With the half-term break approaching, families are seeking engaging film options – something to entertain the kids, or perhaps a shared experience for all ages. Fortunately, Netflix boasts a robust library, from the 2025 hit K-Pop Demon Hunters
to a comprehensive collection of Studio Ghibli classics.
For those seeking familiar blockbusters suitable for younger viewers, titles like Back to the Future
and Jurassic Park
offer thrills, albeit with potential scares. Those looking to introduce slightly darker themes might find Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Pinocchio
a compelling starting point.
Below, a selection of 20 diverse films currently available on the streamer, offering something for every family’s taste.
1. K-Pop Demon Hunters
This animated musical doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the K-pop phenomenon to be thoroughly enjoyed. It introduces Huntr/x, a delightful three-piece girl band (voiced by Arden Cho, Ji-young Yoo and May Hong) who balance global superstardom with a secret mission: fighting demons. Their rivals, the boy band Saja Boys, led by the charismatic Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop), aim to steal their fanbase and unleash demonic forces. The film’s animation style is reminiscent of Spider-Verse
films, infused with a bold Korean aesthetic. The lead track, Golden
, topped charts worldwide.
2. My Neighbour Totoro – and more Studio Ghibli films
Set in 1950s Japan, My Neighbour Totoro
draws on director Hayao Miyazaki’s childhood experiences. The story follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they explore their new home in the countryside and encounter fantastical creatures, including the iconic Totoro. The film celebrates the innocence and wonder of youth, with visually stunning animation. Netflix also offers a wide range of other Studio Ghibli films, including Spirited Away
, Kiki’s Delivery Service
, and Howl’s Moving Castle
.
3. Pinocchio
Guillermo del Toro’s stop-motion adaptation of Carlo Collodi’s classic tale transposes the story to fascist Italy in the 1930s. The film follows Geppetto (voiced by David Bradley) as he crafts a puppet (Gregory Mann) following a personal tragedy. Ewan McGregor voices the talking cricket, and the animation is particularly striking. The film explores themes of grief, war, and what it means to be human with sensitivity and heart.
4. Back to the Future
This beloved adventure follows Marty McFly (Michael J Fox) as he travels back in time to the 1950s and inadvertently interferes with his parents’ first meeting. The film is praised for its dazzling special effects, sly humor, and strong performances from the cast, including Christopher Lloyd and Lea Thompson.
5. Mary and the Witch’s Flower
Directed by Studio Ghibli alumnus Hiromasa Yonebayashi, Mary and the Witch’s Flower
tells the story of a young girl who discovers a magic flower and is transported to a land of witches. The film features vibrant animation and a charming narrative, with Kate Winslet and Jim Broadbent among the voice cast.
6. IF
Directed by John Krasinski, IF
centers on a young girl who begins seeing imaginary friends, or “IFs,” and helps a neighbor find his childhood companions. While the film aims for a Pixar
-esque feel, it’s described as a warm and witty celebration of family.
7. Nimona
This animated adaptation of ND Stevenson’s graphic novel blends medievalism with futuristic elements. It follows a knight (voiced by Riz Ahmed) who is framed for murder and teams up with a shapeshifting creature named Nimona (Chloë Grace Moretz). The film explores themes of friendship, diversity, and acceptance with stunning animation and thrilling action sequences.
8. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
The beloved duo returns in their first major adventure since 2008, facing off against their old nemesis, Feathers McGraw. The film is praised for its inventive humor, elaborate set design, and the seamless transition of voice acting with Ben Whitehead taking over for Peter Sallis.
9. Bridge to Terabithia
This film tells the story of two young outsiders who create a magical imaginary kingdom in the woods. It’s a heartwarming tale of friendship and self-discovery, with strong performances from Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb.
10. Chicken Run
This stop-motion animated comedy is a parody of prisoner-of-war films, following a group of chickens who plot their escape from a high-security farm. It’s praised for its inventive humor and charming characters.
11. The Mitchells vs. The Machines
This animated comedy follows a quirky family as they embark on a road trip that is interrupted by a robot uprising. The film is lauded for its eye-popping animation, witty script, and heartfelt story about family connection.
12. The Sea Beast
This animated adventure follows a crew of monster hunters as they pursue a legendary sea creature. The film is praised for its inventive animation, thrilling action sequences, and spirited performances.
13. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Based on a true story, this film follows a young boy in Malawi who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine. It’s a moving and inspiring tale of resilience and ingenuity, with a strong performance from Maxwell Simba.
14. The Greatest Showman
This musical biopic tells the story of P.T. Barnum and the creation of his circus. It’s praised for its dazzling spectacle, energetic performances, and catchy songs.
15. The Karate Kid
This classic coming-of-age story follows a bullied teenager who learns karate from a wise old mentor. It’s a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and overcoming adversity.
16. Orion and the Dark
This animated film explores a young boy’s fear of the dark and his unlikely friendship with the personification of darkness. It’s described as a charming and relatable story with a touch of surreal humor.
17. Enola Holmes
This adventure follows Sherlock Holmes’s younger sister as she sets out to solve a mystery. Millie Bobby Brown delivers a captivating performance as the independent and resourceful Enola.
18. Jurassic Park
Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking adventure remains a thrilling spectacle. The film follows a group of scientists who visit a theme park populated by genetically engineered dinosaurs.
19. Corpse Bride
Tim Burton’s stop-motion animated film tells a gothic love story with a darkly whimsical tone. It’s praised for its exquisite animation and imaginative storytelling.
20. Little Women
Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel is praised for its affectionate portrayal of the March sisters and its fresh perspective on the story.
For more film recommendations and reviews, consult streaming guides and television listings.
