The 20 Best Family Comedies Ever Made
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VOICE OVER: Patrick Mealey
WRITTEN BY: Kim Dionne
Laughs for everyone! Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're counting down our picks for the best funny flicks to watch with the whole family. Our countdown includes movies “Home Alone”, “The Muppet Movie”, “Toy Story” and more!
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the best funny flicks to watch with the whole family. What film do you love watching with your family? Let us know in the comments!
It’s one of the most fun and intricate board games we’ve ever seen, and we’re not quite sure if we’d love or hate to play it. However, since games like this are typically enjoyable when played with the family, then a movie based on it certainly should be fun to watch with the whole clan. When Alan is trapped in Jumanji, Judy and Peter join him in exploring its world and ultimately try to set their reality back on track. With themes like friendship and community playing a central role, as well as Robin Williams at the helm delivering hilarious jokes, this adventurous classic is a guaranteed good time.
What kid wouldn’t want to have a spy side gig? That’s what happens to Carmen and Juni after they discover their parents used to be spies. Turns out, this set of siblings possess their own unique skills, which they must use to save their parents from Floop, a villain trying to take over the world. The sibling dynamics are easily relatable for anyone with a brother or sister, and the slapstick comedy ensures to keep everyone in stitches throughout. Certainly, viewers of all ages would love to own gadgets like the ones depicted in the film. It’s action-packed fun centered around a loving family, and there’s not much more you can ask for in a movie of this genre.
Over three decades after it was released, this film remains hilarious and endlessly quotable, so it’s fair to say that it’s a timeless classic that’s fun for all ages. We’re introduced to Smalls as he navigates making friends and bonding with the neighborhood boys through baseball. Along the way, he meets a colorful crew of characters, including Benny, Ham, and Squints. They battle the beast, conquer their fears, defeat their baseball rivals, and grow up alongside one another, all while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. Whether you’re a sports lover, athlete, kid, or a parent, “The Sandlot” has something to offer you.
This one’s a perfect fit for families in the digital age, as the Mitchells have to battle a robot uprising while dealing with their own differences and family dynamics. Every viewer can identify with at least one of the Mitchells, whether it be creative Katie, dinosaur-obsessed Aaron, nature-loving Rick, or unproblematic Linda. As they embark on their cross-country road trip in an attempt to save the world, typical family adventure challenges arise. In the end, they all manage to find common ground and leverage their individualities to save civilization and strengthen their bonds with each other. It’ll definitely make you laugh, it might make you cry, and it’ll probably make you feel like connecting with your own family.
From the outset of this movie, it’s clear that Matilda is special. Not only is she super bright, but she also possesses otherworldly powers, which she uses to her advantage throughout the film. However, Matilda’s true strength lies in her resilience and her ability to stay positive, even in the face of adversity. Whether it’s dealing with her neglectful parents or a tyrannical principal, she is able to turn awful situations into humorous ones, and fights for what’s right no matter what. Matilda’s story proves that doing the right thing always yields positive results, and can even be enjoyable, which is a great lesson to teach audiences everywhere.
How cool would it be if our toys came to life when we left the room? No matter how old we get, it’s always a thrill to imagine this happening in our absence. In the first “Toy Story” film, Woody and Buzz vie for the title of Andy’s favorite toy, leading to a captivating journey of self-discovery, as they question their existence and significance to him. Ultimately, this is a story about embracing your situation, while accepting yourself and others, which is a poignant reminder that we all need sometimes. We’ve got a friend in them, and we’re never going to be too old to give this film a rewatch.
Who doesn’t love a classic ‘80s film? This is one that our parents probably watched as kids, and can now enjoy alongside their own kids. In a desperate attempt to save their homes, the group of friends searches for treasure, facing many mishaps and challenges along the way, and it’s an adventure for the ages. “The Goonies” is, without a doubt, a nostalgic watch, and with it being so prominent in pop culture, it’s definitely a must-see. From the truffle shuffle, to Sloth and Chunk’s friendship, to the goonies NEVER saying “die,” we dare you not to fall in love with this endearing flick.
In this film, we’re introduced to Emmet Brickowski, who’s tasked with saving the world from Lord Business. Although he’s told that he is “The Special,” considered the only person who can pull off this heroic effort, Brickowski embarks on a journey of self-discovery and realizes his uniqueness all on his own. This lesson is mirrored by the boy playing with the Legos, who also comes to the conclusion that being creative is a gift. The animation is captivating to look at, the storyline is full of exciting twists and turns, and the entire film is held together by heartwarming revelations and relatable characters.
