Family Movie Night: Favorite Animated Films

Movie Poster Gallery

The Angry Birds Movie (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 37m; Released: 2016)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

In the animated spectacle of Angry Birds, viewers are whisked away to Bird Island, a paradise populated entirely by flightless birds blissfully unaware of the outside world. The film centers around Red, a bird with a temper issue who struggles to fit in with his fellow avians. When mysterious green pigs arrive on the island, Red becomes the unlikely hero, seeking to uncover the pigs’ true intentions. Themes highlighted in this film include the importance of teamwork, unity, and overcoming challenges. Characters in the movie also demonstrate the power of forgiveness as Red’s transformation and eventual acceptance by the community underscore the idea that people can change for the better and be forgiven for their past actions.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Red (voiced by Jason Sudeikis): The fiery-tempered bird who learns valuable lessons about friendship and trust.
• Chuck (voiced by Josh Gad): The speedy, yellow bird whose impulsiveness is only matched by his loyalty.
• Bomb (voiced by Danny McBride): The good-natured, bird with an explosive side.

The Angry Birds Movie 2 (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 37m; Released: 2019)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Main Storyline & Setting:
Angry Birds 2 catapults us back to the vibrant life of Bird Island and its quirky inhabitants. This sequel sees our feathered hero, Red, enjoying his newfound status as a protector of the island. However, when a new threat emerges from the icy Eagle Island, led by the vengeful Zeta, birds and pigs must set aside their differences. Red, Chuck, and Bomb team up with Leonard, the leader of the pigs, on a mission to save both their islands. A central theme of Angry Birds 2 is the importance of unity and collaboration, even with former adversaries. The birds and pigs, once enemies, find themselves having to work together to face a common threat. The sequel places a strong emphasis on the value of family and friendship.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Red (voiced by Jason Sudeikis): Once an outsider, now the hero of Bird Island, Red faces new challenges that test his leadership and bravery.
• Chuck (voiced by Josh Gad): The fast-talking, fast-moving yellow bird whose loyalty to Red is unwavering.
• Bomb (voiced by Danny McBride): The lovable, explosive character continues to bring humor to the team’s adventures.
• Leonard (voiced by Bill Hader): The king of Pig Island who reveals his clever and resourceful side when his people are in jeopardy.
• Zeta (voiced by Leslie Jones): The new antagonist from Eagle Island, Zeta’s ambitions drive the birds and pigs to unite.

The Mitchells vs. The Machines (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 54m; Released: 2020)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Main Storyline & Setting:
Mitchells vs the Machines highlights the struggles of being a parent watching your children grow up and the challenge of keeping family together. At the film’s heart is the clash between technology and human connection, highlighted by the Mitchells’ struggles to understand each other amidst the chaos. Their journey is a humorous exploration of family dynamics, individuality, and the challenges of living in a tech-saturated world. The overarching theme emphasizes the importance of embracing our quirks and the irreplaceable value of human relationships.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Katie Mitchell (voiced by Abbi Jacobson): An aspiring filmmaker with a creative spirit, Katie’s journey is one of self-discovery and reconciliation with her family.
• Rick Mitchell (voiced by Danny McBride): Katie’s nature-loving, tech-averse father, whose attempt to connect with his daughter leads to the adventure of a lifetime.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 16m; Released: 1993)

Genre: Animation, Family, Fantasy

Main Storyline & Setting:
The Nightmare Before Christmas, the marvelously macabre world of Halloween Town is brought to life under the ingenious vision of Tim Burton. The film follows Jack Skellington, the revered Pumpkin King, grown weary of the same annual Halloween routine. His discovery of Christmas Town leads him on a journey to bring Christmas to Halloween Town, with unexpected and thrilling consequences. This film highlights themes of identity, belonging, and the understanding that embracing our true selves is where true happiness lies, and delves into the consequences of stepping into roles meant for others and the chaos that can ensue from misunderstanding different cultures and traditions.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Jack Skellington (voiced by Chris Sarandon, singing voice by Danny Elfman): The beloved Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, whose curiosity and longing for something more leads him on an extraordinary adventure.
• Sally (voiced by Catherine O’Hara): A ragdoll created by the town’s mad scientist, whose love for Jack and understanding of the true meaning of Christmas play a crucial role in the story.
• Oogie Boogie (voiced by Ken Page): The film’s antagonist, Oogie Boogie represents the darker side of Halloween Town.

