Looking for the perfect movie night experience that the whole family can enjoy? Dive into our curated list of Classic Family Films that have stood the test of time. From heartwarming tales of friendship and growing up to thrilling adventures and enchanting fantasies, these movies offer something for everyone, creating lasting memories for families around the globe. Get ready to explore the magic of cinema with our top picks for classic family films.
1. The Wizard of Oz (1939) U
This quintessential corn-fed fairy tale transports viewers from the Kansas flatlands to the vibrant Land of Oz. Judy Garland’s Dorothy, with her iconic pigtails, embarks on a fantastical journey, ultimately learning the invaluable lesson that “there’s no place like home.” While Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch of the West might give very young children a mild scare, her eventual comeuppance is both satisfying and reassuring. The Wizard of Oz remains a technicolor masterpiece, filled with unforgettable songs and characters that continue to enchant audiences of all ages.
2. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) U
Frank Capra’s post-war classic is a heartwarming yet surprisingly dark exploration of life, sacrifice, and redemption. James Stewart delivers a powerful performance as George Bailey, a man who consistently puts the needs of his community before his own ambitions. Facing a crisis of faith, George is shown the profound impact of his life by a bumbling but well-meaning angel. More than just a feel-good Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life is a poignant and deeply moving story about the value of each individual life, wrapped in the comforting glow of holiday cheer.
3. Bambi (1942) U
Considered by many to be the greatest coming-of-age film ever made, Disney’s Bambi is a powerful and emotionally resonant story of life, loss, and growth. Following the journey of a young fawn as he navigates the wonders and dangers of the forest, the film is both tender and profound. The woodland creatures who guide Bambi towards adulthood are endearing, and the animation is breathtakingly beautiful. However, be prepared – the iconic scene of Bambi’s mother’s death is notoriously heart-wrenching and can be deeply affecting for viewers of all ages.
4. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) U
Steven Spielberg’s 80s blockbuster about a stranded alien and his friendship with a young boy remains as captivating today as it was upon release. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless story of connection and empathy, echoing classic boy-and-his-dog narratives. Spielberg masterfully blends humor and heartwarming moments with genuine emotion, drawing audiences in with lighthearted escapades before delivering moments of profound sadness and ultimately, hope. E.T. continues to be a cinematic touchstone for families, reminding us of the magic of childhood and the power of friendship.
5. Toy Story (1995) PG
Pixar’s groundbreaking Toy Story revolutionized animation as the first feature-length film created entirely with computer-generated imagery. This innovative film set a new standard for animated movies, both technically and narratively. The story centers on Woody, a beloved pull-string cowboy doll voiced by Tom Hanks, who feels threatened by the arrival of Buzz Lightyear, a flashy new space ranger action figure voiced by Tim Allen. Toy Story is a witty, inventive, and deeply emotional film about friendship, jealousy, and growing up, appealing to both children and adults with its clever humor and heartfelt story.
6. Spirited Away (2001) PG
Hayao Miyazaki’s animated masterpiece, Spirited Away, is a visually stunning and imaginatively rich film that feels like a dream conjured from the mind of Lewis Carroll after a sushi dinner. The film follows young Chihiro as she is spirited away to a magical bathhouse filled with bizarre and enchanting characters. Spirited Away is a captivating adventure filled with wonder, mystery, and profound themes about identity, courage, and environmentalism. This anime classic transcends age barriers, offering a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience for families.
7. Meet Me In St. Louis (1944) No Certification
Hailed as the quintessential family film, Meet Me In St. Louis was created to uplift wartime America with its bright and optimistic portrayal of family life. Vincente Minnelli’s musical masterpiece showcases the everyday joys and challenges of a middle-class family in St. Louis at the turn of the 20th century. Boasting a glorious soundtrack featuring iconic songs like “The Trolley Song” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and starring the luminous Judy Garland, Meet Me In St. Louis is an evergreen classic that celebrates family, love, and the simple joys of life.
8. The Jungle Book (1967) U
Disney’s vibrant and musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book stories is a swinging, singing, and thoroughly delightful film. Following the adventures of Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle, the film is filled with memorable characters and catchy songs. Phil Harris’s Baloo the bear provides the film’s big-hearted comedic core, while George Sanders’ sophisticated tiger, Shere Khan, adds a touch of class and menace. The Jungle Book is a joyous and timeless animated classic that continues to charm generations.
9. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977) U
A groundbreaking and exhilarating space opera, Star Wars: A New Hope is a modern take on classic adventure storytelling, cleverly set in a galaxy far, far away. This epic tale of good versus evil captivated audiences worldwide and launched a cultural phenomenon. Had Star Wars not become the massive success it is, it would likely be celebrated today as a forgotten gem of 70s American cinema. Star Wars remains a thrilling and imaginative adventure that continues to inspire and entertain families, sparking imaginations and fostering a love for science fiction across generations.
10. Some Like It Hot (1959) U
A word of caution: Some Like It Hot is a sophisticated and hilarious sex comedy featuring flapper girls, gangsters, and cross-dressing protagonists. Despite its potentially suggestive themes, it is also one of the most lighthearted, deftly executed, and disarmingly funny films ever made. Starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, this madcap comedy is a masterclass in comedic timing and witty writing, proving that laughter truly is timeless. While parents should be aware of the mature themes, for older families, Some Like It Hot is a comedic gem that showcases the brilliance of classic Hollywood.
11. The Incredibles (2004) U
Pixar’s superhero family adventure, The Incredibles, is bursting with originality, zany characters, and spectacular action sequences. This animated film cleverly blends superhero tropes with relatable family dynamics, creating a truly unique and entertaining experience. Craig T. Nelson voices Mr. Incredible, a formerly celebrated superhero who is forced into suburban anonymity. When duty calls, he and his extraordinarily gifted family are thrust back into action to save the world. The Incredibles is a witty, action-packed, and heartwarming film that celebrates family teamwork and embracing your unique strengths.
12. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) U
Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the first full-length animated feature film, remains a landmark achievement in cinema. While Disney softened some of the darker elements of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale, the film still retains moments of genuine suspense and even darkness, particularly in the portrayal of the Evil Queen and her transformation into the gnarled witch. Even decades later, the animation in Snow White is remarkably crisp and detailed, showcasing the timeless artistry of Disney’s animation pioneers. This classic fairy tale continues to enchant audiences with its beautiful animation, memorable songs, and timeless story of good versus evil.
13. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003) PG-13/12A
Peter Jackson’s epic adaptation of The Lord of the Rings is a cinematic undertaking of immense scale and ambition. With a combined running time of approximately eight hours, this trilogy is a commitment, but one that is richly rewarded. This fantasy saga boasts breathtaking visuals, epic battle sequences, and a deeply moving story of friendship and courage. While wit and prominent female characters might be less central, The Lord of the Rings offers a truly immersive and unforgettable fantasy world, perfect for older families ready for an epic cinematic journey.
14. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) PG
Spielberg once again delivers with Raiders of the Lost Ark, a thrilling homage to the cliffhanger serials of the 1930s. Indiana Jones, the iconic archeologist adventurer, battles Nazis and ancient curses in a dazzling action spectacular. Filled with thrilling stunts, exotic locations, and a charismatic hero in Harrison Ford, Raiders of the Lost Ark is a pure adrenaline rush. Parents should be mindful that some of the special effects and suspenseful scenes might be intense for very young or sensitive viewers. However, for families seeking a thrilling adventure, Raiders of the Lost Ark is a quintessential classic.
15. Shrek (2001) U
DreamWorks’ animated hit, Shrek, while perhaps not as visually polished as Pixar’s offerings, is a thoroughly enjoyable and irreverent fairy tale. This animated comedy subverts traditional fairy tale tropes with its witty humor, lovable characters, and heartwarming message about inner beauty. Shrek is a warm and funny film with a satisfying finale that cleverly twists genre conventions, making it a refreshing and entertaining choice for family movie night.
16. Time Bandits (1981) PG
Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits is a shamefully underrated gem of fantasy cinema. This imaginative and quirky film follows a young boy who joins a band of time-traveling dwarves on a series of fantastical historical adventures. Featuring Ralph Richardson as a delightfully bureaucratic God and John Cleese as a hilariously pompous Robin Hood, Time Bandits is a wildly inventive and darkly comedic adventure that appeals to both children and adults with its unique brand of British humor and whimsical storytelling.
17. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968) U
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a vibrant and eccentric musical adventure that is by turns sweet, silly, and surprisingly dark. The film’s genial first half gives way to a more fantastical and even slightly grotesque second half, set in a quasi-Bavarian kingdom ruled by a tyrannical toy-obsessed monarch and haunted by a truly terrifying Child Catcher. This film is a fascinating example of how children’s films could push boundaries in the past, featuring a genuinely frightening villain that might be considered too intense for modern sensibilities. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a unique and memorable family film experience, full of catchy songs and fantastical adventures.
18. Mary Poppins (1964) U
Disney’s Mary Poppins, a delightful blend of live-action and animation, remains a charming and enduring classic. Julie Andrews shines as the practically perfect nanny who brings magic and music into the lives of the Banks family. Featuring perfectly crafted songs and enchanting sequences, Mary Poppins is a celebration of imagination and the importance of family. While Dick Van Dyke’s Cockney accent might be notoriously inaccurate, it adds to the film’s whimsical charm. Mary Poppins continues to be a beloved family film, treasured for its heartwarming story and unforgettable music.
19. Harvey (1950) U
Jimmy Stewart delivers a captivating performance in Harvey, a witty and gentle comedy about Elwood P. Dowd, a genial barfly whose best friend is an invisible six-foot-three rabbit named Harvey. This whimsical and heartwarming film explores the fine line between fantasy and reality, and celebrates the power of kindness and acceptance. Behind the humorous premise lies a profound and moving story about embracing individuality and finding joy in the unconventional. Harvey is a charming and thought-provoking classic that reminds us to see the world with a little bit of magic.
20. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) PG
To Kill a Mockingbird is a dreamlike and deeply moving drama that explores childhood fears and adult realities against the backdrop of racial prejudice in the American South. Based on Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film beautifully captures the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of injustice. Robert Duvall’s Boo Radley embodies childhood anxieties, while the trial and its themes of racism and prejudice represent the more complex and terrifying aspects of the adult world. To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful and important film that encourages empathy, understanding, and standing up for what is right.
21. Sons of the Desert (1933) No Certification
The simple plot of Sons of the Desert – Stan and Ollie trying to outsmart their wives to attend a masonic jamboree – has inspired countless sitcoms. However, the comedic genius of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy remains unmatched. Their unique brand of physical comedy, characterized by Hardy’s fussy exasperation and Laurel’s innocent destructiveness, is timeless and universally funny. Sons of the Desert is a classic example of their comedic brilliance, offering slapstick humor and timeless charm that continues to entertain audiences today.
22. The Ladykillers (1955) U
The Ladykillers is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the Ealing comedies, known for their quirky British humor and dark undertones. This devilishly clever caper film follows a group of London criminals, including Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers, who hide out at the home of an elderly, somewhat oblivious woman. The contrast between the bumbling criminals and the seemingly innocent old lady creates a comedic tension that is both hilarious and suspenseful. The Ladykillers is a darkly funny and impeccably crafted British comedy classic.
23. Oliver! (1968) U
While David Lean’s 1948 adaptation of Oliver Twist might be considered more classically refined, Carol Reed’s Oliver! is unmatched in its sheer exuberance and musical energy. Based on Lionel Bart’s stage musical, Oliver! is a vibrant and energetic adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel. Mark Lester’s Oliver might be a bit saccharine for some, but the film is brilliantly supported by a rogues’ gallery of unforgettable characters, from Ron Moody’s flamboyant Fagin to Oliver Reed’s menacing Bill Sykes. Combined with a cavalcade of top-notch musical numbers, Oliver! is a rollicking and unforgettable musical experience for the whole family.
24. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) 12A
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is a swashbuckling adventure that shamelessly embraces all the classic pirate movie conventions. Cutlasses clash, teeth are gnashed, and parrots perch on shoulders in this action-packed spectacle. Johnny Depp’s iconic performance as Captain Jack Sparrow is a highlight, radiating pure enjoyment and comedic brilliance. Pirates of the Caribbean is a thrilling and entertaining ride that revitalized the pirate genre for a new generation.
25. Finding Nemo (2003) U
Pixar’s Finding Nemo is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant underwater odyssey. Inspired by a desire to master the animation of water, Pixar created a breathtaking underwater world filled with vibrant colors and captivating characters. The story follows Marlin, a clownfish father on a quest to rescue his son Nemo from a dentist’s office aquarium. Finding Nemo combines dazzling visuals with a witty and heartwarming screenplay, exploring themes of parental love, courage, and overcoming fears.
