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The best kids movies on Netflix right now

Spongebob sits on a bicycle while Sandy Cheeks sits next to him.
Netflix

Whether you’re just trying to make it through the next few weeks or you’re already thinking about Thanksgiving, it’s good to know the best kids movies on Netflix right now. Whether you need a distraction or you’re hosting friends and family, Netflix offers a host of quality kid-friendly flicks. Of course, you want to know that your kid isn’t watching garbage, which is why we made this Cliff Notes-esque list for you. Every month, we scan the collection and highlight the most worthwhile kids’ movies.

Although it’s a slow month, Netflix does add new family-friendly originals in Spellbound, as well as Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie. Read on for our picks of the best kids movies on Netflix now.

Recommended Videos

Make sure to check our guides for the best new movies to stream and the best movies on Netflix. We’ve also rounded up the best kids movies on Hulu, the best kids movies on Amazon Prime Video, and the best kids movies on Disney+ if you don’t find what you’re looking for on Netflix.

Recently added to Netflix

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie (2024)

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie
g
87m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Adventure, Family
Stars
Carolyn Lawrence, Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown
Directed by
Liza Johnson
Watch on Netflix

In this latest addition to the SpongeBob Squarepants universe, SpongeBob’s Texan squirrel friend, Sandy, is at the heart of the action. When Bikini Bottom and all of its residents suddenly find themselves scooped out of the ocean, it falls to Sandy and SpongeBob to save the day.

The intrepid squirrel devises a way to bring her porous sponge up to the land to find the B.O.O.T.S. marine biology laboratory in Galveston, Texas. But what is initially an exciting adventure soon turns into a desperate mission to save the town from an evil plot. This CGI take on SpongeBob might be a little jarring for parents who grew up on the show, but it’s fun for kids.

Spellbound (2024)

Spellbound
pg
106m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Rachel Zegler, Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem
Directed by
Vicky Jenson
Watch on Netflix

Netflix assembled an all-star cast for this animated fantasy, including Rachel Zegler (Steven Spielberg‘s West Side Story), Nicole Kidman, and Javier Bardem. From the creators of several Pixar hits, Spellbound follows Princess Ellian’s struggles to reverse a mysterious curse that turned her parents into monsters.

Although the creatures are mostly playful, they’re nonetheless banished to the far reaches of the kingdom. Now, Ellian must travel into the wild to find the key to break the curse before it becomes permanent. The whole family can enjoy this animated adventure.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

Kung Fu Panda 4
54%
pg
94m
Genre
Animation, Family, Fantasy, Action
Stars
Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis
Directed by
Mike Mitchell
Watch on Netflix
One of Dreamworks’ largest active franchises, Kung Fu Panda 4 is the newest film starring Po (Jack Black), the kung fu fighting panda bear. In the latest film, Po is gearing up to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace, but needs someone to fill his former position of Dragon Warrior. While he ponders how to be a spiritual leader and find someone to take his old role, Po is sidetracked by the emergence of a new villain, Chameleon (Viola Davis), who can conjure up other past villains. The first and third Kung Fu Panda movies are also available on Netflix.

Clifford the Big Red Dog (2021)

Clifford the Big Red Dog
55%
pg
97m
Genre
Family, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Animation
Stars
Darby Camp, Jack Whitehall, Izaac Wang
Directed by
Walt Becker
Watch on Netflix
The classic children’s book series gets the live-action treatment in this 2021 release. Middle-schooler Emily Elizabeth (Darby Camp) is struggling to adjust to a new school when she receives a little, bright red puppy from a magical animal rescuer. Emily Elizabeth gains a much-needed friend, though he turns out to be a handful when the next morning, Emily Elizabeth and her uncle Casey (Good Omens‘ Jack Whitehall) discover the puppy has grown to 10 feet tall overnight.

