G-rated movies, also known as General Audiences movies, are suitable for all audiences and contain no content considered offensive or inappropriate for children. These movies often have a positive message or moral and are suitable for family viewing.
Examples of G-rated movies include Disney’s animated classics such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Cinderella,” and “Sleeping Beauty.” These films have timeless stories and lovable characters enjoyed by generations. Another example is “The Lion King,” which tells the story of a lion prince and his journey to reclaim his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands.
G-rated movies also include live-action films such as “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” which tells the story of a young boy who befriends an alien who has been stranded on Earth. This film is known for its heartwarming message of friendship and acceptance. Another live-action G-rated film is “The Wizard of Oz,” a beloved classic that tells the story of a young girl’s journey to the magical land of Oz.
Animated and live-action movies alike, G-rated movies can be an excellent way for families to enjoy quality entertainment together. They are also a great choice for children who are just starting to watch movies on their own, as they do not contain any content that may be frightening or confusing for young viewers.
It is also worth mentioning that G-rated movies are not as popular as they once were, and it would be rare to see one released in recent years. Most movie ratings will be classified as a PG (Parental Guidance) rating instead, which has some content that parents should be aware of before allowing their child to watch the movie.
Impactful looked at IMDB‘s data for all G-rated movies and compiled a list of the top 50 films across all genres, according to IMDB user scores. Ties are broken internally at IMDB, where the data goes deeper than what’s presented online.
Below, we highlight the top 10 G-rated movies according to IMDB. The complete list can be found below the top 10.
10 Most Popular G-Rated Movies
1. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)
G | 144 min | Adventure, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 6.9
- Metascore: 64
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Ken Hughes
- Stars: Dick Van Dyke, Sally Ann Howes, Lionel Jeffries, Benny Hill
“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” is a 1968 musical film directed by Ken Hughes, based on the children’s novel of the same name by Ian Fleming, who is also known as the author of the James Bond series. The film tells the story of an eccentric inventor named Caractacus Potts, who restores an old, dilapidated racing car and turns it into a magical flying machine that can fly and float on water. The story follows Potts and his family as they embark on a series of adventures in the car, which they affectionately named “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”
The movie stars Dick Van Dyke as Caractacus Potts, alongside Sally Ann Howes and Lionel Jeffries as his children, and features several memorable musical numbers written by the Sherman Brothers, including the title song “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” which is considered one of the most iconic songs of the movie.
One thing that sets “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” apart from other musicals is its fantastical plot, which includes science fiction and fantasy elements. The film’s special effects, considered advanced for its time, are still impressive today. The car’s transformation from an ordinary vehicle to a flying machine is a particular highlight of the film, and it is one of the reasons why the movie remains a fan favorite today.
The film was a commercial success at its release, and it remains popular today, often considered a classic of children’s cinema. It was nominated for several awards and had a stage adaptation that ran on Broadway in 2005 and in other countries.
Overall, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” is a charming and entertaining musical film that appeals to audiences of all ages. Its combination of fantasy, adventure, and catchy music makes it a timeless classic that will delight viewers.
2. Cleopatra (1963)
G | 192 min | Biography, Drama, History
- IMDB User Rating: 7.0
- Metascore: 60
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 13+ (see parent’s notes at the bottom of the movie description)
- Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
- Stars: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex Harrison, Pamela Brown
“Cleopatra” is an epic historical drama from 1963 that stars Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex Harrison, and Roddy McDowall. Joseph L. Mankiewicz directed it. The film is based on the life of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra and covers her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
The film was one of the most expensive and ambitious movies ever made at the time, with a reported budget of $44 million (equivalent to $390 million in 2021 dollars) and a shooting schedule that lasted over a year. It was also one of the most troubled productions in Hollywood history, with multiple delays, cost overruns, and problems with the cast and crew.
Despite the difficulties, the film was a box office success and received four Academy Awards: for Art Direction, Cinematography, Visual Effects, and Costume Design. The film was nominated for four other Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The film’s biggest draw was Elizabeth Taylor, who played the title role of Cleopatra. People liked how she played the queen and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. She also garnered controversy for her off-screen romance with co-star Richard Burton, who played Mark Antony in the film. The couple would eventually marry and divorce twice.
