Finding an age-appropriate great movie for tweens can be a challenging task for parents, as it’s important to strike a balance between entertainment and suitable content. Tweens, usually between the ages of 11-13, are growing up and need a list of movies that cater to their maturing interests while still being family-friendly.
There are several teen movies for tweens that have proven to be hit with both young audiences and parents of tweens. These films typically contain themes such as friendships, growing pains, and coming-of-age experiences. Parents can bond with their children and generate valuable conversation through these well-curated selections.
Movies like Wendell & Wild, The Princess Diaries, Pitch Perfect, and 13 Going on 30 are just a few examples of the type of films that keep tweens engaged while providing family-friendly entertainment. Selecting the right movies can help parents connect with their kids during this transitional stage in their lives.
Adventure Movies for Tweens
Narrowing down adventure movies for tweens can be a challenging task, but there are several films out there that combine excitement, action, and relatable storylines. These selections provide both entertainment and valuable life lessons for young audiences.
One of the adventure classic tale films recommended for tweens is Finding Nemo. This animated movie features a young clownfish’s incredible journey through the ocean to find his missing father, meeting various fascinating sea creatures along the way.
Another exciting option is Tangled, a modern take on the Rapunzel fairy tale. This Disney classic film offers a captivating story filled with humor, action, and memorable original songs, making it an ideal choice for a tween movie.
For tweens who enjoy fantasy, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a must-watch. Based on C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, the film follows four siblings who discover a magical land and must band together to save it from an evil queen.
Beyond these recommendations, here are some other adventure movies for tweens:
When it comes to finding adventure movies for tweens, it’s important to consider the themes and subject matter to ensure a suitable and engaging experience. With these recommendations, you’ll have a great collection of films that both entertain and inspire young minds.
Fantasy Films
Fantasy films for tweens are an excellent way to introduce them to magical worlds filled with adventure, mystery, and enchantment. These movies often contain plots, characters, and settings that can spark the imagination and provide hours of entertainment.
One notable fantasy film for tweens is The Princess Bride. This classic romantic comedy is a fairy tale adventure that creates an engaging story that can be enjoyed by the entire family.
The Neverending Story is another popular choice for this age group. This good movie takes viewers on a remarkable journey in which a young man discovers a magical book that transports him into a world where he must face various challenges to save it from destruction.
For those interested in animated films, Princess Mononoke is a stunning example of the imaginative work of director Hayao Miyazaki. This epic tale presents a conflict between humans, gods, and nature with captivating visuals and thought-provoking themes.
Another animated option is The Secret of Kells, which tells the story of a young monk who must complete an ancient, magical book while trying to protect his village from a Viking invasion. This movie blends Irish myth, history, and breathtaking artwork to create an immersive experience for tween audiences.
A list of fantasy films would not be complete without mentioning the Harry Potter series. These movies follow the adventures of a young wizard and his friends as they navigate the magical world and battle dark forces. The series comprises eight films that grow in complexity and intensity, making it an ideal option for tweens who enjoy character development and extended storylines that keeps them at the edge of their seats.
Animated Features
Animated films offer a perfect mix of action, adventure, and fun for tweens. With engaging characters and often-humorous storylines, animation can keep this age group entertained while also introducing them to a good story.
One must-see animation for tweens is Pixar’s Coco, a remarkable movie that dives into the significance of family and the Mexican holiday DÃa de los Muertos. Another well-received animated film is Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009), a stop-motion film based on Roald Dahl’s classic story, which offers life lessons on friendship and family values.
Netflix offers a plethora of tween-friendly animated series that can be enjoyed by everyone. Some popular options include Voltron: Legendary Defender and Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, both of which feature engaging characters and intricate storytelling that keep tweens enthralled.
Some timeless classics also cater to this age group, such as Disney’s The Lion King and Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro. These films offer heartwarming stories that resonate with viewers, transcending generations.
Here are a few more animated features suitable for tweens:
- Inside Out (2015)
- Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
- How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
- Zootopia (2016)
- Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
Sci-Fi and Superheroes
Tweens have a lot to choose from when it comes to sci-fi and superhero movies. These films often feature relatable young heroes, engaging stories, and a healthy dose of action-packed adventure. Here are a few movies that are perfect for this age group.
Common Sense Media recommends Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” as a clever, funny, and cool sci-fi movie with lots of action. The film’s ensemble of unlikely heroes and infectious humor makes it a hit with tweens.
Another popular option is “Shazam!”, which is mentioned among top movies tagged with the keyword “teenage-superhero” on IMDb. This film tells the story of a foster kid who gains the power to transform into an adult superhero, combining elements of comedy, action, and coming-of-age drama.
