Finding the perfect movie for everyone in the family can feel like a challenge, but Netflix has made it easier with a wide selection of films that bring joy, laughter, and meaningful stories to the screen. Whether you’re planning a cozy movie night, a weekend treat, or simply want to explore something heartwarming, there’s a treasure trove of good family movies on Netflix that suit all ages. From animated adventures to live-action tales of courage, love, and resilience, these films create memories that last long after the credits roll. In this list, we’ve gathered 25 of the very best, so you can spend less time searching and more time watching together. These titles highlight not just entertainment but also values, lessons, and universal themes—making them some of the best family movies for Netflix today.
1. Finding ‘Ohana (2021)
- Runtime: 123 min
- Starring: Kea Peahu, Alex Aiono, Lindsay Watson
- Director: Jude Weng
- Genre: Adventure, Family
- IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Set in rural O‘ahu, Finding ‘Ohana follows two Brooklyn siblings on a treasure hunt that reconnects them to their Hawaiian roots. Combining adventure with cultural heritage, the film delivers excitement through underground caves, riddles, and daring escapes while keeping its heart focused on family bonds. It’s a modern mix of *The Goonies* and *Moana*, perfect for kids and adults alike. Its strong cultural grounding gives children a chance to learn about Hawai‘i’s traditions while being immersed in a fun adventure.
2. Paddington (2014)
- Runtime: 95 min
- Starring: Ben Whishaw (voice), Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins
- Director: Paul King
- Genre: Comedy, Family
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
The lovable bear from Peru who adores marmalade finds a new home in London in Paddington. This adaptation balances slapstick humor with genuine heart, making it one of the most acclaimed family movies in recent years. Kids love Paddington’s clumsy but kind nature, while parents enjoy the witty script and touching themes of acceptance. It’s lighthearted yet meaningful, proving why it remains a family favorite worldwide and a must-watch among good family movies on Netflix.
3. Vivo (2021)
- Runtime: 99 min
- Starring: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ynairaly Simo, Zoe Saldana
- Director: Kirk DeMicco, Brandon Jeffords
- Genre: Animation, Musical
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Vivo is a vibrant musical journey about a kinkajou who travels from Havana to Miami to fulfill his late owner’s dream. With songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, it’s bursting with catchy tunes, colorful animation, and heartfelt storytelling. It tackles themes of love, grief, and resilience in a way children can understand while offering adults a story rich with emotion. The movie blends Latin music with universal themes, making it an uplifting addition to the best family movies for Netflix.
4. The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021)
- Runtime: 113 min
- Starring: Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph
- Director: Michael Rianda, Jeff Rowe
- Genre: Animation, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
When a quirky family sets out on a cross-country trip, they become humanity’s last hope against a robot uprising. The Mitchells vs. The Machines mixes wild comedy with heartfelt family dynamics, teaching kids that being different is a strength. With unique animation and plenty of humor, it entertains every age group while sneaking in touching lessons about acceptance and teamwork. Its bold style and family focus make it a highlight among good family movies on Netflix.
5. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)
- Runtime: 113 min
- Starring: Maxwell Simba, Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Director: Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Genre: Drama, Biography
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
This inspiring true story of a Malawian boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine is a moving family watch. It blends real-life struggle with hope and innovation, showing the power of determination and education. While older kids will grasp the depth of the story, younger viewers will find inspiration in the creativity and resilience displayed. It’s proof that family movies don’t just entertain—they also inspire, making this one of the best family movies for Netflix.
6. Enola Holmes (2020)
- Runtime: 123 min
- Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Sam Claflin
- Director: Harry Bradbeer
- Genre: Mystery, Adventure
- IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Millie Bobby Brown shines as Sherlock Holmes’s witty younger sister in Enola Holmes. The film cleverly combines mystery, action, and humor as Enola searches for her missing mother while outsmarting her famous brothers. It encourages independence, intelligence, and resourcefulness, making it a fantastic role model movie for young viewers. Its Victorian setting, lively pacing, and strong lead performance ensure it appeals to all ages. This is one of the best family movies for Netflix when you want something adventurous with a smart twist.
7. Klaus (2019)
- Runtime: 96 min
- Starring: Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones
- Director: Sergio Pablos
- Genre: Animation, Holiday
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
This Academy Award–nominated film reimagines the origins of Santa Claus with breathtaking hand-drawn animation. Klaus tells the story of a selfish postman sent to a frozen town where he befriends a reclusive toymaker. Its visual style blends tradition with modernity, while its story emphasizes kindness, generosity, and reconciliation. While it shines during the holidays, its themes of friendship and empathy make it timeless. It easily earns its place among the good family movies on Netflix.
8. Yes Day (2021)
- Runtime: 86 min
- Starring: Jennifer Garner, Edgar Ramírez, Jenna Ortega
- Director: Miguel Arteta
- Genre: Comedy, Family
- IMDb Rating: 5.7/10
Based on the popular children’s book, Yes Day imagines a day when parents agree to every request from their kids. The result is a wild ride filled with messy, hilarious, and heartfelt moments. The film offers light-hearted fun while subtly reminding viewers of the importance of balance between parental authority and family connection. Its relatable premise makes it instantly engaging, ensuring laughs and conversations long after it ends. Families looking for something silly yet sweet will find it a go-to on Netflix.
