse while at the same time Alfalfa has fallen in love with Darla, and his involvement with her leads to a division within the "He-Man Woman Haters Club.

Why It's Worth Watching: The film mixes classic appeal to parents and fresh, sweet humour to kids in equal measure into a crowd-pleasing blend. Timelessly charming for the characters from the original, a fun and carefree new story of friendship and childhood adventures.

6. The Lorax (2012)

Directors: Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda
Runtime: 1h 26m

Storyline : The Lorax is a colourful version of the classic story by Dr. Seuss in which a boy named Ted resides within the walled city with no nature. As he tries to strike out with Audrey he comes to learn of the tale of the Lorax who is a grumpy yet affable guardian of the forest who speaks for the trees. It looks into issues regarding environmental conservation and the repercussions of industrial greed, making it a poignant story for everyone.

Why Watch: Engaging with the movie is almost unavoidable because of its colourful animation and catchy musical numbers, while the underlying message regarding the state of the environment gives the film depth. The Lorax is bumps on a log, entertaining education—a family won't want much more when it wants both fun and a lesson learned.

7. Marcel the Shell With Shoes On (2022)

Director: Dean Fleischer Camp
Runtime: 1h 30m

Plot: Marcel the Shell With Shoes On is a stop-motion, endearing story about a very small, one-inch-tall shel named Marcel who lives in a human's home with his dear old grandma. When a filmmaker working on a documentary moves into the house and finds the tiny creature, he starts off with Marcel on an initiative to get him reunited with his long-lost family. At once funny and poignant, the film reveals small moments in life from a highly unique perspective: that of Marcel.

Why Watch: Stop motion and live action come together with a tender, full-of-humour story. Marcel's innocent and sweet character and his journey of self-discovery will resonate across all audiences, making it a real family treasure.

8. Matilda (1996)

Director: Danny DeVito
Runtime: 1h 38m

Plot: This is a creative retelling of the well-liked book by Roald Dahl about a young girl who has extraordinary intelligence and powers of telekinesis. Matilda is a story of triumph against hardship in the person of a poor little girl pitted against her inattentive parents and the headmistress of her school, the invincible Miss Trunchbull. Helped by her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda discovers her true powers and metes out justice in her oppressive world.

Why Watch: This film is probably one of the most endearing fantasy empowerment movies out there, with an extremely strong and relatable heroine in Matilda. The fanciful storytelling is matched by truly memorable performances, amounting to an all-time favourite that will pack an endearing lesson in courage and kindness into children.

9. Minions (2015)

Directors: Kyle Balda, Pierre Coffin
Runtime: 1h 30m

Plot: The Minions will take audiences on a big laugh journey through the history of this long, chequered past of these mischievous yellow creatures long before they met Gru. The story, basically, takes viewers through Kevin, Stuart, and Bob in search of a new master, where they are to team up with the most feared villain at that time: Scarlet Overkill. The misadventures take them from prehistoric times through 1960s England, maintaining all the trademark series humour and charm.

Why Watch: With the movie's fast comedy and the lovability of Minions, kids and adults would be in for a delight. Lively animation and an engaging storyline make it light-hearted fun for family watching.

10. The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

Directors: Mike Rianda, Jeff Rowe
Runtime: 1h 54m

Plot:The Mitchells vs. the Machines is an animated adventure that follows the dysfunctional Mitchell family as they travel on a road trip to send their daughter Katie off to college. But their plans are thrown off course as an uprising in tech, driven by the newest tech—AI-run robots—figures a way to rid Earth of mankind. The dysfunctional family will have to band together with their special talents and problem-solving approaches in a bid to save the world and undo their past.

Why Watch: Seamlessly blending humour, heart, and high-stakes adventure, the movie shows just how strong animation can truly be. Fueled by a story delving into family dynamics and the implications of technology, all this ultimately results in a very thoughtful but quite entertaining movie for the whole family.

11. Monster House (2006)

Director: Gil Kenan
Runtime: 1h 30m

Plot: Monster House is an animated, exciting film based on the story of three friends who discover that a spooky house within their neighbourhood is alive. Halloween sets in, and they've got to figure out how to stop the murderous house from gobbling everything in sight. The film combines suspense, humour, and horror elements, making it quite a thrilling adventure for those kids who are a bit older.

