13 Good Family Movies on Netflix (That Won’t Make You Regret Pressing Play)
Let’s face it: picking a family movie is like trying to get five people to agree on pizza toppings—impossible, chaotic, and someone always ends up mad. But hey, Netflix actually has some solid options that’ll entertain the kids and keep the adults from silently checking their phones every five minutes.
We dug through the pile of “meh” to bring you 13 family-friendly Netflix movies that are actually worth your time. Grab the popcorn (and maybe a blanket fort), because movie night just got easier.
1. The Mitchells vs. The Machines
A wild tech-apocalypse, family dysfunction, and a killer pug.
This animated gem is what happens when a weird family accidentally becomes humanity’s last hope against a robot uprising. It’s hilarious, heartwarming, and has a pug named Monchi who steals every scene. Bonus points for tech jokes that’ll hit parents right in the Wi-Fi.
2. Paddington
The bear in the hat that might restore your faith in kindness.
Paddington is polite, accident-prone, and adorably British. This is the kind of movie that feels like a warm hug and a marmalade sandwich. It’s sweet, funny, and teaches kids (and adults) how to be decent humans.
3. The Sea Beast
Imagine “How to Train Your Dragon,” but on water and with sea monsters.
This one’s got epic ocean battles, heart-tugging moments, and the kind of animation that makes you wonder why your living room isn’t this pretty. It’s a new-ish Netflix original that’s perfect for adventurous kids (and tired parents).
4. Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
There’s a singing crocodile. Yes, really.
This musical features Shawn Mendes voicing a crocodile with serious vocal chops. It’s weird. It’s cute. And somehow it works. Just don’t question the logic—if the kids buy it, you can too.
5. Matilda the Musical
Because sometimes children with telekinesis need a good song and dance.
Roald Dahl’s classic got the Broadway treatment, and it’s dazzling. Matilda is clever, rebellious, and serving vocals. The songs are catchy, the dancing’s fierce, and Miss Trunchbull is as terrifying as ever. A surprisingly high-energy watch.
6. My Father’s Dragon
Dragons, feelings, and a boy trying to fix everything—what’s not to love?
If Studio Ghibli and Pixar had a baby, this might be it. It’s visually stunning and surprisingly emotional, but not in a “why am I crying at an animated lizard” kind of way. Okay… maybe a little.
7. Yes Day
The one where parents lose control—and it’s hilarious.
Jennifer Garner stars as a mom who gives her kids one day to say “yes” to everything. Chaos. Ensues. Think food fights, water balloon madness, and surprisingly sweet moments. It’s like The Purge, but with family bonding and fewer arrests.
8. Klaus
Technically a Christmas movie, but honestly good all year round.
This gorgeous hand-drawn animated movie gives Santa Claus a whole new backstory. It’s funny, emotional, and has that rare quality: a message that isn’t preachy. You don’t need snow to enjoy this one.
9. The Willoughbys
A darkly funny animated story that somehow feels like Wes Anderson for kids.
The Willoughbys try to orphan themselves because their parents are the worst. Yes, it’s that kind of movie—and somehow it works. The narration by Ricky Gervais (as a sarcastic cat) is just the cherry on top.
10. Enola Holmes
Sherlock Holmes’ little sister is smarter than him. And cooler, honestly.
Millie Bobby Brown plays a spunky, independent teen who breaks the fourth wall and some 19th-century gender norms while solving mysteries. It’s clever, fast-paced, and sneaks in some history without being boring.
11. Over the Moon
A beautiful film about loss, moon goddesses, and giant space bunnies.
This movie is packed with heart, eye-popping animation, and catchy musical numbers. It tackles grief in a way kids can understand and adults will appreciate—just keep a tissue nearby, just in case something gets in your eye. Like, a meteor or whatever.
12. Vivo
From Lin-Manuel Miranda. Expect songs. Lots of songs.
Vivo is a musically inclined kinkajou (look it up) who goes on an emotional adventure through Cuba and Florida. The visuals are bright, the beats are fire, and Lin’s lyrical genius shines again.
13. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
A hidden gem for families with older kids and a taste for dry humor.
Directed by Taika Waititi (aka the guy behind Thor: Ragnarok), this one’s quirky, heartfelt, and seriously underrated. It’s got a rebellious kid, a grumpy man, and a manhunt through the wilderness. It’s PG-13, so better for tweens and teens—but worth the watch.
Final Thoughts: Family Movie Night Doesn’t Have to Suck
If you’ve ever spent more time scrolling through Netflix than actually watching something, this list is for you. Whether you’re looking for laughs, tears, singing reptiles, or robot uprisings, Netflix has a surprisingly strong lineup that won’t make you regret gathering the family on the couch.
So, cue up the snacks, dim the lights, and—most importantly—don’t let Dad hold the remote.
