41 best family movies on Netflix in 2024
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Choosing from the best family movies on Netflix isn't easy, even with a new addition here and there. Netflix's always losing licensed movies, giving us reasons to update this list to make sure it reflects the current options. Making matters worse, Netflix's Children & Family Movies section is packed with films of questionable quality, and it takes a lot of time to sift through all of them to find something that works for you and your crew.
We consider ratings from both Common Sense Media and Rotten Tomatoes, but neither is exactly the end-all-be-all for deciding what's truly one of the best family movies on Netflix. Trying to keep your kids away from inappropriate content? Check out our guide on how to set up Netflix parental controls.
The best family movies on Netflix right now
'The Imaginary'
Studio Ponoc's whimsical animated tale follows a young girl named Amanda (Evie Kiszel) and her invisible friend Rudger (Louie Rudge-Buchanan). Amanda and Rudger head off on fun adventures in a world of make-believe. But when circumstances find Rudger alone, he ends up in the Town of Imaginaries, a place where forgotten imaginary friends are left to languish. There, Rudger encounters an ominous threat that challenges his very existence.
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 11 and up
Watch now
'Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie'
When the entire undersea city of Bikini Bottom and its colorful inhabitants find themselves uprooted from their aquatic home, they need a hero. But not just any hero. A squirrelly one, from Texas. Determined to rescue their beloved community, Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence) and SpongeBob SquarePants (Tom Kenny) set off for the Lone Star State, where they must confront the mastermind behind this sinister plan and restore Bikini Bottom to its rightful place beneath the waves.
40% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
Watch now
'Thelma the Unicorn'
"Thelma the Unicorn" centers on Thelma, a plain pony who dreams of becoming a glamorous unicorn. When an accidental transformation turns her into a sparkling pink unicorn, Thelma skyrockets to fame and experiences the highs and lows of celebrity life. As she navigates her new world of glitz and adoration, Thelma learns important lessons about identity, self-acceptance, and the true meaning of happiness. With catchy songs and emotional moments, this movie makes for a meaningful watch for both children and adults. — AB
63% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up
Watch now
'Orion and the Dark'
"Orion and the Dark" is an animated adventure comedy movie based on the children's book by Emma Yarlett. The story follows Orion, a young boy who is afraid of the dark. One night, the Dark itself comes to life and takes Orion on a journey to help him confront and overcome his fears. Through their adventures, Orion discovers the wonders and secrets hidden in the darkness, learning that it isn't as frightening as he once thought. This story combines humor, heartwarming moments, and imaginative visuals to deliver a message about facing fears and finding friendship in unexpected places. — AB
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'True Spirit'
True Spirit tells the true story of teenager Jessica Watson (Teagan Croft), who became the youngest person to sail around the world on her own. Watson sets out on the daring voyage at just 16 years old. Anna Paquin stars as her mother, who supports Jessica's ambitious dream despite its dangers, and Cliff Curtis gives a standout performance as the gruff but dedicated sailing mentor who trains Watson for the treacherous journey ahead. It's an uplifting story about never giving up, even when facing the impossible, that will likely resonate with the entire family or anyone who needs a little encouragement here and there.
75% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
Watch now
'Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken'
Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor) is a 16-year-old kraken who desperately wants to fit in at school with her peers. But that's hard to do when you have an overprotective mom who won't let you in the water. When Ruby breaks her rules and figures out she's part of a line of powerful kraken queens and is next in line for the throne from her grandmother, her life if being an invisible nobody ends as she must face off against a group of evil mermaids set on taking over the world's oceans.
65% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up
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'Marcel the Shell with Shoes On'
Marcel (Jenny Slate) is a tiny shell who lives with his grandmother, and yes, he has shoes on. The pair are the only ones who live in their town, though they once had a neighbor who mysteriously disappeared. After someone finds a film posted by the neighbor, the world discovers Marcel and millions fall in love with him and look to help him on his journey to reconnect with his long-lost family.
98% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse'
Following the events of the first “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” film, Miles Morales is attempting to balance his life as a normal teenager with his identity as Spider-Man. However, after a fateful encounter with a villain known as “The Spot” and a reunion with his friend Gwen Stacy, Morales gets sucked back into the multiverse where he finds out that not all Spider-People have good intentions, and not all heroes want to save the world.
