The Best '90s Movies For Kids, Ranked

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Updated November 15, 2023 330.3K views
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Vote up your favorite children films that were released in the 1990s

Venturing into nostalgia, think back to the exhilarating era of the '90s, a decade that gifted us an array of dazzling kids movies. Each unfolding tale from this period shared lessons, sparked imaginations, and took young audiences on unforgettable adventures. Whether we're reminiscing about a mischievous Simba's pride land escapades or a magical carpet ride through Agrabah's starlit skies, these films remain etched in the minds and hearts of those who grew up in the '90s. Now, emblazoned with memorable characters and timeless narratives, this collection of magnificent cinematic gems takes us back to our childhood days, brimming with joy, laughter, and wide-eyed wonder.

Diving deeper, these old childhood movies are more than just reels of celluloid. They're time capsules, capturing the spirit of a decade filled with family-friendly fun, education, and entertainment. The tapestry of '90s kids and family movies is rich with diverse mediums – from lively traditional and computer-generated animation to unique stop motion animation to heartwarming live-action narratives. Each film stands as a testament to the creativity and storytelling prowess of an era that truly understood the art of catering to the imaginative minds of children. These are not just movies; they're comforting memories, life lessons, and enduring symbols of our formative years.

From the safari landscapes of The Lion King to the toy-filled world of Toy Story, each film on this compilation offers a unique narrative experience. For instance, The Lion King transfixed audiences with its powerful tale of royalty, responsibility, and redemption, while Toy Story gave us a charming glimpse into a secret world where toys came alive. Other notable mentions include Home Alone, a comical adventure of a little boy's ingenious defense against burglars; Mrs. Doubtfire, where humor and disguise serve to mend a fragmented family; and Aladdin, which paints a saga of love, friendship, and self-discovery amid enchanting magic and music. And guess what? You can catch these classics on an array of streaming platforms. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime offer a nostalgia trip that's merely a button-click away, while Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+ offer an equally enthralling viewing experience.

At last, emerging from the meandering journey through the golden decade, it's evident that the '90s gifted us some of the best kids movies of all time. They provided not just entertainment but also valuable life lessons masked in vibrant colors and unforgettable characters. As you explore these films, anticipate a wave of warmth and nostalgia, a callback to the joyous days of yesteryears. Ignite your imagination, bear witness to the power of storytelling, and revel in the timeless charm of the best '90s kids movies.

Most divisive: Air Bud
Over 5.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best '90s Movies For Kids, Ranked
  • The Lion King
    1
    2,243 votes

    This enthralling animated film follows the powerful journey of Simba, a young lion cub who must grow up to claim his rightful place on Pride Rock as king of the African savannah. With an incredible cast including James Earl Jones and Jeremy Irons, this timeless classic touches on themes like love, loss, responsibility, and ultimately seizing one's destiny. The captivating visuals and unrivaled musical score by Elton John make it a movie that continues to delight children and adults alike.

  • Toy Story
    2
    2,068 votes

    The imaginative world of a child's toys is brought to life in this groundbreaking CG-animated feature from Pixar Animation Studios. Starring Tom Hanks as the voice of Woody, a pull-string cowboy doll, and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, an intrepid space action figure, this heartwarming adventure tells the tale of friendship between these unlikely characters when their human owner leaves them behind during a move. With its engaging storyline and witty humor that appeals to all ages, Toy Story remains one of the most beloved films for 90s kids.

  • Aladdin
    3
    1,769 votes

    Delighting audiences with its enchanting tale set in the mythical city of Agrabah is this captivating Disney adventure about a resourceful street-urchin named Aladdin who discovers a magical lamp inhabited by an unforgettable genie voiced by Robin Williams. Filled with wondrous animation sequences including thrilling magic carpet rides and memorable musical numbers such as "A Whole New World," this heartwarming rags-to-riches story offers endless entertainment for children while also subtly exploring themes of self-worth and true happiness.

  • Home Alone
    4
    2,073 votes

    Innovatively directed by Chris Columbus and starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, Home Alone centers around an eight-year-old boy who devises elaborate traps to protect his house when he is accidentally left behind during Christmas vacation while his family travels to Paris without him. Filled with slapstick humor and a sense of innocent adventure, this family-friendly comedy teaches kids the importance of resilience and quick thinking amidst an entertaining battle between Kevin and two bumbling burglars.