The Willoughbys (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 32m; Released: 2020)

Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family

Main Storyline & Setting:
The Willoughbys transports us to a vividly animated world where the Willoughby children—neglected by their self-centered parents —seeking to become orphans, concoct a plan to escape their selfish parents and embark out on their own. As the children navigate the challenges of the world without their parents, they learn valuable lessons about love, responsibility, and the importance of nurturing relationships. Themes of independence, the search for belonging, and the realization that family isn’t always defined by blood run deep through this journey.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Tim Willoughby (voiced by Will Forte): The eldest sibling with a strong sense of duty and a longing for parental affection. His leadership and protective nature guide his siblings through their unconventional journey.
• Jane Willoughby (voiced by Alessia Cara): The adventurous middle child with a love for singing. Jane’s optimism and creativity shine as she navigates their new world with her brothers.
• The Barnaby Twins (voiced by Seán Cullen): The youngest siblings, both named Barnaby, are ingenious and resourceful. Their inventiveness and teamwork often provide comic relief and solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.
• Nanny (voiced by Maya Rudolph): The kind-hearted caretaker who helps the Willoughby children understand the value of family and caring for one another. Her warmth and wisdom bring light to their lives.

The Sword in the Stone (Rating: G; Length: 1h 19m; Released: 1963)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy

Main Storyline & Setting:
Set in medieval England, The Sword in the Stone follows the young and adventurous Arthur, often called Wart, who stumbles upon the eccentric wizard Merlin. In a time when might is right, and kingship is won by brute force, Wart’s discovery of Merlin sets him on an unlikely path. Unbeknownst to him, a magical destiny awaits—a destiny linked to the legendary sword lodged in stone that only the true king can remove. The film beautifully weaves together the themes of knowledge, destiny, and the journey of growth. Wart’s interactions with Merlin teach him valuable lessons that challenge the era’s conventions of strength and power. The primary conflict arises from Wart’s internal struggle with his seeming insignificance in a world governed by physical might.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Arthur (Wart) (voiced by Rickie Sorensen, Richard Reitherman, and Robert Reitherman): A humble, kind-hearted boy whose life changes when he meets Merlin. His journey from squire to leader is filled with wonder, challenges, and self-discovery.
• Merlin (voiced by Karl Swenson): The wise and somewhat eccentric wizard who becomes Wart’s mentor. Merlin’s magic and wisdom guide Wart towards his destiny, teaching him that true greatness comes from within.
• Archimedes (voiced by Junius Matthews): The witty and often sarcastic owl companion of Merlin. Archimedes adds humor and insight, showing a mix of reluctance and endearing support for Wart’s journey.
• Madam Mim (voiced by Martha Wentworth): The film’s antagonist, a witch who challenges Merlin and Wart. Her character contrasts Merlin’s wisdom with her own dark version of magic, adding depth to the theme of good versus evil.

Frozen (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 42m; Released: 2013)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Musical

Main Storyline & Setting:
Frozen takes us to the snowy kingdom of Arendelle, where we meet two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna. Elsa, born with the power to create ice and snow, struggles to control her abilities, fearing they might harm those she loves, especially her spirited and fearless sister, Anna. After her powers inadvertently plunge Arendelle into eternal winter on the night of her coronation, Elsa isolates herself in a majestic ice palace. Anna embarks on an epic journey, teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and an adorably naïve snowman named Olaf, to bring her sister back and end the icy spell. At its core, Frozen explores themes of self-acceptance, sisterhood, and the understanding that true love is not always what it seems. The conflict between Elsa’s fear of her powers and her love for Anna drives the narrative, while Anna’s unwavering belief in her sister and her own quest for love add layers of depth and emotion to their story.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel): The elder sister and Queen of Arendelle, whose struggle to control her icy powers leads her to flee, fearing she might cause further harm.
• Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell): The younger sister, whose love for Elsa and determination to save Arendelle from eternal winter propel her on a dangerous and heartwarming quest.
• Kristoff (voiced by Jonathan Groff): A rugged ice harvester who becomes Anna’s ally. His knowledge of the mountains and loyalty make him an invaluable companion on her journey.
• Olaf (voiced by Josh Gad): A lovable snowman brought to life by Elsa’s magic, whose innocence and dream of experiencing summer bring comedic relief and warmth to the adventure.
• Hans (voiced by Santino Fontana): A prince from the Southern Isles who reveals complex motives as the story unfolds, challenging the traditional notions of villainy and heroism.

Frozen II (Rating: PG; Length: 1h 43m; Released: 2019)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Musical

Main Storyline & Setting:
Set against the stunning backdrop of an autumn-bound forest outside Arendelle, Frozen II sees Queen Elsa, her sister Anna, and their loyal friends, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven, drawn into a compelling mystery rooted in their kingdom’s past. Elsa hears an ethereal voice calling to her, compelling her to embark on a perilous journey to discover the source of her magical powers and to uncover ancient truths that threaten the future of Arendelle. Frozen II navigates themes of courage, self-discovery, and the importance of nature, as Elsa and Anna confront the mysteries of their lineage and the elemental spirits of nature. The sisters face internal and external challenges that test their strength, resolve, and the depths of their love for each other. The quest for understanding and balance brings them face-to-face with the elemental spirits of wind, fire, water, and earth, weaving a narrative that champions harmony with nature and the courage to face the unknown.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel): Now comfortably the queen, Elsa seeks to understand the origin of her powers and her deep connection to the mystical forces threatening Arendelle.
• Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell): The fearless and optimistic sister who proves that love and determination can conquer doubt and fear, standing unwaveringly by Elsa’s side.
• Kristoff (voiced by Jonathan Groff): Anna’s devoted partner, whose journey also explores themes of love, commitment, and self-worth.
• Olaf (voiced by Josh Gad): The ever-lovable snowman who, with his innocent wisdom, provides comic relief and insights about growing up.
• Sven: Kristoff’s loyal reindeer companion, embodying loyalty and the unspoken bond between him and his friends.

