13 Family-Friendly Movies to Stream After Thanksgiving Dinner
After a big Thanksgiving meal, there’s nothing better than winding down with a great family movie. Whether you’re looking for something heartwarming, funny, or full of adventure, there’s a movie for every mood. These films are perfect for bringing everyone together after the feast, with stories that everyone can enjoy. Grab your blankets and get cozy as you settle in for a movie night that wraps up the day. Let’s dive into some family-friendly films that are sure to keep everyone entertained.
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The Incredibles
The Incredibles premiered in 2004 and features an all-star voice cast including Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, and Samuel L. Jackson. The film follows the Parr family, a group of superheroes trying to live a normal suburban life while secretly battling villains. After being forced into retirement, Bob (Mr. Incredible) returns to action, only to discover that his family must join in on the adventure. This film is perfect to stream after Thanksgiving because it offers both humor and heart, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults. With its mix of action and family bonding, The Incredibles has all the ingredients for a perfect movie night.
What makes this movie family-friendly is its positive message about teamwork, self-acceptance, and the importance of family. It’s packed with fun, thrilling sequences, but also plenty of touching moments that will make you appreciate the people around you. This movie doesn’t just appeal to kids, but also offers enough depth and humor to entertain adults. Its light-hearted action and relatable characters are sure to bring the family together after a hearty Thanksgiving meal. The Incredibles remains a timeless favorite for family viewing.
Toy Story
Released in 1995, Toy Story was Pixar’s first feature film, starring Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear. The movie follows Woody, a cowboy doll, who feels threatened when a new space ranger toy, Buzz, becomes the favorite of their owner, Andy. The plot explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and overcoming jealousy. After Thanksgiving, this classic movie offers a nostalgic and light-hearted experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. Toy Story is a great pick to keep the family engaged after a long holiday meal.
The film’s message about the importance of teamwork and understanding each other is one of the reasons it’s considered family-friendly. The colorful animation, memorable characters, and entertaining storyline make it a movie everyone can enjoy. It’s a perfect choice for winding down after the excitement of the holiday and provides just the right mix of humor and heart. Toy Story is not only an entertaining ride but also a sweet reminder of the bonds we share with the people (and toys) we love. This iconic film is a great way to end a family-focused day.
The Princess Bride
Premiering in 1987, The Princess Bride quickly became a beloved family classic, starring Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, and Mandy Patinkin. The movie is a fairy tale adventure that blends romance, comedy, and fantasy, following the journey of Buttercup and Westley as they battle villains to be together. This film’s quirky characters and memorable dialogue make it a favorite for audiences young and old. With its mix of action and humor, The Princess Bride is a perfect movie to wind down after Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a timeless film that has all the qualities of a great family movie night.
What makes this movie ideal for families is its accessibility to both kids and adults. The humor is light and silly enough for children, while adults can appreciate the witty dialogue and deeper themes. The film is filled with iconic moments, from inconceivable to As you wish, making it both entertaining and heartwarming. The romance, adventure, and comedy create a perfect blend for a post-Thanksgiving movie experience. Whether it’s the charming characters or the adventure-filled plot, The Princess Bride is sure to keep the whole family engaged.
Finding Nemo
Finding Nemo made its debut in 2003, with an all-star cast including Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, and Alexander Gould. The movie follows Marlin, a clownfish, as he journeys across the ocean to find his son, Nemo, who was captured by a scuba diver. This film offers both stunning animation and heartfelt moments, making it an enjoyable pick for a family movie night after Thanksgiving dinner. The colorful underwater world and adventurous storyline will captivate both kids and adults alike. Finding Nemo is a heartwarming story of love, perseverance, and family, making it the perfect movie to share after a family-focused holiday.
What makes Finding Nemo family-friendly is its beautiful animation and positive message about never giving up. The relationship between Marlin and Dory adds humor and heart, while Nemo’s journey teaches valuable lessons about bravery. The movie has something for everyone: humor for the kids, emotional moments for the adults, and a stunning setting that adds to the adventure. With its captivating underwater world and memorable characters, Finding Nemo will keep your family engaged and entertained long after the dinner table is cleared. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories together.
Home Alone
Home Alone debuted in 1990, featuring Macaulay Culkin in his iconic role as Kevin McCallister, a young boy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation. The movie follows Kevin as he defends his home from burglars using clever traps and wit. This classic holiday film is filled with laughter, action, and plenty of heartwarming moments, making it a great choice for family entertainment after Thanksgiving dinner. Its blend of slapstick comedy and family values makes it a perfect movie for all ages. Home Alone is a great way to continue the holiday spirit, as its theme of family bonds resonates with viewers of all ages.
