100 best family-friendly movies of all time

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November 13, 2018
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100 best family-friendly movies of all time

If current movie trends are any indication, there's a serious market right now for nostalgia and familiarity in film. Remakes, sequels, prequels, and franchises have all been staples at the box office in recent years. But what's better than seeing an updated version of a favorite movie? Revisiting the original, of course. And when it comes to nostalgia and familiarity, there's no genre more suited for exploration than family-friendly films.

With that in mind, Stacker set out to determine which family-friendly movies have best withstood the test of time. To compile the list, Stacker consulted the Internet Movie Database (IMDb), and considered PG- and G-rated English language American films with at least 30,000 reviews. In the case of a tie, films with a larger number of reviews were given higher ranks.

What comes next is an extensive list of family-friendly cinematic gold. Pixar and Disney fans' favorites are well represented—but keep an eye out for some under-the-radar classics from the 1930s and 1940s, holiday gems, films inspired by stage musicals, those that went on to inspire new Broadway shows, and even a few surprises.

Pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and sit back: Stacker is starting at #100 and counting down the best family-friendly movies of all time.

RELATED: 100 best films of the 21st century, according to critics

#100. Beauty and the Beast

IMDb rating: 7.2

IMDb votes: 219,892

Release year: 2017

Runtime: 129 minutes

Disney’s live-action retelling of “Beauty and the Beast” features Emma Watson (who was 1 when the original was released) as Belle and Dan Stevens as Beast. Earnings matched the high expectations loyal fans had for the film: It was one of the highest-grossing movies of 2017, bringing in more than $1.2 billion worldwide.

#99. The Transformers: The Movie

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 34,872

Release year: 1986

Runtime: 84 minutes

This animated feature-length counterpart to the wildly popular "Transformers" television series received only middling reviews from critics. Perhaps foreshadowing the success of later "Transformer" films, however, fans were enthusiastic. The film enjoyed a re-release in Fall 2018.

#98. Dumbo

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 102,154

Release year: 1941

Runtime: 64 minutes

Though "Dumbo" is under fresh criticism now that it’s being held to modern standards, it remains part of Disney’s classic canon. A live-action remake is in the works for 2019 with Tim Burton at the helm.

#97. The Fox and the Hound

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 73,822

Release year: 1981

Runtime: 83 minutes

Featuring the voices of Mickey Rooney, Kurt Russell, and Pearl Bailey, “The Fox and the Hound” was Disney’s 24th animated feature film. A number of the film’s young animators, including Tim Burton, went on to establish esteemed careers of their own.

#96. The Secret Garden

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 32,431

Release year: 1993

Runtime: 101 minutes

This successful film was based on a classic children’s novel by prolific storyteller Frances Hodgson Burnett. “The Secret Garden” was praised by Roger Ebert as “a work of beauty, poetry and deep mystery.” And like many great '90’s films, a reboot is in the works.

#95. Bambi

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 112,385

Release year: 1942

Runtime: 70 minutes

Walt Disney described “Bambi” as “the best picture I have ever made.” Critics largely agreed with the merits of this sweet film about a young deer, and the A.V. Club noted in 2011 that “‘Bambi’ has earned the right to be called timeless.”

#94. Lady and the Tramp

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 103,499

Release year: 1955

Runtime: 76 minutes

The sweet tale of two pups has been heralded as “one of the all-time great love stories.” Fans of the iconic spaghetti-kiss scene will likely agree. “Lady and the Tramp” didn’t bring home any major awards upon release, but nonetheless, reviews were largely positive.

#93. Eight Below

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 54,969

Release year: 2006

Runtime: 120 minutes

“Eight Below,” starring Paul Walker, billed itself as “The most amazing story of survival, friendship, and adventure ever told.” A team of 30 dogs played the four-legged characters left behind in below-freezing conditions.

#92. Sleeping Beauty

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 117,647

Release year: 1959

Runtime: 75 minutes

Disney’s take on this timeless fairy tale was the last of the studio’s films to feature animation cels inked by hand. The beloved film also served as the inspiration for the iconic castles at Disney parks.

#91. Peter Pan

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 106,915

Release year: 1953

Runtime: 77 minutes

Based on the classic J.M. Barrie play, Disney’s “Peter Pan” is an animated adventure about a boy who never grows up. The film inspired a ride in Disney parks called "Peter Pan’s Flight." Tinkerbell continues thrive within the Disney universe and has been featured in a separate fairy franchise.