Lindsay Lohan gained fame as a teen star in family comedies, with her standout performance alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in “Freaky Friday” being undeniably one of her best. However, her film debut still holds a special place. In “The Parent Trap,” Lohan plays identical twins Hallie and Annie who try to get their parents back together by switching places. With one twin residing in California and the other in England, they see each other’s lives through their lost parent’s perspective, and it’s such an endearing journey. Parents and kids alike can enjoy this fun story, which never fails to make us wish we were living at a vineyard in Napa or designing wedding dresses in London.
Name a cuter animated bear, we dare you. In the first of the “Paddington” films, we’re introduced to the titular character as he searches for a new home in London. Watching him navigate this unfamiliar territory is adorable, and he keeps the atmosphere of the film light and comical while he figures out his place in the world. As the film progresses, Paddington forms a close bond with the Brown family, who help save him from an evil taxidermist. Watching this movie is an instant mood booster for children of all ages, and we can’t wait to see if there are more adventures for Paddington in the future.
Filled with iconic characters, quotable lines, and a plethora of both emotional and hilarious moments, the first “Shrek” film is undeniably a family comedy that stands out. Shrek and his companion Donkey embark on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona so she can marry Lord Farquaad. In exchange, Lord Farquaad agrees to return possession of Shrek’s swamp back to him. The resulting adventure this eclectic crew goes on has us at the edge of our seats and laughing out loud. This fairytale parody is delightfully fun and endlessly rewatchable, as are its sequels, and it will surely be enjoyed by families for years to come.
The 2011 film “The Muppets” is a barrel of fun that follows the titular characters as they work together to save their theater. But nothing can beat the original Muppet movie from the late 70’s, where we get to see how these classic characters met one another. Seeing all of their origin stories is fun and enlightening, as this film introduces us to “Rainbow Connection” and showcases the Muppets’ chaotic road trip antics, as they struggle to achieve fame. Packed with double entendre-type humor, this film is a perfect fit for the whole family, with its wholesome storyline guaranteeing a nostalgic viewing experience for everyone.
This film not only has loveable characters and a fun storyline, it’s a great way to curb children’s fear of monsters. “Monsters, Inc.” tells the story of Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan who work to accumulate children’s screams in order to power their world. At its core, the story revolves around the heartfelt relationship between Boo, Mike, and Sulley. Through Boo’s influence, the monsters come to realize that laughter is more powerful than screams, or, happiness is more powerful than fear. It’s an important and universal message, as the characters discover what’s really important while challenging their preconceived notions of how things should be.
Dewey Finn is the teacher we all wish we could’ve had in school. After he takes a job subbing in a fancy private school, he makes a rock band out of his classroom, utilizing his students’ musical talents to create the band he never got to have. As music so frequently does, it helps Dewey and the students break down their walls, find common ground, and bond, showcasing a teacher-student relationship that every viewer can envy. Guided by Jack Black’s comedic prowess, “School of Rock” is hilarious in every way possible. Also, experiencing the characters’ journeys as they embrace their gifts, creativity, and individualities serves as a source of inspiration and joy.
Christmas movies are some of the most fun, uplifting, and memorable ones to watch with the family, as the holiday season is quintessential for spending time with loved ones. Or, time away from them, as we see in this flick. When Kevin’s family plans a trip to Paris for Christmas, panic ensues as they almost miss their flight, and forget a crucial item: their son. Kevin is left home alone, and while he initially enjoys it, he soon realizes he misses his family, despite their chaos. He ends up fighting off burglars while overcoming his fears, and it’s all a blast to watch. The overarching theme surrounding the importance of family is universal, and one that resonates with audiences everywhere.
Some of the best movies to watch with families are the classics, and this one is no exception. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” is innovative with its mix of live-action and animation, and the setting, characters, and plot are timeless. After suspicions that Roger and Jessica Rabbit may be involved in the death of Marvin Acme, Roger springs to action in order to prove his innocence. The film has a mixture of child-like and adult themes and references, humor for all to enjoy, and characters that are impossible to hate. It’s an Academy Award-winning masterpiece that shouldn’t be missed, so you need to dig this one out of the archives to enjoy with your nearest and dearest.
