We Ranked 10 New Kids Movies That You Can Watch With Your Little Ones
While some might think that animated movies are only for the little ones, this is not always true. Talented producers and their crews keep coming up with amazing things that both kids and their parents can enjoy, and learn something new from it! That’s why, we have created a list of new kids movies that even adults will love to see. Make sure to save it!
1. Smallfoot
Smallfoot will proudly open our list of new kids movies! Nestled amidst the towering snowy peaks resides a community of yetis, leading a secluded existence governed by strict rules etched into stone tablets. At the helm of their society stands Stonekeeper, voiced by Common, ensuring unwavering adherence to tradition. However, the tranquil routine is disrupted when Migo, an inquisitive yeti portrayed by Channing Tatum, ventures beyond the boundaries and encounters an unexpected sight—a human, affectionately dubbed Smallfoot by the bewildered yetis. This chance encounter challenges the authority of Stonekeeper and sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
Zendaya lends her voice to Meechee, Stonekeeper’s spirited daughter, who dares to question her father’s doctrines. Alongside her are Gwangi, voiced by LeBron James, and Kolka, portrayed by Gina Rodriguez, forming the Smallfoot Evidentiary Society (S.E.S.). Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the mysterious Smallfoot, defying societal norms and confronting long-held beliefs.
The film unfolds as a vibrant animated musical, weaving together the tales of yetis and humans in a harmonious blend of laughter and introspection. Beyond mere entertainment, it serves as a catalyst for critical thinking and individual exploration. Directed by Karey Kirkpatrick and Jason Reisig, the movie maintains a family-friendly tone with a PG rating, offering a heartwarming tale of courage, friendship, and the pursuit of truth.
Unlike the daringly irreverent humor of Bad Santa, attributed to the creative minds of Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, who contributed to the story, Smallfoot strikes a delicate balance, appealing to audiences of all ages with its universal themes and enchanting storytelling. Through its colorful characters and captivating narrative, the film invites viewers to embrace curiosity, challenge conventions, and embark on their own journey of discovery.
2. Wonka
Wonka, directed by Paul King of Paddington fame, unfolds as a prelude to the beloved tale of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory penned by Roald Dahl. While previous adaptations of Dahl’s classic include Johnny Depp’s eccentric portrayal and Gene Wilder’s iconic performance, King’s rendition stands as a unique interpretation, paying homage to its predecessors while carving its own path.
In this whimsical adventure, Timothée Chalamet breathes life into the character of young Willy Wonka. As the story begins, Wonka concludes a lengthy voyage, arriving in a bustling metropolis reminiscent of London, Paris, and Austria. Here, amidst the hustle and bustle, lies a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, offering the finest cocoa delights. Inspired by his mother’s wisdom and encouragement, Wonka harbors dreams of establishing his own confectionery empire, fueled by unique ingredients and innovative creations.
However, Wonka’s journey to success is fraught with obstacles. Three formidable chocolatiers conspire to thwart his endeavors, while a cunning duo, Mrs. Scrubitt and Bleacher, ensnare him in a laundry scheme, forcing him to toil until his debt is repaid.
Fortune smiles upon Wonka when he crosses paths with Noodle, a resourceful orphan whose intellect proves invaluable. Noodle takes it upon herself to teach Wonka the art of reading, recognizing that despite his myriad talents, literacy eludes him.
Together, Wonka and Noodle navigate a world brimming with challenges, forging an unlikely alliance bound by friendship and resilience. As they confront adversity head-on, they discover that true strength lies not only in talent but also in the bonds of camaraderie and perseverance.
3. Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget
Chicken Run: Dawn Of The Nugget is a much-anticipated sequel, set to premiere on Netflix during the festive season of 2023. Fans of the original Chicken Run, crafted by the skilled artisans at Aardman Studios, have been eagerly awaiting this stop-motion animation spectacle for 23 years.
Returning to helm the sequel is the talented BAFTA-winning director, Sam Fell. Dawn Of The Nugget picks up where the first movie left off, with Ginger and her feathered comrades having successfully fled the clutches of Tweedy’s farm. Finding solace on an idyllic island sanctuary, they bask in the freedom they’ve earned. However, their newfound peace is short-lived as a looming threat emerges, casting a shadow over their sanctuary.
The narrative unfolds a year or two after their daring escape, with Ginger cherishing the semblance of normalcy she has found on the tranquil island. Alongside Rocky, she nurtures their daughter, Molly, believing that they have finally eluded the dangers of human captivity. Yet, their idyllic existence is shattered when a new danger rears its head, jeopardizing everything they hold dear.
To safeguard their newfound freedom, Ginger and her companions must confront their past once more by infiltrating Tweedy’s farm. Standing in their way is none other than Melisha Tweedy, the nefarious Mrs. Tweedy, who returns with renewed vigor to thwart Ginger’s plans. With her villainous machinations and cunning schemes, Mrs. Tweedy poses a formidable challenge to Ginger and her flock’s quest for liberation.