The film was praised for its spectacular sets and costumes and visually striking portrayal of ancient Egypt and Rome. But the movie got bad reviews because it was wrong about the history, and the story moved too slowly. The film runs over four hours long and is considered a classic of the epic film genre.
Even though it was criticized and had problems on the set, “Cleopatra” is now remembered as a cinematic landmark and a cultural touchstone of the 1960s. The movie’s striking sets and costumes and Elizabeth Taylor’s performance as Cleopatra have become classics that movie fans still study and admire.
*Parents Beware: Under Sex, Romance & Nudity, Common Sense Media notes: “A dozen or so kisses, a few of which are in bed. Mention of Cleopatra’s “sexual talents” and that she uses them. Several instances of semi-nudity: part of bare buttocks and breast seen from the side; a dancer with pasties for a top; people bathing bare from the chest up; an apparently naked woman under sheer fabric. A woman places a man’s hand on her breast, then on her hips.”
3. The Sound of Music (1965)
G | 172 min | Biography, Drama, Family
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 63
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Director: Robert Wise
- Stars: Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Haydn
“The Sound of Music” is a 1965 American musical film directed by Robert Wise and starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. The film is based on the true story of the von Trapp Family Singers and their escape from Austria in 1938, just before the German annexation of Austria.
The film was a box office success and received critical acclaim upon its release. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Score. The film was nominated for three other Oscars, including Best Actress for Julie Andrews. The film’s success helped to establish Andrews as one of the most popular and beloved actresses of the time.
The film’s story centers around Maria, a young woman who is sent to be a governess for the seven children of Captain von Trapp, a widower, and former naval officer. Despite initial difficulties, Maria quickly wins the children’s and their father’s hearts. The family begins to make music together, leading to the von Trapps forming a singing group, which they use to flee Austria to escape the Nazis.
The film’s most memorable aspect is the music, composed by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, which includes such classics as “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain.” The film’s score and songs were a significant factor in its success and helped to make it one of the most popular and enduring musical films of all time.
The film was shot on location in Salzburg, Austria, and many of the exterior scenes were shot in the von Trapp Family’s original home, now the von Trapp Villa Hotel, which is a tourist attraction today. The filming process was relatively smooth, but some cast and crew members have said that the weather conditions in Salzburg were challenging to work with.
“The Sound of Music” has become a cultural touchstone and one of the most beloved films of all time. The film’s music, story, and characters have been enjoyed by generations and have become a beloved part of the American musical film canon. The film has also been adapted into a stage musical, which has been performed in theaters around the world.
4. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
G | 149 min | Adventure, Sci-Fi
- IMDB User Rating: 8.3
- Metascore: 84
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 12+ (Language: “D**ned,” “h**l” infrequently.)
- Director: Stanley Kubrick
- Stars: Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter
“2001: A Space Odyssey” is a 1968 science fiction film directed and produced by Stanley Kubrick and written by Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke. The film is regarded as a masterpiece of cinema and is considered one of the greatest films ever made. It is noted for its scientific accuracy, ambitious scope, and groundbreaking special effects.
The film is divided into four parts, each with its own distinct visual and thematic elements: “The Dawn of Man,” “TMA-1,” “Jupiter Mission,” and “Jupiter and Beyond the Infinite.” The film tells a story of the evolution of humanity and its relationship with technology, and it is open to various interpretations.
The first part of the film, “The Dawn of Man,” tells the story of a group of ape-like creatures who discover the use of tools and begin to evolve into modern humans. This section of the film is famous for its use of classical music and its iconic scene of the apes discovering the use of tools.
The second part, “TMA-1,” takes place in the present day and follows the crew of a spacecraft on a mission to Jupiter. This section is notable for its realistic portrayal of space travel and its use of contemporary music, including Richard Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra.”
The third part, “Jupiter Mission,” takes place on the Jupiter-bound spacecraft and follows the crew as they confront a mysterious and seemingly malevolent force. This section of the film is known for its use of abstract imagery and cryptic, open-ended conclusion.
The final part, “Jupiter and Beyond the Infinite,” is a psychedelic and abstract sequence widely interpreted as a depiction of a journey through space and time, a contemplation of the nature of human existence, and a representation of a transcendent experience.