Robin Williams’ brand of comedy is ideal for family viewing, and in this film, he perfectly embodies the roles of both family patriarch and housekeeper. As Daniel Hillard, portrayed by Williams, copes with his separation from his wife, he tries to stay as connected as possible to his three kids. He finds that the easiest, if not the most unconventional, way to spend time with them is to disguise himself as Mrs. Doubtfire and become their housekeeper. What follows is some seriously comedic and endearing moments shared between this loving father and his kids. It’s enough to evoke emotions of gratitude and affection from both children and parents alike.
Another Christmas classic here, “Elf” tells the story of Buddy, a human who was raised by elves in the North Pole. When he goes to New York City as an adult to find his biological father, his fish-out-of-water experiences in the Big Apple are comedic gold. Along the way, he helps his father learn the true meaning of Christmas and rediscovers the importance of prioritizing family. We get to see that although Buddy’s methods are unorthodox, his values are ones we should all adopt. It’s a must-watch during the holidays, as Buddy the Elf always makes us feel like we’re a member of his family.
Marty McFly’s family is a bit dysfunctional, with his mom having let herself go and his dad still getting pushed around by his old high school tormentor, Biff. When he goes back in time and meets his parents as high school students, he accidentally alters their future while attempting to return to his own era. Michael J. Fox is absolutely genius in his role as Marty, with physical comedy and musical moments that all audience members can appreciate. The storyline offers insight for both kids and parents, highlighting the shared experience of youth, as well as the profound impact parents have on their children’s lives. In all, it’s a perfect film for the whole family.
Considering this classic film is literally a storybook fairytale being told from a grandfather to his grandson, there’s no doubt that it’s perfect family viewing. “The Princess Bride” is about Buttercup and her true love, Westley, who embarks on a quest for wealth and ends up trying to save Buttercup from marrying Prince Humperdinck. Meanwhile, Inigo Montoya is on his own quest for vengeance, leaving us torn between which storyline we love more. The film has all of the components of a well-rounded fairytale. Its themes are ones that can be enjoyed for generations, and no matter how old you are when you watch it, you’re guaranteed to be filled with childlike wonder.
#20: “Jumanji” (1995)
It’s one of the most fun and intricate board games we’ve ever seen, and we’re not quite sure if we’d love or hate to play it. However, since games like this are typically enjoyable when played with the family, then a movie based on it certainly should be fun to watch with the whole clan. When Alan is trapped in Jumanji, Judy and Peter join him in exploring its world and ultimately try to set their reality back on track. With themes like friendship and community playing a central role, as well as Robin Williams at the helm delivering hilarious jokes, this adventurous classic is a guaranteed good time.
#19: “Spy Kids” (2001)
What kid wouldn’t want to have a spy side gig? That’s what happens to Carmen and Juni after they discover their parents used to be spies. Turns out, this set of siblings possess their own unique skills, which they must use to save their parents from Floop, a villain trying to take over the world. The sibling dynamics are easily relatable for anyone with a brother or sister, and the slapstick comedy ensures to keep everyone in stitches throughout. Certainly, viewers of all ages would love to own gadgets like the ones depicted in the film. It’s action-packed fun centered around a loving family, and there’s not much more you can ask for in a movie of this genre.
#18: “The Sandlot” (1993)
Over three decades after it was released, this film remains hilarious and endlessly quotable, so it’s fair to say that it’s a timeless classic that’s fun for all ages. We’re introduced to Smalls as he navigates making friends and bonding with the neighborhood boys through baseball. Along the way, he meets a colorful crew of characters, including Benny, Ham, and Squints. They battle the beast, conquer their fears, defeat their baseball rivals, and grow up alongside one another, all while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. Whether you’re a sports lover, athlete, kid, or a parent, “The Sandlot” has something to offer you.
#17: “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” (2021)
This one’s a perfect fit for families in the digital age, as the Mitchells have to battle a robot uprising while dealing with their own differences and family dynamics. Every viewer can identify with at least one of the Mitchells, whether it be creative Katie, dinosaur-obsessed Aaron, nature-loving Rick, or unproblematic Linda. As they embark on their cross-country road trip in an attempt to save the world, typical family adventure challenges arise. In the end, they all manage to find common ground and leverage their individualities to save civilization and strengthen their bonds with each other. It’ll definitely make you laugh, it might make you cry, and it’ll probably make you feel like connecting with your own family.
