With a variety of PG-rated movies just hitting the theaters, families have plenty of options for their next movie night. These films aim to provide entertainment that suits a wide audience, ensuring a fun experience for both kids and adults alike.
Viewers can expect a mix of adventure, humor, and heartwarming stories that are perfect for a family outing.
Whether they’re traveling to magical worlds or engaging in exciting adventures, these films offer something special for everyone. The diverse range of PG movies helps cater to different tastes while maintaining themes and content suitable for younger audiences.
1) The Wish Dragon
“The Wish Dragon” is a fun animated movie that came out in 2021. It’s perfect for kids and families to enjoy together.
The film features the voices of stars like Jimmy Wong, John Cho, and Constance Wu. Jackie Chan even had a part in producing it!
In the story, a college student named Din stumbles upon a magical teapot. Inside the teapot lives Long, a dragon who can grant three wishes. Long isn’t just any dragon, though. He’s a little bit cynical and ready to be free from his bottle-bound life.
Din doesn’t want riches or fame. Instead, he wants to reunite with his childhood friend. This adventure is filled with lessons on friendship and being true to oneself. Kids will find plenty of laughs and magical moments throughout the film.
The movie is available on Netflix and runs for about an hour and 38 minutes. It’s rated PG, so it’s great for children around 6 years and up. The animation and magical story make it an entertaining choice for a family movie night.
If you’re curious about the film’s vibe, you might want to check out its trailer:
Give “The Wish Dragon” a shot if you’re looking for something light and magical to watch with your family.
2) Nimona
“Nimona” is a fun and creative animated movie that popped onto the scene in 2023. Directed by Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, it features voices by Chloë Grace Moretz and Riz Ahmed. The story unfolds in a futuristic medieval world, packed with unexpected twists and cool visuals.
The plot follows a knight named Ballister Boldheart, voiced by Riz Ahmed, who gets blamed for a crime he didn’t commit. His only hope is Nimona, a shapeshifting teen played by Chloë Grace Moretz. Nimona and Ballister’s journey together is full of excitement and unexpected friendship.
This movie has been praised for its animation style and engaging story. It’s received a lot of love and even scored high with critics. Its mix of adventure and humor makes it a standout choice for family movie nights.
Feel free to check out the trailer on YouTube to catch a glimpse of this exciting film! “Nimona” brings a unique blend of fantasy and action, and it’s definitely worth the watch.
3) Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken
Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken, is a fresh animated movie that hit the theaters in 2023. It’s a fun and exciting story about Ruby Gillman, a fifteen-year-old girl who discovers she’s part of a legendary sea kraken lineage. This unexpected revelation turns Ruby’s world upside down as she navigates her teenage life while keeping her true identity hidden.
Voiced by Lana Condor, Ruby just wants to live a regular high school life. Her journey is filled with humor and adventure as she tries to keep her secret while also embracing her unique lineage. The film is brought to life with the voices of talented actors like Toni Collette, Annie Murphy, Colman Domingo, and Jane Fonda.
Directed by Kirk DeMicco and co-directed by Faryn Pearl, this movie is great for families. It’s packed with colorful animation and a story that’s both heartwarming and entertaining. DreamWorks Animation, known for its engaging family films, produced this movie.
For those who enjoy exciting fantasy adventures mixed with comedy, Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken is a great pick. It merges the challenges of teenage life with the mystical adventures of being a sea creature.
Check out the trailer here:
Brace yourself for a delightful experience with Ruby and her kraken family!
4) The Tiger’s Apprentice
“The Tiger’s Apprentice” is a newly released PG-rated animated film that’s quickly gaining attention. Based on a novel by Laurence Yep, this movie combines action, adventure, and fantasy into a magical experience for viewers.
The story revolves around Tom Lee, a Chinese-American boy, who is suddenly thrust into a world of magic. After his grandmother’s passing, Tom finds himself learning ancient spells from a talking tiger named Mr. Hu. His mission is to become the next guardian of a mystical phoenix.
