There’s just something about a good movie that brings families closer together. For me, going to the theater with my kids isn’t just about the entertainment—it’s an experience. We laugh, we share snacks, and we step into worlds that spark their imaginations (and mine too, if I’m honest). 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for family-friendly movies, and my calendar is already marked for some can’t-miss releases.
This is the lowdown on five movies the whole family will love—films that promise adventure, laughs, heart, and maybe even a little nostalgia for us parents. Grab your popcorn, because this list is full of magic and fun!
1. Disney’s Snow White
Disney is bringing us yet another live-action adaptation, and I’ll admit—Snow White has always been one of my favorites. Sure, the animated classic from 1937 is iconic, but this live-action version starring Rachel Zegler (from West Side Story) promises to bring something fresh to the table. Zegler’s talents as both an actress and singer practically guarantee Snow White will be more spirited and bold than her vintage counterpart.
With Gal Gadot stepping into the role of the Evil Queen, this film is set to have plenty of drama and dark glamour, too. I love a reimagined fairy tale, and this version is already being described as more modern and empowering while still staying true to the story’s classic charm. My kids are all about dwarfs, enchanted forests, and epic battles of good versus evil—so this one’s already a shoo-in for family movie night.
Release Date: March 21, 2025
2. Pixar’s Elio
Is it even a family movie list without something from Pixar? Their newest film, Elio, is going to take us into outer space, and I am so ready. The story revolves around Elio, a shy yet imaginative boy who ends up being mistakenly identified as Earth’s ambassador by a group of aliens. From there, chaos (and probably lots of laughs) ensue as Elio navigates intergalactic diplomacy.
Pixar has a way of mixing stunning visuals with big, emotional themes, which is one of the reasons I adore their films so much. They bring the humor and adventure for the kids, but there’s always a deeper message for us parents. I’m betting Elio will explore what it means to stand out, be yourself, and find your courage—even when you feel like you don’t belong. This feels like one of those movies that’ll have us laughing one minute and wiping away a sneaky tear the next.
Release Date: March 1, 2025
3. Freakier Friday
Remember the classic body-swap movie Freaky Friday? Well, it’s back, and this time it’s getting even freakier! Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan are officially reprising their roles, and I’m already picturing the chaotic hilarity. The first Freaky Friday was a favorite of mine growing up, back when I thought my mom just didn’t get me (turns out, she did). Now, as a mom myself, this sequel hits very close to home.
The new movie catches up with the mother-daughter duo years after their original switcheroo, and I can’t wait to see how their dynamic has evolved. My kids are a little young to fully grasp the “walking in someone else’s shoes” lesson, but they’re going to love the antics and laugh-out-loud moments. And honestly, I’m excited for the nostalgia trip—this one’s as much for me as it is for them!
Release Date: May 10, 2025
4. Laika’s Wildwood
I’m a huge fan of Laika’s films (Coraline and Kubo and the Two Strings are masterpieces), so when I heard they’re releasing Wildwood, I did a little happy dance. Laika is known for their stunning stop-motion animation and storytelling that’s as dark as it is magical, and this film seems to lean right into those strengths.
Wildwood is based on the bestselling book by Colin Meloy (of The Decemberists) and follows a young girl named Prue who discovers a hidden, magical forest outside her Portland neighborhood. With a mix of whimsical creatures, daring adventures, and Laika’s signature edge, this movie has the makings of an instant classic.
It’s perfect for families who love slightly more adventurous stories, and I know the mysterious world of Wildwood will enchant my kids. Plus, I’ll take any chance I can get to introduce them to enchanting animation that feels like art brought to life.
Release Date: September 12, 2025
5. A Minecraft Movie
If your house is anything like mine, Minecraft is its own language at this point. From building towering digital castles to battling zombies, this game takes up a lot of space in my kids’ brains—and I absolutely love how creative it lets them be.
Now, we’re getting A Minecraft Movie! While details are still under wraps, we know Jason Momoa is starring, and that alone has me intrigued. The movie will likely bring the game’s unique world of blocks, exploration, and creativity onto the big screen, so I’m excited to see how they translate its open-ended magic into a full story.
For Minecraft mega-fans like my kids, this will be the equivalent of Christmas morning. And who knows? Maybe it’ll even get me hooked on the game for real this time. (Honestly, I’ve already tried to play—I just end up decorating my house)
Release Date: April 4, 2025
