Nothing captivates a child like a good story told through a great movie. This list of the top 15 best kids’ movies available to watch at home right now will give any family plenty of top kid’s movies to choose from!
Keep an eye on this list as it is updated with the latest and greatest kid’s movies, ranging genres and ages so you can be sure you’re in the loop with what’s popular. From Hotel Transylvania to Mulan, this list will help families looking for a family-friendly movie stay up to date on the most popular ones available at home.
Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
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TOP 15 KIDS’ MOVIES TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending movies that kids across ages are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘Hotel Transylvania’
↑ 22 vs. Prior Week
In the 2012 animated comedy Hotel Transylvania, a lively monster getaway created by Count Dracula (voiced by the versatile Adam Sandler) paints a hilariously unique picture of the world’s most famous monsters. This lavish retreat has a strict No Humans Allowed policy, serving as the go-to vacation spot for monsters like the Invisible Man and the Mummy.
Hilarious scenes unfurl when Dracula’s teenage daughter, Mavis (voiced by pop sensation Selena Gomez), throws a tumultuous 118th birthday party. However, when an unexpected human guest stumbles upon this extraordinary monster party, the outlandish tale reaches thrilling heights as he heartwarmingly falls for Mavis, causing chaos throughout the monster community.
2. ‘The Croods: A New Age’
↑ 14 vs. Prior Week
Be ready to embark on an uproarious and heartwarming journey with The Croods: A New Age. In this much-anticipated sequel to the original hit, we see our favorite prehistoric family, The Croods meet a new clan who claim to be more evolved. As the Croods grapple with the Bettermans’ conceited ways, they discover an even bigger threat. The movie expertly blends hilarity with an emotional core, making it a must-watch for both children and adults looking for an interesting take on societal evolution and family values.
3. ‘Beauty and the Beast’
↑ 17 vs. Prior Week
In the breathtaking 2017 remake of Disney’s classic tale Beauty and the Beast, the radiant Emma Watson delivers a captivating performance as Belle, an independent and spirited young woman held captive in a fortress by a fearsome Beast. Initially terrified, Belle slowly cultivates a friendship with the castle’s mesmerizing, enchanted staff, and courageously looks past the Beast’s monstrous outward appearance, glimpsing the gentle heart and noble soul hiding within. The movie beautifully illustrates the power of compassion and the unanticipated joy of discovering beauty in the most unexpected places.
4. ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’
↑ 55 vs. Prior Week
In the unforgettable 1993 film, Mrs. Doubtfire, Robin Williams brilliantly portrays Daniel Hillard, a desperate father who will not let divorce separate him from his children. After his divorce, Daniel concocts an audacious plan with his inventive brother Frank, played by Harvey Fierstein, to transform into an enchanting British nanny. Sally Field is the unsuspecting ex-wife, Miranda, who unknowingly hires him. As ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’, Daniel restores harmony within his fragmented family. But, when circumstances require Daniel and his alias to be at the same place at the same time, his double life faces the threat of unraveling. This heartwarming comedy promises laughter, tears and a remarkable portrayal of a dad’s unwavering love for his children.
5. ‘Tangled’
↑ 143 vs. Prior Week
Dive into the enchanting world of Tangled (2010), an animated marvel that promises to tug at your heartstrings. This magical tale follows Rapunzel (voiced brilliantly by Mandy Moore), a feisty teenager with 70 feet of glowing, magical hair, who yearns for adventure beyond her tower home. She unexpectedly gets the chance when a rambunctious outlaw, Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi), seeks refuge in the tower ultimately becoming her unlikely aide. As they strike a deal, mischief and self-discovery unfurl, launching them on a hair-raising quest for freedom. Brought to life with vibrant animation and unforgettable songs, Tangled will entertain and inspire viewers of all ages.
6. ‘Despicable Me 3’
↑ 8 vs. Prior Week
In Despicable Me 3, we once again join Gru, voiced by the brilliant Steve Carell, on a rollicking ride of hilarity and heart. This time, Gru discovers he has a long-lost twin, Dru, and their reunion targets your funny bone while hitting on the universal themes of family and acceptance. Amid unpredictable antics of our favorite yellow henchmen, the Minions, and while facing off with the newest villain, Balthazar Bratt, Gru must decide if he’s ready to embrace his villainous heritage for the sake of brotherly bonding. This animated gem is sure to entertain and amuse viewers of all ages, while delivering a profound message of the paradox of personality.
7. ‘Toy Story’
↑ 109 vs. Prior Week
In the remarkable world of Toy Story (1995), get ready to traverse through Andy’s room in the eyes of his toys. Starring Tom Hanks as the lovable cowboy doll, Woody, his treasured place in Andy’s life is threatened when a new high-tech toy, Buzz Lightyear, voiced by Tim Allen, enters the scene. But when the two rivals find themselves lost in the clutches of the toy-torturing neighbor, Sid Phillips, they have to put their differences aside to find their way back to Andy. Witness how this animated classic, brimming with laughter and heart-tugging moments, redefined the landscape of cinematic animation.
8. ‘The Parent Trap’
↑ 139 vs. Prior Week
1998’s The Parent Trap is a heartwarming tale of family, mischief and the magnetic pull between twins that never gets old. Lindsay Lohan is double the fun, playing twins Annie and Hallie who meet serendipitously at a summer camp, discovering not only their shared parentage but also a common longing for the other parent they’ve never known.