The film features a star-studded cast. Voices include Henry Golding, Lucy Liu, Sandra Oh, and Michelle Yeoh. Their performances add depth to this vibrant and visually stunning world.
This movie is not only entertaining but also embraces themes of cultural heritage and self-discovery. It’s a great choice for families looking for something engaging and meaningful.
Ready to get a sneak peek? Check out the trailer on YouTube to see the magic unfold firsthand.
With its mix of humor, action, and heartwarming moments, “The Tiger’s Apprentice” is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
5) My Father’s Dragon
“My Father’s Dragon” is an animated fantasy movie based on a classic children’s book. It was released in 2022 and directed by Nora Twomey.
The story follows a young boy, Elmer Elevator, on his journey to Wild Island. Elmer leaves the bustling city of Nevergreen to find a dragon.
The film features the voices of Jacob Tremblay as Elmer and Gaten Matarazzo, along with other well-known actors like Golshifteh Farahani and Dianne Wiest. This film is filled with adventure, friendship, and magical creatures.
For those interested in a sneak peek, there’s a trailer available on YouTube to watch. Enjoy the colorful animation and engaging storyline that appeals to audiences of all ages.
6) Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
“Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” hit theaters in 2022, bringing a beloved children’s book to life. It’s a fun mix of animation and live-action that has made it popular with kids and families. Directed by Will Speck and Josh Gordon, the movie has a charming vibe, perfect for a family night in.
The cast features well-known actors like Javier Bardem and Constance Wu. Singer Shawn Mendes lends his voice to Lyle, the singing crocodile, giving him a unique and lovable personality. The story takes place in New York City, where a family discovers Lyle in their attic.
Lyle becomes part of the family, but the fun is threatened by their grumpy neighbor. The movie keeps audiences engaged with its humor and music. The plot includes some mild slapstick moments and elements of surprise, making it light-hearted and exciting for viewers.
Check out the trailer for “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” to get a glimpse of this delightful family adventure:
7) Wish Dragon
Wish Dragon is a fun animated film released in 2021. It was directed by Chris Appelhans in his first time leading a movie. The story takes viewers into a world where wishes can come true, thanks to a magical dragon.
The main character, Din, is a young college student with a lot of dreams. He finds an ancient teapot from which Long, a wish-granting dragon, emerges. Long helps Din explore new possibilities and reconnect with his childhood friend.
The voice cast includes several well-known actors. Jimmy Wong voices Din, while John Cho brings Long to life. Constance Wu, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, and Ronny Chieng also lend their voices to other characters.
Jackie Chan produced the movie and even voiced one of the characters in the Mandarin version. The animation blends traditional Chinese culture with modern scenes, creating a unique and magical experience.
The themes of friendship and being true to oneself resonate throughout the film, making it a great pick for kids and families. Wish Dragon is available to stream on Netflix, making it easily accessible.
Here’s a sneak peek of the film:
(Click to watch the trailer)
Wish Dragon offers laughs and lessons, perfect for movie nights with the family.
8) Sea of Solitude
“Sea of Solitude” dives into a world teeming with magical realism. The story follows Kay, portrayed by a talented ensemble cast. Kay’s journey begins on a small boat adrift in a mysterious, dark sea.
As she navigates the waters, she encounters eerie sea monsters. These creatures symbolize personal challenges that Kay must face. Her adventure takes a turn as she enters a city in ruins, filled with strange characters.
The city reflects her inner struggles, with various monsters representing her fears and insecurities. This intense narrative explores deep emotions and personal growth. The visual style enhances the story, combining imaginative design with stunning effects.
The creators have crafted a unique universe, blending fantasy with real-life themes. Players are drawn into Kay’s quest, which is as much about self-discovery as it is about overcoming daunting obstacles.
For more insights into Kay’s extraordinary journey, watch the trailer below:
9) Elemental
“Elemental” is a 2023 animated PG movie from Disney and Pixar. This charming film takes viewers to Element City, a place where fire, water, land, and air residents live together. It’s a fun mix of animation, comedy, and fantasy, appealing to both kids and families.