#90. Cinderella

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 125,793

Release year: 1950

Runtime: 74 minutes

Originally a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, "Cinderella" is the tale of a young woman who attends a royal ball with the help of her fairy godmother and falls in love with a prince. This particular rendition also happens to contain a scene Walt Disney considered a personal favorite: Cinderella’s ruined dress magically transforming into a shimmering ballgown.

#89. The Adventures of Tintin

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 197,536

Release year: 2011

Runtime: 107 minutes

“The Adventures of Tintin” was Steven Spielberg’s first animated film. It won the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film in 2012, edging out Oscar-winner “Rango.”

#88. Rise of the Guardians

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 140,687

Release year: 2012

Runtime: 97 minutes

“Rise of the Guardians” presents familiar characters like Santa Claus, Jack Frost, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny in a brand-new light. Critics’ reviews were mixed, but the film earned more than $300 million worldwide.

#87. Little Women

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 42,055

Release year: 1994

Runtime: 115 minutes

Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel about four sisters growing up during the Civil War has inspired a number of adaptations over the years, but the 1994 masterpiece is perhaps the most beloved. The film earned three Oscar nominations, including Best Actress in a Leading Role for Winona Ryder as Jo March.

#86. Finding Dory

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 201,083

Release year: 2016

Runtime: 97 minutes

The sequel to “Finding Nemo,” “Finding Dory” brought Ellen DeGeneres and Albert Brooks back as friendly fish Dory and Marlin. The film grossed more than $1 billion worldwide and earned praise for its inclusive spirit in portraying differently abled characters.

#85. Tarzan

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 173,649

Release year: 1999

Runtime: 88 minutes

Another Disney animated feature to won Best Original Song, “Tarzan” recently came back into focus with the release of “Frozen” in 2013. A widely circulated fan theory about a possible familial connection between Tarzan and Anna and Elsa of "Frozen" gained traction, intriguing Disney aficionados across the internet.

#84. The Lego Batman Movie

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 105,816

Release year: 2017

Runtime: 104 minutes

The union of DC superhero Batman and global toy brand LEGO pleased audiences and critics when it came to the big screen. Variety called it “kicky, bedazzling, and super-fun.” The film stars Will Arnett as Batman, Michael Cera as Robin, and Rosario Dawson as Batgirl.  

#83. The Emperor's New Groove

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 153,324

Release year: 2000

Runtime: 78 minutes

“The Emperor’s New Groove” features David Spade as a cocky leader-turned-llama and was well-received by critics. It never reached widespread popularity, but loyal fans still exist and champion this under-the-radar film.

#82. Megamind

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 200,436

Release year: 2010

Runtime: 95 minutes

“Megamind” asks the question, “what happens to a supervillain who defeats his biggest rivals?” Will Ferrell, Brad Pitt, Tina Fey, and Jonah Hill lend their voices to this Dreamworks animated feature, which was praised by Roger Ebert  as “amusing family entertainment.”

#81. Big

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 172,803

Release year: 1988

Runtime: 104 minutes

Tom Hanks stars as Josh, a 13-year-old boy who wishes to be big in order to impress a crush. Audiences were impressed, as well, and director Penny Marshall made history as the first woman ever to direct a film that earned more than $100 million.

#80. Hercules

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 173,907

Release year: 1997

Runtime: 93 minutes

Disney’s take on a Greek myth was popular among critics; so much so, in fact, The New York Times declared that the studio was “back in top form” with the release of “Hercules.” Though it didn’t win the same accolades as many of its counterparts, fans remain steadfast.

#79. Monsters University

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 279,751

Release year: 2013

Runtime: 104 minutes

In this prequel to “Monsters Inc.,” John Goodman and Billy Crystal reprise their roles as Mike and Sully, telling the story of how the two monsters became the best of friends.

#78. The Book of Life

IMDb rating: 7.3

IMDb votes: 57,606

Release year: 2014

Runtime: 95 minutes

The second animated film in recent years to focus on the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), "The Book of Life” possesses stunning visuals, an adventure-filled story, and a vibrant soundtrack. It was the first feature film by director and writer Jorge R. Gutiérrez’s and stars Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, and Channing Tatum.