26. One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961) U
Disney’s One Hundred and One Dalmatians is a stylish and beautifully animated adaptation of Dodie Smith’s novel. This classic animated film features one of Disney’s most iconic and flamboyant villains, Cruella De Vil. The story of Pongo and Perdita, two dalmatians on a mission to rescue their kidnapped puppies, is filled with charm, humor, and thrilling suspense. One Hundred and One Dalmatians is a visually striking and endlessly entertaining animated classic.
27. The Red Balloon (1956) No Certification
The Red Balloon is a dialogue-free French fable of simple beauty and profound emotion. This short film tells the story of a lonely boy who forms an unlikely friendship with a sentient red balloon. Praised as one of the greatest children’s films ever made, The Red Balloon won an Oscar for its original screenplay. Its simple story, evocative imagery, and poignant ending create a truly magical and unforgettable cinematic experience.
28. Kes (1969) U
Ken Loach’s Kes offers a starkly realistic and deeply moving portrayal of working-class life in 1960s Britain. This social-realist masterpiece avoids sentimentality and sugarcoating, offering an honest and powerful story of a young boy who finds solace and hope in training a kestrel. Kes is a poignant and beautifully acted film that provides a glimpse into a specific time and place, while exploring universal themes of loneliness, resilience, and the search for connection.
29. The Iron Giant (1999) U
The Iron Giant is an enchanting animated fable with echoes of E.T., telling the story of a young boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space in 1950s America. Directed by Brad Bird, who later directed The Incredibles, The Iron Giant is a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of friendship, prejudice, and the power of choice.
30. Jurassic Park (1993) PG-13
For children who go through a dinosaur phase (which is nearly all of them), Spielberg’s Jurassic Park is the ultimate cinematic thrill ride. This blockbuster takes viewers on a rollercoaster adventure through a fantasy island overrun with genetically engineered dinosaurs. While thrilling and visually spectacular, parents should be aware that some scenes, particularly the suspenseful kitchen sequence, can be quite scary for younger viewers. Jurassic Park is a groundbreaking and influential film that brought dinosaurs to life in a way never before seen, captivating audiences and sparking a global fascination with prehistoric creatures.
31. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) U
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is the first feature-length adventure for the beloved Aardman Animations duo, and hopefully not the last. This stop-motion animated film is a wry, amiable, and thoroughly crowd-pleasing comedy, lovingly crafted in Plasticine. Wallace, the cheese-loving inventor, and Gromit, his resourceful dog, investigate a giant rabbit terrorizing the vegetable gardens of middle England. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a delightful and uniquely British comedy that appeals to audiences of all ages with its clever humor and charming characters.
32. Breaking Away (1979) PG
Breaking Away is a neglected classic of 70s cinema, a low-budget bicycling caper that is both heartwarming and insightful. Peter Yates’s film focuses on a group of working-class teenagers growing up in Bloomington, Indiana, a town dominated by a prestigious university. While containing some mature language and themes, Breaking Away is also honest, big-hearted, and funny, exploring themes of class, identity, and pursuing your dreams.
33. The Kid (1921) U
Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid, his first feature film as a director, is a poignant and timeless classic that blends slapstick comedy with deep pathos. Set in a poverty-stricken urban environment, The Kid features Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character as the devoted protector of a young orphan boy, played by Jackie Coogan. While some silent films might test the patience of modern young audiences, The Kid transcends time with its universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, and its masterful blend of comedy and heart.
34. Night of the Hunter (1955) 12
Night of the Hunter is a film that sparks debate, with some considering it too intense for family viewing. However, it can also be argued that Night of the Hunter is a perfect, albeit dark, children’s fable. Director Charles Laughton described it as “a nightmarish sort of Mother Goose tale,” following two children who are pursued through the Depression-era Deep South by a menacing preacher played by Robert Mitchum. Despite its dark themes, Night of the Hunter is a visually stunning and powerfully symbolic film that ultimately offers a sense of hope and resolution.
35. Babe (1995) U
Babe is a charming and heartwarming barnyard classic about a talking pig who defies expectations. Babe escapes his intended fate as Christmas dinner and becomes a “sheep-pig,” herding sheep on an Australian farm. Combining animatronics and real pigs, Babe is a technically impressive and emotionally engaging film that celebrates kindness, perseverance, and believing in yourself. Babe is a delightful and uplifting film that appeals to animal lovers and families alike.