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
87%
g
85m
Genre
Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Peter Sallis, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter
Directed by
Steve Box, Nick Park
Watch on Netflix
Wallace and Gromit don their tweed caps in this mystery adventure from Nick Park. The cheese-loving inventor and his possibly-smarter-than-him canine companion are doing well running a business removing the town’s garden pests. However, their humane methods have turned their home into a halfway house for vermin, which leads them to stumble across a vegetarian monster that threatens to destroy the annual veggie-growing contest.

Trolls Band Together (2023)

Trolls Band Together
53%
pg
91m
Genre
Animation, Family, Music, Fantasy, Comedy
Stars
Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, Camila Cabello
Directed by
Walt Dohrn
Watch on Netflix
The latest release in Dreamworks’ popular Trolls universe hit theaters in 2023. In Trolls Band Together, Branch (Justin Timberlake) and Poppy (Anna Kendrick) are finally a couple, but there’s little time for fun after Branch’s brother, Floyd (Troye Sivan), is kidnapped by pop-star villains for his musical talent. As the pair set out to save Floyd, Poppy learns more about Branch’s dark familial past.

PAW Patrol: The Movie (2021)

PAW Patrol: The Movie
50%
g
86m
Genre
Animation, Family, Adventure, Comedy
Stars
Iain Armitage, Lilly Bartlam, Will Brisbin
Directed by
Cal Brunker
Watch on Netflix
The beloved children’s show hits the big screen as Ryder (Will Brisbin) and his team of heroic pups must rise to the challenge to take on Humdinger (Ron Pardo) after he becomes Mayor of Adventure City. The pups must face their pasts, make new allies, test out exciting new gadgets and gear, and join together to save Adventure City.

Nimona (2023)

Nimona
75%
pg
99m
Genre
Adventure, Animation, Fantasy, Family
Stars
Chloë Grace Moretz, Riz Ahmed, Eugene Lee Yang
Directed by
Nick Bruno, Troy Quane
Watch on Netflix
Based on the graphic novel of the same name, this Netflix original stars Chloë Grace Moretz as the voice of Nimona, a shape-shifting teen outcast. But when celebrity knight Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed) is framed for the murder of the Queen, Nimona is perhaps the only person who can help clear his name. Unfortunately, she is also perhaps a monster that he has sworn an oath to destroy.

Smurfs: The Lost Village (2017)

Smurfs: The Lost Village
40%
pg
89m
Genre
Family, Adventure, Animation, Comedy
Stars
Demi Lovato, Rainn Wilson, Joe Manganiello
Directed by
Kelly Asbury
Watch on Netflix
The most recent CGI foray into Smurfville, Smurfs: The Lost Village, follows Smurfette (Demi Lovato) and her friends Brainy, Clumsy, and Hefty (Danny Pudi, Jack McBrayer, Joe Manganiello) on a thrilling race through the Forbidden Forest to discover a mysterious lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel (The Office star Rainn Wilson) can. In that village lies the key to one of the greatest secrets the Smurfs will ever discover.

Orion and the Dark (2024)

Orion and the Dark
72%
pg
93m
Genre
Animation, Family, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Jacob Tremblay, Paul Walter Hauser, Angela Bassett
Directed by
Sean Charmatz
Watch on Netflix
In this Netflix animated original, you’ll meet Orion (Jacob Tremblay), a seemingly typical elementary school kid. But this is merely a facade, as Orion is secretly a bundle of adolescent anxiety, filled with irrational fears of everything from bees and dogs to clowns and cliffs. But the thing he’s most afraid of is one he can’t avoid: the dark. So when Dark itself (Black Bird‘s Paul Walter Hauser) decides to visit Orion to show him that the night’s not so scary, Orion has to learn to accept the unknown and stop letting fear control his life.