Why Watch: Family-friendly horror is in the genre, and a special story mixed with the right amount of humour and chills makes this a surefire gem of a film for family audiences. An imaginative yarn filled with spooky thrills and moments that can be heartwarming while expected on Halloween movie nights.

12. Orion and the Dark (2024)

Director: Sean Charmatz
Runtime: 1h 32m

Plot: The story of Orion and the Dark is about a young boy, Orion, who is absolutely petrified of the dark. His life takes a magical turn when Dark, the physical personification of darkness himself—a friendly and mysterious man, is there to whisk him away on an adventure to help conquer his fears. The wide wonders and mysteries of the night lead him toward a better understanding of bravery and self-confidence for Orion.

Why Watch: The film's inventive animation and imaginative storytelling should provide a new look at common childhood fears, while it's heartening message can bring one through anxiety.. The imaginative relationship between Orion and Dark makes it an engaging and reassuring watch for both kids and their families.

13. Paddington (2014)

Director: Paul King
Runtime: 1h 35m

Plot: Paddington is a beauteous live-action/ CGI adaptation of the popular children's book series centred on Paddington, a well-mannered bear from Peru who voyages all the way to London in search of a new home. It is only when Paddington finally finds a home with the Browns that his good intentions begin to leave quite amusing trails of mishaps on their way to understand the intricacies of life in the city. His adventures are full of warmth and goodwill, with a touch of chaos.

Why Watch: Coupled with the heartwarming story is a delightful sense of humour and visual appeal that makes this film an ideal family movie. The undeniable sweetness of Paddington and the universal themes of acceptance and kindness in the movie make it a modern classic for viewers of any age.

14.Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio, 2022

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Runtime: 1h 56m

Plot: The new stop-motion film adaptation of Pinocchio moves to the eve of World War II, with the wooden puppet struggling with the themes of innocence and loss, and his desire to be human.

Why Watch: Del Toro infuses this fable with a solitary dark beauty to the point of transformation. You'll get more than a few emotional moments for all ages.

15. The Sea Beast (2022)

Director: Chris Williams

Runtime: 1h 55m

Plot Summary: The Sea Beast is an animated adventure movie by Chris Williams, released in 2022. Action occurs in a world where sea monsters are perceived as dangers, and the valiant sea monster hunters become heroes to all people. The film details the life of a legendary sea monster hunter, Jacob Holland, voiced by Karl Urban. Everything changes for him when he comes across a stowaway girl, Maisie (Zaris-Angel Hator), in his ship. Maisie idolises the very sea monsters Jacob hunts and believes they are misunderstood. During their ocean-crossing sail, Jacob and Maisie uncover secrets about these creatures that make them question their own beliefs, test their fears, and find out exactly what a hero is.

Why Watch: 

Sea Beast offers lavish visuals and an emotional impact that cannot be forgotten, making it an extraordinary film for all audiences. The animation is impeccable, through which an independent, bright world with sea monsters and landscapes full of adventure is brought into existence. Refreshing twists on classic themes of heroism and understanding come to challenge conventional notions of good and evil. With great voice performances and a really interesting storyline, the film dives right into empathy and courage. What makes this movie unforgettable and stands out in animated adventures is the combination of action, heart, and stunning visuals.

16. A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon (2019)

Directors: Richard Phelan, Will Becher

Runtime: 1h 27m

Plot: In the 2019 film "A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon", everyone's favourite Shaun the Sheep gets into an intergalactic adventure full of laughs and pandemonium. The serene life at Mossy Bottom Farm is disrupted when an alien named Lu-La crash-lands near the farm. Lu-La has amazing powers, and he rather quickly takes a liking to Shaun. The two of them set out on a journey to take Lu-La home to her distant planet. Sure, this won't be much of a smooth ride. For one thing, they've got to shake off a secret government agency tailing them everywhere. Comic misunderstandings, bolshy slapstick, and inventive escape plans are mixed into a tale about two unlikely friends. As time starts to run out, the stakes do too, and Shaun must use all his wits to get Lu-La back to her spaceship before it's too late..

Why Watch: The genius of the movie lies in how it manages to tell a touching, engaging story with very few words, just really expressive animation and visual gags. It comes up with broad humour that has elements of clever slapstick and sincerity in its emotional pieces. It's a completely new breed of animation, retaining the spirit of Shaun and his farmyard buddies while introducing new, very memorable characters like Lu-La. If you're a fan of Shaun's earlier antics or new to the series, "Farmageddon" will provide a different and hilarious spin on the classic alien yarn, making it a must-see for families and animation lovers alike. It is in the combination of its comedy, adventure, and heart that it promises to keep viewers on their toes to the very last scene, proving silent comedy still has what it takes to deliver a true punch within modern animation.