As inventive as young minds can be, they switch roles, fooling their divorced parents, Nick (Dennis Quaid) and Elizabeth (Natasha Richardson), and unexpectedly steering them towards each other again. In a world divided by an ocean, this charming movie depicts how familial love can bridge even the widest chasms.
9. ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’
↑ 122 vs. Prior Week
In the third installment of the acclaimed magical series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban weaves a tale of both mystery and discovery. The spellbinding performances by Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson will leave audiences riveted as Harry, Ron, and Hermione begin to uncover the dark secrets of Hogwarts and the ominous prisoner that has recently escaped from Azkaban. This prisoner, Sirius Black, is believed to be hunting for Harry. Buckle in for magical creatures, time-turning adventures and enchanting cinematography that takes you right into Harry’s wizarding world.
10. ‘Despicable Me 2’
↑ 5 vs. Prior Week
The box office hit, Despicable Me 2, is an exhilarating blend of comedy and adventure that will leave audiences of all ages thrilled and charmed. The story unfolds as Gru, voiced by the talented Steve Carell, trades his life of villainy for a shot at paternal happiness with his three adopted daughters. When a powerful new super-villain emerges, the Anti-Villain League recruits our unlikely hero and his army of adorable Minions to save the world, spawning a riot of unexpected laughs and heartwarming moments. This animated sequel delivers a flurry of entertainment packed with thrill, vibrant colors and memorable characters, promising a joyful ride from beginning to end.
11. ‘The Goonies’
↑ 17 vs. Prior Week
Join a wild adventure with a group of misfits in the critically acclaimed film, The Goonies. Sean Astin stars as Mikey Walsh, a plucky teenager who inspires his friends to seek out the legendary treasure of Pirate One-eyed Willie to save their homes from demolition. With an unforgettable cast and non-stop action, this movie takes you on a thrilling ride through booby-trapped caves and against treacherous villains.
It’s more than just a children’s film; it’s a journey of bravery, friendship and the unstoppable spirit of youth. The Goonies offers a nostalgic ride on a childhood adventure you wished you had, full of excitement and wonder.
12. ‘The Boss Baby 2: Family Business’
↑ 166 vs. Prior Week
You know what they say: age is just a number! And that’s extremely true in the world of corporate infants in The Boss Baby 2: Family Business — a sequel you won’t forget. Boss Baby Ted and his brother Tim, now grown-ups living separate lives, receive a magical formula that turns them back into their past bickering baby and young boy selves.
Their mission? To save the firm run by Tina (Tim’s own baby daughter and the new Boss Baby), from a menacingly cute new rival prompting a fresh wave of hilarity. Amid absurd encounters and charming animation, viewers are whisked into a narrative stressing the enduring importance of family ties.
13. ‘Hotel Transylvania: Transformania’
↑ 2 vs. Prior Week
Dive into a world of unexpected transformations and misadventures with the movie, Hotel Transylvania: Transformania. The plot of this fan-favorite series thickens when Van Helsing’s enigmatic new invention ends up turning Drac and his ghoul gang into humans, and Johnny into a monster — launching a bizarre role reversal! As they grapple with their new mismatched bodies, they find themselves racing against time to reverse their irreversible transformations. A delightful mix of humor, surprise and camaraderie, this film is a testament to friendship standing the test of strange circumstances and will make you laugh out loud while keeping your kids enthralled.
14. ‘Moana’
↑ 11 vs. Prior Week
An enchanting voyage across the sea awaits viewers in Disney’s Moana. The film dazzles with its beautifully animated landscapes and rich array of characters, superbly voiced by Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne The Rock Johnson as Moana and Maui, respectively.
A teenager yearning to break conventions and follow her heart, Moana sets off on a daring journey to save her people from an impending doom, uncovering her own identity along the way. Fascinating folklore, toe-tapping music and compelling messages about bravery, discovery and respect for nature make Moana a film for all ages and generations.
15. ‘Mulan’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Dive into Disney’s unforgettable live-action adventure in Mulan, a tale of bravery, loyalty and perseverance. The remarkable Liu Yifei brings to life the legendary warrior princess who disguises herself as a man to spare her aging father from war. Join Mulan on her epic quest to help her nation fight an invading force, defying societal norms and expectations along the way. Combining breathtaking visuals and intense action scenes, Mulan is a testament to the power of a young woman’s courage and determination that will leave you inspired and mesmerized.
And there you have it: the top 15 kids movies to watch at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
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And for even more insight into the top shows and movies to watch right now, check out these other lists:
- The Top 10 Cartoons for Kids on TV to Watch Now
- Nick Jr. TV Shows Kids & Parents Love!
- Top 10 Kids Cartoons on TV Now
- Top Educational Shows for Kids & Toddlers
- Best Shows on Nickelodeon to Stream
- Best Animated Movies to Watch at Home
- 10 Best Disney Channel Shows to Watch
- Most Popular Shows on PBS Kids
- Best Kids Shows on Cartoon Network
- Top Kid Shows on Disney xD
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best Pixar movies for kids in the last few years?
Inside Out, Luca, Turning Red, Soul, Coco, Brave
What is the most popular kids movie on TV right now?
Hotel Transylvania
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