20 Best Family Movies on Netflix 2026
Find family-friendly Netflix picks with animation, adventure, comedy, drama, and musical choices, from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse to Wicked: For Good.
If you’re searching for the best family movies on Netflix, this roundup gives you a mix of animated adventures, musical stories, comedies, and a few heartfelt dramas. You’ll find crowd-pleasers like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, and The Prince of Egypt alongside newer picks such as How to Train Your Dragon, Wicked: For Good, and Transformers One. There’s also lighter fare like Minions and Ice Age: The Meltdown, plus more thoughtful options like Soul Surfer. Whether you want something funny, фантаasy-driven, or a little more emotional, this list makes it easy to match a movie to the mood.
-
01
The Breadwinner
comedy · family
After his wife Katie lands a once-in-a-lifetime deal on Shark Tank that takes her on a prolonged business trip - lifelong breadwinner Nate Wilcox now has to fend for his family as a first-time stay-at-home dad.
Why watch: If you enjoy family comedies with a parent-in-a-pinch setup, this one may fit the mood. Its blend of comedy and family makes it a simple choice when you want something light and domestic.
Directed by Eric AppelCast Nate Bargatze, Mandy Moore, Colin Jost, Zach Cherry, Martin HerlihyNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
02
Wicked: For Good
2 BAFTA Film Award nominations
drama · family · fantasy · musical · romance
Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West and her relationship with Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. The second of a two-part feature film adaptation of the Broadway musical.
Why watch: If you like musical fantasy stories with drama and romance mixed in, this is an easy pick. It should appeal most to viewers who want a more dramatic, music-driven family movie.
Directed by Jon M. ChuCast Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan BaileyNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
03
How to Train Your Dragon
1 BAFTA Film Award nomination
action · adventure · comedy · drama · family · fantasy
On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup stands apart, defying centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.
Why watch: If your group likes action, adventure, and fantasy with plenty of comedy, this is a strong option. It also works well for viewers who want a family story built around an unlikely friendship.
Directed by Dean DeBloisCast Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Nick Frost, Gabriel HowellNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
04
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Won 1 Oscar Best Animated Feature (2019)
animation · action · adventure · family · fantasy · sci-fi
Struggling to find his place in the world while juggling school and family, Brooklyn teenager Miles Morales is unexpectedly bitten by a radioactive spider and develops unfathomable powers just like the one and only Spider-Man. While wrestling with the implications of his new abilities, Miles discovers a super collider created by the madman Wilson "Kingpin" Fisk, causing others from across the Spider-Verse to be inadvertently transported to his dimension.
Why watch: If you want an animated superhero story with action and a family focus, this is one of the standout choices here. Its sci-fi and fantasy elements make it a good fit for older kids and adults alike.
Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney RothmanCast Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Brian Tyree HenryNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
05
GOAT
animation · action · adventure · comedy · family · sport
A small goat with big dreams gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball, a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world.
Why watch: If your family likes animated sports stories with comedy and adventure, this one may be a fun pick. The underdog premise makes it a good match for viewers who enjoy a big-dreams story.
Directed by Tyree Dillihay, Adam RosetteCast Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Stephen Curry, Aaron Pierre, Nicola CoughlanNetflixMore details on IMDb →
Not quite it? Ask WattaWatch for family on Netflix →
-
06
Transformers One
animation · action · adventure · family · fantasy · sci-fi
The untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever.
Why watch: If you’re in the mood for animation with action, adventure, and sci-fi, this is a solid choice. It may especially appeal to viewers interested in origin stories and rivalries.
Directed by Josh CooleyCast Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve BuscemiNetflixAmazon Prime VideoParamount PlusMore details on IMDb → -
07
Ice Age: Collision Course
animation · adventure · comedy · family · sci-fi
Set after the events of Continental Drift, Scrat's epic pursuit of his elusive acorn catapults him outside of Earth, where he accidentally sets off a series of cosmic events that transform and threaten the planet. To save themselves from peril, Manny, Sid, Diego, and the rest of the herd leave their home and embark on a quest full of thrills and spills, highs and lows, laughter and adventure while traveling to exotic new lands and locations.
Why watch: If you want a broad animated adventure with plenty of comedy, this one fits the bill. The family and sci-fi mix also makes it a good pick for viewers who like big, noisy stakes.