#16: “Matilda” (1996)
From the outset of this movie, it’s clear that Matilda is special. Not only is she super bright, but she also possesses otherworldly powers, which she uses to her advantage throughout the film. However, Matilda’s true strength lies in her resilience and her ability to stay positive, even in the face of adversity. Whether it’s dealing with her neglectful parents or a tyrannical principal, she is able to turn awful situations into humorous ones, and fights for what’s right no matter what. Matilda’s story proves that doing the right thing always yields positive results, and can even be enjoyable, which is a great lesson to teach audiences everywhere.
#15: “Toy Story” (1995)
How cool would it be if our toys came to life when we left the room? No matter how old we get, it’s always a thrill to imagine this happening in our absence. In the first “Toy Story” film, Woody and Buzz vie for the title of Andy’s favorite toy, leading to a captivating journey of self-discovery, as they question their existence and significance to him. Ultimately, this is a story about embracing your situation, while accepting yourself and others, which is a poignant reminder that we all need sometimes. We’ve got a friend in them, and we’re never going to be too old to give this film a rewatch.
#14: “The Goonies” (1985)
Who doesn’t love a classic ‘80s film? This is one that our parents probably watched as kids, and can now enjoy alongside their own kids. In a desperate attempt to save their homes, the group of friends searches for treasure, facing many mishaps and challenges along the way, and it’s an adventure for the ages. “The Goonies” is, without a doubt, a nostalgic watch, and with it being so prominent in pop culture, it’s definitely a must-see. From the truffle shuffle, to Sloth and Chunk’s friendship, to the goonies NEVER saying “die,” we dare you not to fall in love with this endearing flick.
#13: “The Lego Movie” (2014)
In this film, we’re introduced to Emmet Brickowski, who’s tasked with saving the world from Lord Business. Although he’s told that he is “The Special,” considered the only person who can pull off this heroic effort, Brickowski embarks on a journey of self-discovery and realizes his uniqueness all on his own. This lesson is mirrored by the boy playing with the Legos, who also comes to the conclusion that being creative is a gift. The animation is captivating to look at, the storyline is full of exciting twists and turns, and the entire film is held together by heartwarming revelations and relatable characters.
#12: “The Parent Trap” (1998)
Lindsay Lohan gained fame as a teen star in family comedies, with her standout performance alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in “Freaky Friday” being undeniably one of her best. However, her film debut still holds a special place. In “The Parent Trap,” Lohan plays identical twins Hallie and Annie who try to get their parents back together by switching places. With one twin residing in California and the other in England, they see each other’s lives through their lost parent’s perspective, and it’s such an endearing journey. Parents and kids alike can enjoy this fun story, which never fails to make us wish we were living at a vineyard in Napa or designing wedding dresses in London.
#11: “Paddington” (2014)
Name a cuter animated bear, we dare you. In the first of the “Paddington” films, we’re introduced to the titular character as he searches for a new home in London. Watching him navigate this unfamiliar territory is adorable, and he keeps the atmosphere of the film light and comical while he figures out his place in the world. As the film progresses, Paddington forms a close bond with the Brown family, who help save him from an evil taxidermist. Watching this movie is an instant mood booster for children of all ages, and we can’t wait to see if there are more adventures for Paddington in the future.
#10: “Shrek” (2001)
Filled with iconic characters, quotable lines, and a plethora of both emotional and hilarious moments, the first “Shrek” film is undeniably a family comedy that stands out. Shrek and his companion Donkey embark on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona so she can marry Lord Farquaad. In exchange, Lord Farquaad agrees to return possession of Shrek’s swamp back to him. The resulting adventure this eclectic crew goes on has us at the edge of our seats and laughing out loud. This fairytale parody is delightfully fun and endlessly rewatchable, as are its sequels, and it will surely be enjoyed by families for years to come.
#9: “The Muppet Movie” (1979)
The 2011 film “The Muppets” is a barrel of fun that follows the titular characters as they work together to save their theater. But nothing can beat the original Muppet movie from the late 70’s, where we get to see how these classic characters met one another. Seeing all of their origin stories is fun and enlightening, as this film introduces us to “Rainbow Connection” and showcases the Muppets’ chaotic road trip antics, as they struggle to achieve fame. Packed with double entendre-type humor, this film is a perfect fit for the whole family, with its wholesome storyline guaranteeing a nostalgic viewing experience for everyone.
