Disney+ is the go-to streaming platform for the best kids and family movies available. The streamer has family audiences covered between its classics from the “Disney Vault” and new original content. Still, that variety can feel overwhelming when it’s time to choose for movie night. Thankfully, this monthly guide combs through and highlights the best kids movies to watch on Disney+ right now.
For those looking for an even better value, the Disney Bundle gives audiences Disney+, Hulu’s ad-supported subscription, and ESPN+. It’s a convenient package considering how saturated the streaming space has become. With it, audiences will get all the Star Wars epics, Marvel superhero action, and sports coverage they could want.
We’ve also rounded up the best kids movies on Hulu, the best kids movies on Netflix, and the best kids movies on Amazon Prime Video if you don’t find what you’re looking for on Disney+.
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Wish2023 -
Cinderella2015
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We Bought a Zoo2011
Wish (2023) new
Co-directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn’s Wish is the latest animated theatrical feature to hit Disney+. This musical fantasy tells the story of 17-year-old Asha (Argylle‘s Ariana DeBose) who looks to the sky and desperately wishes to save her community from the ruler of the Kingdom of Rosas, Magnifico (Chris Pine).
The girl’s wish is so passionate, it’s answered by a charming ball of energy fittingly named Star. Wish isn’t a bold new story from Walt Disney Animation Studios, but it’s a warmly nostalgic movie that will captivate children. Thanks to its vivid colors, endearing cast, and spirited musical numbers, Wish is a perfectly safe Disney tale.
Cinderella (2015) new
The 2015 remake Cinderella was an admirable new take on this classic fairy tale. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, this version sees Lily James (The Iron Claw) play the young Ella as she suddenly finds herself subjected to the cruelty of her spiteful stepmother (Cate Blanchett).
While she laments her unforgiving new life and grapples with her father’s passing, Ella’s life takes a new direction after meeting Prince Kit (Richard Madden). Cinderella has received several adaptations over the years, but this remake captures the uplifting spirit of the animated movie. The vibrant special effects and timeless messaging make Cinderella a resonating story for kids.
Moana (2016)
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana is one of the standout animated movies of the 2010s. Co-directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the plot focuses on the titular Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) as she’s selected by the ocean’s call to save her coastal village from disaster.
Joined by the shapeshifting demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), the pair aims to return an ancient relic to the goddess Te Fiti and save Moana’s island from a devastating blight. Moana was acclaimed as one of the studio’s most original stories in recent years. Complemented by an inventive plot, inspiration from Polynesian folklore, and breathtaking visuals, this movie is a unique Disney experience for audiences of all ages.
The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)
Director Joe Cornish’s The Kid Who Would Be King takes a new spin on the legend of King Arthur. The 2019 fantasy adventure begins in modern-day London as a young boy named Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) stumbles upon King Arthur’s legendary sword Excalibur.
Together with the wizard Merlin (Angus Imrie as young Merlin and Patrick Stewart as old Merlin), they set off on a quest to stop the enchantress Morgana (Dune: Part Two‘s Rebecca Ferguson). Arthurian legend inspires many fantasy stories, and The Kid Who Would Be King cleverly blends its folklore with kid-friendly trappings.
Strange World (2022)
Though it was a box office dud when it released in theaters in 2022, Strange World is a welcome and entertaining entry in Disney’s animated catalog. Directed by Don Hall, this movie tells the story of a renowned group of family explorers who go on a perilous journey through an uncharted land filled with fantasy creatures.
This proves to be their most important exploit yet, as the subterranean world is where they must venture to save their society’s natural resource — the miracle plant dubbed “Pando.” Strange World isn’t a groundbreaking story compared to Disney’s other acclaimed animated movies, but the likable voice cast and striking visuals should be more than engaging enough for family-oriented audiences.
Luca (2021)
One of Pixar Animation Studios’ most recent movies, Luca is a delightful coming-of-age story. Centering on the titular Luca Paguro (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), director Enrico Casarosa’s film sees the young sea monster boy adjust to life in his human form when on land as he interacts with his friends and gets to know their town of Portorosso.
The group experiences a transformative summer vacation together, but Luca’s secret sea monster identity threatens to become a point of contention between the two societies. On top of the inspired Italian-themed setting and vivid art direction, Luca succeeds with its unique spin on the coming-of-age theme. It may not be a novel concept, but it’s a timeless and resonating one for young viewers.
Onward (2020)
With a touching story and star-studded leading cast, Onward is one of the most imaginative kids movies from Pixar in recent years. Directed by Dan Scanlon, the movie is set in an urban fantasy world and takes place in the modern day, where fantasy creatures make up the world’s everyday population.