Directed by Michael Thurmeier, Galen T. ChuCast Stephanie Beatriz, Robert Cardone, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Adam Devine, Jesse Tyler FergusonNetflixHuluDisney PlusMore details on IMDb → -
08
Ice Age: Continental Drift
animation · adventure · comedy · family
Manny, Diego, and Sid embark upon another adventure after their continent is set adrift. Using an iceberg as a ship, they encounter sea creatures and battle pirates as they explore a new world.
Why watch: If your family likes playful adventure comedies, this is an easy one to queue up. It’s a good match for viewers who want a straightforward animated escape with a new-world setting.
Directed by Steve Martino, Michael ThurmeierCast Aziz Ansari, Joy Behar, Christopher Campbell, Alain Chabat, Ester DeanNetflixDisney PlusMore details on IMDb → -
09
Ice Age: The Meltdown
animation · adventure · comedy · family
Diego, Manny and Sid return in this sequel to the hit animated movie Ice Age. This time around, the deep freeze is over, and the ice-covered earth is starting to melt, which will destroy the trio's cherished valley. The impending disaster prompts them to reunite and warn all the other beasts about the desperate situation.
Why watch: If you prefer animation with a classic adventure-comedy feel, this is a dependable pick. It works well for families who want a familiar cast and a simple, high-stakes quest.
Directed by Carlos SaldanhaCast Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary, Seann William Scott, Josh PeckNetflixHuluMore details on IMDb → -
10
The Flintstones
comedy · family · fantasy
Modern Stone Age family the Flintstones hit the big screen in this live-action version of the classic cartoon. Fred helps Barney adopt a child. Barney sees an opportunity to repay him when Slate Mining tests its employees to find a new executive. But no good deed goes unpunished.
Why watch: If you enjoy family comedies with a fantasy angle, this live-action option may suit you. It’s best for viewers who like a classic cartoon property with a light, nostalgic feel.
Directed by Brian LevantCast John Goodman, Elizabeth Perkins, Rick Moranis, Rosie O'Donnell, Kyle MacLachlanNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
11
Antz
1 BAFTA Film Award nomination
animation · adventure · comedy · family
A neurotic worker ant in love with a rebellious princess rises to unlikely stardom when he switches places with a soldier. Signing up to march in a parade, he ends up under the command of a bloodthirsty general. But he's actually been enlisted to fight against a termite army.
Why watch: If your family likes animated comedies with a quirky setup, this one is worth considering. Its adventure and family elements make it a fit for viewers who want something offbeat but accessible.
Directed by Eric Darnell, Tim JohnsonCast Woody Allen, Dan Aykroyd, Anne Bancroft, Jane Curtin, Danny GloverNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
12
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
animation · adventure · comedy · family
Times are changing for Manny the moody mammoth, Sid the motor mouthed sloth and Diego the crafty saber-toothed tiger. Life heats up for our heroes when they meet some new and none-too-friendly neighbors – the mighty dinosaurs.
Why watch: If you want an animated adventure comedy with dinosaurs in the mix, this is a fun option. It may appeal to families who like fast-moving stories with a broad sense of humor.
Directed by Carlos Saldanha, Michael ThurmeierCast Eunice Cho, Karen Disher, Harrison Fahn, Maile Flanagan, Jason FricchioneNetflixHuluMore details on IMDb → -
13
Horton Hears a Who!
action & adventure · animation · comedy · drama · fantasy · kids & family · music & musical
An imaginative elephant named Horton hears a faint cry for help coming from a tiny speck of dust floating through the air. Horton suspects there may be life on that speck and despite a surrounding community, who thinks he has lost his mind, he is determined to save the tiny particle.
Why watch: If you enjoy animated fantasy with comedy and a strong family focus, this is a good pick. Its mix of action, drama, and music also gives it a little extra range for mixed-age groups.
Directed by Jimmy Hayward, Steve MartinoCast Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Carol Burnett, Will Arnett, Seth RogenNetflixMaxMore details on IMDb → -
14
Soul Surfer
drama · kids & family · sport
The true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith.
Why watch: If you’re looking for a family drama with a sports angle, this is a strong choice. It may resonate most with viewers who prefer an inspiring real-life story over pure fantasy or comedy.
Directed by Sean McNamaraCast AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood, Kevin SorboNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
15
Ice Age
1 Oscar nomination
animation · adventure · comedy · family
Heading south to avoid a bad case of global frostbite, a group of migrating misfit creatures embark on a hilarious quest to reunite a human baby with his tribe.