“2001: A Space Odyssey” was met with critical acclaim upon its release and continues to be widely considered a masterpiece. The film’s technical innovations in visual effects and its use of classical music were widely influential. It is seen as a milestone in the history of science fiction film and the science fiction genre overall. The film has been the subject of extensive analysis, interpretation, and debate, making it a classic example of art that leaves interpretation open to the viewer, with Kubrick famously saying he prefers not to offer an ‘official’ interpretation of the film, as he wants it to be open to each viewer’s personal interpretation.
5. Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
G | 103 min | Comedy, Musical, Romance
- IMDB User Rating: 8.3
- Metascore: 99
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Directors: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly
- Stars: Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen
“Singin’ in the Rain” is a 1952 American musical comedy film directed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen and starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor. The film is widely considered one of the greatest musical films ever made and is often cited as one of the greatest films of all time.
The film is set in the late 1920s, during the transition from silent films to “talkies.” The story follows the lives of silent film star Don Lockwood, his sidekick Cosmo Brown and the aspiring actress Kathy Selden as they navigate the challenges of the new era of filmmaking. The film is known for its comedic moments, romantic plot, and musical numbers, which include some of the most famous and enduring songs in film history, such as the title song “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Make ‘Em Laugh.”
The film’s choreography, especially Gene Kelly’s performance, is widely considered to be some of the best put on film, with Kelly’s performance of the title song “Singin’ in the Rain” becoming one of the most iconic and beloved musical numbers in film history. Debbie Reynolds, who played Kathy Selden, also received widespread praise for her performance, and her singing of “Good Morning” is considered one of the film’s highlights.
“Singin’ in the Rain” was a box office success upon its release and received widespread critical acclaim. It was nominated for two Academy Awards and won none, but it has since become a classic, acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. The American Film Institute lists it as the 5th greatest American movie musical. It is preserved in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”
In summary, “Singin’ in the Rain” is considered one of the greatest musical films ever made and continues to be celebrated for its musical numbers, choreography, performances, and light-hearted look at Hollywood during the transition from silent films to “talkies.”
6. The Lion King (1994)
G | 88 min | Animation, Adventure, Drama
- IMDB User Rating: 8.5
- Metascore: 88
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 6+
- Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff
- Stars: Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, Whoopi Goldberg
“The Lion King” is a 1994 American animated musical film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff. The film tells the story of Simba, a young lion who is to inherit the throne of the Pride Lands from his father, Mufasa, but is exiled after his father is killed by his uncle Scar. The film explores themes of responsibility, legacy, and redemption as Simba grows up, eventually returns to the Pride Lands, and reclaims his rightful place as king.
The film’s animation is praised for its photorealistic animation and its use of computer-generated imagery to create the African savannah setting. The film is also well-known for its musical score, which includes songs written by Elton John and Tim Rice, and its use of African-inspired rhythms and melodies. The film’s most famous song is “The Circle of Life,” with which the movie starts, and it is still considered classic and iconic.
The film’s voice cast includes the likes of Matthew Broderick as Simba, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Jeremy Irons as Scar, and Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella as Timon and Pumbaa, respectively. The performances of these actors have been praised for bringing the characters to life, with Jones, in particular, receiving widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Mufasa.
“The Lion King” was a massive commercial success upon its release, grossing over $968 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1994. It received critical acclaim and won two Academy Awards for its music and original song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” It also won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
“The Lion King” has become a cultural phenomenon and has had a lasting impact on popular culture. It spawned several sequels, a hit Broadway musical, and a live-action remake released in 2019. The film’s themes and characters continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it one of the most beloved and enduring animated films ever made.
7. Planet of the Apes (1968)
G | 112 min | Adventure, Sci-Fi
- IMDB User Rating: 8.0
- Metascore: 79
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 12+ (see parent’s notes at the bottom of the movie description)
- Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
- Stars: Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter, Maurice Evans
“Planet of the Apes” is a 1968 American science fiction film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starring Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, and Kim Hunter. The film is based on the 1963 French novel “La Planète des Singes” by Pierre Boulle. The story is set in the distant future. It follows astronaut George Taylor, who crash-lands on a mysterious planet where intelligent apes are the dominant species, and humans are the enslaved inferior race.