#8: “Monsters, Inc.” (2001)
This film not only has loveable characters and a fun storyline, it’s a great way to curb children’s fear of monsters. “Monsters, Inc.” tells the story of Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan who work to accumulate children’s screams in order to power their world. At its core, the story revolves around the heartfelt relationship between Boo, Mike, and Sulley. Through Boo’s influence, the monsters come to realize that laughter is more powerful than screams, or, happiness is more powerful than fear. It’s an important and universal message, as the characters discover what’s really important while challenging their preconceived notions of how things should be.
#7: “School of Rock” (2003)
Dewey Finn is the teacher we all wish we could’ve had in school. After he takes a job subbing in a fancy private school, he makes a rock band out of his classroom, utilizing his students’ musical talents to create the band he never got to have. As music so frequently does, it helps Dewey and the students break down their walls, find common ground, and bond, showcasing a teacher-student relationship that every viewer can envy. Guided by Jack Black’s comedic prowess, “School of Rock” is hilarious in every way possible. Also, experiencing the characters’ journeys as they embrace their gifts, creativity, and individualities serves as a source of inspiration and joy.
#6: “Home Alone” (1990)
Christmas movies are some of the most fun, uplifting, and memorable ones to watch with the family, as the holiday season is quintessential for spending time with loved ones. Or, time away from them, as we see in this flick. When Kevin’s family plans a trip to Paris for Christmas, panic ensues as they almost miss their flight, and forget a crucial item: their son. Kevin is left home alone, and while he initially enjoys it, he soon realizes he misses his family, despite their chaos. He ends up fighting off burglars while overcoming his fears, and it’s all a blast to watch. The overarching theme surrounding the importance of family is universal, and one that resonates with audiences everywhere.
#5: “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” (1988)
Some of the best movies to watch with families are the classics, and this one is no exception. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” is innovative with its mix of live-action and animation, and the setting, characters, and plot are timeless. After suspicions that Roger and Jessica Rabbit may be involved in the death of Marvin Acme, Roger springs to action in order to prove his innocence. The film has a mixture of child-like and adult themes and references, humor for all to enjoy, and characters that are impossible to hate. It’s an Academy Award-winning masterpiece that shouldn’t be missed, so you need to dig this one out of the archives to enjoy with your nearest and dearest.
#4: “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993)
Robin Williams’ brand of comedy is ideal for family viewing, and in this film, he perfectly embodies the roles of both family patriarch and housekeeper. As Daniel Hillard, portrayed by Williams, copes with his separation from his wife, he tries to stay as connected as possible to his three kids. He finds that the easiest, if not the most unconventional, way to spend time with them is to disguise himself as Mrs. Doubtfire and become their housekeeper. What follows is some seriously comedic and endearing moments shared between this loving father and his kids. It’s enough to evoke emotions of gratitude and affection from both children and parents alike.
#3: “Elf” (2003)
Another Christmas classic here, “Elf” tells the story of Buddy, a human who was raised by elves in the North Pole. When he goes to New York City as an adult to find his biological father, his fish-out-of-water experiences in the Big Apple are comedic gold. Along the way, he helps his father learn the true meaning of Christmas and rediscovers the importance of prioritizing family. We get to see that although Buddy’s methods are unorthodox, his values are ones we should all adopt. It’s a must-watch during the holidays, as Buddy the Elf always makes us feel like we’re a member of his family.
#2: “Back to the Future” (1985)
Marty McFly’s family is a bit dysfunctional, with his mom having let herself go and his dad still getting pushed around by his old high school tormentor, Biff. When he goes back in time and meets his parents as high school students, he accidentally alters their future while attempting to return to his own era. Michael J. Fox is absolutely genius in his role as Marty, with physical comedy and musical moments that all audience members can appreciate. The storyline offers insight for both kids and parents, highlighting the shared experience of youth, as well as the profound impact parents have on their children’s lives. In all, it’s a perfect film for the whole family.
#1: “The Princess Bride” (1987)
Considering this classic film is literally a storybook fairytale being told from a grandfather to his grandson, there’s no doubt that it’s perfect family viewing. “The Princess Bride” is about Buttercup and her true love, Westley, who embarks on a quest for wealth and ends up trying to save Buttercup from marrying Prince Humperdinck. Meanwhile, Inigo Montoya is on his own quest for vengeance, leaving us torn between which storyline we love more. The film has all of the components of a well-rounded fairytale. Its themes are ones that can be enjoyed for generations, and no matter how old you are when you watch it, you’re guaranteed to be filled with childlike wonder.
