9 Streaming Family Films Perfect For Spring Break
A week off of school is awesome, right? But in the spring, you never know just how the weather is going to turn, so if it’s pouring outside, the best way to spend a day can be snuggling under a blanket with loved ones indulging in a movie or two. Thankfully, Netflix and Hulu have you covered, and are overflowing with family-friendly films that will be sure to make everyone happy. Here are a few of my favorites:
Beauty and the Beast
The live action version of this may not have precisely the same charm as the original animation, but it’s just as magical. Emma Watson and Dan Stevens give a new life to one of the world’s favorite Disney couples and the supporting cast is even more incredible. Grab a bowl of popcorn, settle in and enjoy this rendition of the tale as old as time. (Netflix)
Space Jam
Hopefully the kids don’t mind a little bit of cheesiness, but with a classic like this, how can you resist? Any ‘90s kid can spout off either thirty reasons why this film should be considered a classic and/or the theme song. It’s hard to beat the combination of Looney Toons and a good, old-fashioned underdog story. You may, however, have to explain just why Michael Jordan is playing baseball. (Hulu)
Christopher Robin
Fair warning, you may want to have your tissues ready for this one, in the best way. This heartwarming tale features a story of what happens if we might seemingly grow too old or too important for the stories we loved as children. The good news is, they’ll always seem to find us, one way or another, and one is never beyond nostalgia, especially this one that involves Winnie the Pooh himself. (Netflix)
Jumanji
Another classic from a few decades ago was recently added to Hulu, and it’s a true joy for everyone. Sure, the new one with Dwayne Johnson was surprisingly well received, but how can you go wrong with the original? Robin Williams will take you and your family on a baffling and amazing adventure when a board game comes to life - and brings all its craziness into the real world. (Hulu)
Mulan
There had to be a classic Disney animated movie on it, and this is one you won’t mind singing the songs to for the rest of the week. You’ll be more than happy to get down to business, defeat the Huns and watch this movie on repeat. My own personal recommendation? Skip the sequel. Mulan 2 is as bad as Mulan is amazing. This is for your own good. (Netflix)
The Road to El Dorado
This Dreamworks feature is often overlooked, in my opinion, which is crazy even if you just take into account the fact that the two leads are voiced by Kenneth Branagh and Kevin Kline. There are jokes just for the adults to enjoy and chuckle at, and a story that kids may not be familiar with that will hold their interest. Throw in a soundtrack done by Elton John and it sounds like a winner in my book. (Hulu)
It Takes Two
There is a Mary Kate & Ashley movie on streaming! This title could be replaced with almost any other one of the films featuring these twins, but if you need to start somewhere, there’s no better place than this one. It’s never to early to make sure the next generation knows them as more than “the only people who wouldn’t come back to Fuller House.” (Netflix)
Prince of Egypt
No matter when your student’s spring break falls, the odds are good that it will be during Lent, leading up to Easter. What better way to explain Passover and the events around it than an amazing animated movie with excellent songs, a killer voice cast and a family-friendly version of the events that occur in Exodus. Some things may be a bit sugar coated, sure, but let’s be real: some of the Old Testament is brutal! (Hulu)
Coco
People could not stop talking about this 2017 Disney movie after they saw it. It highlights Latin culture, gives information about Day of the Dead and discusses the importance of family and knowing who you are and where you come from. In my opinion, there are other Disney films that have better songs, but when it comes to message, it doesn’t get more on point than Coco. (Netflix)
Have you had a favorite childhood or nostalgic movie suddenly reappear on streaming services? What are your recommendations? Let me know in the comments!