The story follows Ember, a fiery and quick-witted young woman, as she navigates life in this vibrant city. She meets Wade, a laid-back guy who goes with the flow. Their friendship grows as they learn about each other’s worlds, bringing a unique perspective to the film’s engaging narrative.
Directed by Peter Sohn, “Elemental” features the voices of talented actors like Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie. They bring life and personality to the enchanting characters of Ember and Wade, adding a special touch to the story. Other voice actors in the film include Ronnie del Carmen and Shila Ommi.
The colorful world of “Elemental” captures the imagination with its creative depiction of the elements. The animation style, combined with a heartwarming plot, keeps viewers entertained and engaged.
10) The Boy and the Heron
“The Boy and the Heron” is an enchanting fantasy adventure by the legendary director Hayao Miyazaki. It hit the screens with a PG-13 rating, making it a unique entry in this list of new releases.
The movie paints a mesmerizing picture of a boy named Mahito. He is dealing with the loss of his mom and his dad’s remarriage.
This pushes him into a dreamlike world that connects the living and the dead.
Some well-known voices give life to the characters. Soma Santoki voices Mahito, with Masaki Suda, Kô Shibasaki, and Aimyon as other main characters.
Each actor brings depth and emotion to the story.
The film is rich in imagery and emotion, staying true to Studio Ghibli’s style. The animation is impressive, offering stunning visuals that captivate viewers from start to finish.
Fans of Studio Ghibli will appreciate the film’s storytelling and visuals. It shows Miyazaki’s ability to create a magical yet thoughtful adventure.
Its uniqueness as a PG-13 movie makes it stand out among animated films.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Ghibli’s work, “The Boy and the Heron” offers an engaging experience.
The combination of a strong narrative and beautiful artistry makes it a noteworthy watch.
The Appeal of PG Movies
PG movies are a hit among families looking for entertainment that balances fun with meaningful life lessons. These films provide a shared experience that combines excitement with values.
Why Families Love Them
Families appreciate PG movies because they offer a safe viewing experience for kids and adults alike.
Parents feel comfortable watching these films with their children, knowing they are unlikely to encounter content that is too intense or inappropriate.
Variety is another key factor. PG movies cover a wide range of genres—from animated adventures to comedic tales—ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Additionally, PG films are usually filled with humor, action, and creativity, keeping everyone entertained and interested.
Movie night becomes an event where laughter and thrills unite the family.
Balancing Fun and Morals
PG movies often balance fun with moral lessons, providing viewers with more than just entertainment.
These films cleverly introduce themes like friendship, honesty, and perseverance without being too heavy-handed.
Characters in PG movies often face challenges and grow through their experiences, providing opportunities for kids to learn about real-life values.
Seeing characters overcome obstacles can inspire children and spark meaningful discussions between parents and kids.
The films also use humor and adventure to keep audiences engaged while effectively conveying messages about making good choices and understanding feelings. This balance ensures that children not only enjoy the movie but also take away important life lessons.
Important Aspects of PG Movies
PG movies are great because they often balance fun and depth, making them ideal for both kids and adults. They often mix light-hearted comedy with serious topics, and many feature vibrant animation that captures imaginations.
Themes and Storylines
Themes in PG movies are typically broad enough to appeal to a family audience without being too simplistic. They often tackle ideas like friendship, courage, and personal growth.
These movies include plenty of humor and exciting adventures to keep viewers engaged, while also incorporating lessons that promote positive values.
Some stories explore fantasies where characters step out of their comfort zones. In others, relationships with family or friends are central, providing emotional depth.
Complex characters and unexpected twists make many of these movies feel fresh and exciting.
Role of Animation
Animation plays a huge role in many PG movies. It creates colorful and imaginative worlds that draw viewers in. It allows storytelling to go beyond what’s possible in live-action films, featuring talking animals, magical worlds, and extraordinary adventures.
Studios use animation to bring life to characters in a way that is both engaging and relatable. Vivid visuals and creative designs capture attention, while clever animation techniques enhance storytelling by emphasizing emotions and actions.
The combination of technical skill and artistic creativity in animation makes PG movies a delightful experience.
