I have three girls, two who are tweens (aka pre-teens) and curling up on the couch to watch a movie together is one of our favorite pastimes. This is a hard age to find movies for, kids are often bored with the movies of their childhood, and yet, aren't old enough to watch many of the movies geared towards teens or adults.
I want to my girls to watch movies that are not only witty, but empower and uplift them and be a source of positive role models. I have pulled together the top ten favorite movies my girls love. These are stories of friendship, self-confidence, kindness, and perseverance.
Before I jump into the recommendations, a note:
Before watching a new movie with your kids, I always recommend checking out movie reviews on Common Sense Media. I use my best judgement before sitting down to watch a movie with my own kids, as I hate to be surprised by content that is not age appropriate for them.
And of course these movies are great for boys too. These movies simply reflect my experience as a girl mom!
Ever After
Hands down my girls favorite movie. This charming version of Cinderella is both inspiring and empowering. Danielle (aka Cinderella) doesn't need or want rescuing and stands up for the right's of others. There is some language and fight scenes, but I was really surprised by this movies PG-13 rating. (1998: PG-13)
The Princess Diaries
This is one of our most watched movies. The 2001 classic follows Mia Thermopolis as she navigates discovering that she is the heir apparent to the throne of Genovia. With her friends in tow, Mia tries to navigate through the challenges of royalty while staying true to herself. (2001: G)
The Parent Trap
Remakes often fail to live up the original movie, but this 1998 version is so good. It is both hilarious and heart warming. Identical twins, Annie and Hallie, were separated at birth and each raised by their biological parents (yes, a weird premise). Unaware of each other's existence, the twins coincidentally meet at a summer camp, bond over shared experiences and then attempt to reunite their parents. (1999: PG)
Troop Beverly Hills
This classic 80's film was a favorite of mine as a kid and my girls have this movie on repeat. Phyllis Nefler attempts to maintain the relationship with her daughter during a contentious divorce by becoming the den mother (aka Girl Scout leader) of her daughter's Wilderness Girls troop. (1989: PG)
The Princess Bride
A timeless classic, that is a mix of fantasy, adventure, romance, and comedy. Set in the whimsical kingdom of Florin, the film follows the journey of Westley, a young farmhand who sets out to rescue his true love, Princess Buttercup, from the clutches of the nefarious Prince Humperdinck. (1982: PG)
A Cinderella Story
Another modern take on the classic fairy tale. My girls ask to watch this one all the time. Filled with humor, romance, and heartwarming moments, this romantic comedy follows the journey of Sam Montgomery, a high school student who dreams of a better life beyond her stepmother's diner. Sam learns to believe in herself and follow her dreams, she discovers that true love can be found in the most unexpected places. (2004: PG)
Father of the Bride
Father of the Bride needs little introduction. This classic is the BEST. Hilarious and heartwarming, the film follows George Bank's journey as he grapples with the overwhelming emotions and chaos that ensue when his beloved daughter, Annie, announces her engagement. Grab your tissues, gather the family, and get ready to laugh, cry, and cheer on George during the whirlwind of wedding planning, from choosing the venue to navigating the complexities of guest lists and budgets. (1991: PG)
Enchanted
This movie instantly brings me back to my younger years. Enchanted follows the journey of Giselle, a fairy tale princess who is banished from her animated kingdom of Andalasia by an evil queen and magically transported to the bustling streets of Manhattan. She finds herself in a world, where true love's kiss isn't always enough to solve problems and happily ever afters don't come easy. (2007: PG)
Freaky Friday
Based on the classic children's novel of the same name, experience the ultimate body-swap comedy as a mother and daughter magically switch places and gain a newfound understanding of each other's lives. Hilarity, challenges and misunderstandings arise when Tess and Anna (mother and daughter) struggle to navigate each other's lives. You and your kids will be giggling as they grapple with the responsibilities of school, work, and relationships. (2003: PG)
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Is there a better heroine than Hermione Granger? Hermione quickly establishes herself as a standout student during her first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with her exceptional intellect, quick wit, and unwavering determination. Despite facing skepticism and prejudice from some of her classmates due to her non-magical background, Hermione proves herself to be a formidable witch, mastering spells and potions with ease. (2001: PG)
