When it comes to entertainment, there’s nothing quite like popping in a movie on a Friday night with the family. Whether you’re looking to take your kids to the cinema or cuddle up with popcorn and the dog at home, these films are made to be enjoyed together.
Impactful.news has compiled a guide to each state’s top family-friendly films to help you pick your next classic. From heartwarming animated stories to action-packed adventures, there’s sure to be something on this list that will delight audiences of all ages. So grab some popcorn and get ready to discover the perfect family film for your next movie night.
Using data scraped from Meta Critic, Impactful.news has compiled the top family-friendly movies in each state. We analyzed the 2022 Google Trends data to determine America’s favorite family-friendly films, including ratings from Common Sense Media and IMDB to give you the broadest idea of movies perfect for your own family.
| State | Top Film |
|---|---|
| Alabama | My Girl |
| Alaska | Song of the Sea |
| Arizona | Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure |
| Arkansas | My Girl |
| California | Toy Story |
| Colorado | Elf |
| Connecticut | It's a Wonderful Life |
| Delaware | Kicking & Screaming |
| District of Columbia | Paddington 2 |
| Florida | Ratatouille |
| Georgia | Dragon Ball Super: Broly |
| Hawaii | Spirited Away |
| Idaho | Beauty and the Beast |
| Illinois | Home Alone |
| Indiana | Elf |
| Iowa | Field of Dreams |
| Kansas | The Wizard of Oz |
| Kentucky | Toy Story 2 |
| Louisiana | My Girl |
| Maine | The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie |
| Maryland | Soul |
| Massachusetts | Duma |
| Michigan | My Girl |
| Minnesota | The Crash Reel |
| Mississippi | Dragon Ball Super: Broly |
| Missouri | My Girl |
| Montana | The Muppet Movie |
| Nebraska | Charlotte's Web |
| Nevada | Toy Story 2 |
| New Hampshire | The Secret of NIMH |
| New Jersey | The Crash Reel |
| New Mexico | Who Framed Roger Rabbit |
| New York | Enchanted |
| North Carolina | My Girl |
| North Dakota | The Iron Giant |
| Ohio | A Christmas Story |
| Oklahoma | The Night Is Short, Walk on Girl |
| Oregon | The Night Is Short, Walk on Girl |
| Pennsylvania | The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie |
| Rhode Island | Toy Story 2 |
| South Carolina | My Girl |
| South Dakota | Wolfwalkers |
| Tennessee | Soul |
| Texas | Toy Story |
| Utah | Toy Story 3 |
| Vermont | Swiss Family Robinson |
| Virginia | The Night Is Short, Walk on Girl |
| Washington | Penguin Highway |
| West Virginia | A Christmas Story |
| Wisconsin | Elf |
| Wyoming | Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl |
1. Most Popular in 7 States: My Girl
PG | 102 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 6.9
- Metascore: 56
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 11+
- Director: Howard Zieff
- Stars: Anna Chlumsky, Macaulay Culkin, Dan Aykroyd
In Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, and South Carolina, search interest for the 1991 film "My Girl" skyrocketed to top search interest in 2022.
"My Girl" is a beloved coming-of-age film directed by Howard Zieff and written by Laurice Elehwany from Columbia Pictures. It follows the story of an 11-year-old girl named Vada Sultenfuss, played by Anna Chlumsky, as she navigates the challenges of growing up in her small 1970s town, making friends, and accepting love and loss. "My Girl" was critically acclaimed for its heartfelt storytelling and authentic performances. The touching story impressed millions. It released in the United States in 1991 and became a box-office success, grossing over $121 million worldwide.
2. Most Popular in Kentucky, Nevada, and Rhode Island: Toy Story 2
G | 92 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 88
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Director: John Lasseter, Ash Brannon, Lee Unkrich
- Stars: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
In Kentucky, Nevada, and Rhode Island, the top-searched film in 2022 was "Toy Story 2."