#77. Alice in Wonderland

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 111,804

Release year: 1951

Runtime: 75 minutes

“Alice in Wonderland” brings Lewis Carroll’s world-famous book to life with some of Disney’s “most surreal and twisted images.” The movie is one of the few Disney films to have two Disney park rides based on it: "Alice in Wonderland," and the "Mad Tea Party."

#76. The Land Before Time

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 70,927

Release year: 1988

Runtime: 69 minutes

“The Land Before Time”  manages to pack in plenty of story in a little more than one hour. The tale went on to inspire a whopping 12 direct-to-video sequels about young dinosaur Littlefoot and his friends.

#75. Despicable Me 2

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 332,193

Release year: 2013

Runtime: 98 minutes

This sequel to the 2010 film was a massive box office success. Several cast members returned, including Kristen Wiig, Russell Brand, and of course, Steve Carell as super-villain turned caretaker, Gru.

#74. The Jungle Book

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 231,332

Release year: 2016

Runtime: 106 minutes

This live-action retelling of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale garnered accolades for its CGI portrayal of a wide variety of jungle animals. The 2017 Oscar for Best Achievement in Visual Effects went to “The Jungle Book,” while animal rights organization PETA director gave separate honors to director Jon Favreau.

#73. Labyrinth

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 109,486

Release year: 1986

Runtime: 101 minutes

David Bowie and Jim Henson may not be the most obvious combination, but they worked together well in “Labyrinth.” Though the film wasn’t a financial success when it was released, it did go on to win a BAFTA Film Award for Best Special Visual Effects, and find a devoted fan following.

#72. The NeverEnding Story

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 115,205

Release year: 1984

Runtime: 102 minutes

At the time of its release, “The NeverEnding Story” was the most expensive film in Germany’s history: $27 million. The fantasy went on to earn back the investment, grossing $100 million worldwide.

#71. Corpse Bride

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 217,358

Release year: 2005

Runtime: 77 minutes

Despite having “Corpse” in the title, Tim Burton’s fantasy defied its dark premise and spooky undertones to earn a spot as a favorite family-friendly film. The first stop-motion film to be shot digitally follows the story of a groom-to-be who practices his vows in front of the wrong person.

#70. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

IMDb rating: 7.4

IMDb votes: 467,974

Release year: 2002

Runtime: 161 minutes

The second installment of the “Harry Potter” series takes audiences deeper into the wizarding world. A massive film crew rose to the challenge with dazzling sets and precise filming that, in one case, led to a single scene taking eight weeks to shoot.

#69. The Curse of the Were-Rabbit

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 111,860

Release year: 2005

Runtime: 85 minutes

This 2005 jaunt, featuring the beloved British claymation duo Wallace and Gromit, has nothing but positive reviews on review aggregator Metacritic. The film was well-received by American critics and audiences alike taking home the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film in 2006.

#68. Pinocchio

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 110,354

Release year: 1940

Runtime: 88 minutes

“Pinocchio” won Best Original Song for “When You Wish Upon A Star,” making it the first Disney film to earn such an honor. The studio’s animated film is one of many adaptations of the original book, with a far sunnier version of the title character than perhaps originally intended.

#67. Ice Age

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 383,127

Release year: 2002

Runtime: 81 minutes

Five “Ice Age” films have been released to date, with the most recent—2016’s “Ice Age: Collision Course”—inspired by a simple gag in the original film. Despite the franchise’s popularity, the original “Ice Age” remains the highest-ranked of the series on IMDb.

#66. Field of Dreams

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 97,037

Release year: 1989

Runtime: 107 minutes

As they say, “if you build it, they will come.” In this case, audiences came for this family drama about a farmer who builds a baseball field. Starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, and Ray Liotta, the film was nominated for Best Picture, and ultimately lost to “Driving Miss Daisy.”

#65. Hugo

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 277,533

Release year: 2011

Runtime: 126 minutes

Martin Scorsese probably isn’t the first name that comes to mind when discussing family-friendly films, but he’s the mind behind 2011 fantasy adventure, “Hugo.” The imaginative film, about a mysterious boy who secretly lives in a train station, was dubbed a “delightful fable” by the Guardian.  