Onward focuses on two elf brothers living in the suburbs named Ian and Barley Lightfoot (voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt), who go on a timed, 24-hour quest to discover an ancient artifact with the potential to resurrect their late father. Thanks to its easily likable cast, this movie’s story and characters should be easy for families to get attached to. Onward‘s straightforward but sincere story will also hit all the emotional beats audiences would hope for in a Pixar feature.
Ron's Gone Wrong (2021)
Released under the 20th Century Studios banner after Disney major studio acquisition, Ron’s Gone Wrong is an entertaining movie outside of the latter’s usual animated wheelhouse. Co-directed by Sarah Smith and Jean-Philippe Vine, the movie revolves around a middle-school boy named Barney (voiced by Shazam! Fury of the Gods‘ Jack Dylan Grazer) who struggles to fit in socially and befriends a robot he names Ron (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) who’s been deemed defective.
Barney finds himself scrambling to protect Ron as corporate figures want to destroy him to avoid a poor public image. Ron’s Gone Wrong is an entertaining and heartfelt movie, with Galifianakis’ voice role as Ron sure to make young audiences feel invested. Likewise, the movie makes some tasteful commentary on the increasing obsession with technology.
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
The 2021 movie Raya and the Last Dragon is one of the more inventive animated works from Walt Disney Animation Studios in recent years. Co-directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, the movie is set in the world of Kumandra, where a warrior princess named Raya (voiced by The Last Jedi actress Kelly Marie Tran) goes off on a quest to find the legendary last dragon to save her homeland from evil spirits called Druun.
The movie was well-received for its vibrant visuals and animation. Raya and the Last Dragon is also a welcome exploration into high fantasy elements inspired by Southeast Asian cultures.
The Good Dinosaur (2015)
Considering how lucrative the Jurassic Park franchise is even today, it’s surprising there hasn’t been more of a dinosaur presence in Hollywood Disney’s The Good Dinosaur is a delightful child-friendly alternative to those films. Directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Pixar Animation Studios, the movie is about a young boy named Spot (voiced by Jack Bright), who forms an unlikely friendship with a shy 11-year-old Apatosaurus named Arlo.
After being washed away downriver, the two go on a perilous journey to find their way back home. While the story is rather simplistic compared to other Pixar hits, The Good Dinosaur is filled with endearing characters, colorful imagery, and kid-friendly coming-of-age themes that resonate with family audiences.
Ferdinand (2017)
Loosely based on the 1936 children’s book The Story of Ferdinand written by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson, 20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios’ animated adaptation is a fun modern rendition. Directed by Carlos Saldanha, Ferdinand follows the story of the titular, kindhearted, and pacifistic bull (voiced by John Cena) as he’s compelled back into the bullfighting arenas he swore off.
After his ironclad beliefs are challenged, Ferdinand finds himself clashing with the world’s greatest bullfighter, dubbed “El Primero” (voiced by Miguel Angel Silvestre). Ferdinand doesn’t feature a groundbreaking story, but its faithfulness to the kid-friendly source material, colorful character designs, and charming voice cast make i entertaining family viewing.
Hercules (1997)
A 1990s Disney classic, Hercules is a wildly entertaining watch even today. Loosely based on various elements of Greek mythology, co-directors John Musker and Ron Clements’ film makes an engaging animated musical comedy out of the story of Hercules.
A demigod raised among mortal humans, Hercules (voiced by Tate Donovan) goes on an arduous quest to learn how to become a true hero and ascend to his place on Mount Olympus, all while his sinister and godly uncle Hades (voiced by James Woods) schemes his demise. Hercules was critically praised for its relentlessly fun pacing and characters. Its witty pop culture references and infectious musical numbers will also keep the whole family entertained.
Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022)
The classic Disney cartoon duo of Chip and Dale got a modern update in the form of Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers. Directed by Akiva Schaffer, this family comedy sees the iconic duo (voiced by John Mulaney and Andy Samberg, respectively) 30 years after the cancellation of their TV show in a world where people and cartoon characters coexist.
Chip and Dale later find themselves investigating the disappearance of TV co-star and friend Monterey Jack. Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is a charming and witty comedy. The Disney+ original movie seamlessly and cleverly combines live-action and animation, functioning as a meta sequel to the classic 1980s animated TV series of the same name.
The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
One of the most memorable animated Disney comedies of the early 2000s, The Emperor’s New Groove has since earned a cult following. Directed by Mark Dindal, the movie sees the cocky Emperor Kuzco (voiced by David Spade) morphed into a llama by his former adviser Yzma (voiced by Eartha Kitt) and her not-so-bright, but endearing henchman Kronk (voiced by Seinfeld‘s Patrick Warburton).
He’s determined to turn back into a human, and enlists the help of village leader Pacha (voiced by John Goodman) to escort him back to the palace. The Emperor’s New Groove was praised as a welcome change of pace for its time. The Incan-inspired comedy featured an inventive and humorous cast of fresh characters and smooth animation work.
