Top 10 movies both parents and kids will love

Many parents need to sit through hours of movies with their children. Annoying tunes, foolish jokes and dull storylines can get aggravating in some kids’ films. After seeing that same movie for the tenth time, the aggravating parts are even more difficult to endure.

However, watching films is a major part of most children’s lives. According to the National PTA, over 50 percent of children 6 and under have 20 or more movies. New York Daily News found that youths spend an average of 24 hours a week watching television. Thus, it is important that parents find entertainment that they enjoy as much as their kids do.

From classic musicals like Mary Poppins to modern hits like Despicable Me, there are many movies that parents enjoy with their kids. Dynamic characters, clever jokes, twisting storylines and inspiring messages can be found in children’s films if one finds the right movies. This list is just a few of the best flicks for the whole family.

[ new page = The Emperor’s New Groove ]

10. The Emperor’s New Groove

Laughter and comedy helps people to bond. Thus, a movie that both children and their parents find humorous is usually a winner. The Emperor’s New Groove has witty lines and silly gags that all ages will enjoy. Emperor Kuzco must reclaim his throne and human form after his evil advisor turns him into a llama. From talking in squirrel language to spoofs on spy films, this Disney movie has a light-hearted tone as well as a good message regarding selfishness and friendship.

[ new page = Chitty Chitty Bang Bang]

9. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

People have imagined flying cars in the future for years. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang makes that a reality in the story about an inventor, his two children, a beautiful lady they befriend and a car that saves them all. Parents will remember growing up with these songs and the hilarious antics of Dick Van Dyke. Although the film was released in 1968, children today still appreciate the dancing, fantasy and cute romance.

[ new page = Howl’s Moving Castle ]
8. Howl’s Moving Castle

Many children’s films emphasize physical beauty. This film by the renowned Hayao Miyazaki goes against that trend. A timid girl works for the mysterious, dreaded Wizard Howl after she is turned into an old woman. Similar to Beauty and the Beast, the storyline has depth as well as creativity. The gorgeous animation and thought-provoking plot will enchant adults while their kids will like the sillier characters and magical elements.

[ new page = How to Train Your Dragon ]
7. How to Train Your Dragon

Who would have thought that dragons could be cute? This film makes these fearsome creatures into loveable pets that are simply misunderstood. Hiccup, a young Viking, learns this after he begins to care for an injured dragon that happens to be one of the most dangerous breeds. Action as well as joking fills How to Train Your Dragon which will keep the audience interested. A difficult father-son relationship might also be relatable for families as both characters learn to express their love for each other.

[ new page = Enchanted ]
6. Enchanted

Many parents watch Disney princess films repeatedly. In some sense, Enchanted fits into that movie category. However, the plot twists drastically after the first few minutes; the heroine, Giselle, falls into modern New York City. Thus, she must learn how to function in the real world and discover what true love means. Cute songs, romantic moments and animated scenes are in this film but in a way that pokes fun at Disney princess films in general. Parents will appreciate a different message as well as laughing with their children at the talking chipmunk and over-the-top prince.

[ new page = The Lion King ]
5. The Lion King

This Disney classic has been beloved since its release in 1994. Catchy songs such as “Hakuna Matata” and dramatic, loveable characters like the stuffy Zazu make The Lion King a fun film. However, many viewers tear up when Simba watches his father die. The tale of the young lion’s ascent to his rightful throne is a mixture of silly, frightening, inspiring and very entertaining. All ages still enjoy watching this movie.

[ new page = Up ]
4. Up

Pixar has some of the best films for both children and adults. Up, which chronicles the adventure of elderly Carl as he tries to fulfill a promise to his deceased wife, is no exception to this. The first few minutes are a heart-wrenching but beautiful portrayal of life and death. However, the whole movie is not depressing. Talking dogs, a sweet boy scout Russell and lots of action bring in humor and excitement as well. Some of the story might go over the heads of children, but parents will be touched by it.

[ new page = The Muppets ]
3. The Muppets

Over the years, the muppet puppets have starred in many films. One of the most recent is The Muppets. After breaking apart, the gang is convinced to perform together again by a new Muppet who loved their show. All of the best elements of the older movies are blended into this one: music, wittiness, goofy voices, celebrity appearances and, of course, the famous characters such as Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog. Even children who have not seen the Muppets before will enjoy the slapstick humor and clever story. Adults, meanwhile, might remember the past shows and enjoy the similarities.

[ new page = Hoodwinked ]
2. Hoodwinked

Everyone knows the story of Little Red Riding Hood, or so they think. Hoodwinked provides a clever version of the fairy tale that takes many twists and turns. Secrets are discovered about every character as each person’s story is told. A hyper squirrel, karate-chopping girl and other fun elements will amuse children while parents will be captivated by attempting to solve the mystery. By the end, people might want to watch the movie again to catch all of the clues along the way.

[ new page = Finding Nemo ]
1. Finding Nemo

Films about parent-child relationships are fairly popular, but few are as poignant and enjoyable as Finding Nemo. When an overprotective clown fish loses his only son, he swims the ocean to come to the rescue. Other fun characters enter the tale such as forgetful Dori, surfer turtles and amusing aquarium fish. The theme of forgiveness and family bonds is powerful for children and parents alike. Plus, realistic animation makes the viewer feel like they are in the sea.