The film’s main themes are oppression, social hierarchy, and the consequences of technological advancements. It also raises questions about humanity’s treatment of the environment and the potential consequences of our actions. The film became widely known for its socio-political and symbolic context, a cult classic, and a benchmark for science fiction filmmaking.
The film’s special effects, especially the ape characters’ make-up, were widely praised for their realistic and detailed appearance. John Chambers did the make-up, and the techniques he used were revolutionary. It was the first time such an undertaking was done on such a scale in a film.
The film received positive reviews upon its release and was a box-office success, grossing over $32.6 million worldwide. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
The film’s success led to four sequels, a television series, and a reboot series of films starting in 2011. “Planet of the Apes” has significantly impacted popular culture and has become a landmark in science fiction cinema. It is widely considered one of the greatest science fiction films ever made, and its legacy continues to be celebrated and studied by fans and scholars alike.
*Parents Beware: Common Sense Media notes – The male astronauts go swimming and lose their clothes. They run through the jungle naked, though nothing sensitive is shown. The main character is given a “mate” (a female human who does not speak), and he talks about all the “lovers” he had back on earth. He mentions a female astronaut who died during the journey and was supposed to be the “new Eve.” Language is not very frequent but includes “G*dd**n,” “oh my G**,” “h**l” and several uses of “d**n,” including the famous line: “Take your stinking paws off me, you d**ned dirty ape!”
8. Cars (2006)
G | 117 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.2
- Metascore: 73
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Directors: John Lasseter, Joe Ranft
- Stars: Owen Wilson, Bonnie Hunt, Paul Newman, Larry the Cable Guy
“Cars” is a 2006 American computer-animated comedy-adventure film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed by John Lasseter. The film is set in a world populated entirely by anthropomorphic cars and other vehicles. It tells the story of a hotshot race car named Lightning McQueen, who gets stranded in the small town of Radiator Springs after a series of mishaps on his way to a big race. As he gets to know the town and its inhabitants, McQueen learns valuable lessons about life, friendship, and the true meaning of winning.
The film is known for its stunning animation, which brings the cars and their world to life with great detail and realism. The film also features an all-star voice cast, including Owen Wilson as Lightning McQueen, Paul Newman as Doc Hudson, Bonnie Hunt as Sally, and Larry the Cable Guy as Mater.
The film’s music was composed by Randy Newman, featuring the famous song “Life is a Highway,” which Tom Cochrane popularized.
“Cars” received positive reviews upon its release, and it was a box office success, grossing over $462 million worldwide. It also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.
The success of the film led to the creation of several sequels, including “Cars 2” (2011), “Cars 3” (2017), and the spin-off film “Planes” (2013), as well as an entire franchise of merchandise and merchandise tie-ins. “Cars” has become one of Pixar’s most popular and recognizable franchises, and its merchandise has become popular and available worldwide.
The film’s themes of friendship, community, and the importance of small towns have resonated with audiences of all ages, and “Cars” has become a beloved classic in the world of animated films. Its popularity has also led to the establishment of Cars Land, a themed area at Disney California Adventure and Disney’s Hollywood Studios based on the film.
9. Ratatouille (2007)
G | 111 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
- IMDB User Rating: 8.1
- Metascore: 96
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Directors: Brad Bird, Jan Pinkava
- Stars: Brad Garrett, Lou Romano, Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm
“Ratatouille” is a 2007 American computer-animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and directed by Brad Bird. The film tells the story of Remy, a young rat who dreams of becoming a chef, despite his species’ reputation and the obvious practical difficulties. He forms an unlikely partnership with a human chef, Linguini, and together they cook up a storm in one of Paris’ top restaurants, much to the delight of the city’s food critics.
The film is known for its stunning animation, which brings the rats and the kitchen alive with great detail and realism. The film also features an all-star voice cast, including Patton Oswalt as Remy, Brad Garrett as Remy’s father, Django, Jane Lynch as Chef Skinner, and Brian Dennehy as Remy’s Uncle.
The film’s score was composed by Michael Giacchino, and his music was praised for capturing the film’s blend of humor, emotion, and culinary excitement.
