A List of The Most Memorable Children's and Family Movies
Children's and family movies are a dime a dozen. There are a ton of them made every year. The animation has certainly come a long way. I do wish they still made more of the cartoon version films for kids though. I can't think of a Disney film I didn't like. And all of the cartoon films from the 1980's and 1990's were fantastic.
Over the years, there have been several children's and family movies that have made an impression on me, and millions of others. This list of films represents some (but definitely not all) of the best, most memorable, likeable, loveable, children's and family films of all time.
The Wizard of Oz
If you've never seen The Wizard of Oz you've probably at least heard the tale, or parts of it. It's a very unique movie in a class all on it's own. The movie, released in 1939, is about a young woman, Dorothy, who lives on a farm with her aunt and uncle. One day a terrible storm comes along. The next thing she knows, Dorothy wakes up in a magical, whimsical land.
To find her way back home, Dorothy travel to the land of Oz to meet the great wizard. She is told the wizard is the one to help her find her way home. Along her journey, she meets a few friends - a scarecrow, a tin man, and a lion. Her three new friends travel with her to seek help from the wizard themselves.
The Wizard of Oz is full of adventure, suspense, and even a few giggles. It's a family movie in every sense of the word. It's full of hope, happiness, and friendship. The film is a masterpiece, perfect in every way. As well, it was the very first color movie. It begins in black and white then shifts to color at just the perfect time!
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
The Wizard of Oz Movie Trailer
The Neverending Story
The Neverending Story is another very unique film with a wonderful, enchanted, epic storyline. It's about a young boy who finds a mysterious book at a bookstore. The shopkeeper doesn't want to sell the book but the young boy, Bastian, runs away with it.
Bastian takes the book to school with him and escapes to an unused attic to avoid a some bullies. While there, Bastian begins to read the book, which is about a land called Fantasia. Fantasia is a mystical, beautiful land that is in the midst of something terrible. Parts of Fantasia are disappearing due to "the Nothing," and the only thing that can save the land is a human warrior, found only outside the land of Fantasia. As Bastian reads on, he realizes who the human warrior is that's being sought.
The Neverending Story is a wonderful fantasy film that the entire family will love.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
The Neverending Story Movie Trailer
A Bug's Life
A Bug's Life is a Disney-Pixar computer animated film. It was one of the first movies of this kind to be produced. It's a movie about life as a bug, just like the title implies. It's a cute, humorous look at bugs and insects that have human-like personalities.
It's a very well made movie that people of just about any age will surely enjoy. There are several Disney-Pixar films and all of them are fantastic although I could not list them all. If you ever have the chance, try to watch a few more of them. you won't be disappointed.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
A Bug's Life Movie Trailer
The Goonies
Not so much a children's movie as it is an older kid's and family style movie, The Goonies is a great film that was originally released in 1985. It still remains one of the best films ever. It's from Steven Spielberg, how can it possibly be bad? Although it does have some violent scenes, older kids (and some younger ones) and adults can both enjoy this awesome adventure movie.
The Goonies is about a group of kids and teens that call themselves Goonies. They live in a small town that is set to be torn down, forcing them all to move away. While in Mikey's attic one day, the kids come across an old treasure map. They decide to try and find out if the treasure, and the legend of One-eyed Willie are true.
This movie has a ton of hilarious scenes, memorable scenes, heart-stopping scenes, and romantic scenes. An absolutely fantastic movie in every way.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
The Goonies Movie Trailer
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
Homeward Bound was released in 1993 and is the sequel to the original Incredible Journey film about two dogs and one cat that are followed during their incredible journey alone across
A very wholesome film that touches upon the value of hope, bravery, and friendship.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey Movie Trailer
Toy Story
Toy Story is another Disney-Pixar computer animated film. This movie is about a young boy whose toys come to life when people aren't around. Each toy has a different, charming personality.
The movie will make you laugh, cry, and jump out of your seat. It's very reminiscent of childhood memories when our imaginations made us believe our toys had minds and personalities of their own. The movie was so good it ended up becoming a franchise.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
Toy Story Movie Trailer
The Dark Crystal
The Dark Crystal is an animated fantasy film staring puppet characters. It was created by Jim Henson and originally released in 1982.
It's a beautifully told story of good vs. evil on the mythical planet of Thra. The planet has been taken over by the evil Skeksis and the Mystics fight to win back control. Jen, a member of the Gelfling tribe, sets out on a dangerous journey to locate the crystal's missing shard and restore peace to Thra.
The Dark Crstal is an amazing story that has gained a cult following over the last 30 years since its release. Adored by children and adults alike, this film with leave a memorable impression.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
The Dark Crystal Movie Trailer
The Sandlot
The Sandlot, released in 1993, is a coming-of-age tale set during the summertime, like most coming-of-age stories.
It's the story of a young outcast boy that is recruited to play baseball in the local sandlot. Over the summer, the group of kids become the best of friends.
A heartwarming movie about friendship and America's favorite pastime.
Receive 5 / 5 stars on Amazon.
The Sandlot Movie Trailer
Swiss Family Robinson
Swiss Family Robinson was originally released in 1960 by Disney.
It's a tale about a family that become shipwrecked on a deserted island. Together, they build housing and other structures that resemble a small civilization. It's almost like Gilligan's Island but with just a family, and a lot less humor.
A touching tale that has endured through the years and continues to be one of the best family films of all time.
Received 4.5 / 5 stars on Amazon.