With many families spending more time at home, there’s an opportunity to bond over shared experiences, and one of the most enjoyable ways to do this is by watching films together. But with so much content out there, the question arises: “What to watch?”
Fear not! This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the world of movie franchises that are perfect for kids and families. These series offer entertainment and a chance for kids to learn valuable life lessons and families to engage in meaningful conversations. So, let’s dive into the magical realm of the best movie franchises for kids and families.
Toy Story – A Tale of Friendship and Adventure
Toy Story, a legendary franchise from Disney Pixar, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its engaging storyline and endearing characters. With an impressive 97% approval rating from Rotten Tomatoes for its fourth instalment, the franchise narrates an enchanting tale of friendship and adventure.
Centred around the characters Woody and Buzz Lightyear, voiced by the iconic Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, the franchise traces their exciting escapades. It also beautifully portrays the growth of their owner, Andy, until he passes on his beloved toy collection to a young girl named Bonnie in the third film. For viewers seeking a sprinkle of adventure, the second part of the franchise is highly recommended.
The Indiana Jones Series – An Action-Packed Journey
The Indiana Jones series, created by renowned filmmaker George Lucas, is an action-packed journey that will keep families on the edge of their seats. Despite being an action franchise, its thrilling adventures suit family viewing. The series, which spans from 1981 to 2008, is one of the most iconic family-oriented action films of all time. The franchise offers a riveting mix of mystery, suspense, and adventure, with Harrison Ford playing the titular character.
Avengers – The Superhero Saga
The Avengers franchise is a treat for families who love superhero sagas. An integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the franchise not only focuses on the Avengers team but also delves into the stories of each Avenger member through separate films.
The franchise reached its pinnacle with “Avengers: Endgame,” one of the highest-grossing films of 2019. Notably, this franchise is interconnected, making it an immersive universe for viewers to explore.
Star Wars – The Sci-Fi Phenomenon
Star Wars is an absolute must-watch for families who are fans of science fiction. This franchise, created by George Lucas, has become an icon in the science fiction genre due to its creative production. It offers a perfect blend of action, adventure, and fantasy, making it ideal for a family movie marathon.
Spider-Man – The Evolution of a Superhero
The Spider-Man franchise is unique as it comes in three distinct versions, each presenting a different take on the famed Marvel superhero. The Tobey Maguire version has a darker undertone, the Andrew Garfield version strikes a balance between dark and light, while the Tom Holland version is decidedly family-friendly.
These three versions show the evolution of the franchise in terms of cinematic features and the character development of Peter Parker. Whether swinging through the skyscrapers of New York or battling villains, Spider-Man’s exciting adventures make for a captivating watch.
Kung Fu Panda – A Martial Arts Marvel
DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda is a beautifully animated movie franchise that has won hearts with its martial arts action, wit, and heart. The franchise revolves around Po, a bumbling, idle panda voiced by Jack Black, who aspires to become a kung fu master warrior. With a stellar voice cast and a successful run of sequels, shorts, and television series, Kung Fu Panda is a testament to the enduring appeal of animated movie franchises.
Frozen – A Tale of Sisterhood and Self-Love
Disney’s Frozen franchise took the world by storm with its enchanting storyline, catchy soundtrack, and messages of women empowerment and true love. The franchise, which includes two highly successful films and several spin-offs, centres around the royal sisters Elsa and Anna. The franchise’s lead single, “Let it Go,” has become a global anthem, making this series a hit with audiences across the globe.
The Lego Movie – Building Creativity
The Lego Movie franchise is a testament to the power of creativity and imagination. With a cast of A-List actors and a captivating storyline, The Lego Movie has delighted audiences of all ages. Its success has spurred the creation of three more theatrically released movies, showcasing the enduring popularity of the Lego brand.
The Incredibles – A Superhero Family
Pixar’s The Incredibles franchise offers a unique take on the superhero genre. The movies focus on the Parr family, who strive to balance their everyday life with their secret superhero identities. The franchise has been lauded for its sharp animation, engaging storyline, and memorable characters, making it a family favourite.
Shrek – A Fairy-Tale Parody
The Shrek franchise is a delightful fairy-tale parody that has redefined animated movies. It combines a beautiful mix of high-quality animation, family-friendly plots, memorable characters, and adult humour. With its ground-breaking approach and captivating voice acting, the Shrek franchise is a must-watch for all families.
In conclusion, these movie franchises offer families many entertainment and learning opportunities. So, grab your popcorn, huddle up with your family, and embark on these fantastic cinematic journeys!