36. The Sound of Music (1965) U
Including The Sound of Music on a list of classic family films is almost mandatory. Julie Andrews is radiant as Maria, a nun-turned-governess who brings music and joy into the lives of the von Trapp children in pre-World War II Austria. Filled with iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein songs and a heartwarming story of family and resilience in the face of adversity, The Sound of Music is a cinematic institution. Despite the looming threat of the Nazis, The Sound of Music remains a feel-good classic that celebrates hope, love, and the power of music.
37. Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) U
Kind Hearts and Coronets is a sophisticated and darkly humorous Ealing comedy that bends the rules of family-friendly viewing. While generally avoiding films with high body counts and serial killer protagonists, this exception is warranted. Dennis Price plays Louis Mazzini, a distant relative of the aristocratic D’Ascoyne family, who embarks on a mission to eliminate the eight heirs standing between him and the family fortune. Alec Guinness is brilliant in playing all eight of the D’Ascoyne victims. Kind Hearts and Coronets is a witty and elegant black comedy that showcases the brilliance of British filmmaking.
38. The Railway Children (1970) U
The Railway Children is a classic coming-of-age story told from a child’s perspective, exploring adult anxieties through the innocent eyes of children. The three sibling protagonists, led by Jenny Agutter, move to the Yorkshire countryside with their mother while their father is mysteriously away. They befriend the local villagers, save a train from disaster, and experience the hardships of poverty, all while holding onto hope for their father’s return. The film’s iconic final scene at the railway platform, with the emotional cry “Daddy, my daddy!”, is a powerful and moving moment of family reunion. The Railway Children is a heartwarming and enduring classic that celebrates family, resilience, and the power of hope.
39. Stand By Me (1986) R
Stand By Me, based on a Stephen King novella, might seem an unconventional choice for a family film due to its mature language and themes. However, this sun-dappled coming-of-age story is widely considered a classic of the genre. Following a group of four boys on a journey to find a dead body, Stand By Me explores themes of friendship, loss, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. Featuring a young River Phoenix, Stand By Me is a poignant and powerful film that resonates with viewers of all ages, though parental discretion is advised for younger children due to the mature content.
40. Whistle Down the Wind (1961) No Certification
Whistle Down the Wind is a charming and heartwarming British film about childhood faith and innocence. Hayley Mills stars as one of three children who discover a fugitive hiding in their barn and mistake him for Jesus Christ. Alan Bates plays the fugitive with quiet dignity and vulnerability. Whistle Down the Wind is a gentle and moving film that explores themes of faith, belief, and the power of childlike innocence.
41. The Addams Family (1991) PG-13
The Addams Family is a delightfully macabre and surprisingly sweet comedy about a family of goths who see the world through a wonderfully skewed lens. Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston are perfectly cast as Gomez and Morticia Addams, the heads of this eccentric and loving family. Their unconventional lifestyle and morbid humor are juxtaposed with genuine warmth and affection, making them a uniquely endearing family. “Are you unhappy, darling?” Gomez asks Morticia. “Totally,” she purrs with ecstatic delight. The Addams Family is a funny and heartwarming celebration of individuality and embracing the unconventional.
42. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) PG
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a visually stunning and playfully macabre stop-motion animated fantasy. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, grows tired of Halloween and attempts to take over Christmas, with predictably chaotic and hilarious results. This imaginative and visually striking film blends the spooky aesthetics of Halloween with the festive spirit of Christmas, creating a uniquely charming and slightly unsettling holiday classic.
43. National Velvet (1944) U
National Velvet is a heartwarming and inspiring film for anyone who has ever dreamed of horses. Starring a young Elizabeth Taylor, the film tells the story of Velvet Brown, a 12-year-old girl who dreams of racing in the Grand National. National Velvet is a classic underdog story that celebrates determination, passion, and the bond between humans and animals.
44. The Pink Panther (1963) PG
The Pink Panther is a stylish and hilarious caper comedy that unexpectedly launched a comedy icon. Originally intended to star David Niven as the suave jewel thief, Peter Sellers’ unforgettable performance as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau stole the show and spawned a long-running comedy franchise. The Pink Panther is a masterclass in physical comedy and witty writing, showcasing Sellers’ comedic genius.