This second entry in this blockbuster series garnered universal acclaim from critics and audiences and showcased a complex hero’s journey for Miles Morales. Filled with action, heart, and one of the best scores for an animated film in recent memory, this is definitely a trip into the multiverse that families will love taking.
95% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 9 and up
Watch now
'A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon'
Shaun goes sci-fi in “A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon,” a slapstick stop-motion movie with a surprisingly heartwarming message about friendship, helping others, and the importance of home.
The film kicks off with a crash-landing near Mossy Bottom Farm, which leaves a strange alien stranded. Shaun decides to help, but soon finds out that this unearthly visitor is being pursued by a mysterious organization. While kids will enjoy the film’s close calls and over-the-top humor, there is plenty here for adults as well, including some smart callbacks to sci-fi classics like “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “E.T.” and “2001: A Space Odyssey”
96% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 5 and up
Watch now
'Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget'
Over two decades after their original daring escape in “Chicken Run”, soft-spoken and friendly hen Ginger (Thandiwe Newton) and brash American rooster Rocky (Zachary Levi) find themselves having to protect their newfound flock from an all-too-familiar menace. This time, the chickens won't be breaking out of the farm they live on, but breaking in – are their infiltration skills as good as their escape prowess all these years later? You bet – and the silly, family-friendly jokes make for a clucking good time, too.
81% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 7 and up
Watch now
'Over the Moon'
Fei Fei (Cathy Ang) is a young girl on a quest to validate the legendary tale of Chang’e (Phillipa Soo), the moon goddess who chose immortality over love with Houyi (Conrad Ricamora). To do that, Fei Fei builds a rocket to the moon, determined to prove the existence of the deity that she sees come to life in vibrant color, dancing across the print of a decorative scarf. This out-of-this-world adventure has a show-stopping pop number from Soo and absolutely gorgeous animation that you’ll want to rewind over and over to see again.
82% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up
Watch now
'Leo'
Leo (Adam Sandler) is an old lizard who still has a zest for life. After spending every day of his life as a class pet, eventually discovers his days are numbered, with just one year left to make his dreams of freedom from the school he lives in a reality. But when a notoriously mean substitute teacher takes over his class, Leo's escape plan takes an unexpected turn. He soon finds himself far away from his best friend and fellow school pet Squirtle (Bill Burr), in a new role where he acts as support and a confidant for frustrated students.
82% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio'
Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio reimagines the classic tale as a post-World War I story with many darker elements. Woodcarver Geppetto (David Bradley), still grieving the loss of his son Carlo (Gregory Mann), crafts a puppet from a pine tree planted at his son's grave. The puppet, named Pinocchio (Mann), comes to life as a mischievous little boy, leading to chaos in his small village. Guiding Pinocchio is Sebastian J. Cricket (Ewan McGregor). Pinocchio struggles with his identity while wishing for immortality, and gets caught up in several mishaps, including being exploited in a circus lead by Count Volpe (Christoph Waltz) and coming face to face with a terrifying sea creature. It’s a sight darker than the Disney version, but well worth the journey.
96% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 11 and up
Watch now
'Rescued by Ruby'
Daniel O'Neil (Grant Gustin) is a Rhode Island state trooper who wants to join the K-9 search and rescue team. Despite repeated rejections, he keeps trying even harder after learning his wife is pregnant. In a twist of fate, Daniel crosses paths with Ruby, a hyperactive half-border collie with a history of failed adoptions from the local shelter. Recognizing a kindred spirit in Ruby, Daniel takes a leap of faith, adopting her to train as his search and rescue partner. Together, the pair overcome all odds to become who they were truly meant to be. - BV
100% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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'The Sleepover'
Clancy Finch (Sadie Stanley) is a teenager with a crush and a rebellious streak. She finds her world turned upside down when her mother Margot's (Malin Akerman) past catches up with them. Margot, a former member of a crime syndicate now in witness protection, is forced to confront her old life when a viral video blows her cover. The Finch children, along with Clancy's friend Mim (Cree Cicchino) and brother Kevin's (Maxwell Simkins) friend Lewis (Lewis Jaye), become accidental heroes as they embark on a mission to save their parents.
67% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Nimona'
This luxuriously-animated movie is all about odd allegiances. Nimona (Chlo? Grace Moretz) is a shape-shifter whose people have been targeted by the knights of the kingdom. But, then, knight Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed) is framed for the murder of the queen of this futuristic world — and needs Nimona's help to clear his name.