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken (2023)

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken
50%
pg
91m
Genre
Animation, Family, Fantasy, Comedy
Stars
Lana Condor, Toni Collette, Annie Murphy
Directed by
Kirk DeMicco
Watch on Netflix
Disney goes to the ocean with sweet, awkward Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor), a 16-year-old desperate to fit in at Oceanside High. She’s mostly anonymous, though, even to her skater-boy crush who she tutors in math. Her overprotective mom has forbidden Ruby from ever getting in the water, but as teenagers do, Ruby defies mom’s rule, entering the water, only to discover that she’s a direct descendant of the warrior Kraken queens and destined to inherit the throne from her grandmother, the Warrior Queen of the Seven Seas. Suddenly aware of her destiny, Ruby must tap into her power quickly because a new threat to all Kraken-kind has just enrolled at Oceanside.

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (2023)

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget
63%
pg
97m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Thandiwe Newton, Zachary Levi, Bella Ramsey
Directed by
Sam Fell
Watch on Netflix
Netflix has brought Chicken Run back for a new generation! Years after pulling off their death-defying escape from Tweedy’s farm, Ginger (Thandiwe Newton) and Rocky (Zachary Levi) are living in a peaceful island sanctuary, far from the human world. When little hatchling Molly (The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey) comes along, everything feels truly perfect. But back on the mainland, a terrible new threat emerges to chickenkind: the nugget. Now, it’s time to break in.

Leo (2023)

Leo
pg
102m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Adam Sandler, Bill Burr, Cecily Strong
Directed by
Robert Smigel, Robert Marianetti, David Wachtenheim
Watch on Netflix
Leo (Adam Sandler) is a 74-year-old lizard who has been stuck in the same Florida classroom for decades with his terrarium mate, Squirtle the Turtle (Bill Burr). Already jaded by life, when Leo learns he has just one year left to live, he plans a grand escape. Unfortunately, he gets caught up in the problems of his anxious students and their impossibly mean substitute teacher, Mrs. Malkin (Cecily Strong), instead.

Minions (2015)

Minions
56%
pg
91m
Genre
Family, Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Stars
Sandra Bullock, Jon Hamm, Michael Keaton
Directed by
Kyle Balda, Pierre Coffin
Watch on Netflix
Universal’s Despicable Me (which is also on Netflix, as is Minions: The Rise of Gru) spawned a bizarre spinoff out of the yellow, eraser-like assistants of supervillain Gru. In Minions, you learn their backstory, as they served despicable masters throughout the ages, from T. Rex to Napoleon. When Minions can’t serve, they are sad. So, Minion Kevin recruits Stuart and Bob to venture into the world to find a new evil boss. They stumble across Scarlet Overkill (Bullet Train‘s Sandra Bullock), the world’s first-ever female supervillain.

Spy Kids: Armageddon (2023)

Spy Kids: Armageddon
55%
pg
98m
Genre
Family, Comedy, Action, Adventure
Stars
Connor Esterson, Everly Carganilla, Zachary Levi
Directed by
Robert Rodriguez
Watch on Netflix
The Spy Kids universe gets a modern update in this Netflix Original. Robert Rodriguez brings in a new cast of super agents, including Terrence Tango (Shazam! Fury of the Gods‘ Zachary Levi) and Nora Torrez (Gina Rodriguez). But they find themselves needing the help of their children, Tony (Connor Esterson) and Patty (Everly Carganilla). After Terrence and Nora mistakenly help a game developer unleash a computer virus that makes him master of all technology, the kids must become spies to save their parents and the world.

The Monkey King (2023)

The Monkey King
59%
pg
92m
Genre
Animation, Fantasy, Adventure, Family, Comedy
Stars
Jimmy O. Yang, Bowen Yang, Jolie Hoang-Rappaport
Directed by
Anthony Stacchi
Watch on Netflix
Based on an ancient Chinese tale, The Monkey King follows a stick-wielding monkey on an epic quest for immortality. Along the way, he teams up with a young girl and must battle demons, dragons, gods, and the biggest obstacle of all: his own ego.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017)

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie
69%
pg
89m
Genre
Action, Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Kevin Hart, Thomas Middleditch, Ed Helms
Directed by
David Soren
Watch on Netflix
Based on the classic book series, this epic movie brings Captain Underpants to the big screen! George (Kevin Hart) and Harold (Thomas Middleditch) are a couple of overly imaginative pranksters who go a bit too far with a prank. Hypnotizing their principal (Ed Helms), they make him believe he’s an enthusiastic fool of a superhero named Captain Underpants. And yes, the costume is what you think.