“Ratatouille” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, and it was a box office success, grossing over $475 million worldwide. It also received an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and nominations for Best Original Screenplay and Best Sound Editing.
The film’s themes of passion, hard work, and the importance of following your dreams have resonated with audiences of all ages. The film’s depiction of the culinary world and how it was brought to life on screen was particularly praised. The film also has a cult following among food enthusiasts and culinary professionals.
“Ratatouille” is considered one of Pixar’s most critically acclaimed films. Its popularity has led to the creation of a successful video game and a themed ride, “Ratatouille: The Adventure,” which opened in Disneyland Paris and Epcot in Walt Disney World. The film’s main characters, especially Remy, continue to be popular on various merchandise lists.
10. Mary Poppins (1964)
G | 139 min | Comedy, Family, Fantasy
- IMDB User Rating: 7.8
- Metascore: 88
- Common Sense Media Says: Age 5+
- Director: Robert Stevenson
- Stars: Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins is a classic 1964 musical fantasy film directed by Robert Stevenson and produced by Walt Disney. The film, based on the children’s book series by P.L. Travers, stars Julie Andrews as the titular character, Mary Poppins, a magical nanny who arrives at the Banks household to care for the children and bring fun and adventure into their lives. The film also stars Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, and Glynis Johns.
The film follows the story of the Banks family, a wealthy but unhappy family living in London, whose lives are turned upside down when Mary Poppins arrives to take care of their children. With her magical abilities, Mary Poppins takes the children on a series of adventures and teaches them valuable lessons about life, family, and the importance of having fun. Along the way, the children and their parents learn to appreciate each other and the simple things in life.
Mary Poppins was critically acclaimed upon its release and was a commercial success, grossing over $100 million at the box office. The film won 5 Academy Awards, including one for Julie Andrews for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The film is widely considered a classic and has become a beloved family film for generations. The film’s success also spawned a sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, which was released in 2018.
11-50 Most Popular G-Rated Movies
- Fiddler on the Roof (1971)
- The Polar Express (2004)
- Luck (I) (2022)
- Gone with the Wind (1939)
- The Wizard of Oz (1939)
- Toy Story (1995)
- Beauty and the Beast (1991)
- Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954)
- Hercules (1997)
- WALL·E (2008)
- Finding Nemo (2003)
- Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
- The Princess Diaries (2001)
- Aladdin (1992)
- Monsters, Inc. (2001)
- Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)
- Toy Story 4 (2019)
- The Longest Day (1962)
- The Little Mermaid (1989)
- It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World (1963)
- Mulan (1998)
- A Bug’s Life (I) (1998)
- The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
- Toy Story 3 (2010)
- Jason and the Argonauts (1963)
- My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
- The Princess and the Frog (2009)
- Ben-Hur (1959)
- Cars 3 (2017)
- Anastasia (1997)
- A Goofy Movie (1995)
- Rio (2011)
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
- Pinocchio (1940)
- Tarzan (1999)
- Toy Story 2 (1999)
- Chicken Run (2000)
- Cars 2 (2011)
- The Secret Garden (1993)
- My Fair Lady (1964)
Why Are G-Rated Movies Popular?
There are a variety of reasons why people might enjoy G-rated movies.
They are suitable for all ages: G-rated movies are specifically designed to be appropriate for children and families, so parents don’t have to worry about their children being exposed to mature themes or violence. These films can be enjoyed by both adults and children and provide a way for families to bond and share an experience together.
They can be wholesome and uplifting: G-rated movies often have positive themes and messages, such as the importance of friendship, family, and teamwork. They can leave audiences feeling good and can help children learn valuable life lessons in a fun and entertaining way.
They can be visually appealing: Many G-rated movies are animated and feature colorful and imaginative worlds and characters. They often have stunning animation and special effects that can be enjoyable to watch.
They can be nostalgic: G-rated movies can remind adults of their own childhood and the films they enjoyed as children. They can evoke feelings of nostalgia and can be a way to reconnect with one’s past.
They are often cheaper than movies with more content and budget.
Overall, G-rated movies can be an excellent way for families to spend time together and for individuals of all ages to enjoy a fun and uplifting film experience.
