TickiKids’ Cinematic Landscape for Children: Top-10 Movies from Every Genre
Published 27 February 2024 at 09:47
Tickikids Blog Hong Kong > Reviews > TickiKids’ Cinematic Landscape for Children: Top-10 Movies from Every Genre
As we gaze into today's cinematic landscape, get ready for a delightful array of family-friendly films spanning various genres! TickiKids presents a curated selection of the finest kids' movies, thoughtfully arranged in chronological order of their release. Whether you're in the mood for a whimsical fairy-tale, an epic fantasy, an out-of-this-world Sci-Fi adventure, a heartwarming coming-of-age story, a charming rom-com, or a soul-stirring tear-jerker, the film industry promises an abundance of top-notch entertainment beaming straight to your television screen. Our comprehensive list caters to diverse tastes, ensuring there's something for every parent across generations and children of all ages. Make sure to bookmark this page, so you can easily check what cinematic wonders await you on those free weekends, rainy afternoons, or whenever you're ready to orchestrate a memorable family movie night!
True Spirit
Video Credit: Netflix
In this gripping Netflix narrative based on true events, follow Jessica Watson's dream to become the youngest person to complete a non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation of the globe. This means she must sail solo without any support and refrain from making stops at any ports throughout the journey! With a daring 210-day voyage ahead, the film explores the challenges she faces amidst the unpredictable waves.
Age: 9+
Directed by: Sarah Spillane
Starring: Teagan Croft, Cliff Curtis, Bridget Webb, Josh Lawson, Anna Paquin
Chupa
Video Credit: Netflix
As young Alex visits his family in Mexico, an unexpected friendship with a chupacabra unfolds in his grandpa's garage. Chupa, the central creature companion, possesses an undeniable charm. Attempt to resist falling for this endearing blend of puppy and cat with wings! Chupa's influence propels Alex's emotional narrative forward, and the synergy between the two outsiders evolves as they discover the strength to assert themselves, fortified by the unyielding power of family bonds. Get ready for a magical journey filled with mystery and adventure!
Age: 9+
Directed by: Jonás Cuarón
Starring: Demián Bichir, Evan Whitten, Christian Slater, Ashley Ciarra, Nickolas Verdugo, Adriana Paz, Gerardo Taracena, Julio Cesar Cedillo
Peter Pan and Wendy
Video Credit: Walt Disney Studios
This live-action adaptation was inspired by Walt Disney's 1953 animated feature film Peter Pan, which itself drew from J. M. Barrie's 1904 play, Peter Pan; or, the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up. Peter Pan and Wendy venture into the enchanting realm of Neverland accompanied by Wendy's siblings and Peter's best friend, Tinker Bell. Amidst the journey, Wendy finds herself on an adventure that promises to reshape her life, all while facing the notorious Captain Hook, Peter's longstanding adversary. Embark on a mesmerizing journey that transports Neverland right into the heart of every home!
Age: 9+
Directed by: David Lowery
Starring: Jude Law, Jim Gaffigan, Alexander Molony, Ever Anderson, Joshua Pickering, Jacobi Jupe
Crater
Video Credit: Walt Disney Studios
Embark on a lunar adventure with Disney+ in this sci-fi coming-of-age tale. Set in a moon mining colony, the film follows a group of kids planning one last rover trip before facing relocation. An adventurous expedition is undertaken to unravel the secrets concealed within a mysterious crater…
Age: 12+
Directed by: Kyle Patrick Alvarez
Starring: Mckenna Grace, Billy Barratt, Isaiah Russell-Bailey
The Little Mermaid
Video Credit: Disney Australia & New Zealand
Dive into the enchanting world of Disney's live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid, 1989 animated film. Unlike Andersen's original fairy tale, this musical romantic fantasy concludes with a happy ending! The film follows Ariel's journey as she navigates the challenges of the human world, ultimately finding true love and happiness. She and Eric tie the knot, opting for a shared journey as they travel together. Their decision receives the blessing of their parents and the wholehearted support of people from both of their worlds.
Age: 5+
Directed by: Rob Marshall
Starring: Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, Noma Dumezweni, Art Malik, Javier Bardem, Melissa McCarthy
Spy Kids: Armageddon
Video Credit: Netflix
Robert Rodriguez returns with a new installment in the Spy Kids franchise. Join new recruits Patty and Tony in a family adventure where accidental involvement with dangerous tech thrusts them into spy mode. To rescue their parents and safeguard the world, children must embrace their own spy personas and combat the digital threat!
Age: 7+
Directed by: Robert Rodriguez
Starring: Gina Rodriguez, Zachary Levi, Everly Carganilla, Billy Magnussen
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
Video Credit: Netflix
This marks Anderson's second film adaptation of a Dahl masterpiece, succeeding his work on Fantastic Mr. Fox, 2009. A whimsical tale focuses on the extraordinary abilities of Henry Sugar. The narrative unfolds as a wealthy man discovers a mystical guru with the ability to see without using his eyes through a unique form of Yoga. Intrigued, the man embarks on a journey to master this skill, intending to use it for strategic advantage in the realm of gambling.
Age: 8+
Directed by: Wes Anderson
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rupert Friend
Candy Cane Lane
Video Credit: Prime Video Singapore
Eddie Murphy stars in this Amazon original where a dad enters into a contract with an Elf to win the block's Christmas decoration contest. However, when the fine print is overlooked, he finds himself in a whimsical and troublesome holiday predicament…
Age: 12+
Directed by: Reginald Hudlin
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jillian Bell, Thaddeus J. Mixson, Ken Marino, Trevante Rhodes, David Alan Grier, Nick Offerman
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
Video Credit: DC
Another superhero film is based on the DC character Acuaman! This family-friendly aquatic adventure is a visual spectacle that will captivate audiences of all ages! The underwater world is brought to life with stunning visuals and vibrant colorus, making it a feast for the eyes. The CGI effects create a mesmerising underwater realm filled with mystical creatures and breathtaking landscapes. The Lost Kingdom doesn't just rely on its visual appeal; it also delivers a heartwarming and action-packed story suitable for kids and parents alike. Momoa's charismatic performance adds humour and relatability to the character of Aquaman, making him a hero that kids can root for!
Age: 13+
Directed by: James Wan
Starring: Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yanya Abdul-Mateen II, Randal Park, Dolph Lundgren, Temuera Morrison, Martin Short, Nicole Kidman
Wonka
Video Credit: IGN
Timothée Chalamet takes on the role of Willy Wonka in this musical fantasy prequel to Roald Dahl's classic, Charlie and Chocolate Factory. This whimsical journey explores the origins of the iconic chocolatier, promising a delightful experience for audiences of all ages! Aspiring to establish a store in a city celebrated for its chocolate, a young and financially challenged Wonka stumbles upon a disheartening revelation: the industry is controlled by a consortium of avaricious chocolatiers. The path to triumph is filled with difficulties but no obstacle is too big for a dreamer!
Age: 12+
Directed by: Paul King
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Calah Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, Rich Fulcher, Rakhee Thakrar, Natasha Rothwell, Tom Davis, Olivia Colman. Hugh Grant