As tensions escalate and loyalties are tested, Ginger and her allies must summon every ounce of courage and resourcefulness to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and their dream of true freedom.
4. Wish
Wish is another adorable creation in our list of new kids movies! Directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, introduces us to Asha, a 17-year-old girl residing in the Kingdom of Rosas. Portrayed by Ariana DeBose, Asha stumbles upon a troubling secret about Magnifico, the ruler of her realm, played by Chris Pine. Seeking aid, she gazes skyward, where she encounters a mischievous fallen star.
According to producer Peter Del Vecho, DeBose perfectly embodies Asha’s character, infusing her with relatable quirks and a multifaceted personality. Del Vecho emphasized Asha’s intelligence, wit, and willingness to confront injustice, highlighting the integral role of her selfless wish in the narrative. Asha’s desire to restore wishes held unjustly by Magnifico drives her determination to right the wrongs.
Regarding Pine’s portrayal of Magnifico, Del Vecho revealed the challenge of crafting a character who appears trustworthy and charismatic while harboring villainous traits. Magnifico’s facade of benevolence unravels when faced with opposition, revealing his true nature. Del Vecho and co-producer Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones navigated the complexities of Magnifico’s character, ensuring his portrayal aligns with the story’s demands.
As the tale unfolds, audiences are invited to embark on a journey alongside Asha and her companions, navigating themes of courage, deception, and the pursuit of justice. With Asha’s resilience and determination leading the charge, Wish promises a captivating adventure that resonates with audiences of all ages.
5. Spy Kids: Armageddon
Spy Kids: Armageddon brings us into the world of the Tango-Torrez family, a unique bunch unlike any other. Tony and Patty, the kids, make a surprising discovery: their parents are actually secret agents! This revelation occurs when they unintentionally aid a Game Developer in unleashing video game villains into reality. Now, the responsibility falls on these two young heroes to restore order, thrusting them into the realm of espionage.
In contrast to the original movies, Spy Kids: Armageddon stands as its own story. It’s a reboot, presenting a fresh interpretation of the cherished franchise. What’s intriguing is that the director, writer, and producer of this new chapter are the same individuals behind the first four films. While the plot may not directly intersect with the earlier movies, it maintains the same creative essence.
What lends a personal touch to this project is its emphasis on family. Director Robert Rodriguez had the chance to collaborate with his own children on the film. He teamed up with his son Racer to co-write the script, while his other son Rebel contributed to the music. This familial involvement not only enriches the movie but also mirrors the themes of solidarity and collaboration central to the Spy Kids series.
Furthermore, the movie explores the dynamic between parents and children, highlighting the bonds that unite them in times of adversity. As Tony and Patty embark on their spy mission, they learn valuable lessons about trust, resilience, and the importance of family. Through their journey, audiences are reminded of the power of familial love and support in overcoming challenges and saving the day.
6. The Inventor
The Inventor delves into the life of Leonardo da Vinci, showcasing his encounters with influential figures who urged him to conform to their wishes. Pope Leo X and Louise of Savoy, the mother of King Francis I of France, offer this advice, shaping Leonardo’s journey.
The film primarily focuses on Leonardo’s transition from Rome to serve as King Francis’s mentor, emphasizing his role as a thinker and inventor rather than his prowess as a painter. Daisy Ridley voices Marguerite de Navarre, Leonardo’s advocate, while Gauthier Battoue portrays the king. Utilizing stop-motion puppetry and hand-drawn animation, the filmmakers vividly capture Leonardo’s trials and triumphs. They emphasize his relentless pursuit of knowledge despite the challenges of working under powerful patrons.
While the movie celebrates Leonardo’s genius, its pacing may feel sluggish to some viewers. Although it imparts valuable lessons about power, innovation, and curiosity, the delivery of these teachings might lack the desired engagement for certain audiences.
Nevertheless, The Inventor serves as a tribute to Leonardo’s extraordinary mind and contributions to history, shedding light on both his remarkable achievements and the complexities he faced in his quest for knowledge and innovation. Through its portrayal of Leonardo’s journey, the film invites viewers to ponder the intersection of genius, ambition, and the pursuit of truth.
7. The Monkey King
This film is adapted from the timeless book Journey to the West, written during the Ming Dynasty in the 1600s. The book, credited to Wu Cheng’en, tells the fantastical tale of Xuanzang, a Buddhist monk from the seventh century who embarked on a journey to India in search of sacred scriptures.