Critics praise Nimona for its positive messages, but also note that it may be a little too violent for some. Others, demand a sequel.
97% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 11 and up
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'Enola Holmes 2'
Sequels, often, benefit from having their predecessor done the heavy-lifting needed to establish a world that characters (and audiences) can have fun in. So, now that young Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) Holmes is ready to break out of the shadow of her famous brother (Henry Cavill) and start her own agency, she's also old enough to learn that the world won't take a young girl seriously as a detective.
Fortunately, she meets Bessie (Serrana Su-Ling Bliss), a factory girl in desperate need of help finding her missing sister. So, while audiences are entertained, they'll actually also get an education about the 1888 matchgirls' strike.
94% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 12 and up
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'Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical'
Not every child is raised by parents who care about their education, and not every family can make it to a Royal Shakespeare Company performance. And so we talk about Netflix's new adaptation of Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Applauded for solid performances all-around — Emma Thomson and Lashana Lynch were expectedly fantastic, while newcomer Alisha Weir also dazzles — this film is proof that Netflix can make some of the best family movies, period. And credit to director Matthew Warchus and screenwriter Dennis Kelly for sprinkling in the appropriately small amount of risk and danger on top.
92% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'The Sea Beast'
Netflix is slowly hitting its stride again when it comes to family-friendly animated movies, and The Sea Beast is the latest piece of proof in that favor. This aquatic adventure finds the orphaned Maisie (voiced by Zaris-Angel Hator) stow away on a pirate ship run by monster hunters, led by Captain Crow (Jared Harris). But there's a beast known as The Red Bluster that's terrorizing the seas and causing trouble for the crew. Soon, Maisie and the captain's adopted son Jacob Holland (Karl Urban) are separated from the rest of the crew, and need to survive on their own.
94% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood'
Netflix's original animated kids movies typically go CGI and neon, so color us surprised and delighted to find that Richard Linklater is at the helm for Netflix's latest great movie for families. This time, Linklater is using his love of rotoscope animation to recreate what it was like to be a child during the space race. The film is told through two perspective, a child named Stan who dreams of being in space, and the astronauts and mission control team working during the first moon landing.
92% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
Watch now
'Hilda and the Mountain King'
If your family hasn't watched Netflix's excellent animated series Hilda yet, now's the right time — as its sequel movie just came out. This wonderful show has a brilliant wholesome energy to it, with charm and emotional resonance. This feature-length episode looks at one of the show's biggest questions, "what's up with the human/troll conflict?" and does so with a traditional manner: a fish out of water story. The plot is simple, the titular Hilda wakes up with the body of a troll, and is now tasked with two missions: regain her human form and save the city of Trolberg.
97% Rotten Tomatoes (audience score)
Common Sense Media says: Not reviewed yet
Watch now
'Klaus'
Don't think we need a Santa origin story? Sorry, while the movie industry has made many of us grinches when it comes to films that explain where long-loved characters come from, Klaus breaks the mold. This gorgeous animated film tells a tale set in the fictional town of Smeerensburg, Jesper (voiced by Jason Schwartzman) is a spoiled postman who somehow makes friends with — you guessed it — Klaus (voiced by J.K. Simmons), the local toymaker. Older audiences will appreciate veteran actors including Joan Cusack and the late Norm Macdonald.
94% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up (plus, a Common Sense Selection pick for Families)
Watch now
'Vivo'
Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote eight original songs for the movie, which fuses his Broadway rapping style with the sounds of Cuba. Vivo follows the titular kinkajou (Miranda), a talented musician who busks in the streets of Havana with owner Andrés (Juan de Marcos). After a tragedy, Vivo journeys to Florida to deliver a love song to the famous singer Marta Sandoval (Gloria Estefan). Along the way, he makes some unlikely friends and connects in his grief with Andrés’ grandniece Gabi (Ynairaly Simo).
86% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 6 and up (plus, a Common Sense Selection pick for Families)
Watch now
'Escape The Undertaker'
OK, this one may be best for kids who are a little older (CSM ranks it for ages 9 and up), but this digital choose-your-own adventure movie offers something your kids may not have seen in a while. You make the decisions for WWE Superstars The New Day, who have decided to stop by The Undertaker's creepy mansion. The chemistry between the trio (Big E, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) is hilarious, and it's perfect for younger and older children alike. Having trouble with inputting your selection? Netflix customer service might be able to help.
