Buzz
Let’s be honest: You’re an adult, and you still love watching animated films. Since Shrek revolutionized the fairy tale genre in 2001, challenging Disney’s dominance, kids’ movies have increasingly appealed to parents as much as to children. There’s no need to feel guilty about enjoying a family film when you’re alone.
To make your next movie night easier, here’s a list of 19 fantastic children’s movies that adults will find equally entertaining.
Labyrinth (1986)
This imaginative fantasy film, a joint effort by George Lucas, Muppeteer Jim Henson, and the legendary David Bowie, captivates children with its visuals. However, the story of a girl whose baby brother is kidnapped by her sinister crush feels like it could easily be a gripping Lifetime drama.
Where to stream: Peacock, Tubi, Pluto TV, Plex, Digital rental
Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988)
This iconic movie, blending live-action and animation, will entertain your kids with its humor, but its storyline—centered on a cartoon character accused of murder—delivers a noir-inspired tale featuring elements of (mild) romance, crime, and mystery.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Coraline (2009)
Based on Neil Gaiman’s novel, this film by Henry Selick, the director of The Nightmare Before Christmas, follows a girl who discovers a secret world in her home. While its stunning stop-motion animation appeals to families, its chilling themes make it a favorite for parents to watch after the kids are asleep.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
This stop-motion masterpiece, directed by Wes Anderson, transforms a simple tale of a cunning fox outsmarting three farmers into a profound commentary on greed. Anderson, known for his exploration of family dynamics in The Royal Tenenbaums, brings the same depth to this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic story.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Hugo (2011)
Martin Scorsese’s visually breathtaking take on The Invention of Hugo Cabret will captivate older kids, while film enthusiasts will appreciate the director’s nods to cinematic history woven throughout the story.
Where to stream: Hoopla, Digital rental
Paddington 2
(2018)
Michael Bond, the creator of Paddington, once mentioned that his first book wasn’t solely aimed at children. This might explain why the second film about the talking bear from Darkest Peru resonates so deeply with adults. Hugh Grant’s standout performance as the villainous Phoenix Buchanan adds to its charm.
Where to stream: Digital rental
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
While any Disney animated film can captivate a child, this darker, more mature take on Victor Hugo’s classic novel also appeals to adults, despite the inclusion of talking gargoyles.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
This Oscar-winning animated film (and its sequel) offers a fresh perspective on the iconic web-slinger, making it ideal for older children and their comic-book-enthusiast parents.
Where to stream: Fubo, Digital rental
The Incredibles (2004)
While it’s a superhero movie at its core, this Pixar gem tells a deeply human story about a flawed family striving to keep their world—and themselves—intact.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
The Witches (1990)
This twisted Roald Dahl adaptation follows a young boy who uncovers a sinister coven plotting to transform children into mice. Kids will relate to the underdog’s fight against evil, while adults will appreciate its blend of horror and campy fun.
Where to stream: Digital rental
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
My Neighbor Totoro, a story about two sisters encountering magical beings near their new home, is an excellent introduction to Hayao Miyazaki’s work for children. It’s also a great way to introduce Studio Ghibli’s acclaimed films to parents unfamiliar with the studio.
Where to stream: Max, Digital rental
Time Bandits (1981)
Kids will likely be drawn to this fantasy film’s practical effects, while adults, especially fans of Monty Python, will appreciate its witty humor and the appearances of the comedy troupe’s members in a story about a boy joining treasure-hunting time travelers.
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel
Nimona (2023)
Older children will be captivated by the shape-shifting antics of the rebellious teenage hero, who transforms into creatures like a whale and rhinoceros to aid a knight in clearing his name. Parents, meanwhile, will appreciate the film’s clever writing and distinctive animation.
Where to stream: Netflix
Ernest and Celestine (2012)
This charming French animated film, featuring an unlikely friendship between a bear and a mouse, shares similarities with Zootopia but tackles real-world themes in a thoughtful, non-patronizing way that appeals to both kids and adults.
Where to stream: Tubi, Digital rental
Matilda (1996)
This dark yet visually engaging film, directed by Danny DeVito, tells the story of a gifted girl who uses her intellect and supernatural abilities to stand up to the cruel adults around her. While it has a Stephen King-esque edge, it’s both entertaining for adults and, unfortunately, relatable for some parents.
Where to stream: Netflix, Fubo, Digital rental
Wolfwalkers (2020)
The film’s stunning hand-drawn animation alone makes it worth watching. It follows Robyn, a girl who encounters a member of a mystical tribe. While the story is straightforward enough for children, its emotional depth, especially as Robyn’s friendship grows complex, will resonate deeply with parents.
Where to stream: Apple TV+
Wall-E (2008)
While many Pixar films appeal to adults, this tale of lovestruck robots feels more like a Jacques Tati masterpiece than a typical kids’ movie. With minimal dialogue and a focus on visual humor, it’s nothing short of genius.
Where to stream: Disney+, Digital rental
Marcel the Shell With Shoes On (2022)
Is this stop-motion film, inspired by Dean Fleischer-Camp and Jenny Slate’s YouTube shorts, a quirky comedy for adults or a heartfelt family movie? The answer is both.
Where to stream: Netflix, Paramount+ with Showtime, Hoopla, Kanopy, Digital rental
The Iron Giant (1999)
This beloved animated film, featuring a boy’s friendship with a giant alien robot, evokes strong E.T. vibes, making it a timeless favorite for adults to share with their children decades later.
Where to stream: Paramount+ with Showtime, Digital rental
