Disney's Turning Red quickly took the world by storm when it came out earlier this year, reflecting the best aspects of fan-favorite family movies. Letterboxd users have made it easy for viewers looking for more of the must-see family films from the past decade, with the highest-rated ones from each year representing the best that the genre has to offer.
The top-scoring family films on the social media platform are perfect for movie nights with loved ones. They almost always deliver important lessons about life, love, and everything in between, with the most heartfelt ones often having relatable characters and tear-jerking scenes.
Fandry (2013) - 4.1
Available to rent on Apple TV.
Director Nagraj Manjule subverts expectations in Fandry, a Marathi-language film that depicts the seemingly innocent love story between a young boy from a lower caste and a sweet upper-caste girl. Most of the movie plays out like a typical family-friendly film focused on the charming budding romance between the two characters, but it's the powerful final moments that highlight its real message about caste-based discrimination.
The disarming film uses simplicity to highlight its characters' quest for love and independence amidst a community with established cultural norms and values that make that challenging. Its infamous final sequence breaks the fourth wall and raises important questions about the cinematic gaze and the viewers themselves.
Song Of The Sea (2014) - 4.1
Available to rent on Apple TV.
Audiences are thrust into a fantastical world in director Tomm Moore's Song of the Sea. The movie revolves around magical elements in the ocean that are brought to its young protagonists' attention after they set out to go back to their home by the sea. Ben and Saoirse don't realize just how deep the magic runs in their family until they work together to uncover the truth about their pasts.
With its stunning art style, countless magical creatures inspired by Irish folklore, and surprisingly emotional narrative, viewers are bound to find something to like about the criminally underrated fantasy film.
Our Little Sister (2015) - 4.0
Available to rent on Apple TV.
Director Hirokazu Kore-eda displays his unique ability to weave simple, intimate, and unforgettable stories in Our Little Sister. The Japanese drama film is centered on three siblings who discover they have a stepsister. The movie depicts the way their relationship develops after they invite their sibling to live with them.
The endearing movie is full of heartfelt moments that highlight the human capacity for love and acceptance despite challenging circumstances. It navigates potentially heavy subjects with refreshing lightheartedness and grace that will make fans want to hug and appreciate their loved ones.
Kubo And The Two Strings (2016) - 3.9
Available to rent on Apple TV.
Often cited alongside some of the best stop-motion movies of all time, director Travis Knight gives audiences a wildly entertaining tale in Kubo and the Two Strings. The film follows Kubo's adventures with his snow monkey and beetle, as the three of them embark on a quest to discover more about his mysterious samurai father.
Along the way, Kubo learns more about his family's messy history, as well as his own untapped power. With its striking animation, flawless sound design, and moving story, viewers will likely find themselves glued to their screens from start to finish.
Paddington 2 (2017) - 4.2
Available to stream on HBO Max.
There's no questioning that Paddington 2 is up there with the best comedy movies from the last ten years. Director Paul King's award-winning sequel exceeds the original in more ways than one, as it takes the titular character on an even wackier misadventure.
In the film, Paddington ends up in jail after a gift he's been meaning to buy for his aunt goes missing. The Browns do everything they can to clear his name, but it's not a simple nor easy process. Along the way, fans will find more reasons to fall in love with the charming protagonist, who just wanted to do a nice thing for his family.
Peranbu (2018) - 4.0
Available to stream on Prime Video.
Peranbu is a hard-hitting drama film that older viewers will be able to appreciate. Director Ram explores some taboo subjects in the Indian Tamil-language film, which tells the story of a father and his daughter who has cerebral palsy. Things change for the duo after the mother leaves, complicating their situation in their judgemental community.
The tear-jerker takes some unexpected twists and turns as the pair develop a close bond and learn more about each other. The story unapologetically depicts commonly avoided subjects in Indian cinema, exploring the taboo topics in a thoughtful but honest way.
Klaus (2019) - 4.1
Available to stream on Netflix.
Audiences looking for a heartwarming Christmas movie should check out director Sergio Pablos' Klaus. The underrated animated film follows the postman Jesper's misadventures after he's sent to Smeerensburg, a sleepy town that's sorely lacking in Christmas spirit. An encounter with the titular character changes things in the community, though, which not everyone is happy about.
With its striking art style, lovable characters, and unique take on Santa's origin story, the feel-good movie has something to offer for viewers of all ages. It's easy to root for the charming protagonist, especially when he faces scrutiny from the grumpy townspeople.
Wolfwalkers (2020) - 4.1
Available to stream on Apple TV+.
Directed by Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart, Wolfwalkers is one of the best non-Disney animated films from the last few years. It revolves around the fortuitous meeting of a young hunter sent to wipe out the last wolf pack and a local girl who tries to change her mind.
The movie's gorgeous woodblock aesthetic and expressionist art style will impress adults, and its touching story will reveal important lessons for younger viewers. It's a true standout not just because of its animation, but also its engrossing narrative that draws inspiration from Irish folklore.
Petite Maman (2021) - 4.0
Also considered by Letterboxd users as one of the best international movies, Petite Maman thrusts audiences into 8-year-old Nelly's world, which hasn't been the same since her grandmother's death. The fantasy-drama film depicts her experiences in her mother's childhood home where she unexpectedly makes a new friend out in the woods.
Even though the movie deals with a heavy subject, it does so with tenderness and a slow pace that gives the entire film a dreamlike quality. Its quirky fantastical elements serve as a reflection of Nelly's emotions as she grapples with grief and loss.
Turning Red (2022) - 3.8
Available to stream on Disney+.
Director Domee Shi's Turning Red introduced fans to the lovable 13-year-old Mei whose life is turned around when her red panda arrives. Every time she's embarrassed, Mei transforms into the giant red creature, which complicates her time in school and relationships with her family.
Its unusual premise is just the tip of the iceberg, as the Disney movie thoughtfully tackles complex themes about identity and culture. Mei's story sends an important message about acceptance and self-love, leaving viewers wondering about their own personal red pandas.