"Toy Story 2" is a Disney-Pixar animated film that was released in 1999. It was directed by John Lasseter and co-directed by Ash Brannon and Lee Unkrich, continuing the adventures of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends as they embark on a mission to save Woody from being sold at a yard sale. "Toy Story 2" was given a special theatrical release due to the huge success of the first film. It was well-received by audiences and praised for its animation style, which set new standards in the industry. The film earned over $497 million worldwide, becoming one of the year's highest-grossing releases. It won Academy Award for Best Original Song and was re-released in 3D in 2009 for its 10th-anniversary.
3. Most Popular in Oklahoma, Oregon, and Virginia: The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl
PG-13 | 92 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.5
- Metascore: 65
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 14+
- Director: Masaaki Yuasa
- Stars: Gen Hoshino, Kana Hanazawa, Hiroshi Kamiya
This animated film was the most searched in Oklahoma, Oregon, and Virginia in 2022.
"The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl" is a 2017 animated dramatic comedy film directed by Masaaki Yuasa. It's based on a novel of the same name, telling the story of a young woman known only as "The Girl with Black Hair" as she takes on the nightlife of Kyoto, Japan. The unique animation style and quirky storytelling made it an instant classic. The film was well-received by audiences and critics and even won Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year.
4. Most Popular in Colorado, Indiana, and Wisconsin: Elf
PG | 90 min | Adventure, Comedy, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.1
- Metascore: 64
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 7+
- Director: Jon Favreau
- Stars: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel
In Colorado, Indiana, and Wisconsin, "Elf" is the top-searched film of 2022.
"Elf" is a comedy holiday film directed by Jon Favreau and starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. The film follows Buddy as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery to New York City to find his real father. The film is known for its heartwarming story and hilarious performances, featuring iconic actors such as Zooey Deschanel, Peter Dinklage, and James Caan. "Elf" was released on November 7, 2003, and became an instant hit, grossing over $220 million worldwide. It has since become a beloved holiday classic cherished by audiences of all ages.
5. Most Popular in California and Texas: Toy Story
G | 81 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.3
- Metascore: 96
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Director: John Lasseter
- Stars: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles
In 2022, California and Texas loved cowboys and space rangers.
"Toy Story" introduced groundbreaking technology to the big screen in 1995, the first-ever feature-length film made entirely with computer-generated animation. It follows Woody and Buzz Lightyear as they embark on a journey to find their way back home. At its release, it grossed over $373 million worldwide, becoming the year's highest-grossing film. It was also nominated for three Academy Awards and won a Special Achievement Award for its groundbreaking achievements in animation. "Toy Story" has since become a beloved classic and has spawned three sequels, merchandise, and a franchise loved by audiences of all ages.
6. Most Popular in Georgia and Mississippi: Dragon Ball Super: Broly
PG | 92 min | Animation, Action, Adventure
- IMDB User Rating: 7.7
- Metascore: 59
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Director: Tatsuya Nagamine
- Stars: Masako Nozawa, Aya Hisakawa, Ryo Horikawa
Georgia and Mississippi were watching anime in 2022.
"Dragon Ball Super: Broly" is a popular anime film that was released in 2018, directed by Tatsuya Nagamine, and produced by Toei Animation. It is part of the long-running "Dragon Ball" franchise created by Akira Toriyama. The film was well-received for its high-quality animation, intense action sequences, and nostalgic fan appeal, grossing over $124 million worldwide. It was the highest-grossing "Dragon Ball" film at that time.
7. Most Popular in Maine and Pennsylvania: The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
PG | 90 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.1
- Metascore: 66
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Stephen Hillenburg, Mark Osborne
- Stars: Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown, Rodger Bumpass
For people in Maine and Pennsylvania, this movie starring the loveable yellow sponge was at the top of the search interest in 2022.