17. Suzume (2022)

Director: Makoto Shinkai

Runtime: 2h 2m

Plot: A teenager named Suzume discovers a mysterious door that becomes the lead to a line of events that may help prevent natural catastrophes around Japan.

Why Watch: Having beautifully captured visuals with an emotional storyline, Shinkai's new film is tastefully done in its adventure that intertwines emotional depth with captivating animation.

18. Trolls: Band Together (2023)

Directors: Walt Dohrn, Tim Heitz

Runtime: 1h 31m

Plot: Further developing the brilliant and musical world of Trolls, the sequel called Band Together (2023) is in the direction of Walt Dohrn and Tim Heitz. Here in this follow up, the key figure of Poppy the colourful leader of the forest along with Branch try to save their world from a dark force. They are pitted with the task of saving their realm by singing again with Branch, the boy band that Poppy was able to capture him from, called ‘BroZone’. While they are working to reunite the band, the characters meet a number of challenges and other people. It is not only the desire to save their world but also to restore friendly relationships and remember that they are united by the desire to create music.

Why Watch: Watch Me Whistle has humorous characters and musical sequences with songs that are bound to appeal to children and make them pay attention. As usual the animation and the visuals are bright and unique and the over the top imagination of the franchise stays intact making for an interesting watch. What makes this story is its positive characters, their teamwork, and friendship; the idea that music can help a lot of people is always inspiring. With its lively soundtrack and colourful aesthetics, *Trolls: While it can be watched with a focus on the 2 main trolls and their adventures, Band Together completes the saga on Trolls and is a nice watch for families and younger audiences.

19. Wendell & Wild (2022)

Director: Henry Selick

Runtime: 1h 46m

Plot: A girl gives up her solitude due to the death of her parents to team up with two demon brothers, thereby overcoming her trauma to deal with supernatural mischief.

Why Watch: Unique stop-motion style, dark comedy, Jordan Peele doing voice work – all set this creation apart from the bulk of animated horror.

20. The Willoughbys (2020)

Director: Kris Pearn

Runtime: 1h 32m

Plot: In this clever retelling of the popular Lois Lowry book, four siblings come to the conclusion that they'd be better off without their neglectful parents. The kids concoct a plan to replace their parents with ones who will really care about them and tumble into a succession of vignettes that are by turns comical and adventurous.

Why Watch: "The Willoughbys" does offer a fresh take on family dynamics and parental roles. Its dark humour, imaginative storytelling, and, particularly, its uniquely stylized animation make it one of its kind—literally, just fun—for a family movie night. The sharp-wittedness is fueled by a narrative that never stops surprising and voice performances by Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, and Ricky Gervais.

Conclusion

Netflix's massive library of family-friendly movies offers an innumerable selection, distinctive for everyone. Whether it be a tear-jerker tale and smart animation or a funny comedy and throwback classic, the top 20 picks, as the ones mentioned above, ensure a fun and memorable family movie night. Whether it be an adventure, comedy, or just a touching story, there is something in this for everybody.

Ready to dive into these awesome family films? Log onto Netflix and start perusing through these. Bring out the popcorn, get the family together, and have a movie night filled with loads of laughter, inspiring moments, and entertaining times.

Visit Skoodos and check out other blogs where you can find good sources of entertainment for your child. These will keep them entertained and provide value to them along with assisting them in their learning process 

FAQ

1. How often does this list get updated?

This list gets updated frequently as new movies are added and old ones get removed from the Netflix catalogue.

2. Are all these movies suitable for all ages?

Yes, the movies highlighted here are suitable for kids and can be watched by everyone in the family. Some of them, though, are more suitable for slightly older kids or pre-teens due to being more advanced in their themes or just in their senses of humour.

3. How do I find these movies on Netflix?

Just key in any of the movie titles in the search bar for Netflix, or you can scroll over to the family and kids segments to find these movies.

4. Are there other Netflix family-friendly movies not featured in this list?

Absolutely, Netflix has a huge catalogue, and there are a lot of great family movies out there. This list highlights some of the best currently, but there's always new releases or other hidden gems.