The Angry Birds Movie (2016)

The Angry Birds Movie
43%
pg
97m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Stars
Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Danny McBride
Directed by
Fergal Reilly, Clay Kaytis
Watch on Netflix
Based on the popular smartphone game, The Angry Birds Movie takes audiences on an adventure to an island populated by happy, flightless birds. Temperamental Red (Ted Lasso‘s Jason Sudeikis), speedy Chuck (Josh Gad), and the volatile Bomb (Danny McBride) have always been outsiders, but they get their chance to be heroes when mysterious green piggies begin showing up on the island.

The Boss Baby (2017)

The Boss Baby
50%
pg
97m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Alec Baldwin, Steve Buscemi, Miles Bakshi
Directed by
Tom McGrath
Watch on Netflix
New babies change the fabric of families, especially when you’re a wildly imaginative 7-year-old like Tim (Miles Bakshi). So, when his family expects to add a new baby into his life, Tim processes this by telling a story of how that baby will impact his and his family’s life. Thus, The Boss Baby (Alec Baldwin), is born. He wears a suit, speaks like a full-grown adult, and is a titan of industry. He also now has an extensive franchise, to which this first film will be a great jumping-off point for the kids! Start streaming on May 22.

Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical (2022)

Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical
68%
7.4/10
pg
117m
Genre
Family, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Alisha Weir, Lashana Lynch, Stephen Graham
Directed by
Matthew Warchus
Watch on Netflix
Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book about a little girl with a troubled home life who discovers telekinetic abilities was adapted into an outstanding movie in 1996. Later, it became a musical. Now, the musical becomes a movie directed by Matthew Warchus and starring Alisha Weir in the title role.

Trolls (2016)

Trolls
55%
6.4/10
pg
92m
Genre
Family, Animation, Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy, Music
Stars
Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, Zooey Deschanel
Directed by
Mike Mitchell, Walt Dohrn
Watch on Netflix
Now its own franchise, the original Trolls introduces audiences to a colorful, wondrous world of friendly, playful trolls. Always optimistic and with a song to sing, things in the Trolls’ world turn dour when a mysterious giant shows up to end the party. Now, the bubbly Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and the dour Branch (Justin Timberlake) must join forces to embark on an adventure far beyond their world to save their home.

The Sea Beast (2022)

The Sea Beast
75%
7.1/10
pg
115m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Karl Urban, Zaris-Angel Hator, Jared Harris
Directed by
Chris Williams
Watch on Netflix
In the animated fantasy The Sea Beast, enormous monsters roam the seas, and monster hunters are the essential humans who keep them at bay so that people can navigate safely. None of these heroes is more beloved than Jacob Holland (Karl Urban), and nobody loves him more than little Maisie Brumble (Zaris-Angel Hator). But when Maisie stows away on Jacob’s ship, he is less than enthused to have the responsibility of caring for this girl thrust upon him. At least until he discovers that Maisie is a more than capable ally.

Over the Moon (2020)

Over the Moon
60%
6.3/10
pg
100m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Cathy Ang, Phillipa Soo, Ken Jeong
Directed by
Glen Keane
Watch on Netflix
In the mood for a musical? Over the Moon is a Netflix animated original film that will get the kids out of their seats and dreaming of soaring into the cosmos. Fei Fei (Kathy Ang) is a bright young girl with boundless determination. So when her community sheds doubt on the existence of the legendary Moon Goddess, Fei Fei gets to work building a rocket ship that can make it to the moon. But her journey takes her somewhere far more fantastical and unexpected.