#64. Home Alone

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 381,852

Release year: 1990

Runtime: 103 minutes

A holiday film that billed itself as “a family comedy without the comedy,” “Home Alone” imagines what would happen if an 8-year-old boy were left alone to face two burglars on Christmas Eve. “Home Alone" is the highest-grossing comedy film of all time.

#63. Frozen

IMDb rating: 7.5

IMDb votes: 496,237

Release year: 2013

Runtime: 102 minutes

The pop culture juggernaut of 2013 earned two Oscars: Best Animated Feature Film, and Best Original Song for “Let It Go.” The movie grossed more than $1.2 billion worldwide and features the voices of Idina Menzel and Kristen Bell in the lead roles of Elsa and Anna.

#62. The Secret of NIMH

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 31,834

Release year: 1982

Runtime: 82 minutes

“The Secret of NIMH,” released in 1982, is based on the 1972  John Newbery Medal-winning children’s book, "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH," by Robert C. O’Brien.  

#61. Secondhand Lions

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 47,454

Release year: 2003

Runtime: 109 minutes

“Secondhand Lions” stars Haley Joel Osment as a boy who visits his uncle for the summer. The coming-of-age tale charmed audiences and even some critics, with Roger Ebert praising the story as “the summer every boy should spend.”

#60. Robin Hood

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 99,217

Release year: 1973

Runtime: 83 minutes

“Robin Hood” has been remade countless times, its latest version being released in Fall 2018. In Disney’s 1973 animated version, Robin Hood is represented as a sly fox and Little John is a boisterous bear.

#59. The Jungle Book

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 144,839

Release year: 1967

Runtime: 78 minutes

Disney’s “The Jungle Book” was the studio’s last film overseen by Walt Disney. Inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 book of short stories, the film’s popular tune “The Bare Necessities” was nominated for a Best Original Song.

#58. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 157,699

Release year: 1937

Runtime: 83 minutes

When it was originally released in 1937, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” had a “complicated censorship history” due to its scary themes. Though it’s earned a spot on this list, parents continue to ask if this adaptation of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale is appropriate for young kids.

#57. Kung Fu Panda

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 364,036

Release year: 2008

Runtime: 92 minutes

Dreamworks’ 2008 animated action-adventure film about a clumsy panda-turned-kung-fu master charmed audiences and critics alike. Jack Black voices lead character Po, supported by a star-studded cast that includes Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Lucy Liu, and Seth Rogen. “Kung Fu Panda” was nominated for Best Animated Feature, but lost the Oscar to “Wall-E.”

#56. The Little Mermaid

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 203,544

Release year: 1989

Runtime: 83 minutes

"The Little Mermaid” is considered the film that launched Disney’s renaissance. The musical, which features showstoppers like “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World,” also won two Oscars for Best Original Song and Best Original Score.

#55. Mulan

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 211,495

Release year: 1998

Runtime: 88 minutes

Disney’s “Mulan” is the studio’s 36th animated film. Critics noted the significance of the gender-role reversal at the core of the plot: A young woman joins the army in place of her ailing father. Nevertheless, The New York Times called out several cultural disconnects.

#54. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 395,073

Release year: 2009

Runtime: 153 minutes

The sixth of the eight “Harry Potter” films, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” tilted the series toward darker themes. Nonetheless, the Los Angeles Times likened the films to “cozy tales told around a cinematic campfire.”

#53. Moana

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 206,137

Release year: 2016

Runtime: 107 minutes

The title character of Disney’s 2016 animated hit “has no need of a prince.” It’s no wonder then that audiences turned out en masse—the film grossed more than $600 million worldwide—to see “how far she’d go.”

#52. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

IMDb rating: 7.6

IMDb votes: 541,564

Release year: 2001

Runtime: 152 minutes

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” was the first film based on J.K. Rowling’s best-selling young adult series, starring Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, Rupert Grint as Ron, and Emma Watson as Hermione Granger. The film set the tone for seven highly successful sequels.

#51. The Muppet Christmas Carol

IMDb rating: 7.7

IMDb votes: 40,234

Release year: 1992

Runtime: 85 minutes

The only “Muppets” film to make the list, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” is a reimagined telling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. In this version, Kermit the Frog stars as Bob Cratchit, and in addition to the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, you’ll find a slew of familiar characters.