The Lion King (Rating: G; Length: 1h 28m; Released: 1994)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama

Main Storyline & Setting:
Set against the sprawling backdrop of the African savanna, The Lion King introduces us to Simba, a young lion prince born into the royal family of Pride Rock. Celebrated throughout the animal kingdom, Simba’s birth marks the continuation of King Mufasa’s legacy. However, not all rejoice in his arrival; Scar, Simba’s envious uncle, harbors dark plans to usurp the throne. A tragic turn of events orchestrated by Scar forces Simba into exile, where he encounters new friends, Timon and Pumbaa, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. At its core, The Lion King explores themes of responsibility, redemption, and the cyclical nature of life. Simba’s internal struggle with guilt and identity is mirrored by the external conflict with Scar and the dire state of Pride Rock under his rule. Simba’s journey from a carefree cub to a mature lion reflects the challenges of growing up and the importance of facing one’s past. The film emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s place in the world and the responsibilities that come with it.

Movie Character Profiles:

• Simba (voiced by Matthew Broderick as an adult, Jonathan Taylor Thomas as a cub): The protagonist whose journey from prince to king is fraught with challenges, lessons, and personal growth.
• Mufasa (voiced by James Earl Jones): The wise and noble king of Pride Rock, whose guidance continues to influence Simba even after his death.
• Scar (voiced by Jeremy Irons): The film’s antagonist, whose cunning and thirst for power lead to the kingdom’s downfall.
• Nala (voiced by Moira Kelly as an adult, Niketa Calame as a cub): Simba’s best friend and later love interest, who plays a crucial role in his return to Pride Rock.
• Timon (voiced by Nathan Lane) and Pumbaa (voiced by Ernie Sabella): Simba’s loyal friends who teach him about friendship and their philosophy of life.

Monsters, Inc. (Rating: G; Length: 1h 32m; Released: 2001)

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Main Storyline & Setting:
In the city of Monstropolis, Monsters, Inc. unveils a world where monsters live just like us, working jobs and leading lives, albeit with a unique twist: their city’s power is generated by the screams of human children. At the heart of this bustling metropolis is Monsters, Incorporated, the largest scare factory, where top scarer James P. “Sulley” Sullivan and his one-eyed, wisecracking best friend, Mike Wazowski, find their lives turned upside down. The duo stumbles upon a door that leads to the human world and accidentally lets a little girl named Boo into Monstropolis. As they endeavor to return Boo to her world, Sulley and Mike uncover conspiracies and challenge the very foundation of their society. Monsters, Inc. navigates themes of friendship, the questioning of societal norms, and the discovery that understanding and compassion can bridge worlds. The main conflict arises from Sulley and Mike’s race against time to keep Boo safe from the factory’s villainous elements while uncovering the truth about Monstropolis’s energy crisis. The film beautifully illustrates how fear is often based on misunderstandings and that laughter possesses a power far greater than screams.

Movie Character Profiles:

• James P. “Sulley” Sullivan (voiced by John Goodman): The top scarer at Monsters, Inc., whose life changes when he meets Boo. Sulley’s journey from a celebrated monster to a compassionate protector highlights his deep sense of integrity and bravery.
• Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal): Sulley’s best friend and loyal sidekick, whose quick wit and unwavering support play a pivotal role in navigating the challenges they face.
• Boo (voiced by Mary Gibbs): The little girl who crosses into Monstropolis, changing Sulley and Mike’s lives forever. Boo’s innocence and laughter become the heart of the film.
• Randall Boggs (voiced by Steve Buscemi): The film’s antagonist, a rival scarer whose ambition leads him down a dark path, embodying the consequences of valuing power over compassion.

Conclusion:

Family movie nights are more than just watching films—they’re about creating lasting memories, sharing laughter, and sparking meaningful conversations. Whether you’re diving into the whimsical worlds of heroes, exploring stories of friendship, or learning valuable life lessons, each of these animated movies offers something special for viewers of all ages.

So, grab your favorite snacks, cozy up on the couch, and let the magic of these animated films bring joy to your evening. From classics that take you down memory lane to new favorites that inspire, this collection of movies is perfect for every mood and every family.

Remember, it’s not about watching perfectly polished tales; it’s about connecting, enjoying the moments, and celebrating the simple joys of being together. So, dim the lights, press play, and let the fun begin. Your perfect family movie night starts now!

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