For the past 26 years, families have been treated to an extraordinary run of movies that are both kid-friendly and artistically brilliant. We're living in a golden age of family cinema, where animated wonders and live-action delights have become modern classics. These films aren't just for kids—they're for everyone, and they prove that a movie can be appropriate for all ages without sacrificing depth or prestige. Here are the six best family movies released since 2000, ranked.
6. 'Wolfwalkers' (2020)
Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon has produced only a handful of features, but each one is a treasure. Wolfwalkers, co-directed by Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart, is a stunning father-daughter story set in a world of Irish folklore. Its hand-drawn animation is among the most beautiful of the 2020s, and its themes—about nature, colonization, and healing—are both timely and timeless. This Apple TV+ gem is a hidden fantasy masterpiece that teaches kids to respect the wild while inspiring adults to confront historical trauma. It's a small film with a huge heart, and it belongs on any list of the best family movies since 2000.
5. 'Ratatouille' (2007)
Only Brad Bird could make a movie about a rat who dreams of being a chef feel so profound. Ratatouille is Pixar at its peak: a love letter to Paris, food, and following your passion no matter what anyone says. It's funny enough to keep kids entertained, but its real magic lies in its celebration of art and the democratization of creativity. The film's message—that anyone can cook—resonates with viewers of all ages, making it one of the most perfect animated movies ever made. It's no wonder many consider it Pixar's greatest film.
4. 'Toy Story 3' (2010)
Eleven years after Toy Story 2, Pixar delivered a sequel that justified its existence with emotional heft and thematic richness. Toy Story 3 explores growing up, nostalgia, and change in ways that are both deeply moving and surprisingly dark. It became the third animated film ever nominated for the Best Picture Oscar, and it remains one of the most perfect family films of the 21st century. For those who love ranking the best of the best, this is a must-watch alongside other Oscar Best Picture winners since 2000.
3. 'How to Train Your Dragon' (2010)
DreamWorks Animation has produced many classics, but none surpass the original How to Train Your Dragon. Based on Cressida Cowell's books, this film tells the story of Hiccup, a young Viking who befriends a dragon named Toothless. Its breathtaking animation, soaring score, and heartfelt story about friendship and understanding make it pure movie magic. The sequels are excellent, but the original remains the best—a timeless fantasy adventure that appeals to kids and adults alike. It's also one of the best sci-fi movie trilogies of all time.
2. 'Spirited Away' (2001)
Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece is not just a family film—it's one of the greatest movies ever made. Spirited Away follows young Chihiro as she navigates a spirit world to save her parents. Its imaginative creatures, stunning hand-drawn animation, and themes of courage and identity resonate across generations. This is a film that doesn't talk down to children; instead, it invites them into a rich, strange, and beautiful world. It won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature and remains a benchmark for what family cinema can achieve.
1. 'Paddington 2' (2017)
At the top of our list is Paddington 2, a film that has been called one of the best movies of the decade—period. This live-action sequel improves on the original in every way, with a warm, funny, and deeply kind story about a bear who brings out the best in everyone around him. Ben Whishaw's voice performance is perfect, and the film's visual style is a joy. Paddington 2 is a reminder that family movies can be both sophisticated and heartwarming, and it's the best of the best since 2000. For more great family-friendly content, check out our list of the best fantasy TV shows of the last 15 years.
