53 Movies to Watch with Tweens & Young Teens

Based on the beloved coming-of-age novel by Judy Blume, 11-year-old Margaret learns how to adjust following a big move, with the support of her mom and grandma, who are also figuring out changes in their own lives.

Kelly R said:  We loved National Treasure as a family movie night pick with our 11 year old and 8 year old! In his quest to find and protect a lost treasure, a historian has to steal the Declaration of Independence and decode its hidden map. It's a totally fun ride as each in a series of clues is solved, and has plenty of fun action that makes this a great movie for tweens...especially those who are interested in American history!

A girl has the ability to see imaginary friends (IFs) abandoned by their people in this family movie that's a Roger Rabbit-style mashup of live action and CGI with an impressive ensemble cast.

This mockumentary-style movie about a struggling upstate New York theater camp is a hit with older kids.

Kelly R said:  This was a huge hit with my tween and teen, and we caught it both in the theater and when it started streaming. For kids (like mine) who are into theater, there are so many funny and relatable moments. It definitely earns its PG-13 rating with some iffy content.

Enchanted playfully blends fairytale tropes with real-world New York as an animated princess is magically transported to the city and falls for a cynical divorce lawyer with a daughter. Hilarity (and a seriously delightful soundtrack) ensue in this family-friendly romantic comedy.

Alexandra F. said:  This is a truly enjoyable movie for tweens, teens, young kids and adults alike, with music you will be humming long after the film is over. A unique spin on the classic fairy tale throws a soon-to-be princess into the "real world" in NYC, where her upbeat and optimistic worldview both clashes with and inspires those around her. Tweens will especially enjoy the tongue-in-cheek humor that intentionally flips the traditional princess story on its head.

Kelly R said:  A family movie musical inspired by P.T. Barnum's life, with fun dance numbers and a soundtrack that makes it worthy of repeat viewings for my kids.

Alexandra F. said:  My kids were obsessed with this movie when it came out, and were so excited to see the sequel even as tweens. The music is fabulous, and I loved the story about sisterly love and the importance of accepting and embracing who we are.There are so many nuggets of wisdom are sprinkled throughout this story in age-appropriate ways. As good a movie for 14-year-olds as for 5-year-olds!

Set in 1970s London, Cruella explores how ambitious and fashionable Estella became notorious villain Cruella de Vil.

Alexandra F. said:  This movie was phenomenal, and surprisingly nuanced for a Disney family movie. I watched it with my teen, and we both loved it, but my six year old kept wandering in and getting hooked, too. Though the story was perhaps more complex and dark than I would normally think my younger kids would enjoy, there wasn’t really anything in it I thought they shouldn’t watch (except the scene with the fire was a little scary). So, while it is especially great for tweens and up, I think it’s an excellent family movie night pick all around!

A mom and dad who are used to saying no decide to give their three kids a "Yes Day," where for 24 hours the children get to make the rules.

Vanessa M. said:  The Netflix original movie Yes Day is the perfect film for your next family movie night. Starring Jennifer Garner as the mom who always says no, she and her husband are challenged to give their children a yes day - a whole day where kids are in charge! This movie received thumbs up from parents and kids alike, and also inspired us to have our own yes day!

The colorful animation, award-winning music, and beloved characters make the story of Aladdin's quest to win Princess Jasmine's heart - with the help of his adorable monkey sidekick and a hilarious genie - one that kids of all ages will enjoy.

Alexandra F. said:  This Disney animated classic has been a household favorite for three decades, and is as great a movie for 12-year-olds as it is for younger kids!

In the seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land, Stereotypical Barbie begins to question her existence, leading her (and Ken) on an unexpected journey of self-discovery in the real world.

Kelly R said:  I haven't laughed this much at a movie in years. We went with a group of middle schoolers and parents and had the best time.

A Pixar coming-of-age story about a girl dealing with adolescence, an overbearing mother, and the ability to poof into a giant red panda when her emotions take over.

Kelly R said:  I appreciate Pixar tackling the awkward adolescent years!

A struggling rock musician, fired from his band, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school and turns his class of gifted students into a rock band.

Kristy Pepping said:  While tweens are often beyond Disney movies, this remake of the classic Cinderella will be a hit with this crowd. It follows the same general storyline of a princess held captive by an evil stepmother. She is then helped by a fairy godmother and meets her prince charming. Since this movie is not a cartoon, tweens will be swept along with the magical scenes and memorable characters.

Big is a classic 80s comedy where a young boy wishes to be "big" and wakes up in an adult's body. 

Beth Wood said:  This is one of our family favorites and always gets a good laugh!