"The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie" is an animated comedy film released 2004 by Nickelodeon. It was directed by Stephen Hillenburg and produced by Paramount Pictures. Based on the animated television series "SpongeBob SquarePants," the film follows the adventures of SpongeBob SquarePants and his friend Patrick Star as they journey to Shell City to retrieve King Neptune's stolen crown and save their boss, Mr. Krabs. Artists used a mix of traditional 2D and 3D animation to bring the vibrant underwater world of Bikini Bottom to life on the big screen. "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie" was released in 2004, met with positive reviews from audiences, and grossed over $140 million worldwide. To this day, "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie" remains a fan favorite.
8. Most Popular in Minnesota and New Jersey: The Crash Reel
NR | 108 min | Documentary, Biography, Sport
- IMDB User Rating: 8.2
- Metascore: 79
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 15+
- Director: Lucy Walker
- Stars: Kevin Pearce, Shaun White, Mason Aguirre
Minnesota and New Jersey were interested in this documentary film about extreme sports in 2022.
"The Crash Reel" is a documentary that was released in 2013, directed by Lucy Walker, and produced by HBO Documentary Films. It tells on the story of professional snowboarder Kevin Pearce and his journey to recovery after a traumatic brain injury sustained during training for the 2010 Winter Olympics. "The Crash Reel" provides candid and intimate look into Pearce's life, his family struggles, and the impact of his injury on his life and career. The film combines personal footage, interviews, and stunning snowboarding footage to create a powerful narrative. It premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, receiving critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of extreme athletes' physical and emotional challenges.
9. Most Popular in Ohio and West Virginia: A Christmas Story
PG | 98 min | Comedy, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 77
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Bob Clark
- Stars: Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin
Ohio and West Virginia were feeling the Christmas spirit all year-round in 2022.
"A Christmas Story" is a classic 1983 film directed by Bob Clark and based on the semi-autobiographical stories of Jean Shepherd. The film documents the adventures of young Ralphie Parker as he navigates the challenges and joys of the holiday season in the 1940s. "A Christmas Story" was filmed on location in Cleveland, Ohio, capturing the nostalgic charm of a bygone era. The film captures Shepherd's original stories' unique humor and heartwarming moments. Released on November 18, 1983, the film initially received modest success at the box office. Over the years, it has gained a cult following as a beloved holiday classic, cherished by audiences. The film's iconic scenes, such as Ralphie's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun and the leg lamp, have become enduring symbols of the holiday season.
10. Most Popular in Maryland and Tennessee: Soul
PG | 100 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 83
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Pete Docker, Kemp Powers
- Stars: Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Graham Norton
Released by Pixar Animation in 2020, "Soul" is an animated comedy-drama film directed by Pete Docter and Kemp Powers. It tells the story of Joe Gardner, a middle-aged music teacher with a passion for jazz who dreams of becoming a professional musician. The film tells poignant story that explores existential questions about life, purpose and the pursuit of passion. "Soul" was praised for its emotional depth, stunning animation, and thought-provoking themes, winning it the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Audiences around the world continue find meaning and resonance with the story.
11. Most Popular in Alaska: Song of the Sea
PG | 93 min | Animation, Adventure, Drama
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 85
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 7+
- Director: Tomm Moore
- Stars: David Rawle, Brendan Gleeson, Lisa Hannigan
"Song of the Sea" is a 2014 Irish animated film directed by Tomm Moore and written by Will Collins. Its visually stunning and richly detailed aesthetic is inspired by Irish mythology and folklore, telling the story of a boy named Ben and his mute sister Saoirse. When they discover that Saoirse is a selkie, they embark on a series of adventures to save the world of spirits. "Song of the Sea" opened at various film festivals worldwide and received widespread acclaim for its unique animation and score. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
12. Most Popular in Arizona: Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
PG | 90 min | Adventure, Comedy, Music
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 50
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 11+
- Director: Stephen Herek
- Stars: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, George Carlin
"Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" is a 1989 comedy film directed by Stephen Herek that follows the misadventures of two high school slackers, Bill S. Preston, Esq. and Ted "Theodore" Logan, as they time travel in a phone booth to gather historical figures for their history assignment. At the time of its release, the movie garnered positive reviews and a cult following for its irreverent humor, memorable characters, and lighthearted tone. Its major success even led to a sequel. "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" is a beloved cult classic known for its quotable lines, iconic characters, and nostalgic appeal.
