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We all know classic family films like The Wizard of Oz and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. But for a certain generation of parents, there are a number of family films seen on cable that have sadly been forgotten over the years and are just as good today as they were when they were released. Here are 10 unexpected classics, many of which my kids have enjoyed, that your family can stream for your next movie night.
Pete’s Dragon (1977)
As children, many of us had imaginary friends to help us escape whatever bothered us. What makes this live-action/animated hybrid so endearing is that the titular character is real but doesn’t threaten anyone. (Well, anyone except those who mean to harm the orphan Pete.) Kids want a true friend, and that’s why Pete’s Dragon is so beloved—even though the movie’s effects are a bit old-school. You can stream Pete’s Dragon on Disney+ or Amazon.
A Boy Named Charlie Brown (1969)
Before Charles Schultz’s Charlie Brown arrived on the silver screen, Disney was practically the only hitmaker in the animated film industry. But somehow, the beloved sad sack and his loyal beagle broke through with a story about trying to win the spelling bee. The film doesn’t water down the morality ingrained in Schultz’s Peanuts comic strip. It does offer spectacular animated sequences and catchy songs like “‘I’ Before ‘E,'” which helped me during many spelling quizzes. You can watch A Boy Named Charlie Brown on Paramount+, Hoopla, or Amazon.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954)
I showed this adventure, based on the classic novel by Jules Verne, to my shark-obsessed boys. They were riveted. The underwater scenes are beautifully photographed, and the special effects, especially the giant squid, hold up well. I also loved how the filmmakers didn’t water down the mad genius of the antagonist, Captain Nemo, a man whose innovative achievements come at the expense of his moral compass. Stream 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea on Disney+ or Amazon.
The Black Stallion (1979)
Speaking of cinematic adventures, this visually stunning film is about a young boy who survives a shipwreck and a dangerous desert island thanks to the strong bond he has with the titular equine. There is little dialogue in the script, but even young viewers will understand the characters must depend on each other for survival. The duo are eventually rescued and eventually compete in a horse race. This award-winning movie can feel like two movies in one, with younger kids loving the beautifully photographed scenes on the horse and boy bonding on the island and older kids getting caught up in the excitement of training and the thrilling finale. Catch The Black Stallion on Tubi, Pluto TV, Hoopla, or Amazon.
The Kid (1921)
The success of Home Alone showed that people love slapstick—and Charlie Chaplin, the master of the craft, created a silent comedy that has it in spades. But like Home Alone, there’s a heartwarming story underneath the comedy. The movie follows the titular five-year-old main character and Chaplin’s Tramp, as unforeseen circumstances threaten to tear the duo apart. You can stream The Kid on Max, The Criterion Channel, Tubi, or Pluto TV.
The Sword in the Stone (1963)
The tale of King Arthur has been retold in countless ways over the years, but this animated flick takes a unique approach. Instead of a full-on medieval epic, it’s more like an origin story. The wizard Merlin teaches the young Arthur about science, leadership, and life by transforming him into various animals. Naturally, hijinks ensue, but Arthur also learns some essential lessons on the importance of self-confidence. Stream The Sword in the Stone on Disney+ or Amazon.
The Hideaways (1973)
Also known as From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler and based on the book of the same name, this story is about siblings who hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art when they feel unappreciated by their parents. The older sister becomes obsessed with a statue that might be one of Michelangelo’s works, so they visit the reclusive widow who sold it to the museum to find out. Unfortunately, none of the artwork comes to life, but what kid wouldn’t be captivated by a mysterious and imaginative story about living in a museum? Stream The Hideaways on Freevee.
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
If your kids are into creepy creatures, show them this gentle horror-comedy. It’s how a few generations of kids were introduced to Dracula, The Wolfman, and Frankenstein’s Monster. Surprisingly, the film still holds up, even though some of the routines by Bud Abbott and Lou Costello are nearly 80 years old. It’s the perfect film to watch as the sun goes down on a late fall afternoon. Stream Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein on Amazon.
Gay Purr-ee (1962)
Fans of The Wizard of Oz will find a lot to like in this underrated animated film about a country kitty who wants to experience the sophistication of Paris. For one, Mewsette, the film’s protagonist, is voiced by none other than Judy Garland. She enlisted the talents of songwriters Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, who were the creative minds behind Oz’s songs. Also working on this visually stylish family film is Chuck Jones, who directed some of the zaniest entries in Bugs Bunny’s filmography. Stream Gay Purr-ee on Amazon.
Sounder (1972)
While a film about Black sharecroppers overcoming bigotry and poverty during the Great Depression may not seem like an ideal choice for your next family movie night (it’s based on an award-winning children’s book), Sounder will prompt conversations about racism and the importance of a good education. This inspiring all-ages movie not only conveys vital, universal themes of love and the importance of learning expressed by stunning performances by the cast, which includes Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield. It also shows kids (and adults) what families can accomplish when they work together. You can catch Sounder on Freevee, Peacock, Tubi, Pluto TV, Kanopy, Hoopla, and Amazon Prime.
