Searching for the best family movie moments of 2025? Common Sense Media has you covered. From animated tales such as “In Your Dreams” and “Elio” to superhero hits “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” and “Superman,” plus engrossing documentaries for older kids, there’s something for everyone. All of these movies earned the Common Sense Selection seal for their ability to entertain families and spark meaningful conversations.
Dog Man, age 6+
This adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s popular graphic novels combines goofy humor with a story that, while simple, is funny and surprisingly sweet.
Elio, age 6+
Crowd-pleasing and emotionally resonant, this colorful Pixar adventure explores loneliness, loss and identity.
Paddington in Peru, age 6+
The third film in the Paddington franchise retains much of the charm of the first two, making it another delightful adventure for all ages.
The Bad Guys 2, age 6+
Funny and action-packed, this animated sequel delivers strong messages about teamwork, redemption and doing the right thing.
Hola Frida, age 8+
This beautifully animated, emotionally resonant look at Frida Kahlo’s childhood is a lovely tribute to the life of a brilliant painter.
In Your Dreams, age 8+
Charming characters, imaginative scenarios and positive lessons make this animated romp an engaging watch. Kids learn that life isn’t perfect, and sometimes messy is better.
The Colors Within, age 8+
This heartfelt, impactful teen drama from Japanese animator Naoko Yamada and screenwriter Reiko Yoshida delivers a fresh take on adolescence.
Zootopia 2, age 8+
Packed with humor, action and heart, this charming sequel celebrates the importance of partnership and perseverance.
How to Train Your Dragon, age 9+
With themes of integrity, compassion, ingenuity, courage and teamwork, this film isn’t so much a remake as a relaunch that honors the original animated movie while giving new riders a chance to soar.
Rule Breakers, age 10+
This inspiring, fact-based, STEM-centric drama shows how determination and support can help young women break through barriers and reshape their destinies.
Lost in Starlight, age 10+
A fetching animated love story from South Korea, this layered, colorful adventure is a delight with positive messages about perseverance and love.
Ocean With David Attenborough, age 10+
Aiming to inspire meaningful conversation and action, this documentary showcases marine beauty while revealing how humans are harming delicate ecosystems.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps, age 11+
Marvel’s first family of superheroes is (finally) served well by this charmingly retro adventure that centers on parental love, teamwork and optimism.
Superman, age 12+
Writer-director James Gunn brings his signature style to reboot DC’s iconic superhero as a more charming, optimistic and earnest Man of Steel.
The Ballad of Wallis Island, age 12+
This British dramedy explores the role music and human connection can play in processing grief, moving forward without forgetting the past, and finding closure.
Superboys of Malegaon, age 13+
Based on real events, this heartwarming Indian dramedy delivers positive messages about resilience, pursuing creative passions, living life to the fullest and, above all, friendship.
Rental Family, age 13+
Gentle and moving, this dramedy is all about human connection, empathy and the complicated idea that a lie can be an act of love.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, age 13+
Fun, funny and phenomenal, the third film in the Benoit Blanc series examines the flawed nature of humanity, with the overall message that, for a community to thrive, its members need to give one another more grace and less judgment.
Griffin in Summer, age 14+
This coming-of-age comedy hilariously showcases the awkwardness of teenage first love — especially when that first love is someone older.
Tatami, age 14+
This tense thriller shows how sports can intersect with politics and teach lessons of bravery and perseverance, even in situations that may feel insurmountable.
The Life of Chuck, age 14+
This perfectly told story quietly tugs at your heartstrings, making you want to cry until you realize there’s no need.
The Wedding Banquet, age 15+
With its standout performances and emotionally resonant screenplay, this remake is a heartfelt and winning crowd-pleaser.
Grand Theft Hamlet, age 15+
Funny, touching and full of messages about teamwork, perseverance and connection, this documentary is both surprising and moving.
Common Sense Media helps families make smart media choices. Go to commonsense.org for age-based and educational ratings and reviews for movies, games, apps, TV shows, websites and books.
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