13. Most Popular in Connecticut: It's a Wonderful Life
PG | 125 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.6
- Metascore: 89
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 9+
- Director: Frank Capra
- Stars: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore
"It's a Wonderful Life" is a classic drama film released in 1946, directed by Frank Capra and produced by Liberty Films. James Stewart stars as George Bailey, a kind-hearted man who experiences a crisis on Christmas Eve and is shown what life would have been like if he had never been born. The film's production was challenging, with wartime backdrop and limited resources. Capra's vision and the talented cast and crew brought the story to life, creating a heartwarming and poignant tale. "It's a Wonderful Life" was initially met with mixed reviews and performed modestly at the box office. However, over the years, it has gained a reputation as a holiday classic. "It's a Wonderful Life" continues to be a cherished holiday tradition, reminding audiences of the true meaning of Christmas and the enduring power of human connection.
14. Most Popular in Delaware: Kicking & Screaming
PG | 87 min | Comedy, Family, Romance
- IMDB User Rating: 5.6
- Metascore: 45
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 9+
- Director: Jesse Dylan
- Stars: Will Ferrell, Robert Duvall, Josh Hutcherson
"Kicking & Screaming" is a sports comedy film released in 2005, directed by Jesse Dylan and produced by Universal Pictures. Will Ferrell stars as Phil Weston, a father who coaches his son's soccer team in a bid to outdo his overly competitive father, played by Robert Duvall. "Kicking & Screaming" was released to mixed reviews from critics but gained a following among Will Ferrell fans everywhere. The film's marketing tie-ins with the 2006 FIFA World Cup helped to generate buzz around the movie. "Kicking & Screaming" performed moderately well at the box office, grossing over $56 million worldwide.
15. Most Popular in the District of Columbia: Paddington 2
PG | 103 min | Adventure, Comedy, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.8
- Metascore: 88
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Paul King
- Stars: Ben Whishaw, Hugh Grant, Hugh Bonneville
"Paddington 2" is a 2017 family comedy film directed by Paul King and produced by Heyday Films and StudioCanal. It features the lovable bear Paddington, voiced by Ben Whishaw, as he gets involved in a new adventure to clear his name. "Paddington 2" recieved widespread acclaim for its heartwarming story, charming characters, and visual effects. The film grossed over $227 million worldwide. Its release was well-timed during the holiday season, and it quickly became popular choice for families looking for a feel-good film to enjoy together. "Paddington 2" continues to be loved by audiences of all ages for its endearing and positive vibes and
16. Most Popular in Florida: Ratatouille
G | 110 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 96
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Brad Bird
- Stars: Brad Garrett, Lou Romano, Patton Oswalt
The 2007 film "Ratatouille" is an animated comedy directed by Brad Bird and produced by Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures. The film follows the adventures of Remy the Rat, whose culinary passion drives him to form an unlikely friendship with a garbage boy named Linguini to pursue his dreams. "Ratatouille" was received well by audiences and critical acclaim at its release. Its iconic story, sharp humor, and cool animation earned over $620 million in worldwide revenue. The film has also received numerous awards and continues to be celebrated for its originality and unique cinematic flavor.
17. Most Popular in Hawaii: Spirited Away
PG | 125 min | Animation, Adventure, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 8.6
- Metascore: 96
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 9+
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Stars: Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino
"Spirited Away" is a 2001 Studio Ghibli film directed Hayao Miyazaki. It tells the story of Chihiro, a girl who gets trapped in a mysterious spirit world and must rescue her parents before finding her way back home. "Spirited Away" released to critical acclaim, both in Japan and internationally. It became the highest-grossing film in Japanese history at the time, and won numerous awards including the prestigious Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. "Spirited Away" has since garnered a dedicated fan base and appeals to audiences of all ages.