#50. Finding Neverland

IMDb rating: 7.7

IMDb votes: 188,035

Release year: 2004

Runtime: 106 minutes

“Finding Neverland” explores the behind-the-scenes life of Peter Pan playwright J.M. Barrie, played by Johnny Depp. The film inspired a stage musical in 2014 that is still touring.

#49. Who Framed Roger Rabbit

IMDb rating: 7.7

IMDb votes: 163,276

Release year: 1988

Runtime: 104 minutes

Animation and live-action go together like a shave and a haircut in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.” The boisterous title character teams up with a curmudgeonly detective to clear his name when he’s suspected of murder. The lasting appeal of this film comes from the interaction between the actors and the cartoons. The film earned three Oscars: Best Film Editing, Best Sound Effects, and Best Visual Effects.

#48. Despicable Me

IMDb rating: 7.7

IMDb votes: 447,557

Release year: 2010

Runtime: 95 minutes

The movie that launched a thousand minions, or so it seems, is anything but despicable. With Steve Carell as the voice of Gru, along with Jason Segel, Julie Andrews, Kristen Wiig and Russell Brand, the film inspired multiple sequels and spinoffs—with more in the works.

#47. Wreck-It Ralph

IMDb rating: 7.7

IMDb votes: 319,764

Release year: 2012

Runtime: 101 minutes

“Wreck-It Ralph” earned high praise from critics when it was released in 2012. The story of a video game villain who’s grown tired of being bad, the film was dubbed “retro eye-candy for grown-ups” by The Hollywood Reporter.

#46. Fantasia

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 79,904

Release year: 1940

Runtime: 125 minutes

Disney’s “Fantasia"—famous for the classic Mickey Mouse short “Sorcerer’s Apprentice”—is a collection of animated scenes set to classical music. It was re-released in 1985 with the tagline, “The most sensational sound you'll ever see!”

#45. October Sky

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 72,929

Release year: 1999

Runtime: 108 minutes

Based on a true story, “October Sky” stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son inspired by Sputnik to build and launch his own rockets in 1957. Critics praised its “good old-fashioned inspirational drama,” according to review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

#44. Kubo and the Two Strings

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 98,806

Release year: 2016

Runtime: 101 minutes

“Kubo and the Two Strings” earned universal acclaim from critics. Art Parkinson, Charlize Theron, Ralph Fiennes, and George Takei all lend their voices to this adventure about a young boy who encounters a spirit that changes his life. The Washington Post called the film “extraordinarily original.”

#43. The Lego Movie

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 290,951

Release year: 2014

Runtime: 100 minutes

“The Lego Movie” earned abundant praise, and as critic David Blaustein noted, “you'll leave the theater smiling and singing, 'Everything Is Awesome.'" The film stars Chris Pratt as Emmet, a Lego construction worker who suddenly finds himself a hero. Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Alison Brie, and Jonah Hill also loaned their voices.

#42. Fantastic Mr. Fox

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 170,041

Release year: 2009

Runtime: 87 minutes

“Fantastic Mr. Fox,” directed by Wes Anderson, boasted an impressive cast. George Clooney and Meryl Streep star in this classic Roald Dahl book adaptation as Mr. and Mrs. Fox, appearing alongside vocal credits from Owen Wilson, Willem Dafoe, and Jason Schwartzman.

#41. Tangled

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 349,744

Release year: 2010

Runtime: 100 minutes

“Tangled” is Disney’s 50th animated feature film. Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi voice the lead characters as we follow them along a modern spin on the tale of Rapunzel. Critics had largely positive reviews, noting the “modified, updated but nonetheless sincere and unmistakable quality of old-fashioned Disneyness.”

#40. How to Train Your Dragon 2

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 260,342

Release year: 2014

Runtime: 102 minutes

Although it’s a sequel, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” is the first DreamWorks Animation film to win a Golden Globe for Best Animated Film. The plot focuses on Hiccup and his dragon, Toothless, who discover a cave containing hundreds of other dragons.

#39. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 153,550

Release year: 1971

Runtime: 100 minutes

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, the film centers on Charlie, a humble boy who wins a tour of Willy Wonka’s magical factory. Since its release, there's also been a Tim Burton-helmed remake starring Johnny Depp. Rumors of a prequel have been making the rounds as well, but nothing quite compares to the original.

