Sitting through animated movies made for children can sometimes be as boring as watching paint dry, and some are just hauntingly annoying *cue SpongeBob’s laugh. Screen time should be kept to a minimum, so it’s best to make the most out of screen time with educational programs and meaningful, memorable movies. Turn Friday nights into ‘Movie Night,’ gather up the entire family, get some popcorn and snuggle up under a blanket. We’ve come out with the perfect selection of movies that everyone in the family, young and old, will adore. Movie nights are great for some special family bonding time, and it’ll definitely be embedded as a favorite memory.
Disclaimer: There will be no spoilers in case you haven’t watched these movies, Happy Watching!
How To Train Your Dragon
This animated movie has won the hearts of many, a story about a boy who’s ridiculed as a Viking, and an adorable dragon named Toothless. Music composed by the renowned John Powell makes this movie otherworldly. The movie is filled with exciting adventures and remarkable life lessons. You may not be as keen to watch it at first, but just wait until Toothless makes his appearance, and you’ll fall in love with an imaginary animated dragon. You’ll want more after the first one, and splendidly enough, the HTTYD film-series is a prequel with its third movie being released last year. Crazy enough, this extraordinary movie will have you believing in dragons or just the one, Toothless.
The Land Before Time
We’re talking about the one released back in 1988, yes, the one that made us ball our eyes out. A beautiful story of friendship and adventure that revolves around five young dinosaurs. This 2D animation will give little ones a chance to admire the cartoons and movies we’ve grown up with, these movies will have a special place in their hearts, just like they do in ours. Remember to sit through the credits for Diana Ross’s masterpiece of a song, If We Hold On Together.
Finding Nemo
I think its safe to say that Finding Nemo places in the Top 10s when it comes to the best movies ever created. An eye-appealing animated movie that teaches children about our oceans and valuable lessons while giving us a story that touched our hearts in every way possible. Marlin, a father clownfish, goes out of his way, through seas, to find his son, Nemo, who has been taken by divers. And along the way, Marlin takes on an incredible journey with Dory, a forgetful blue tang. The sequel, Finding Dory, was finally released 13 years after Finding Nemo, but both these movies will make a great back-to-back movie night.
The Lion King
The Lion King is an exhilarating tale about family, betrayal, loss, love, and belonging, all enveloped in one spectacular movie featuring the wondrous animals of Africa. The Lion King is filled with spirit-lifting, moving songs that will leave you in goosebumps throughout it all. Even though there has been a remake of the animated version, it does not come close to the 1994 classic animation, and it should be introduced to the little ones before they watch the 2019 remake. There’s also a sequel, The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride and a prequel, The Lion King 1 1/2 (The Lion King 3: Hakuna Matata)
Brother Bear
Brother Bear has to be one of the most captivating children animations of all time. Everything about this movie is just absolutely loveable with a passion, from the characters to the scenic backgrounds. Brother Bear is a story of a man being transformed into a bear to be taught a valuable lesson. With some astounding music scores by Tina Turner and Phil Collins, this movie will tug at your heartstrings, leaving you with a spiritual awakening. Even the youngest of children will have a great time watching this; your little one will surely get a kick out of seeing a cuddly talking bear.
Tarzan
A classic that’s filled magnificent songs by the one and only, Phil Collins. The story of Tarzan is about a human baby raised by Gorillas finding his way in life, will he stay with his family of Gorillas, or will he return to the world of humans? You’ve gotta watch and find out. Tarzan teaches children the importance of family. There’s just something about the movie’s animation and music that’s so alluring, that it takes you to a whole other world.
Moana
Moana is an engaging animation that will have you at the edge of your seat. The movie gives viewers a look into the beautiful Polynesian culture; it is filled with hauntingly beautiful music and songs that will have the entire family singing along. Moana is also a completely different take from cliche Disney Princess movies, which is extremely refreshing. It teaches children core values, and Moana is a great role model for little girls.
Spirit: The Stallion Of The Cimarron
A thrilling, inspirational, and emotional journey of a wild horse named Spirit, he finds love, family, and freedom. You’re in luck if you’re a fan of Bryan Adams, this animation features a number of golden songs by him. Spirit faces many obstacles throughout his journey, teaching young ones that in life, we may face many problems, but it is important to stay strong and never give up. The movie also portrays the freedom of a wild animal, especially that of a wild mustang, how they yearn for freedom, and never should be kept in enclosed spaces. Spirit is voiced by Matt Damon.
Balto
Balto is the most underrated movie on our list, but it’s definitely worth a watch or maybe 10. It’s about the heroic tale of a wolf-dog that goes on a mission to save his village, based on an actual story. Shunned aside for being half-wolf, Balto had to seek his true self. A heartwarming, courageous story of man’s best friend that will leave you all warm inside and with more love for dogs. Undoubtedly one of the most enchanting animated movies, teaching children about bravery, love, and perseverance.