Aladdin (1992)
Alongside movies like The Lion King, Aladdin is one of Disney’s biggest highlights when it comes to animated musical comedies. Co-directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the movie is about the titular Arabian child (voiced by Scott Weinger) who stumbles across a magical genie’s lamp. With the help of the genie (voiced by Robin Williams), Aladdin masquerades as a prince in an attempt to win the affection of Princess Jasmine (voiced by Linda Larkin).
However, the pair have to dodge Jasmine’s overbearing father (voiced by Douglas Seale) and the nefarious Jafar (voiced by Jonathan Freeman), who wants to steal the lamp for nefarious reasons. The original Aladdin still holds up as the best version of the movie. Bolstered by well-choreographed musical numbers, a clever sense of humor, and an iconic performance by the late Robin Williams, Aladdin is a true gem in the Disney vault.
The Parent Trap (1998)
Though it’s a remake of the 1961 movie of the same name, The Parent Trap became a family comedy classic of the ’90s. Directed by Nancy Meyers and starring Lindsay Lohan in one of her most memorable roles, the movie follows 11-year-old twin sisters Hallie Parker and Annie James as they discover each other by coincidence at a summer camp.
Later, they hatch a convoluted plan to get their parents — Nick Parker (Dennis Quaid) and Liz James (Natasha Richardson) back together. Meyers’ take on the classic story was well-received, with The Parent Trap‘s highlights being its then-modernized take on the plot and Lohan’s impressive dual-lead performance.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever (2023)
However, after accidentally damaging a snowplow, he’s afraid that might be in jeopardy. To make matters more tense, a snowstorm keeps him stuck at home with his family — including his infamous grouch of a brother, Rodrick. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever is an easy and relatively short crowd-pleaser for the kids in the family, and the vibrant CG animated approach appears to be the best format for this family-friendly comedy series.
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We Bought a Zoo (2011) new
Director Cameron Crowe’s We Bought a Zoo is a great feel-good family movie with a heartfelt premise. Loosely adapted from the memoir of the same name by author Benjamin Mee, the story follows a widowed father (Air‘s Matt Damon) as he buys a new home to start fresh with his family after his wife’s passing — but only on the condition that they buy the rundown zoo that’s part of the property.
Kelly Foster (played by Scarlet Johansson), a lead zookeeper, joins in on the efforts with her team to try and renovate the zoo for the public. It’s a simple movie with a rather predictable story, but its lighthearted tone and charming characters make this a fitting watch for families.
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (2009)
This wild chase leads the group to an underground tropical world populated by dinosaurs that have survived through the ice age. The story isn’t award-winning, but the colorful animation, varied and entertaining voice cast, and an admittedly clever premise make Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs the perfect breezy family-friendly feature.
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Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
The original 1964 musical comedy Mary Poppins is a live-action Disney classic, and the 2018 sequel proved to be far more than just a cash grab. Directed by Rob Marshall, Mary Poppins Returns stars Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer) as the titular former nanny, who comes back to the Banks family after the tragic passing of Michael’s wife.
The movie features wildly entertaining musical numbers, colorful visuals, inventive use of live-action and animation sequences, and a spirited performance from Blunt. Overall, Mary Poppins Returns is a sincere sequel that doubles as the perfect way to introduce kids to a beloved family classic.
Dashing Through the Snow (2023)
But while spending time with his young daughter on Christmas Eve, Eddie meets and befriends a man named Nick who tries to rekindle his holiday spirit. A familiar yet tried and true premise for a Christmas family movie, Dashing Through the Snow should be a funny and touching comedy for holiday viewings.
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Home Alone (1990) new
A ’90s and overall holiday cult-classic, director Chris Columbus’ Home Alone is a fun and over-the-top comedy. Starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, the young boy finds himself left home alone while his parents continue on a Christmas vacation.
However, while Kevin waits for his family to come back, gets stuck in the middle of a home invasion by a pair of robbers (played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern). What ensues is a wild comedy romp involving Kevin defending his home from the robbers with a series of zany traps. Home Alone has been affectionately received thanks to its endearing cast, whimsical plot, and charming use of music.
Incredibles 2 (2018)
The original 2004 movie The Incredibles was one of the best Disney Pixar and superhero features in general from the ’00s, and its sequel was a long time coming. Finally released in 2018, director Brad Bird (The Iron Giant, Ratatouille) returned for Incredibles 2 to an acclaimed effect.
The story once again follows the titular family as they try and repair the public image of superheroes, all while balancing their civilian lives and facing new threats attempting to turn citizens against superheroes forever. Much like its predecessor, Incredibles 2 was lauded for its sincere story, a cast of characters worth emotionally investing in, and clever humor. It’s a movie that will effortlessly enamor audiences of all ages, including those who grew up on the first film.