#38. Big Hero 6

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 349,483

Release year: 2014

Runtime: 102 minutes

This Disney film is an adaptation of the Marvel comic series that follows a young prodigy who teams up with a robot. The futuristic film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2015.

#37. The Sandlot

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 68,590

Release year: 1993

Runtime: 101 minutes

It’s no surprise that the nostalgic spirit of “The Sandlot,” a story about neighborhood kids who love baseball, has stayed a favorite of children and adults alike for a quarter century. It’s also the source of a number of well-quoted lines, not limited to “You’re killin’ me, Smalls!”

#36. Mary Poppins

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 128,419

Release year: 1964

Runtime: 139 minutes

Mary Poppins earned five Oscars in 1965, including a Best Actress award for Julie Andrews. The supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical fantasy about a joyful, magical nanny also starred Dick Van Dyke.

#35. The Goonies

IMDb rating: 7.8

IMDb votes: 209,202

Release year: 1985

Runtime: 114 minutes

“The Goonies” was billed as “the family adventure of the year.” The story follows a group of kids who set out to find a hidden treasure that will help them save a family’s home.

#34. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 36,681

Release year: 1993

Runtime: 76 minutes

The enduring legacy of this famous, masked superhero has helped this classic animated film endure long past other Batman story installments. "Batman: Mask of the Phantasm" is even scheduled for a one-day theatrical re-release for its 25th anniversary.

#33. My Fair Lady

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 77,214

Release year: 1964

Runtime: 170 minutes

Another family-friendly classic inspired by a stage musical, “My Fair Lady” stars Audrey Hepburn as a flower-seller and Rex Harrison as a professor with a secret plot to make her over into a high-class member of society. It’s one of many adaptations of George Bernard Shaw’s stage play “Pygmalion.”

#32. Toy Story 2

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 449,096

Release year: 1999

Runtime: 92 minutes

Although not as highly ranked as the other two films in the Toy Story franchise, the middle film has earned its place on this list. Buzz (Tim Allen), Woody (Tom Hanks), and the gang have their own adventures while their owner is off at summer camp.

#31. Paddington 2

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 37,208

Release year: 2017

Runtime: 103 minutes

The Paddington Bear films are based on the children’s book series by British author Michael Bond. The second in the series, “Paddington 2,” catches up with the beloved character as he pursues a thief with the help of his new family.

#30. Shrek

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 538,526

Release year: 2001

Runtime: 90 minutes

“Shrek” is the story of a lovable ogre (voiced by Mike Myers) whose universe overlaps with a number of other fairy tale characters. The movie has inspired sequels, spin-offs, short films, and even a musical.

#29. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 463,798

Release year: 2004

Runtime: 142 minutes

“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” the third installment of the Harry Potter franchise, was the best-rated of the series. Director Alfonso Cuaron, previously known for the sensual and substantially less family-friendly “Y Tu Mamá También,” brought a fresh take to the fantasy adventure film—but only after being convinced to take the project on.

#28. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

IMDb rating: 7.9

IMDb votes: 325,604

Release year: 1982

Runtime: 115 minutes

This Steven Spielberg-directed blockbuster has endured the test of time. Shot from the eye-level of a child, the film follows the story of a little boy named Elliott who befriends an alien.

#27. The Iron Giant

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 151,798

Release year: 1999

Runtime: 86 minutes

“The Iron Giant” is a far more nuanced film than its action-packed premise implies, with themes of friendship, protection, and loyalty. The movie stars Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Aniston, Eli Marienthal, and Vin Diesel.

#26. Fiddler on the Roof

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 33,984

Release year: 1971

Runtime: 181 minutes

This film is an adaptation of the 1964 stage musical. The story follows the family life of a Jewish peasant in Russia as he cares for his family and guides them as they struggle together to maintain their traditions while facing persecution.

#25. A Christmas Story

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 117,095

Release year: 1983

Runtime: 94 minutes

“A Christmas Story” tells the tale of a young boy who wants nothing more than a BB gun for Christmas. Several iconic pop culture images have roots in the film, including the iconic leg lamp—and the results of what happens when you lick a frozen pole.

#24. Beauty and the Beast

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 376,183

Release year: 1991

Runtime: 84 minutes

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” was the first animated feature film to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. The unlikely romance story of Belle and Beast is a “tale as old as time.” This film quickly and easily reached classic status. 