Why watch: If you like animated adventure comedies with a warm family premise, this is a classic-style choice. It’s a good fit for viewers who want a light, character-driven journey.
Directed by Chris Wedge, Carlos SaldanhaCast Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary, Goran Visnjic, Jack BlackNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
16
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
1 Oscar nomination Best Animated Feature (2023)
animation · action · adventure · comedy · family · fantasy
Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for adventure has taken its toll: He has burned through eight of his nine lives, leaving him with only one life left. Puss sets out on an epic journey to find the mythical Last Wish and restore his nine lives.
Why watch: If your group likes fantasy adventure with plenty of comedy, this is one of the stronger animated picks. It should especially work for viewers who enjoy a quest story with a memorable central character.
Directed by Joel Crawford, Januel MercadoCast Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Harvey Guillén, Florence Pugh, Olivia ColmanNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
17
The Prince of Egypt
Won 1 Oscar 2 nominations
animation · adventure · drama · family · fantasy · musical
The strong bond between two Royal Egyptian brothers is challenged when their chosen responsibilities set them at odds, with extraordinary consequences.
Why watch: If you want animation that blends adventure, drama, fantasy, and music, this one stands out. It’s a thoughtful choice for families who are open to something a little more serious than a standard comedy.
Directed by Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner, Simon WellsCast Val Kilmer, Ralph Fiennes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sandra Bullock, Jeff GoldblumNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
18
Minions
1 BAFTA Film Award nomination
animation · adventure · comedy · crime · family · sci-fi
Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlet Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world.
Why watch: If your family enjoys broad animated comedies with a mischievous edge, this is a simple pick. Its adventure and sci-fi tags also make it a good fit for viewers who want something energetic.
Directed by Kyle Balda, Pierre CoffinCast Sandra Bullock, Jon Hamm, Michael Keaton, Allison Janney, Steve CooganNetflixPeacock PremiumMore details on IMDb → -
19
The Karate Kid Part II
1 Oscar nomination
action · family · sport
Summoned by his dying father, Miyagi returns to his homeland of Okinawa, with Daniel, after a 40-year exile. There he must confront Yukie, the love of his youth, and Sato, his former best friend turned vengeful rival. Sato is bent on a fight to the death, even if it means the destruction of their village. Daniel finds his own love in Yukia's niece, Kumiko, and his own enemy in Sato's nephew, the vicious Chozen. Now, far away from the tournaments, cheering crowds and safety of home, Daniel will face his greatest challenge ever when the cost of honor is life itself.
Why watch: If you like family sports stories with action at their core, this is a good option. It may appeal to viewers who want an older live-action choice with a more dramatic bent.
Directed by John G. AvildsenCast Pat Morita, Ralph Macchio, Pat E. Johnson, Bruce Malmuth, Eddie SmithNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
20
Barbie in the Nutcracker
animation · family · musical · romance
The Mouse King casts an evil spell over Clara that causes her to shrink. Clara and the Nutcracker set out on an adventurous journey to find Sugarplum Princess, who has the power to undo the spell.
Why watch: If your family enjoys animated stories with music, romance, and a fairy-tale feel, this is a fitting choice. It’s especially good for viewers who want a gentler holiday-style pick with fantasy elements.
Directed by Owen HurleyCast Kelly Sheridan, Kirby Morrow, Tim Curry, Peter Kelamis, Christopher GazeNetflixAmazon Prime VideoMore details on IMDb →
Wrapping Up
From big animation favorites to family-friendly dramas and musicals, this list is built to help you find the right pick for movie night. You can use it to choose something energetic, something funny, or something with a bit more heart depending on who’s watching. Bookmark this page and come back when you need a fresh idea for the family queue. It’s updated regularly so the selection stays useful as the lineup changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good family friendly show on Netflix?
For something lighter, try The Breadwinner (2026), Wicked: For Good (2025), How to Train Your Dragon (2025), Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018), GOAT (2026), Transformers One (2024), Ice Age: Collision Course (2016), Ice Age: Continental Drift (2012), Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006) and The Flintstones (1994), all streaming on Netflix. There are 10 more picks in the full list above.
How often is this list updated?
We refresh this list regularly as titles are added or removed from streaming catalogs, so rankings and availability stay current.
Do I need a Netflix subscription to watch these?
Yes. Every title on this list is currently available on Netflix. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.
How are these family movies ranked?
We rank by a combination of audience rating and current popularity, so you're seeing the family titles people are actually watching right now, not just an old fixed list.