There will inevitably be a few rainy, summer afternoons this year, and what better way to spend the time than watching some great family-friendly movies? You can hit up your local theatre for a new summer release or rent an old favourite to entertain the kids! Here are 11 flicks — some new, some time-honoured classics — to watch with the whole family.
Monsters University (2013) – Hitting theatres this June, the much anticipated prequel to the family favourite, Monsters, Inc. (2001) is sure to be a summer blockbuster. Catch up with your favourite characters and the eye-catching animation. The positive reviews are pouring in and this is quickly becoming a must-see this summer! (Opens Friday, June 21)
Ratatouille (2007) – A favourite of the Cityline staff, Ratatouille tells the story of Remy, an ambitious rat who dreams of becoming a chef in a Parisian restaurant. This story has many lessons as well as laughs and is perfect for the whole family!
Spy Kids (2001) – Stepping away from animation, Spy Kids is an exciting action-adventure flick for older kids. When their secret-agent parents go missing, Carmen and Juni are called to duty to rescue them. This makes a great sleepover movie and kids will go crazy over the cool spy gadgets!
Despicable Me 2 (2013) – Despicable Me 2 is back for more Minion madness! The sequel to the much loved Despicable Me (2010) is hitting theatres this July. (Opens Wednesday, July 3)
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) – Perfect for animal lovers, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey tells the story of three pets as they try to find their way to their owners. Full of laughs and equally intense moments, kids in the 5-8 year age bracket will fall in love with the characters and the story about perseverance.
The Goonies (1985) – Following a group of misfit kids as they try to find hidden treasure to save their neighbourhood, The Goonies has been a family favourite for almost 30 years. With classic themes, a great cast and lots of laughs, you’ll be watching this movie over and over again.
The Lion King (1994) – The Lion King is one of the most popular animated Disney musicals ever made, and for good reason. With a poignant, coming-of-age story and catchy tunes, this film has stood the test of time and is a must-see for all kids.
Finding Nemo (2003) – Pixar created another hit with the underwater tale, Finding Nemo. It tells the heroic journey of a clownfish father and son duo. When Merlin’s son, Nemo goes missing, Merlin heads on a journey to find him and bring him home. With the just-announced sequel, Finding Dory, slated to hit theatres in 2015, Finding Nemo is a must-see for all families.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) – The wonderful children’s story written by J.K. Rowling is brought to life in the first of seven Harry Potter films. Why not read along with your child and watch the movie together for an even more enriching family experience.
Up (2009) – Up is one of those films that is a universal favourite; parents and kids alike will enjoy this film. With a touching story of friendship, this film will make you laugh and cry.
The Princess Bride (1987) – A classic story loaded with everything you’d ever want in fairy tale: a princess, villains, a Prince Charming, giants and tons of laughs, this is another favourite of the Cityline staff!
Do you love these movies? What are your favourite family-friendly flicks to watch on a grey afternoon? Enter your picks in the comments below!
Image: Scene from Monsters University, Copyright Pixar/Disney, 2012