Watching a film as a family is an excellent way to give everyone some downtime. As an added bonus, you could even start your very own family film club, where both little and big people write, draw, or record their own reviews. Movies are also a fantastic way to inspire travel with your kids. Here are nine films that will help your family explore the world.
1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Recommended for older children, this film showcases a mid-life crisis that takes the title character from Greenland to Iceland and onto the Himalayas, with plenty of time spent across the United States. Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, this slow-moving film divides opinion, making it a great conversation starter for your children and a feast for your collective wanderlust through its stunning cinematography.
2. Holiday in the Wild
You might be dubious about a Netflix Christmas romantic comedy; however, for families who have traveled to or dream of exploring Africa, this film beautifully escapes to a continent currently out of reach. It involves a mid-life journey, a baby elephant, and the enchanting African skies, all culminating in a heartwarming ending. What’s not to enjoy?
3. Paddington
Starting in Peru with the beloved marmalade sandwiches, this critically-acclaimed film transitions quickly to London, where it humorously explores how people welcome (or don’t) newcomers. Equally charming is Paddington 2, featuring Hugh Grant in a unique role. Both films keep the kids engaged while entertaining adults too.
4. Abominable
This animated tale begins in Shanghai and takes viewers across China, the Gobi Desert, and into the Himalayas, as a girl and her friends protect a Yeti and escort him back to his family on Mount Everest. It’s a lovely movie for younger children, featuring a great soundtrack, a feel-good ending, and just the right dose of adventure.
5. Fly Away Home
A bereaved daughter finds purpose and reconnects with her father as they help a flock of geese learn their migratory route from rural Ontario to North Carolina. This beautifully shot low-budget film from 1996 is a delightful surprise, showcasing the stunning Canadian landscape and teaches important lessons about our impact on nature, all wrapped in a narrative of love and collaboration.
6. Moana
Set against the backdrop of Polynesian culture, Moana follows a young girl on a journey to save her family’s homeland. With music by Lin Manuel Miranda, strong female representation, magical elements, and a comical chicken companion, this film is ideal for a family movie night with younger children.
7. Coco
This heartwarming animation follows a young musician’s journey into his family’s past, ultimately healing long-standing rifts. It beautifully showcases the significance of the Day of the Dead in Mexican culture, ensuring both entertainment and cultural understanding. Praised for its animation, music, and voice acting, Coco is notable for featuring an all-Latino principal cast, offering rich discussion opportunities.
8. Mr. Bean’s Holiday
While it may offer painful moments for some, following the clumsy Mr. Bean entangled in various mishaps serves as a delightful way to journey through France for 90 minutes. The film showcases beautiful scenery as it journeys to Cannes. Despite its quirky comedy style might seem outdated, it can still elicit laughter from kids while broadening their cultural insights.
9. The Cave of the Yellow Dog
This gentle film, initially appearing slow with its simple plot, rewards patience with its tale of a young Mongolian girl returning to her nomadic family. It serves as a cinematic lesson in appreciating the diverse lifestyles of children around the world, featuring sweeping vistas of the Mongolian steppe that fuel wanderlust.