#23. Ratatouille

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 552,755

Release year: 2007

Runtime: 111 minutes

Despite having a name so difficult to pronounce that its pronunciation was included on movie posters, “Ratatouille” managed to charm moviegoers of all ages. The film follows a Parisian rat who wants to become a chef and features the voices of Patton Oswalt, Lou Romano, Brad Garrett, and Janeane Garofalo.

#22. The Sound of Music

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 173,778

Release year: 1965

Runtime: 172 minutes

“The Sound of Music” tells the story of Maria (Julie Andrews), an Austrian nun-turned-governess to the stoic Von Trapp children. This beloved film adapted from an equally beloved stage musical is actually based on a true story.

#21. Aladdin

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 307,250

Release year: 1992

Runtime: 90 minutes

“Aladdin” was released during Disney’s renaissance and tells the story of a street kid who finds a Genie within a magic lamp. It was the first Disney movie to get a straight-to-video sequel, and one of many to inspire a live-action remake, scheduled for release in 2019.

#20. Zootopia

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 359,076

Release year: 2016

Runtime: 108 minutes

The unlikely pairing of a rabbit and fox in “Zootopia” brings a fresh take to the “buddy cop” comedy. The film includes more than 60 animal species, some with very specific details. The hard work paid off: “Zootopia” won the 2017 Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

#19. The Wizard of Oz

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 340,847

Release year: 1939

Runtime: 102 minutes

Few movies are as cherished in pop culture as “The Wizard of Oz,” which has endured with audiences of all ages since its release almost 80 years ago. Based on a book series by L. Frank Baum, the film’s bold use of technicolor created a fantastical setting for the mythical land of Oz, where young Dorothy embarks on a quest to help her new friends and find her way home.

#18. The Incredibles

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 571,555

Release year: 2004

Runtime: 115 minutes

“The Incredibles” tells the tale of married, former superheroes Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl living seemingly ordinary civilian lives with their children (who also have superpowers). The film won two Oscars: Best Animated Feature Film and Achievement in Sound Editing.

#17. Wonder

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 93,718

Release year: 2017

Runtime: 113 minutes

Based on a young adult novel by R.J. Palacio, “Wonder” is the story of a boy born with abnormal facial features who enters a mainstream school with other children in fifth grade. The movie stars Owen Wilson, Jacob Tremblay, and Julia Roberts, and was inspired by a real life-interaction.

#16. The Nightmare Before Christmas

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 259,529

Release year: 1993

Runtime: 76 minutes

A stop-motion film about Halloween characters trying Christmas on for size? Pair that premise with the imaginative, spooky mind of Tim Burton and it’s no wonder that “The Nightmare Before Christmas” continues to delight audiences 25 years later.

#15. Incredibles 2

IMDb rating: 8

IMDb votes: 123,773

Release year: 2018

Runtime: 118 minutes

“Incredibles 2” reunites audiences with the Parr family, as Mr. Incredible cares for the kids while Elastigirl is called to superhero duty. The 2018 release managed a feat that few sequels often do: Some critics actually felt the film was actually better than the original.

#14. Hachi: A Dog's Tale

IMDb rating: 8.1

IMDb votes: 212,460

Release year: 2009

Runtime: 93 minutes

“Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” stars Richard Gere as a professor who bonds with an abandoned dog. The film earned mixed reviews, with the film’s sentimentality dividing critics. In the film’s defense, Entertainment Weekly noted that “even the manliest moviegoer likes to have a good cry from time to time.”

#13. Finding Nemo

IMDb rating: 8.1

IMDb votes: 833,970

Release year: 2003

Runtime: 100 minutes

"Finding Nemo" takes audiences deep into the Great Barrier Reef in what the Hollywood Reporter called Pixar’s “most realistic and ambitious set yet.” The story follows clown fish Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) and blue tang Dory (voiced by Ellen Degeneres) as they search the ocean for Marlin’s son Nemo.

#12. How to Train Your Dragon

IMDb rating: 8.1

IMDb votes: 583,240

Release year: 2010

Runtime: 98 minutes

In “How to Train Your Dragon,” a young Viking named Hiccup befriends an injured dragon. The film went on to inspire two sequels, with one planned for release in 2019.

#11. Monsters, Inc.