  • Beauty and the Beast
    5
    1,634 votes

    This mesmerizing animated adaption of the classic French fairy tale introduces audiences to Belle, an intelligent young woman from a small town who discovers true love when she becomes captive in an enchanted castle ruled by an ill-tempered beast. Boasting breathtaking animation and extraordinary musical numbers like "Be Our Guest" performed by its colorful cast of anthropomorphized household objects including Lumiere and Cogsworth, this heartwarming Disney story conveys timeless lessons about acceptance, devotion, and personal growth.

  • Jumanji
    6
    1,848 votes

    In this thrilling live-action fantasy adventure, Robin Williams stars as Alan Parrish, a man trapped inside a mystical board game for 26 years, who is finally released when two children unwittingly begin playing it. With astonishing special effects and explosive action sequences that bring the dangerous world within Jumanji to life in their small town, this exciting film delivers a captivating message about navigating the challenges of life while learning to let go of the past.

  • The Sandlot
    7
    1,744 votes

    Set during one memorable summer in the early 1960s, The Sandlot follows Scotty Smalls (Tom Guiry), who moves into a new neighborhood only to discover he has little experience playing baseball. As Smalls befriends the local kids and learns the game under the guidance of Benny "The Jet" Rodriguez (Mike Vitar), they tackle various adventures, including attempts to retrieve a lost baseball signed by Babe Ruth from an allegedly monstrous dog nicknamed "The Beast." This coming-of-age story weaves together themes of friendship, teamwork, and conquering fears through nostalgic charm and humor.

  • Mrs. Doubtfire
    8
    1,752 votes

    In this endearing family comedy starring Robin Williams as Daniel Hillard, a divorced actor desperate to find more time with his children disguises himself as Mrs. Doubtfire—a spirited elderly British nanny hired to take care of them. Brimming with tender moments as well as hysterical situations that underscore identity's complex nature combined with gender roles' fluidity; this touching film imparts essential messages about love without conditions and families transcending adversity through laughter and communication.

  • Matilda
    9
    1,641 votes

    Directed by Danny DeVito, this outstanding adaptation of Roald Dahl's beloved children's book stars Mara Wilson as Matilda Wormwood—a bright young girl with telekinetic powers born into a family that does not appreciate or understand her unique abilities. By challenging her school's tyrannical principal Miss Trunchbull (Pam Ferris) and finding solace in her kind-hearted teacher Miss Honey (Embeth Davidtz), Matilda learns to embrace her talents while offering a rousing message about standing up for oneself amidst adversity.

  • Hook
    10
    1991
    1,536 votes

    A modern retelling of J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan sees Robin Williams star as a grown-up Peter Banning—a successful lawyer who has forgotten his childhood days as Peter Pan. When Captain Hook kidnaps his children, Peter returns to Neverland with Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts) to rescue them and regain his youthful spirit once more. Directed by Steven Spielberg, Hook beautifully explores themes of rediscovering imagination, embracing fun-filled adventure, and cherishing the magic inherent within every child or adult while also paying homage to eternal youthfulness.

  • Hocus Pocus
    11
    1,487 votes

    In this bewitching comedy starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as three Salem witch sisters accidentally resurrected on Halloween night 300 years after their deaths; audiences follow teenager Max Dennison (Omri Katz) alongside his sister Dani (Thora Birch) plus new friend Allison (Vinessa Shaw) trying to outsmart these evil enchantresses before they wreak havoc throughout the modern-day town. Blending spooky thrills with hilarious humor, Hocus Pocus serves as a perfect family film for the Halloween season that delights kids and adults alike.

  • Casper
    12
    1995
    1,484 votes

    This witty and heartwarming adaptation of the classic comic book character tells the story of a friendly ghost named Casper who struggles to find companionship in his haunted mansion home. Christina Ricci stars alongside Bill Pullman in this unique comedy/fantasy flick that seamlessly blends live-action actors with computer-animated ghosts. As these characters form an unlikely friendship while battling casper's villainous uncles, this film offers an endearing tale about finding love, overcoming fears, and cherishing one’s identity even when others might not understand it.