Monkey, unlike the other monkeys nearby, emerges from a massive rock. His appearance and extraordinary powers set him apart from the rest. However, his recklessness in the face of danger leads to his expulsion by the elders and peers of his community. Years later, as a witty teenager, Monkey aspires to attain immortality by acquiring a powerful weapon from the perilous Dragon King and vanquishing numerous demons of various forms and sizes. Throughout his grand adventure, he encounters Lin, a modest peasant, who inspires him to strive for the best version of himself.
Expanding further, Monkey’s journey is fraught with challenges and discoveries. As he traverses treacherous landscapes and battles formidable foes, he grapples with his identity and purpose. Despite his exceptional abilities, Monkey faces doubts and insecurities along the way. Lin’s unwavering belief in him serves as a guiding light, reminding him of the importance of resilience and self-improvement.
Moreover, Monkey’s encounters with various characters, both friend and foe, shape his understanding of the world and himself. Each interaction provides valuable lessons and insights, contributing to his growth and development as a character. As Monkey confronts the trials and tribulations of his quest, he learns to harness his powers responsibly and embrace his uniqueness.
8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
The animation in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is unique because it combines hand-drawn and CG styles. In one scene analyzed by Corridor Crew, they noted the doodles around light bulbs or flames, giving the movie a feel of a teenager’s notebook. This sets it apart from other animated films, although similar techniques are seen in Sony’s Spider-Verse movies.
For fans of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise, which started in 1984, this animation style might evoke nostalgia. Many viewers may prefer the familiar look of Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo. Director Jeff Rowe mentioned that the animators had creative freedom while working on Mutant Mayhem, allowing for true creativity to shine through.
Expanding upon the creative process, it’s fascinating to delve into how the filmmakers achieved this unique animation style. By blending hand-drawn elements with CG animation, they were able to create a visually distinct experience for viewers. The incorporation of doodle-like details adds a touch of spontaneity and creativity to the film’s aesthetic, capturing the essence of a teenager’s imagination.
Furthermore, the nostalgic appeal of the animation style adds depth to the viewing experience, resonating with longtime fans of the franchise while also attracting new audiences. This blend of familiarity and innovation allows Mutant Mayhem to carve out its own identity in the realm of animated films.
9. Orion and the Dark
Orion appears like any regular elementary school kid: quiet, with a secret crush. Yet, under his calm demeanor, he’s consumed by irrational fears, including bees, dogs, the ocean, and even falling off a cliff. His biggest fear, however, is the dark, which he faces every night. Then, one day, his literal fear, Dark, pays him a visit, taking him on a wild adventure to show him there’s nothing to fear in the night. As they bond, Orion learns to confront his fears and embrace life’s joys.
In the teaser, we see Orion and his numerous fears before meeting Dark, who arrives dramatically and sweeps him away to meet other nighttime beings. Dark, aware of scared children like Orion, assures him that one night can change everything.
Expanding upon the storyline, as Orion and Dark journey together, they encounter various night entities, each representing different fears. Through these encounters, Orion learns valuable lessons about facing fears and embracing the unknown. Along the way, he discovers the importance of courage and resilience, gaining confidence in himself and his abilities.
The relationship between Orion and Dark evolves as they share experiences and confront challenges together. Dark serves as a mentor figure, guiding Orion through his fears and helping him overcome obstacles. As their bond strengthens, Orion gradually learns to let go of his anxieties and live life to the fullest.
The message of the story resonates with audiences of all ages, highlighting the power of courage and the rewards of facing fears head-on. By the end of their journey, Orion emerges as a more confident and empowered individual, ready to embrace the mysteries of life with open arms.
10. I can
Inspired by real events, I Can tells the tale of a couple who start a relationship outside their marriages, leading to an unplanned pregnancy. They decide to leave their spouses and start anew. However, their daughter, Katelyn, is born with a birth defect, with only one fully developed arm. Her father sees this as a punishment from God for their affair.
Despite her physical challenge, Katelyn discovers a remarkable talent for softball. Through sheer determination and hard work, she excels in the sport, defying all expectations. I Can follows Katelyn’s journey as she navigates life with resilience and courage.
As Katelyn grows, she faces various obstacles and prejudices due to her disability. However, her passion for softball and unwavering spirit helped her overcome these challenges. With the support of her family and friends, she proves that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.
Meanwhile, Katelyn’s father grapples with guilt and regret over his past actions. Witnessing Katelyn’s strength and resilience inspires him to seek redemption and forgiveness. Through Katelyn’s journey, he learns the true meaning of forgiveness and finds peace within himself.
I Can is a heartwarming tale of triumph over adversity and the power of forgiveness. It celebrates the human spirit’s ability to overcome obstacles and find strength in the face of adversity. Katelyn’s story serves as a reminder that no matter the circumstances, one can achieve greatness with determination and belief in oneself.
Which of these new kids movies would you like to see first? We enjoyed all of them, but Wonka and Orion and the Dark touched us the most! Would you like to check out more movies and cartoons to see? Make sure to open our previous article!