18. Most Popular in Idaho: Beauty and the Beast
G | 90 min | Animation, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 95
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
- Stars: Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Jesse Corti
"Beauty and the Beast" is a beloved Disney classic that was released in 1991, directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise. It tells the tale of Belle, a young woman who saves her father's life and falls in love with a cursed prince. Its hand-drawn animation, intricate character designs, and memorable musical numbers by composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman garnered the film praise. It was the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. It also won two Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.
19. Most Popular in Illinois: Home Alone
PG | 103 min | Comedy, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.7
- Metascore: 63
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 10+
- Director: Chris Columbus
- Stars: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
"Home Alone" is a popular comedy film that was released in 1990, directed by Chris Columbus and producer John Hughes. It follows the adventures of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister as his family goes on vacation for Christmas and he is left all alone. The film grossed over $476 million worldwide, and became one of the most successful comedies of all time. It has since spawned several sequels over the years, and continues to maintain a cult following of Christmas and Comedy-loving families.
20. Most Popular in Iowa: Field of Dreams
PG | 107 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.5
- Metascore: 57
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 12+
- Director: Phil Alden Robinson
- Stars: Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta
"Field of Dreams" is a sports drama from 1989, directed by Phil Alden Robinson and based on the novel "Shoeless Joe" by W.P. Kinsella. The film stars Kevin Costner as Ray, a struggling Iowa farmer who hears a voice instructing him to build a baseball field in his cornfield. The film captures the beauty of the Iowa landscape. Its poignant script explores themes of family and redemption, as well as the wonder of dreams. It has gained devoted following over the years and is now a beloved American classic.
21. Most Popular in Kansas: The Wizard of Oz
NR | 101 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 92
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Mervyn LeRoy
- Stars: Jodie Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger
"The Wizard of Oz" is a timeless musical fantasy film that was released in 1939, directed by Victor Fleming and based on the novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum. The film stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, a young girl who is swept away to the magical land of Oz by a tornado. For the time, the film's production was a grand undertaking, with elaborate sets, groundbreaking special effects and musical numbers. "The Wizard of Oz" was released to critical acclaim and has since become a cultural phenomenon, cherished by generations of audiences for its enchanting story. Despite a modest box office performance upon its initial release, the film has since become a beloved classic and a staple of American cinema.
22. Most Popular in Massachusetts: Duma
PG | 100 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.2
- Metascore: 82
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Carroll Ballard
- Stars: Alex Michaeletos, Campbell Scott, Hope Davis
"Duma" is a family adventure drama film that was released in 2005. Director Carroll Ballard based the film on the true story of a young boy who bonds with a cheetah. It features breathtaking African landscapes and stunning footage captured on location in Namibia. The production involved working with real cheetahs and other animals, focusing on themes of conservation. The film is commended for its beautiful cinematography, impactful performances and resonant themes. Though it may not be a box office blockbuster, "Duma" continues to captivate audiences of all ages who appreciate its heartwarming tale of adventure and compassion.
23. Most Popular in Montana: The Muppet Movie
G | 94 min | Adventure, Comedy, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.6
- Metascore: 74
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: James Frawley
- Stars: Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson
"The Muppet Movie" is a musical comedy film released in 1979, starring the beloved Muppet characters created by Jim Henson. Henson Associates and ITC Entertainment produced it as the first full-length feature film to showcase the Muppets. The story follows Kermit the Frog as he embarks on a cross-country journey to become a Hollywood star, accompanied by his friends Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Gonzo. Between its innovative puppetry, special effects, and catchy musical numbers, the Muppets' signature blend of humor and heart was well-received. The film's success led to a franchise of Muppet films and TV shows that continue to captivate audiences of all ages even today.