Finding ʻOhana (2021)

Finding ʻOhana
69%
6.1/10
pg
123m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Kea Peahu, Alex Aiono, Lindsay Watson
Directed by
Jude Weng
Watch on Netflix
When Pili and Ioane Kawena (played by Kea Peahu and Alex Aiono) relocate from New York to Hawaii to help their mother care for their ailing grandfather, the siblings unearth a swashbuckling diary in their Papa’s study. It’s an ancient tome that hints at bountiful treasures hidden away in the caves of ‘Ohana. Banding together with her brother and new friends, Pili uses her natural skills as a champion geocacher to track down the pirate gold while exploring her heritage and the gorgeous landscapes of Hawaii. With a “family first” message nestled firmly at its core, Finding ‘Ohana plays like a brighter and more spirited version of The Goonies, especially with the film’s emphasis on curiosity meets camaraderie. 

Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans (2021)

Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans
6.7/10
pg
106m
Genre
Animation, Fantasy, Family, Action, Adventure
Stars
Emile Hirsch, Lexi Medrano, Charlie Saxton
Directed by
Andrew L. Schmidt, Francisco Ruiz Velasco, Johane Matte
Watch on Netflix

The cinematic conclusion to Guillermo del Toro’s Tales of Arcadia saga, which includes the Trollhunters, 3Below, and Wizards series, Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans takes place in the enchanted town of Arcadia, a haven of magic with many a mystical inhabitant. When the evil Arcane Order awakens the ancient Titans, the heroes of Arcadia must band together to put an end to the wretched reign of their mutual enemy. An action-packed spectacle, Rise of the Titans serves as a fitting end to del Toro’s expansive universe of trolls, extraterrestrials, and powerful wizards. Think of it as the animated little brother to Marvel’s The Avengers, an amalgamation of benevolent world-savers facing off against adversaries, and a battle that necessitates teamwork of fantastical proportions.

Wish Dragon (2021)

Wish Dragon
59%
7.2/10
pg
99m
Genre
Animation, Family, Comedy, Fantasy
Stars
Jimmy Wong, John Cho, Constance Wu
Directed by
Chris Appelhans
Watch on Netflix
A joint collaboration between Sony Pictures Animation and Tencent Pictures, Wish Dragon tells the story of Din (voiced by Jimmy Wong), a working-class student with dreams of reuniting with his friend, Lina (Natasha Liu Bordizzo). In order to achieve this rendezvous, Din calls on the otherworldly talents of wish-granting dragon Long (John Cho). Together, human and mystical reptile must journey across Shanghai to bring the former’s aspirations to fruition. For those of us who have seen either version of Disney’s Aladdin, the premise of Wish Dragon may sound pretty familiar. But don’t let that deter you, for there’s plenty of heart, laughs, and inspired storytelling at play to make Wish Dragon an easy win for kids of all ages.

Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas (2021)

Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas
7.4/10
g
30m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Justin Fletcher, Kate Harbour
Directed by
Steve Cox
Watch on Netflix
A 30-minute Christmas special starring the world’s favorite sheep, The Flight Before Christmas is a new Shaun the Sheep classic! Shaun loves the holiday season, but his excitement goes sour when a farmhouse raid to get bigger stockings for the Flock accidentally leaves Timmy behind. Now, Shaun must get Timmy back before he becomes somebody else’s present!

The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

The Mitchells vs. the Machines
80%
7.7/10
114m
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Science Fiction, Action
Stars
Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph
Directed by
Michael Rianda
Watch on Netflix
Katie Mitchell (Abbi Jacobson) is a little different in a family full of people who are a little different. Unfortunately, those differences don’t quite click when it comes to her and her father. So when her dad decides to cancel her plane ticket to film school and instead do a family road trip from Michigan to LA, Katie is less than pleased. But when family bonding time is interrupted by a robotic uprising, the Mitchells must find a way to come together to save themselves and the world from the techpocalypse.

