Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
If you think you've seen every superhero story, prepare to be amazed. This Oscar-winning film introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Morales as he becomes Spider-Man. The story's real magic comes when he meets Peter Parker and a host of other Spider-People from
different dimensions. It’s the ultimate hero’s journey, exploring the idea that anyone can wear the mask. The groundbreaking animation, which blends comic book art with fluid 3D motion, is a visual feast for all ages. With a killer soundtrack and a heartfelt story about finding your place, it’s a modern classic that works for teens, younger kids, and the adults who thought they were over superhero movies. It perfectly balances action, humour, and genuine emotion.
Coco
Get the tissues ready for this one, but in the best way possible. Pixar’s vibrant journey into Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead is a stunning masterpiece. The film follows a young boy named Miguel, who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s generations-old ban on music. Desperate to prove his talent, he accidentally travels to the Land of the Dead. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful musical adventure about family, memory, and forgiveness. The songs are memorable and deeply integrated into the story, and the narrative’s focus on the importance of remembering our ancestors is both powerful and universally touching. It’s a film that will spark meaningful conversations with older kids while captivating younger ones with its colourful world and catchy tunes.
Moana
For a film that perfectly blends the hero’s journey with a spectacular musical, look no further than Moana. The story follows a spirited teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people, guided by the demigod Maui. It’s a classic Disney adventure with a modern twist, featuring a strong, independent heroine who isn't defined by a love interest. The Pacific Islands-inspired setting is lush and gorgeous, and the soundtrack, with contributions from Lin-Manuel Miranda, is packed with unforgettable songs. Moana is an inspiring tale of courage, identity, and listening to your inner voice, making it a fantastic choice for the whole family.
The Lion King
A true cinematic icon, The Lion King remains one of the greatest animated films ever made for a reason. Loosely based on Shakespeare's Hamlet, it tells the powerful coming-of-age story of Simba, a young lion cub destined to rule the Pride Lands. From the unforgettable opening sequence of "Circle of Life" to the hilarious antics of Timon and Pumbaa, the movie is a masterclass in storytelling. It balances its epic hero's journey with moments of profound grief and joyous celebration. The hand-drawn animation is timeless, and the award-winning soundtrack is embedded in pop culture. It’s a foundational film that continues to connect with new generations.
Kubo and the Two Strings
If you’re looking for something visually unique, this stop-motion marvel from Laika is an absolute must-see. The film is a sweeping fantasy epic set in ancient Japan, following a young boy named Kubo. Armed with a magical stringed instrument, he must embark on a quest to locate his late father's enchanted suit of armor to defeat a vengeful spirit from the past. The animation is breathtakingly intricate, blending physical puppets with digital effects to create a world that feels both tangible and magical. It’s a sophisticated story about loss, storytelling, and the strength of family, told with a grace and artistry that will mesmerise older children and adults alike.
The Mitchells vs. The Machines
For a dose of pure, chaotic fun, you can’t do better than this hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt adventure. The story centres on the quirky, dysfunctional Mitchell family, whose cross-country road trip to drop their daughter off at film school is interrupted by a robot apocalypse. The world's electronic devices, led by a Siri-like AI, decide to capture all humans, leaving the Mitchells as humanity's last hope. Produced by the same team behind Spider-Verse, the film pops with a zany, internet-infused animation style filled with visual gags. At its core, it’s a sweet story about a family learning to connect in a technology-obsessed world, delivering non-stop laughs and a genuinely touching message.