IMDb rating: 8.1

IMDb votes: 708,703

Release year: 2001

Runtime: 92 minutes

A city of monsters who scare children to capture their screams hardly sounds family-friendly. But when the main characters are John Goodman’s Sully and Billy Crystal’s Mike, the movie feels just as warm and fuzzy as the monsters themselves. The film won a Best Original Song Oscar for Randy Newman’s “If I Didn’t Have You.”

#10. The Princess Bride

IMDb rating: 8.1

IMDb votes: 345,813

Release year: 1987

Runtime: 98 minutes

A film with adventure, romance, suspense, laughs, and some of the most quotable dialogue to ever grace the screen? As you wish. While the film grossed just over $200,000, loyal audiences transformed the humble film into a cult favorite to prove once and for all that true love conquers all.

#9. Inside Out

IMDb rating: 8.2

IMDb votes: 504,436

Release year: 2015

Runtime: 95 minutes

The makers of “Inside Out” consulted with psychologists to accurately portray how a young mind works. In the film, a girl moves away from her childhood home, and her emotions—Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness—play the lead characters. Bolstered by the voice-acting talents of Amy Poehler, Mindy Kaling, Bill Hader, Rashida Jones, and others, the film won best Animated Feature in 2016.

#8. Toy Story 3

IMDb rating: 8.3

IMDb votes: 653,894

Release year: 2010

Runtime: 103 minutes

Though it comes with a G-rating, the third film in the “Toy Story” franchise tackles some complicated themes. Ultimately, the film earned its place on this list just behind the original, and explores what happens to Buzz, Woody, and the gang when Andy leaves for college.

#7. Toy Story

IMDb rating: 8.3

IMDb votes: 757,080

Release year: 1995

Runtime: 81 minutes

At just 81 minutes, “Toy Story” packs a punch that even a cowboy would be proud of. It was Pixar’s first feature film, and introduced the first feature-length computer animation to movie audiences. Pixar used this distinct style to tell the story of toys coming to life, and, in the words of Tim Allen’s Buzz Lightyear, “going to infinity and beyond” in pursuit of their owner’s fun time.

#6. Up

IMDb rating: 8.3

IMDb votes: 809,062

Release year: 2009

Runtime: 96 minutes

The ability of “Up” to evoke emotional responses in its viewers is perhaps what resonates the most about this extremely popular, beautifully animated Pixar film about retired widower Carl (voiced by Ed Asner) and his adventure to reclaim happiness in the wake of tragedy.

#5. WALL-E

IMDb rating: 8.4

IMDb votes: 869,541

Release year: 2008

Runtime: 98 minutes

“Wall-E” follows the story of a robot tasked with cleaning up a polluted Earth, only to become distracted by an intriguing new friend. Beyond its simple premise, the film made an intergalactic splash for its portrayal of human evolution. The environmentalist themes of "Wall-E" additionally sparked a number of cultural conversations.

#4. Coco

IMDb rating: 8.4

IMDb votes: 231,181

Release year: 2017

Runtime: 105 minutes

“Coco” strikes two chords audiences reliably love: visual appeal and catchy music. The film follows the journey of a young boy who dreams of being a musician but is discouraged by his family, owing to a troubling secret from their past.

#3. Modern Times

IMDb rating: 8.5

IMDb votes: 180,662

Release year: 1936

Runtime: 87 minutes

When Charlie Chaplin’s 1936 film was re-released in 1972, critic Roger Ebert said “the passage of time has not diminished the man’s special genius.” Featuring Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character, it’s the only film from this early comedic legend to make this list.

#2. The Lion King

IMDb rating: 8.5

IMDb votes: 793,002

Release year: 1994

Runtime: 88 minutes

“The Lion King” tells the story of a lion prince named Simba who is destined to rule over the savannah. The movie features voice acting from James Earl Jones, Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, and Whoopi Goldberg. The film's timeless themes and worldwide success also inspired a very popular, award-winning Broadway musical.

#1. It's a Wonderful Life

IMDb rating: 8.6

IMDb votes: 337,953

Release year: 1946

Runtime: 130 minutes

“It’s A Wonderful Life” is a seasonal film that has delighted audiences for the better part of a century with themes that extend well past the holidays. With the help of an angel, George Bailey sees what his life would have been like if he’d never been born.

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