Pee-wee's Big Holiday (2016)

Pee-wee's Big Holiday
63%
6.1/10
90m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Paul Reubens, Joe Manganiello, Jessica Pohly
Directed by
John Lee
Watch on Netflix
This Judd Apatow-produced Netflix original introduces Pee-wee Herman to a whole new generation. After a fateful meeting with a mysterious stranger (Magic Mike‘s Joe Manganiello), Pee-wee embarks on a journey toward his destiny! It just so happens to coincide with him taking his first-ever holiday. Fans of the classic character will enjoy this revitalization, and it just may inspire the kids to go back and watch some of the Pee-wee classics.

We Can Be Heroes (2020)

We Can Be Heroes
51%
4.7/10
pg
97m
Genre
Action, Fantasy, Family, Comedy
Stars
YaYa Gosselin, Lyon Daniels, Andy Walken
Directed by
Robert Rodriguez
Watch on Netflix
Okay, now that you know who Sharkboy and Lavagirl are, your family can enjoy Robert Rodriguez’s wacky reboot of his tween superhero franchises — We Can Be Heroes. When alien invaders kidnap Earth’s (now grown-up) superheroes, their children must team up to save the world. If it sounds exactly like Spy Kids, well, that’s because it is basically the same plot. But it’s nonetheless a good-humored adventure driven by some game performances from the adults involved.

Next Gen (2018)

Next Gen
6.6/10
pg
105m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Animation, Family
Stars
Jason Sudeikis, Michael Peña, David Cross
Directed by
Joe Ksander, Kevin R. Adams
Watch on Netflix
In a near, somewhat-fictional future, a rebellious girl named Mai is all that stands between a madman and his technological plan to conquer the world. Oh, and there’s a runaway combat robot who becomes her trusty sidekick. Some of Next Gen‘s surprisingly-provocative message will go over kids’ heads, but its good humor and action-packed fun will more than suffice.

Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back - Evolution (2019)

Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back - Evolution
6.3/10
tv-y7
Genre
Animation, Adventure, Fantasy, Action, Family
Stars
Rica Matsumoto, Ikue Otani, Mayumi Iizuka
Watch on Netflix
Deep in an undisclosed location, scientists successfully create the most powerful Pokémon in existence, Mewtwo. Realizing he’s being used as the ultimate weapon, Mewtwo breaks free of the lab and wishes to fight the best Pokémon trainers in the world to get back at the humans who wronged him. Ash, Brock, and Misty continue their quest to become the ultimate Pokémon masters when they receive a mysterious invitation to an unknown island. The island invitation is a trap by Mewtwo, creating the setup of the ultimate showdown between Ash and Mewtwo. With Pikachu at his side, Ash uses the power of friendship in the battle for his life. Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution is an updated remake of Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back, originally released in 1998.

Dancing with the Birds (2019)

Dancing with the Birds
8.3/10
pg
51m
Genre
Documentary
Stars
Stephen Fry
Directed by
Huw Cordey
Watch on Netflix
From the team that brought viewers the groundbreaking series Our Planet comes a fun, feathery feature documentary that is vibrant, colorful, and cheerful. Narrated by legendary actor Stephen Fry, Dancing with the Birds is a wonderful voyage into the world of exotic birds. Each moment feels like a small story, filled with humor and excitement that the whole family will enjoy. Dancing with the Birds sends audiences on a journey around the world to some of the most exotic places. While short, it’s incredibly colorful and diverse. This documentary film is perfect for young audiences looking for a fascinating and refreshingly enjoyable view into the world of exotic wildlife.

Minecraft: Story Mode (2018)

Minecraft: Story Mode
5.8/10
tv-pg
2 Seasons
Genre
Action & Adventure, Comedy, Animation, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Stars
Catherine Keener, Elizabeth Olsen, Nat Wolff
Watch on Netflix
Minecraft is one of the most popular video game properties in recent memory, encouraging players to build, explore, and learn. From teamwork to resource management and even coding, Minecraft has been a great learning utility. Minecraft: Story Mode takes the whimsical computer world of Minecraft and translates it into a miraculous adventure into the world of Minecraft. Originally released on video game platforms in 2015, Minecraft: Story Mode is a Netflix Interactive movie, where the viewer can decide what happens next. Using the remote control, viewers can shape choices and be a part of the action. Minecraft: Story Mode follows Jesse (Patton Oswalt or Catherine Taber), Axel (Brian Posehn), and Olivia celebrating their craftsmanship skills at EnderCon, when suddenly the entire world of Minecraft is threatened by a powerful evil. The trio is destined to save the universe and must trek across unknown lands to save all of Minecraft. This unique story and interactive adventure will keep families, especially young gamers, entertained.

Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal (2020)

Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal
7.0/10
tv-y7
Genre
Animation
Stars
Gina Rodriguez, Finn Wolfhard, Abby Trott
Watch on Netflix
Carmen SanDiego (Gina Rodriguez) finds herself back in the evil organization, V.I.L.E., and must pull off an impossible heist for them, as V.I.L.E. has captured her friends and put them in danger. This interactive movie is similar to Minecraft in that it allows viewers to choose how the adventure will play out. Viewers will have the ability to choose how the heist will occur and shape their own story. Featuring sharp animation and voice talent, Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal is a great way to introduce young audiences to the world of Netflix’s Carmen Sandiego.

Klaus (2019)

Klaus
8.2/10
pg
96m
Genre
Animation, Family, Adventure, Comedy
Stars
Jason Schwartzman, J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones
Directed by
Sergio Pablos
Watch on Netflix
It’s easy to lose the spirit of the holidays, and when a small town falls into hopelessness, an unlikely bond will be formed. Jesper Johannson (Jason Schwartzman) is a postman banished to the small island town of Smeerensburg at the behest of his father. Tasked with delivering 6,000 letters in a year, he feverishly attempts to fulfill such an audacious goal, until one fateful delivery puts him in touch with a woodsman, named Klaus (JK Simmons). While initially an unlikely friendship, the two look to each other as they work to bring the spirit and hopes of Christmas to the people of Smeerensburg. Klaus is an Academy Award-nominated animated film, with breathtaking visuals and top-notch voice performances. Klaus was lauded by viewers for its extraordinary animation and heartfelt story, making it perfect for any time of the year.

White Fang (2018)

White Fang
61%
7.0/10
tv-pg
Genre
Animation, Family
Stars
Nick Offerman, Rashida Jones, Paul Giamatti
Watch on Netflix
You never know where life will take you, and in White Fang, a small wolf-dog is about to embark on a journey of a lifetime — through the wilderness of North America, encountering new friends and great danger. White Fang is based on the novel of the same name by Jack London. Unlike other novels, White Fang told the story from the viewpoint of the wolf-dog, creating a fascinating way in which animals view the world around them. Director Alexandre Espigares, who won an Academy Award for the animated short film Mr. Hublot, adapts the story through a wondrous splash of smooth animation and shading that evokes watercolors. White Fang is a heartwarming tale of adventure, heroism, and the people that you meet along the way.

John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch (2019)

John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch
87%
7.5/10
70m
Genre
Comedy, Family, Music
Stars
John Mulaney, Jake Gyllenhaal, Annaleigh Ashford
Directed by
Rhys Thomas
Watch on Netflix
Inspired by the classic Sesame Street, John Mulaney returns to Netflix with a new special, but this isn’t a standup routine aimed at adults — it’s a children’s musical comedy special. Alongside Mulaney are 15 child actors who dance about and sing to a collection of variety specials. In between songs and skits, Mulaney talks with the bunch. The variety-musical comedy special also features adult guest stars, including Jake Gyllenhaal as Mr. Music. A different avenue for John Mulaney, the Sack Lunch Bunch special is a fun film to watch with the entire family.

The Willoughbys (2020)

The Willoughbys
68%
6.4/10
pg
92m
Genre
Animation, Comedy, Family
Stars
Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara
Directed by
Kris Pearn
Watch on Netflix
This 2020 Netflix Original introduces us to the Willoughby children, who are convinced they’d be better off raising themselves than they are under the care of their parents. As such, they hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation while they embark on their own high-flying adventure to find the true meaning of family. As you might expect, everything they think they know isn’t exactly spot on.
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Nick Perry

Nick Perry is a freelance writer who bounced from Hollywood to Silicon Beach to pajama pants. His work has been featured on Digital Trends, Good Morning America, Entrepreneur, Mashable, and more media outlets.