  • The Addams Family
    13
    856 votes

    This darkly humorous take on Charles Addams' classic comics follows the titular quirky family composed of Gomez (Raul Julia), Morticia (Anjelica Huston), Uncle Fester (Christopher Lloyd), Wednesday (Christina Ricci), plus Pugsley Addams (Jimmy Workman). When pseudo-Fester arrives intending to profit from their wealth; they must band together against deception by embracing what makes them unique along reaffirming bonds that bind these eccentric individuals together despite differences holding them apart creating an endearing portrayal regarding familial love triumphing overall.

  • Toy Story 2
    14
    770 votes

    The beloved toys from Pixar come back in this riveting sequel that explores themes like loyalty, sacrifice, and the true meaning of friendship. Woody finds himself accidentally sold at a garage sale before landing in collector Al McWhiggin's (Wayne Knight) possession; he must decide whether to join fragile cowgirl Jessie (Joan Cusack), suave horse Bullseye plus prospector Stinky Pete (Kelsey Grammer) on display forever or return home with Buzz Lightyear including loyal friends trying to rescue him. Through its richly layered storyline combined with stunning animation, Toy Story 2 offers a memorable adventure that will captivate viewers young and old.

  • Space Jam
    15
    1,521 votes

    Michael Jordan stars in this innovative mix of live-action and animation where he teams up with iconic Looney Tunes characters such as Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck to win a high-stakes basketball game against an evil alien race dubbed "The Monstars." Combining slapstick humor with action-packed gameplay sequences featuring several NBA superstars turned into cartoons, Space Jam remains an enjoyable convergence of sports culture plus cherished cartoon escapades for children and sports enthusiasts alike.

  • In this sequel to the classic Christmas caper, Macaulay Culkin reprises his role as Kevin McCallister who accidentally boards the wrong plane on his family vacation and ends up alone in New York City with a familiar pair of crooks hot on his trail. As Kevin attempts to outwit Marv and Harry once again using ingenious pranks challenged by city life's chaotic nature, audiences will find themselves laughing alongside heartwarming moments that emphasize resilience significance amidst adversity plus resourcefulness value.

  • A Bug's Life
    17
    624 votes

    In this visually stunning Pixar film, audiences are introduced to Flik, an inventive ant whose attempts to protect his colony from greedy grasshoppers lead him to recruit a motley crew of fellow insects disguised as circus performers. With its creative setting and memorable character lineup supported by fantastic voice acting such as Kevin Spacey (as Hopper) including Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Princess Atta), A Bug's Life delivers an inspiring story about embracing one's uniqueness while also highlighting teamwork importance in overcoming adversities.

  • This heartwarming adventure film follows three beloved house pets - Chance (voiced by Michael J. Fox), Sassy, and Shadow - as they embark on a treacherous journey across the wilderness in search of their human family after being mistakenly abandoned during a vacation. Filled with thrilling escapades plus touching moments displaying the bond between animals including humans, this tale showcases strength found within love teamwork which remains an adored family classic.

  • A Goofy Movie
    19
    1,272 votes

    In this charming musical film based on Disney's lovable character Goofy; a road trip adventure with his teenage son Max provides ample opportunities for hilarious mishaps plus heartwarming father-son bonding moments. Through catchy tunes like "Stand Out" and "I 2 I," this family-friendly animated feature showcases the struggles of growing up, embracing one's identity, and the importance of maintaining strong relationships even amidst generational differences.

  • 101 Dalmatians
    20
    1,191 votes

    Disney brings Dodie Smith's classic novel to life in this live-action adaptation about two dalmatians named Pongo and Perdita who join forces with their human owners Roger (Jeff Daniels) including Anita (Joely Richardson) to rescue their puppies stolen by nefarious Cruella de Vil's (Glenn Close) pursuit for opulent fur. Depicting camaraderie among dogs and humans alike, the film illustrates how love prevails against evil, delighting audiences of all ages while underscoring themes like courage, cooperation, and cleverness.

  • The Mighty Ducks
    21
    1,343 votes

    Emilio Estevez stars as Gordon Bombay, a hotshot lawyer who is assigned to coach a ragtag youth hockey team as part of his community service after being arrested for drunk driving in this inspirational sports comedy. As he helps his young team evolve into unlikely champions while rekindling his own love for the sport, The Mighty Ducks offers an uplifting story about teamwork, determination, and the transformative power of believing in oneself.