24. Most Popular in Nebraska: Charlotte's Web
G | 94 min | Animation, Adventure, Drama
- IMDB User Rating: 6.9
- Metascore: 73
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Director: Charles Nichols, Iwao Takamoto
- Stars: Debbie Reynolds, Henry Gibbons, Paul Lynde
"Charlotte's Web" is a beloved animated musical film based on E.B. White's classic children's book. It was produced and released in 1973, directed by Charles A. Nichols and Iwao Takamoto. Featuring a star-studded voice cast, it tells the heartwarming story of a young pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte, who saves him from becoming bacon. "Charlotte's Web" was released to critical acclaim and became a box office success, capturing the hearts of audiences with its timeless tale of friendship and selflessness. To this day the film remains a cherished classic.
25. Most Popular in New Hampshire: The Secret of NIMH
G | 83 min | Animation, Adventure, Drama
- IMDB User Rating: 7.5
- Metascore: 76
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Don Bluth
- Stars: Elizabeth Hartman, Derek Jacobi, Dom DeLuise
"The Secret of NIMH" is an animated film from 1982 produced by the MGM/UA Entertainment Company. The film was based on the novel "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien. Its unique hand-drawn animation style and dark tone distinguished it from typical animated films of the time. Despite facing challenges during production, "The Secret of NIMH" was released to critical acclaim and has since gained a dedicated fanbase. Among animation enthusiasts, it has continued to be a source of artistic inspiration.
26. Most Popular in New Mexico: Who Framed Roger Rabbit
PG | 103 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.7
- Metascore: 83
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 12+
- Director: Robert Zemeckis
- Stars: Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Joanna Cassidy
"Who Framed Roger Rabbit" is a groundbreaking live-action/animated film from 1988. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film adorned live-action sequences with animated cartoon characters, creating a visually stunning and technologically innovative cinematic experience. The production required seamless integration of art styles, extensive coordination between animators and live-action actors, and the use of cutting-edge special effects. It also featured beloved cartoon characters from different studios, including Disney and Warner Bros., appearing together on screen for the first time. "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" was a commercial and critical success, earning widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking animation techniques and captivating storytelling. It remains a seminal film in animation history and continues to be cherished by audiences of all ages.
27. Most Popular in New York: Enchanted
PG | 107 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.1
- Metascore: 75
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Kevin Lima
- Stars: Amy Adams, Susan Sarandon, Patrick Dempsey
"Enchanted" is a 2007 musical romantic comedy film produced by Walt Disney Pictures. Amy Adams stars as the lead heroine, Giselle, who sings her emotions and brings magic into the life of a lonely single father when she falls from her fairytale dimension into New York City. The film incorporates a mix of live-action and traditional animation sequences, notable for combining traditional fairy tale elements with a modern live-action setting. The film also included original songs by Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken, adding to its appeal. Upon its release, "Enchanted" was well-received for its whimsical storytelling. It quickly garnered success, grossing over $340 million worldwide. "Enchanted" has since become a beloved modern classic in the Disney film canon, capturing the hearts of audiences young and old. Its 2022 sequel released on Disney+.
28. Most Popular in North Dakota: The Iron Giant
PG | 86 min | Animation, Action, Adventure
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 85
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Brad Bird
- Stars: Eli Marienthal, Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Aniston
"The Iron Giant" is 1999 animated film produced by Warner Bros. directed by Brad Bird. It tells the story of a young boy named Hogarth who befriends a gargantuan alien robot crash-landed on Earth. "The Iron Giant" is notable for its hand-drawn animation style and unique blend of 2D and 3D animation. Despite facing challenges with its marketing and release, the film received widespread acclaim for its heartwarming themes, memorable characters and distinctive art style. Over time the film has gained a dedicated fanbase and is well-beloved its message of humanity. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
29. Most Popular in South Dakota: Wolfwalkers
PG | 100 min | Animation, Action, Adventure
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 87
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Tomm Moore, Ross Stewart
- Stars: Honor Kneafsey, Eva Whittaker, Sean Bean
"Wolfwalkers" is a 2020 animated fantasy film produced by Cartoon Saloon, and directed by Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart. A young girl named Robyn befriends a mysterious tribe of wolfwalkers in 17th century Ireland and embarks on a series of adventures. The production of "Wolfwalkers" is recognizable for its hand-drawn style pulled from Irish folklore and tradition. The film incorporated themes of environmentalism and human-nature connection. Despite releasing during the COVID-19 pandemic, "Wolfwalkers" received widespread critical acclaim. It was nominated for multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. "Wolfwalkers" has since garnered a devoted fanbase and is celebrated for its artistic achievements and powerful storytelling.