Mulan (1998)
Though the recent trend of live-action remakes have been rather lackluster overall, the original Mulan is still a beloved Disney original today. Directed by Barry Cook and Tony Bancroft, this movie follows Fa Mulan on her quest to take her father’s place in the Chinese Imperial army by impersonating a man to quell an oncoming Hun invasion.
Mulan earned praise for its impressive appeal to practically any age demographic. It effectively plays on themes of empowerment that give the plot surprising depth, but it never loses sight of its upbeat musical numbers, comedic elements, and vibrant visuals to enchant the young ones.
Fantasia (1940)
A bonafide hallmark from the early years of Disney’s presence in the entertainment industry, 1940’s Fantasia holds up well even today. It’s a landmark in the animation medium, with the movie seeing a slew of creative talent contribute to the movie’s anthology stories starring Mickey Mouse and more.
At the same time, it was something of a revelation for how animated musicals could express themselves, with the classical score wonderfully complementing the animation style. Fantasia is an imaginative experience even by today’s standards, with plenty of appeal for young audiences today as well as striking nostalgic chords in older Disney fans.
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) new
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Elemental (2023) new
The Little Mermaid (2023) new
Pete's Dragon (2016)
Up (2009)
Perhaps one of the best Pixar Animation Studio movies of the last 20 years, Up is one of the most emotionally rewarding family-centric animated films. Directed by Pete Docter and Bob Peterson, Up tells the story of a 78-year-old balloon salesman who loses his once passionate ambition for traveling the world as his life passes him by and a personal tragedy dampens his desire to live to his potential.
That is, at least until the day he decides to tie thousands of balloons to his house and fly to South America — and an endearing 8-year-old stowaway unexpectedly joins him. Should families feel up for a family-friendly adventure that will inspire joy as much as it does tears, Up is a profoundly resonant comedy-drama.
The Lion King (1994)
Turning Red (2022)
Toy Story 4 (2019)
The Toy Story franchise is one of Disney’s most beloved properties, and Pixar Animation Studios’ greatest achievements to date. 2019’s Toy Story 4 is the latest in the mainline series, picking up from the deeply emotional events of Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and more in the third installment. The group goes on a road trip with their new family including the endearing Forky, a toy made by Bonnie, but it spirals into a hectic adventure when the makeshift toy jumps out from the RV. Nostalgic fans and young newcomers alike will find much to enjoy with Toy Story 4, as the lovable cast of characters and emotional story are as satisfying as families would hope.
Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
Enchanted (2007)
Finding Dory (2016)
The original Finding Nemo was a critically-acclaimed classic of the early 2000s, still standing as one of Disney Pixar’s greatest animated movies to date. Thirteen years later, Finding Dory lived up to its predecessor’s reputation, with Ellen DeGeneres and Albert Brooks returning to reprise their roles as Dory and Marlin.
The story sees the titular amnesiac fish lose herself on a journey to reconnect with her parents. Finding Dory should satisfy those who grew up on the first movie and new viewers all the same, as it was equally praised for its heartfelt story and clever humor.
Toy Story 3 (2010)
The Toy Story franchise is still one of Pixar’s most beloved properties, and 15 years after the original movie, Toy Story 3 still successfully tugs at the heartstrings. The third movie in this series follows Woody, Buzz, and company as they’re accidentally donated to a daycare center after a now 17-year-old Andy moves out to college.
From there, the various iconic toys are forced to decide where they belong and how to get back to their home. Toy Story 3 is a massive payoff of what the 1995 classic started, representing a coming-of-age theme packed with emotion.
Finding Nemo (2003)
There’s little that can be said of Finding Nemo that hasn’t been already, as the 2003 movie was one of animation and Disney’s best theatrical achievements that decade.
The movie revolves around an overprotective clownfish father named Marlin as he and his bubbly yet forgetful friend, Dory — a regal blue tang — embark on an ocean-wide journey to find his lost son. Its brand of charm, genuinely clever humor, and visual spectacles have hardly aged, and its themes ensure that Finding Nemo will forever be a Disney Pixar classic all ages can get behind.
Toy Story 2 (1999)
The Toy Story series is one of the most critically acclaimed and iconic Disney Pixar creations of all time, and the 1999 sequel still holds up as well as the rest. Following up a beloved original is always a tall order, but Toy Story 2 satisfied on all fronts, introducing new and lovable characters alongside an equally emotional story.
Following the shocking events of Woody being stolen by a crazed toy collector, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the toy gang go on a daring mission to rescue him. But when Woody meets Jessie, the former is tempted by the thought of “immortality” in a museum. Toy Story 2‘s character-driven story earned widespread acclaim, and is arguably superior to its predecessor.
Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
The Incredibles (2004)
Encanto (2021)
Lilo & Stitch (2002)
Soul (2020)
Toy Story (1995)
WALL·E (2008)
Cinderella (1950)
Zootopia (2016)
A Bug's Life (1998)
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