  • The Parent Trap
    22
    1,164 votes

    This delightful remake of the 1961 classic stars Lindsay Lohan as twins Hallie Parker and Annie James who are accidentally reunited at summer camp after being separated at birth by their divorced parents (Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson). As they secretly switch places to experience life with their other parent, they hatch a plan to bring them back together through heartwarming moments and hilarious hijinks that entertain children while also shedding light on themes like family unity.

  • Mulan
    23
    1998
    531 votes

    In this empowering animated Disney film set in ancient China, a brave young girl named Mulan disguises herself as a man to take her father's place battling invading Huns led by the merciless Shan Yu (Miguel Ferrer) alongside charismatic dragon sidekick Mushu (voiced by Eddie Murphy). With stunning visuals depicting Chinese culture plus inspirational songs such as "Reflection" or "I'll Make A Man Out Of You," Mulan teaches essential lessons about courageously defying gender norms to achieve greatness and self-determination.

  • The Little Rascals
    24
    1,388 votes

    In this amusing live-action adaptation based on beloved characters from Our Gang series; it chronicles various misadventures undertaken by Alfalfa (Bug Hall) and his friends, Spanky (Travis Tedford), Darla (Brittany Ashton Holmes), Buckwheat, or Porky. Through lighthearted antics underscored by themes of friendship and loyalty, The Little Rascals offers a nostalgic visit to childhood innocence exploring the relationships that make us who we are.

  • Combining martial arts action with humor and camaraderie in 90s New York City; this live-action adaptation successfully brings iconic comic book heroes Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, plus Michelangelo to life on screen alongside plucky reporter April O'Neil (Judith Hoag) battling villainous Shredder's sinister Foot Clan gang together. This fantastical movie merges nostalgia for original fans while delighting new audiences of all ages as its diverse characters demonstrate the importance of teamwork amidst adversity.

  • Babe
    26
    1995
    1,041 votes

    In this charming family-friendly tale, audiences follow the adventures of Babe—a pig raised among sheepdogs on an English farm whose unique perspective eventually leads him to compete in prestigious herding competition defying norms expectations placed upon his species ultimately proving everyone capable achieving greatness regardless limitations imposed others. Narrated by Roscoe Lee Browne including starring James Cromwell as farmer Hoggett; this touching live-action animal drama explores themes like believing oneself, challenging societal conventions plus embracing underdogs amidst universal hardships.

  • My Girl
    27
    915 votes

    In this poignant coming-of-age drama set during the 1970s period; Anna Chlumsky stars as Vada Sultenfuss—a precocious 11-year-old girl navigating her emotions following her mother's death while experiencing first love with newcomer Thomas J Sennett (Macaulay Culkin). As it melodiously captures themes like friendship including self-discovery through astonishing performances intermingled amongst heart-tugging moments; My Girl continues to resonate profoundly among viewers due to its honest exploration of formative experiences shaping us into who we become.

  • Helmed by visionary director Tim Burton; this enchanting stop-motion animated film tells story Jack Skellington—Halloween Town's Pumpkin King disenchanted repetitive spook-fest traditions finding inspiration magic within Christmas Land possessing dreams converting holiday town inhabitants' usual frightful festivities into festive wonder instead creating unsettling consequences requiring rectification beyond expectations might imagine occurring between two distinct realms. Combining breathtaking animation featuring innovative character designs Danny Elfman's hauntingly beautiful musical score; The Nightmare Before Christmas serves as an unconventional family favorite exploring darker aspects common holidays celebrating beauty aesthetics discovered opposing worlds.

  • Cool Runnings
    29
    411 votes

    Inspired by the true story of Jamaica's first Olympic bobsled team, this lighthearted sports comedy stars Leon Robinson as Derice Bannock—an ambitious sprinter who enlists disgraced former Olympian Irv Blitzer (John Candy) along with inexperienced teammates to train for competing in winter sports event despite tropical backgrounds. Filled with laughs and emotional moments alike; Cool Runnings imparts messages regarding perseverance against all odds while highlighting teamwork overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles achieving greatness together.

  • Kindergarten Cop
    30
    1,073 votes

    Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as tough detective John Kimble tasked with going undercover as a kindergarten teacher in pursuit of a dangerous criminal in this amusing action-comedy. Balancing slapstick humor caused by children's innocence clashing Kimble's machismo image alongside heartfelt relationships forged between him students or fellow faculty members; this delightful film emphasizes supportive communication fostering growth crucial within various aspects including personal professional.