30. Most Popular in Utah: Toy Story 3
G | 103 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.3
- Metascore: 92
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Lee Unkrich
- Stars: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
"Toy Story 3" is a 2010 animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures. It is the third installment in the iconic "Toy Story" franchise, notable for its advancements in computer-generated imagery (CGI) that brought the world of toys to life in stunning detail. The film resumes the heartwarming story of Woody, Buzz and their friends as they face the challenges of growing up. "Toy Story 3" was met with widespread acclaim, earning over $1 billion at the box office and becoming the highest-grossing animated film at that time. It was also nominated for five Academy Awards and won for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. "Toy Story 3" was celebrated for its emotional storytelling, memorable characters and the perfect conclusion to the well-loved trilogy. It remains a beloved film that has captured the hearts of audiences all ages and is still considered a classic in the world of animation.
31. Most Popular in Vermont: Swiss Family Robinson
G | 93 min | Adventure, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.1
- Metascore: 61
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 8+
- Director: Ken Annakin
- Stars: John Mills, Dorothy McGuire, James MacArthur
"Swiss Family Robinson" is a family adventure film released by Walt Disney Productions in 1960. The film is based on the classic novel by Johann David Wyss and is directed by Ken Annakin. It follows the adventures of a shipwrecked family as they try to survive on a deserted island. The film shot on location in beautiful Tobago. Its team's use of practical effects to create the Robinson family treehouse became an iconic element of the film. Upon its release, "Swiss Family Robinson" grossed over $40 million at the box office and received positive reviews for its thrilling adventure, beautiful scenery and wholesome family values. The film has since become a beloved classic cherished for its timeless story of survival, resourcefulness, and the bond of family.
32. Most Popular in Washington: Penguin Highway
NR | 118 min | Animation, Adventure, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 7.1
- Metascore: 82
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 11+
- Director: Hiroyasu Ishida
- Stars: Kana Kita, Yü Aoi, Rie Kugimiya
"Penguin Highway" is 2018 anime film produced by Studio Colorido and directed by Hiroyasu Ishida. It is based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi and follows the adventures of a small boy fascinated with the sudden appearance of penguins in his town. The distinctive mix of fantasy and animation contribute vivid detail to the story. Despite the fact that it was small-scale production, the film was acclaimed by audiences and critics for its charming tale, endearing characters and thought-provoking content.It even won the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year. Today it has a devoted fanbase who love it for its innovative storytelling and stylized animation techniques.
33. Most Popular in Wyoming: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
PG-13 | 135 min | Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 63
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 12+
- Director: Gore Verbinski
- Stars: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Kiera Knightley
"Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" is a swashbuckling adventure film produced by Walt Disney Pictures in 2003. The film follows Johnny Depp as the worst pirate of them all, Captain Jack Sparrow, as he pursues a vendetta to retrieve his stolen ship, the Black Pearl. The film's production was notable for its elaborate sets, stunning visual effects, and memorable performances. Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow became an instant hit with audiences. Due to its unconventional premise, the film first experienced mixed sentiments. It exceeded expectations however, and went on to become a massive commercial success. grossing over $654 million worldwide. "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" spawned a highly successful film franchise, with several sequels and spin-offs, and has become beloved classic in the realm of pirate-themed films.