45. Lassie Come Home (1943) No Certification
Lassie Come Home is the quintessential dog movie that has inspired countless imitators. Roddy McDowall stars as Joe Carraclough, a young boy who is heartbroken when his beloved collie Lassie is sold to a wealthy Duke in Scotland. However, Lassie, actually played by a male collie, embarks on an epic journey home across the Scottish Highlands and the Pennines. Lassie Come Home is a heartwarming and timeless story of loyalty, love, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their canine companions.
46. The White Balloon (1995) U
The White Balloon is a unique and understated gem on this list, an Iranian film that is both foreign language and rigorously arthouse. However, its simple story and universal themes transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. Directed by Jafar Panahi and written by Abbas Kiarostami, The White Balloon follows a young girl in Tehran as she tries to buy a goldfish for the Persian New Year. Featuring a remarkable performance from Aida Mohammadkhani, The White Balloon is a vibrant and poignant film that celebrates the everyday moments of life.
47. Edward Scissorhands (1990) PG-13
Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands is a bewitching and whimsical modern fairy tale. Johnny Depp stars as Edward, a gentle and artistic creation with scissors for hands, who is brought into the pastel-colored suburbia of Avon. This gothic-tinged romance explores themes of acceptance, prejudice, and the beauty of being different. Edward Scissorhands is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that is both darkly humorous and deeply moving.
48. Spy Kids (2001) PG
Spy Kids is a giddy and inventive spy adventure for the whole family. Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino star as secret agents who are captured, leaving their children, Carmen and Juni, to save the day. Filled with outlandish gadgets, fast-paced action, and a playful sense of humor, Spy Kids is a fun and entertaining film that celebrates family teamwork and kid power.
49. Oh, Mr. Porter! (1937) U
Will Hay, a mainstay of 1930s British comedy, delivers one of his finest performances in Oh, Mr. Porter! Hay plays William Porter, an inept and officious railway station manager who is assigned to a dilapidated station in rural Ireland, where he stumbles upon a gang of gunrunners. Oh, Mr. Porter! is a classic British comedy filled with slapstick humor, witty dialogue, and Hay’s signature brand of blundering incompetence.
50. School of Rock (2003) PG-13
Richard Linklater’s School of Rock is a raucous and energetic comedy for anyone who has ever dreamed of rock stardom. Jack Black is perfectly cast as Dewey Finn, a struggling musician who impersonates a substitute teacher and turns his class of prep school students into a rock band. School of Rock is a feel-good film that celebrates music, passion, and breaking free from expectations.
Directors’ Cut: Family Film Favorites
Andrew Stanton, Director of Finding Nemo
“My all-time favorite family film is Big, directed by Penny Marshall and starring Tom Hanks. It truly speaks to the kid in all of us. The story is a genius blend of two universal fantasies: ‘What if I could be an adult when I was a kid?’ and ‘What if I could be a kid again?’ I saw it just after college, when you’re grappling with adulthood, and it resonated deeply. It fueled my desire to keep my inner child alive. Whenever Big is on TV, my whole family gathers to watch, laughing, smiling, and even crying. Close runner-ups for me are It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, and Cinderella.
The secret to a great family film? Truthfulness, honesty, and hope.”
Nick Park, Director of Wallace and Gromit
“One of my favorite films of recent decades, especially from the last 20 years, is Back to the Future. I was in my mid-20s when it came out in 1985, and I loved it then. Re-watching it recently, I still do. The script and structure are incredibly clever, constantly surprising you while propelling the story forward. It’s just pure entertainment.
“For more recent releases, my top pick would be The Incredibles. It’s a masterclass in filmmaking. The action editing is mind-blowing. When that film moves, it really moves.”
Peter Yates, Director of Breaking Away
“Classics like Captain Courageous and The Man Who Would Be King come to mind first, but my absolute favorite is Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. It’s pure fantasy, which is ideal for a family film. These days, truly great fantasy films outside of animation are rare. Films often either pander to the youngest viewers, boring the parents, or they’re unsuitable for younger teens. It’s hard for adults to judge what’s appropriate to bring their children to. And you definitely don’t want anything preachy. Indiana Jones is fantastic – terrific fun with a Boy’s Own-style story, and nothing offensive to anyone.”
By Amy Fleming