In “Zoom” (2006) a fun superhero seeks an adventure about a group of young heroes who must save Earth from an evil villain (source). Also, “Smallville” (2001) is a great and beloved TV series that explores the early life of Clark Kent, the hero who would become Superman (source). In the realm of sci-fi and fantasy, SheKnows recommends several engaging movies for tweens. Some standouts include “The Hunger Games” franchise, “Harry Potter” series, and “A Wrinkle in Time.” These films offer a mix of adventure, imagination, and strong role models for young viewers.
Coming-of-Age Stories
Coming-of-age stories are an essential genre for tweens, as they often focus on relatable themes like friendship, self-discovery, and growing pains. These movies can help tweens navigate the challenges of adolescence and start meaningful conversations with parents and peers.
One such example is Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001), which not only immerses viewers in a magical world but also explores topics like friendship, bravery, and self-identity.
Another beloved coming-of-age film is The Breakfast Club (1985). This movie showcases a diverse group of high school students who come together during a weekend detention and learn to break down stereotypes and understand each other’s perspectives.
For more modern picks, consider Turning Red (2022), which tells the story of a young girl who turns into a giant red panda whenever she gets too excited or stressed. This film explores themes of family, cultural identity, and the challenges of growing up.
Here’s a list of other notable coming-of-age movies that tweens may enjoy:
- Clueless (1995)
- Boyz n the Hood (1991)
- Booksmart (2019)
- Stand By Me (1986)
These coming-of-age stories can offer tweens valuable insights and meaningful entertainment while showcasing a variety of themes that resonate with their unique experiences.
Comedies
For a lighthearted, fun movie experience, comedy films are perfect for tweens. Keeping them entertained while providing a sense of humor, these movies are sure to hit the right spot for both parents and kids alike. In this section, we’ll discuss some popular comedy films that tweens can enjoy.
Some goofy comedies for tweens and teens include Thunderpants, What About Bob?, Knives Out, and Napoleon Dynamite. These films combine humor and relatable characters that will surely engage your tween viewers.
Other top comedy movies for tweens include Airplane (1980), The Goonies (1985), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971). These iconic films are both entertaining and feature memorable characters.
For family-friendly picks on Amazon, check out this list of best comedy movies for tweens, which includes a wide range of films for everyone to enjoy.
When selecting a comedy for your tween audience, it’s essential to be mindful of the content and age-appropriateness. It’s always a good idea to check the movie’s rating and read reviews from other parents to ensure it’s suitable for your child. With plenty of comedies to choose from, finding the perfect movie for a fun family movie night should be a breeze!
Family-Friendly Movies
Finding the right movies for tweens can be challenging, but there is no shortage of family-friendly films to keep them entertained. A perfect balance of engaging storylines and age-appropriate content can make for an enjoyable movie night for the whole family. The following movies are beloved by both tweens and their parents.
The Mitchells vs the Machines (2021) is an animated adventure that follows the Mitchell family as they embark on a road trip and end up saving the world from a robot apocalypse. With humor and heart, this movie offers a fun and exciting experience. TimeOut recommends this film as one of the best movies for tweens.
The Baby-Sitters Club (1995) is a classic based on the popular book series. It is a story about a group of friends who start their own babysitting business. The movie captures the camaraderie and challenges of young friendship, making it a great choice for tweens. TimeOut also includes this movie on their list of top films for this age group.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) is the first movie in the beloved Harry Potter film series. The film introduces viewers to the magical world of Hogwarts and follows the adventures of young wizards and witches as they navigate friendship, mystery, and danger. Both Common Sense Media and Empowered Moms and Kids recommend it as a fantastic family-friendly movie for tweens.
Other notable films for tweens include the action-packed Jurassic Park (1993) and beloved Disney films like The Little Mermaid and Toy Story. All of these movies provide a mix of adventure, humor, and charm, making them excellent choices for family movie nights. For more family-friendly movie suggestions, visit Movie Nights at Home or Good Housekeeping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting age-appropriate movies for tweens can be a fun and engaging way to spend quality time together while promoting positive messages and learning experiences. There are numerous films to choose from, such as the classic Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, inspirational stories like Akeelah and the Bee, and adventure-filled movies like Guardians of the Galaxy.
When choosing movies, consider factors such as the tween’s interests, the film’s themes, and the overall experience the movie can provide. Films that encourage growth mindset can help tweens develop essential life skills such as grit, persistence, courage, and determination. Additionally, educational movies can be a great way to engage tweens and spark curiosity.
Remember to use resources like Common Sense Media to find age-appropriate movie reviews and recommendations for your tween. By selecting movies that are both entertaining and aligned with the values you want to instill in your child, you can create meaningful memories while enjoying the magic of cinema together.
Amanda Schmitt
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