Michael Bizzaco

Michael Bizzaco has been selling, installing, and talking about TVs, soundbars, streaming devices, and all things smart home for the better part of 15 years. He even knows a thing or two about how to fix this stuff when it starts misbehaving (because no tech is perfect!).

Mike has been writing for Digital Trends and several other publications since 2020. Fortunately, he’s still able to write after he got his index finger stuck in a vending machine at the Ramada Inn the summer before fourth grade! From hands-on reviews to best-of roundups, Mike does his best to share his expertise in a friendly and informative way with all readers, and loves staying on top of the latest AV and smart home trends.

When he’s not thanking his father for dislodging his finger from that vile vending machine in New Jersey, Mike enjoys playing guitar, reading, and indulging in horror films with his girlfriend.

The best feel-good movies on Netflix right now
Stephan James runs as Jesse Owens in Race.

There probably isn't a certified doctor who would prescribe a feel-good movie to lift your spirits, but sometimes it really helps. Feel-good movies are a subgenre that ranges from comedies to dramas. The secret to their success is that the main characters overcome their anxieties, their personal roadblocks, and all other obstacles to achieve their goals. Who doesn't want to follow that example?

Netflix doesn't have a very robust selection of feel-good movies, but it does have some very good ones. As it happens, this month's new additions, Race and The World's Fastest Indian, are both true stories that share some common elements with each other. Neither film was made for Netflix, so they may not stick around for long. But for now, they have a prime place among the best feel-good movies on Netflix.
Need more recommendations? Then check out the best new movies to stream this week, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+.

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The best fantasy movies on Netflix right now
Kate Beckinsale and Hugh Jackman in Van Helsing.

Finding great fantasy movies on Netflix is a bit of a fantasy in and of itself. The king of the streamers neglects this category, and it also relies heavily on Universal Pictures' catalog to bail out its shortcomings. That's why it's The Scorpion King and Van Helsing's turn to be on this list while Conan the Barbarian waits for yet another Netflix return.

The Scorpion King and Van Helsing aren't bad movies, but fantasy fans deserve a better selection from Netflix than films that are two decades old. Even this month's third addition, The Covenant, is closing in on 20 years. Netflix has made some original fantasy movies of its own, but not lately. For the most part, the best fantasy movies on Netflix are pretty stagnant. But when something new arrives, we'll be here to add it to the list.
Need more recommendations? Then check out the best new movies to stream this week, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+.

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The best dramas on Netflix right now
Manuel García-Rulfo as Pedro Páramo looking at the camera with floating bodies behind him in Netflix's Pedro Páramo.

Spooky season is over, which means we are entering the entertainment industry's favorite time of the year: the holidays. And with it comes awards season. What better time to check out the best dramas on Netflix, many of which will hope to make a splash in the 2024-2025 Oscar season? This month alone, Netflix has the Oscar hopefuls Emilia Pérez and The Piano Lessen scheduled, meaning many surprises await Netflix subscribers in the drama department. Netflix caters to all tastes and ensures quality by recruiting some of modern Hollywood's most acclaimed auteurs. On any given day, you can find masterpieces from Scorsese and Cuarón while browsing Netflix.

Beyond the new arrivals and awards fare, the best dramatic movies on Netflix offer a mix of searing romantic tales, intense family dramas, passionate romances, tragic tales of woe, and a few small-scale, yet no less worthy movies. Although Netflix has a wide and diverse collection of quality films, it might be difficult for you to choose just one. Some are not as high in quality as others. To save you some time and effort, we've compiled a list of the best dramas on Netflix right now.
Need more recommendations? Then check out the best new movies to stream this week, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+.

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