Best Family Movies for Netflix: More Top Picks
9. Over the Moon (2020)
- Runtime: 100 min
- Starring: Cathy Ang, Phillipa Soo, Ken Jeong
- Director: Glen Keane
- Genre: Animation, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
This gorgeously animated film follows a young girl who builds a rocket to meet the mythical Moon Goddess, inspired by Chinese folklore. Over the Moon dazzles with stunning visuals and music while tackling themes of loss, resilience, and hope. It balances fantasy with emotional honesty, making it suitable for younger kids and older family members alike. It’s more than just a visual spectacle—it’s a story that resonates on an emotional level, placing it among the best family movies for Netflix.
10. The Willoughbys (2020)
- Runtime: 92 min
- Starring: Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara
- Director: Kris Pearn
- Genre: Animation, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Based on Lois Lowry’s book, The Willoughbys is a quirky animated comedy about four neglected siblings who set out on a mission to raise themselves. Dark humor mixes with bright visuals, making it a unique addition to Netflix’s family catalog. It explores themes of independence, creativity, and redefining what family truly means. While its tone is unusual, it resonates with kids and adults seeking something outside the typical family film formula. This originality makes it one of the good family movies on Netflix.
11. Spy Kids (2001)
- Runtime: 88 min
- Starring: Alexa PenaVega, Daryl Sabara, Antonio Banderas
- Director: Robert Rodriguez
- Genre: Action, Adventure
- IMDb Rating: 5.5/10
Two kids discover their parents are spies and set out to rescue them in this high-energy adventure. Spy Kids blends action with family-friendly humor, appealing to children with its gadgets and imaginative world. Its legacy as a beloved early-2000s film ensures parents enjoy the nostalgia while kids dive into the fun. It highlights teamwork, bravery, and family unity—key reasons it still resonates today. It’s easily one of the best family movies for Netflix audiences looking for action mixed with heart.
12. Charlotte’s Web (2006)
- Runtime: 97 min
- Starring: Dakota Fanning, Julia Roberts (voice), Steve Buscemi (voice)
- Director: Gary Winick
- Genre: Family, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Based on the beloved novel, Charlotte’s Web tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a wise spider. The mix of live-action and voice acting creates a charming atmosphere that has touched audiences for generations. The story explores themes of loyalty, kindness, and the cycles of life in a gentle way children can grasp. It encourages compassion and appreciation for simple joys, ensuring it remains a top choice in good family movies on Netflix.
13. Hugo (2011)
- Runtime: 126 min
- Starring: Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, Ben Kingsley
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Genre: Adventure, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Martin Scorsese’s enchanting film Hugo takes audiences into a Paris train station where an orphan boy unravels the mystery of a broken automaton. This visually stunning movie is both magical and educational, introducing young viewers to the history of cinema. Its rich storytelling appeals to adults, while its sense of wonder captures children’s imaginations. A balance of art, history, and heartfelt emotion makes it one of the best family movies for Netflix.
14. A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon (2019)
- Runtime: 86 min
- Starring: Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes
- Director: Richard Phelan, Will Becher
- Genre: Animation, Family
- IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
One of Aardman’s stop-motion gems, this sequel brings Shaun the Sheep face-to-face with an adorable alien stranded on Earth. What follows is a playful mix of comedy, heart, and visual creativity. With minimal dialogue but plenty of action, it’s easy for younger children to follow while keeping adults amused with clever gags. It showcases the timeless appeal of handmade animation and demonstrates why it belongs on the list of good family movies on Netflix.
Even More Good Family Movies on Netflix
15. The Sea Beast (2022)
- Runtime: 115 min
- Starring: Karl Urban, Zaris-Angel Hator
- Director: Chris Williams
- Genre: Animation, Adventure
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
This Netflix original introduces a girl who stows away on a monster-hunting ship and befriends a legendary sea creature. The Sea Beast is filled with breathtaking visuals, thrilling battles, and touching moments about courage and understanding. It subverts the idea of “monsters” and delivers a message of compassion and curiosity. Both entertaining and thought-provoking, it’s one of the best family movies for Netflix’s newest lineup.
16. Penguins of Madagascar (2014)
- Runtime: 92 min
- Starring: Tom McGrath, Chris Miller, Benedict Cumberbatch
- Director: Eric Darnell, Simon J. Smith
- Genre: Animation, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Spinning off from the Madagascar franchise, this action-packed comedy follows four penguins on a global mission. Packed with jokes, spy antics, and vibrant animation, it appeals to kids and adults with its quick humor and lovable characters. It emphasizes teamwork and problem-solving, making it lighthearted but meaningful. As a spin-off, it retains the charm of the original films while offering fresh adventures, cementing its spot among good family movies on Netflix.
17. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)
- Runtime: 119 min
- Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black
- Director: Jake Kasdan
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
This reboot reimagines the Jumanji board game as a video game that pulls players into the jungle. With its comedic cast, thrilling adventures, and heartfelt team-building, it’s a hit with teens and younger viewers alike. Its humor is balanced with life lessons on identity, courage, and friendship. It stands tall as one of the best family movies for Netflix, providing action and laughs in equal measure.
18. Matilda (1996)
- Runtime: 98 min
- Starring: Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman
- Director: Danny DeVito
- Genre: Fantasy, Family
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Roald Dahl’s classic tale comes alive in Matilda, following a gifted young girl who uses her intellect and powers to stand up to injustice. It’s whimsical yet profound, resonating with children who crave empowerment. Adults appreciate its dark humor and moral lessons, making it a timeless film. With its enduring appeal, it belongs among good family movies on Netflix that span generations.
19. How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
- Runtime: 102 min
- Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler
- Director: Dean DeBlois
- Genre: Animation, Adventure
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
In this acclaimed sequel, Hiccup and Toothless expand their bond while facing new dangers. How to Train Your Dragon 2 deepens the themes of friendship, leadership, and responsibility while maintaining thrilling action. Its visuals are breathtaking, and its emotional depth appeals to parents and children alike. The movie strengthens its place as one of the best family movies for Netflix with its combination of fantasy and heart.
20. Moana (2016)
- Runtime: 107 min
- Starring: Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson
- Director: Ron Clements, John Musker
- Genre: Animation, Musical
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
This Disney classic follows Moana, a spirited girl who sets sail to save her island. With stunning visuals, unforgettable songs, and empowering themes, Moana inspires young audiences while delighting adults. It highlights courage, culture, and environmental awareness, making it both entertaining and educational. It’s universally praised and firmly among the good family movies on Netflix that everyone can enjoy.
21. Sing (2016)
- Runtime: 108 min
- Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson
- Director: Garth Jennings
- Genre: Animation, Musical
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
In a world of animals, a koala hosts a singing competition to save his theater. Sing is colorful, funny, and packed with popular songs, appealing to all ages. Its messages of perseverance, confidence, and following your dreams resonate universally. Kids love the music and humor, while adults enjoy its clever character arcs. It’s a fun, uplifting option on the best family movies for Netflix list.
22. Pete’s Dragon (2016)
- Runtime: 102 min
- Starring: Bryce Dallas Howard, Oakes Fegley, Robert Redford
- Director: David Lowery
- Genre: Fantasy, Family
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
This heartfelt remake tells the story of an orphan boy and his friendly dragon living in the forest. Pete’s Dragon blends magical wonder with grounded themes of family and belonging. Its touching storytelling and spectacular visual effects create a modern fairy tale that appeals to all generations. Its universal themes ensure its place among the best family movies for Netflix.
23. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009)
- Runtime: 90 min
- Starring: Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan
- Director: Phil Lord, Chris Miller
- Genre: Animation, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
This imaginative comedy shows a world where food falls from the sky thanks to a young inventor’s machine. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs mixes humor with lessons about responsibility and humility. Kids are drawn to the absurdity, while adults appreciate the satire. It’s light, funny, and creative, ensuring its inclusion among good family movies on Netflix.
24. The Little Prince (2015)
- Runtime: 108 min
- Starring: Jeff Bridges, Rachel McAdams, Mackenzie Foy
- Director: Mark Osborne
- Genre: Animation, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s timeless novella, The Little Prince combines stop-motion and CGI to tell a layered story of childhood wonder and adult responsibility. It explores imagination, kindness, and the importance of seeing with the heart. The film’s artistry makes it unique, captivating both kids and parents. This beautifully crafted adaptation is undeniably one of the best family movies for Netflix.
25. Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
- Runtime: 112 min
- Starring: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Gal Gadot
- Director: Phil Johnston, Rich Moore
- Genre: Animation, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
The sequel to Wreck-It Ralph takes Ralph and Vanellope into the vast world of the internet. Funny, creative, and surprisingly touching, it balances humor with reflections on friendship and self-growth. Kids love its vibrant digital landscapes, while adults appreciate its satire on online culture. It wraps up our list of good family movies on Netflix with a lively, modern twist.
Conclusion: Why These Good Family Movies on Netflix Matter
These 25 good family movies on Netflix prove that the streaming service has become a hub for wholesome, fun, and meaningful content that unites generations. From heartwarming animated tales like Vivo and The Mitchells vs. The Machines to inspiring dramas like The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, each movie brings something unique to the table. Parents will appreciate the lessons woven into the narratives, while children will delight in the colors, humor, and adventurous storytelling. Watching together becomes not just entertainment but also a way to bond, laugh, and reflect as a family. Netflix ensures that there’s something for everyone—whether you want nostalgia, cultural depth, or simple fun. To explore more about why family movie nights are so valuable, check trusted sources like The New York Times Movies Section and The Guardian Film. These insights further highlight how film continues to be one of the most powerful ways for families to connect and share experiences.
