15 best kids' movies on Netflix that adults can enjoy too

There are a few genres that are tremendously popular on Netflix—true crime and action blockbusters being just two of them. But perhaps the most vital viewer base Netflix has are toddlers who do not even pay their subscription fees.

Every week, there are a couple of kid’s movies that trend on global Netflix charts, like clockwork, The Boss Baby and Minions being the most popular of the lot. Each of these films has often rocked on the top ten lists for weeks and months, making us wonder how many times parents just station their toddlers in front of their screens to catch some much-needed and precious ‘me-time’.

But there are several movies on Netflix that grown-ups and kids can enjoy alike. Whether it’s nostalgia for the classics, tending to the inner child, brilliantly executed humour, or universal themes that resonate with viewers of all ages, these movies hold a unique place in the hearts of families around the world. 

So, tuck in for a cosy movie night with films that bridge the generation gap. Here are 15 of the best kid’s movies on Netflix that grown-ups can savour as well.

The best kids’ movies on Netflix that adults will love:

Minions (2015)

Directed by Pierre Coffin and Kyle Balda, Minions takes us back in time to explore the origin of the lovable but naughty Minions from the Despicable Me franchise. With humour that appeals to all ages, this film is a delightful escapade into the world of these adorable little creatures.

Casper (1995)

Brad Silberling directed this charming, ghostly tale about a friendly spectre named Casper, who befriends a young girl named Kat (Christina Ricci). Casper is a classic that resonates with audiences of all ages, but perhaps a bit more with those born in the 1990s and early ’00s.

Hotel Transylvania (2012)

Hotel Transylvania, directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, is a spooktacular animated comedy that welcomes you into the zany world of Dracula’s lavish monster resort. This family-friendly film follows Dracula (voiced by Adam Sandler) as he throws a 118th birthday bash for his daughter Mavis. Trouble brews when a human stumbles upon the hotel.

Spy Kids (2001)

Robert Rodriguez’s Spy Kids is an action-packed adventure that follows two young siblings, Carmen and Juni, as they take on the role of secret agents to rescue their missing parents. Filled with creative gadgets and thrilling missions, this film is a delightful ride for the whole family.

It stars the likes of Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara, Alan Cumming, Danny Trejo, Robert Patrick, and Tony Shalhoub.

Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018)

The grown-ups might be more into the 2000 Ron Howard rendition of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, but this version has been on the Netflix UK top ten list for eight weeks now. Benedict Cumberbatch lends his voice to the grumpy Grinch in this animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic tale.

Chicken Run (2000)

Directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park, Chicken Run is a claymation gem that follows a group of chickens attempting to escape from a farm. This witty and well-crafted film offers humour that appeals to adults while maintaining a whimsical charm for kids.

Alvin and the Chipmunks (2007)

Jason Lee stars in this live-action/CGI hybrid film that brings the iconic chipmunk trio to life. With catchy songs and silly escapades, Alvin and the Chipmunks is a fun-filled movie. Even the two sequels—Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2009) and Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked (2011)—are endearing to many if the Netflix data is to go by.

Madagascar (2005)

This animated hit from DreamWorks, directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath, follows a group of zoo animals who find themselves shipwrecked on the island of Madagascar. An unlikely quad of friends—a lion, a hippo, a giraffe, and a zebra—on an epic adventure, what’s not to like? 

The Boss Baby (2017)

Alec Baldwin lends his voice to the titular character in The Boss Baby, a film about a suit-wearing infant with a mission. This cleverly written movie combines humour and heart and has had a hypnotic grip on Netflix subscribers for a while now.

We Can Be Heroes (2020)

Director Robert Rodriguez returns with this superhero adventure. When alien invaders kidnap Earth’s superheroes, their children step up to save the day. We Can Be Heroes is a standalone sequel to the 2005 film The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3-D and stars YaYa Gosselin, Christian Slater, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, among others.

Matilda (1996)

Danny DeVito directed this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved novel about a gifted young girl with telekinetic powers. Matilda weaves a timeless tale of empowerment and resilience, making it a touching film for viewers of all ages.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, My Neighbor Totoro is a masterpiece of Japanese animation. This enchanting film tells the story of two young sisters who befriend forest spirits after moving to their new home in the countryside. And together, they weave magic that is soothingly beautiful.

Monster House (2006)

Gil Kenan’s animated horror-comedy Monster House takes viewers on a thrilling adventure as a group of kids investigates their mysterious neighbour’s haunted house. The film features the voices of iconic actors like Steve Buscemi, Fred Willard, and Catherine O’Hara, among others.

Stuart Little (1999)

Rob Minkoff directed this heartwarming tale of a mouse named Stuart, who is adopted by a human family. Minkoff loosely based his story on the 1945 novel by E. B. White. The film has an impressive ensemble cast to boot, from Geena Davis and Hugh Laurie to the voices of Michael J. Fox, Nathan Lane, Chazz Palminteri, and Jennifer Tilly.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

Directed by David E. Talbert, Jingle Jangle is a musical Christmas extravaganza filled with wonder, imagination, and heart. The film follows a toymaker who rediscovers his creativity with the help of his granddaughter and a magical invention. It’s a story of second chances, wonder, and the power of believing in oneself, all during the magical holiday season.