No Rotten Tomatoes score
Common Sense Media says: ages 9 and up
Watch now
'The Mitchells vs. The Machines'
The latest addition to this list of the best family movies on Netflix, The Mitchells vs. The Machines is an animated film that has something for everyone. Its visuals astound (as we expected from the team behind Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse), and its cast is filled to the brim with top players including Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Eric Andre and Olivia Colman.
And the story is simple until it's chaos: the Mitchell family is out for a road trip right before daughter Katie starts film school. But, then, the robot uprising begins. You know, all our smart tech has finally had enough of us, and is going to take over. It's the inevitable moment we all saw coming, and the exact last thing a family would want when they're on the road and reliant on technology. Too fantastic? Check out our guide to the best Netflix documentaries.
97% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'My Octopus Teacher'
Tired of zany and too-wacky Netflix animated movies filled with animals who talk and prattle on too long? Looking to give your kids a completely different kind of movie night? Audiences 8 and up (according to Common Sense Media) will enjoy this documentary about a filmmaker who needs to get away from it all — and retreats to the shores of South Africa.
Diving in the local kelp forest, he meets an octopus who becomes his new friend. The two spend nearly a year together, and their connection is genuine and powerful.
95% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up (plus, a Common Sense Selection pick for Families)
Watch now
'Wish Dragon'
Kids will flock to Sony Pictures Animation's Wish Dragon for the colorful designs and zany antics, but their parents will keep paying attention because of a stellar cast of voice actors. The likes of John Cho, Constance Wu, Bobby Lee and Jimmy O. Yang lend their voices to project that will surely speak to younger audiences.
Din (voiced by Jimmy Wong) is a college student with large dreams and a small budget, who is helped by Long (Cho) a wish-granting dragon. Think Aladdin, but slightly more relevant. Oh, and one more item for its credibility: Jackie Chan produced Wish Dragon.
68% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up (plus, a Common Sense Selection pick for Families)
Watch now
'Enola Holmes'
Families looking for a fun and lively action-filled mystery should stream Enola Holmes. The film stars Stranger Things' Millie Bobby Brown, who brings modern sensibilities to days of yore. And, yes, Enola is from that Holmes family. But her brothers Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Clafin) are among those who don't know quite what to make of how their little sister is remarkably free-spirited for her time. Brown thrives in the role, mixing the fourth-wall breaking fun that seems to only make it to older female characters such as Fleabag. But parents don't need to worry about the show being too adult, aside from some fight scenes employing knives and guns. For movies from a different historical era, check out our guide to the best Presidents' Day movies. Also, Enola Holmes 2 is almost here!
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up
Watch now
'Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey'
Seemingly a near-instant classic, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is the unexpected holiday season hit is one of the best family movies on Netflix — especially during the holiday season. A gigantic musical film, filled with joy and excitement — plus a top-tier cast — this John Legend-produced film has won applause all over, from critics to fans. We'll keep plot details minimal, but the film centers around a toymaker who's lost his smile, but may get his exuberance back when he's reunited with his intelligent granddaughter. Want more holiday cheer? Here's how to watch Elf online.
92% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
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'John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch'
Are your kids not exactly traditional? Parents of kids with particularly unique and slightly mature tastes in TV and movies should consider John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch for the next movie night. In this film, the titular comedian (who is also great on HBO Max's The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo) runs through all of the standard kids content tropes with a sly wit and a lot of kindness. Younger kids may not "get" it, but parents who are fans of Mulaney's will likely wonder why all kids-friendly content can't be this intelligent. It's also got musical numbers, to keep the especially young crowd from getting bored.
96% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Pokemon Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution'
A CGI remake of the original Pokemon film, Mewtwo Strikes Back: Evolution is both familiar but new. It focuses on what happens when the iconic Pokemon trainer Ash (and his fellow trainers) discover the massively powerful Mewtwo, a psychic Pokemon who is a massive threat. While it's not high art, it's still a decent choice for family movie night if and when your kid just got into the Pokemon world. Especially since the original is not on Netflix. Mewtwo will also teach kids about when you shouldn't judge others.
44% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
Watch now
'Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus'
Netflix rebooted the Nicktoon classic Invader Zim with this 71-minute film that's easily one of the best family movies on Netflix — especially for younger parents. Just like the classic show, Florpus offers a wild manic energy with some jokes that kids won't get and parents will chuckle at. Reviews point to the film's amazing eye candy and endearing energy levels, and small nods to other classic animated shows. If your kids love this film, maybe it's time to dig up the original series or get them started on Adventure Time.
100% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
Watch now
'The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind'
This inspiring film — set in a small farming village in Malawi — will pull audiences in with the presence of lead actor (and director) Chiwetel Ejiofor. The award-winning actor doesn't take up too much of the film, though, giving proper time to lead Maxwell Simba, who plays a 13-year-old boy named William. While William's story may read like a middle-school assignment, his education is taken away before he conceives a windmill-power generator to solve his town's problems, it's the kind of motivational story that science-obsessed kids might love.
85% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 12 and up.
Watch now
'Rocko's Modern Life: Static Cling'
For slightly older kids and parents on the younger end, Rocko's Modern Life: Static Cling is both proudly progressive and delightfully nostalgic. Not only does the series match the original Nicktoon's vibe, but its approach to identity and transgender roles should be inspiring to other family programming looking to take the leap. And at only 45 minutes, this special won't take a huge bite out of your night.
91% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up.
Watch now
'White Fang'
Inspired by Jack London's novel, White Fang will capture the imaginations of those who love pets and nature. Tracing the story of a wolfdog's life, as he moves between three masters, this wonderful animated movie comes to us from France, where it was originally titled Croc-Blanc. Voice acting work comes from beloved names such as Parks and Recreation stars Rashida Jones and Nick Offerman, as well as Paul Giamatti.
88% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 10 and up.
Watch now
'Next Gen'
Parents looking for a futuristic animated film for their middle-school-aged (and up) kids that successfully manages to be appropriate and entertaining should check out Netflix's Next Gen. Featuring voice acting from John Krasinski (The Office) and Charlene Yi (Paper Heart), who play an AI and a young girl, respectively, who unite to stop a baddie. Next Gen is a sci-fi adventure movie that keeps its action scenes kid-friendly with laser blasts and explosions, while staying away from the more grizzly stuff.
60% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 8 and up.
Watch now
'Pee-wee's Big Holiday'
Parents of a certain age, who would be eager to introduce their kids to Pee-wee Herman and his manic energy, will find Pee-wee's Big Holiday to be one of the best family movies on Netflix. It may not provide as many laughs per minute as previous capers, reviews noted it offers a sweetness that will delight existing fans and kids who can handle some surreal humor.
80% Rotten Tomatoes
Common Sense Media says: ages 11 and up.
Watch now
'Yes Day'
Allison (Jennifer Garner) and Carlos Torres (édgar Ramírez) have always said yes to everything. Now that they have kids (Jenna Ortega, Julian Lerner, and Everly Carganilla), they've changed their tune. They have to say no to keep their sanity with all three children to keep the peace, or so they think. When they get wind of a "yes day" where parents can't decline any request, the Torres family jumps in to try and rebuild the growing rift between them and their kids. But as they keep giving in to more outlandish requests, the Torres clan discovers that you need those "no" answers to temper the yesses, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy time as a family.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 52%
Common Sense Media says: Ages 8 and up
Watch now
'Paddington'
In the heart of London, an unexpected visitor from the Peruvian rainforest finds himself far from home. Dubbed "Paddington" (Ben Whishaw) after the train station where he's discovered, this young bear quickly charms the kind-hearted Brown family: Henry (Hugh Bonneville) and Mary (Sally Hawkins). But as Paddington tries to adapt to city life and its challenges, he catches the eye of Millicent Clyde (Nicole Kidman), a taxidermist who wants him on her wall. The Browns must work together to protect their furry family member from a terrible fate, all the while learning a thing or two about each other along the way.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
Common Sense Media says: Ages 6 and up
Watch now
'We Can Be Heroes'
This standalone flick, set in the same universe as The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3-D, is all camp, but perfect for the whole family. When the world's mightiest heroes are captured in an epic battle, it's up to their kids to rise to the occasion. Led by Missy Moreno (YaYa Gosselin), who's joined by an ensemble of super-powered kids, this plucky team finds themselves on a mission to stop an alien "takeover." As they venture into the heart of the alien mothership, under the guidance of trainer Grandma Anita (Adriana Barraza), this next generation of heroes proves that sometimes, you need a set of younger hands to save the day.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 74%
Common Sense Media says: Ages 8 and up
Watch now