The movie’s humor, while often outrageous, is family-friendly and appropriate for children, while still offering enough clever moments for adults to enjoy. Kevin’s cleverness in protecting his home has made him a favorite character in family films, while the movie’s heartwarming ending delivers a positive message about family. With its holiday setting and feel-good plot, Home Alone is sure to put everyone in the right mood after a big meal. It’s the perfect film to continue the holiday festivities with laughter and joy. This movie is an evergreen classic that never fails to entertain, year after year.
The Sound of Music
Released in 1965, The Sound of Music stars Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in one of the most beloved musicals of all time. The movie follows Maria, a young aspiring nun, who becomes a governess for the seven children of a widowed naval captain, ultimately bringing music and joy to their lives. With its breathtaking scenery and memorable songs, The Sound of Music is perfect for streaming after Thanksgiving dinner when families want something uplifting and timeless. The film’s heartwarming story and iconic songs like Do-Re-Mi and My Favorite Things make it a delightful choice for all ages. This classic film will fill your home with warmth and joy long after the meal has ended.
The family-friendly nature of The Sound of Music is reflected in its themes of family, love, and the importance of music. The movie also carries important lessons about courage, resilience, and finding joy in difficult circumstances. Whether it’s the beautiful Austrian backdrop or the unforgettable songs, this film is a perfect way to continue the festive spirit after Thanksgiving dinner. Its positive energy and heartwarming story will inspire families to sing along together. The Sound of Music offers the perfect mix of nostalgia, charm, and musical delight for a movie night.
The Lion King
The Lion King premiered in 1994, featuring an iconic voice cast including Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, and James Earl Jones. The film tells the story of Simba, a young lion prince who must overcome his fears and take his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands. With its stunning animation, powerful music, and emotional storyline, The Lion King is a movie that families can enjoy together after a big Thanksgiving feast. The unforgettable songs like Circle of Life and Hakuna Matata make it a perfect choice for all ages. This film beautifully explores themes of responsibility, love, and family.
What makes The Lion King family-friendly is its ability to entertain both children and adults, with its mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments. The relationship between Simba and his father Mufasa teaches valuable lessons about leadership and legacy. The emotional highs and lows throughout the movie keep the entire family engaged, while the vibrant animation adds an extra layer of enjoyment. It’s a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences, making it a must-watch for post-Thanksgiving relaxation. This movie will leave your family feeling inspired and ready for more holiday cheer.
Mary Poppins
Released in 1964, Mary Poppins features Julie Andrews in the title role as the magical, singing nanny who brings joy and wonder to the lives of the Banks family. The film follows Mary as she helps the family rediscover love, joy, and imagination through whimsical adventures. With memorable songs like Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and A Spoonful of Sugar, Mary Poppins is a fun, family-friendly film that’s perfect for winding down after Thanksgiving. It’s a delightful mix of magic, humor, and heart that appeals to all generations. Watching Mary Poppins is a great way to bring some extra magic to your holiday season.
This film is family-friendly because it blends entertainment with important lessons about kindness, patience, and family values. Mary Poppins teaches the Banks children how to make the most out of life, and her fun yet wise character offers lessons for all ages. The combination of delightful songs, colorful characters, and timeless charm ensures that the whole family will enjoy this classic. The joyful and lighthearted nature of the film makes it a wonderful choice for continuing the holiday mood. It’s a film that’s sure to brighten up the evening with laughter and joy.
Frozen
Frozen premiered in 2013, featuring Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, and Josh Gad. The movie tells the story of two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna, whose bond is tested when Elsa’s magical ice powers inadvertently plunge their kingdom into eternal winter. With catchy songs like Let It Go, Frozen became an instant hit and is perfect for streaming after Thanksgiving dinner. The movie’s strong themes of love, family, and self-acceptance resonate with audiences of all ages. Frozen is a great way to continue the holiday spirit, filled with both adventure and heart.
The film’s family-friendly nature lies in its focus on the importance of sisterhood and the strength found in family bonds. Elsa’s journey of self-discovery and Anna’s determination to protect her sister provide valuable lessons for both children and adults. The animation is breathtaking, and the music adds an emotional layer that elevates the entire experience. Frozen’s popularity speaks to its universal themes and accessible storytelling. It’s a fantastic choice for a cozy movie night after a festive dinner with loved ones.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Released in 1971, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory stars Gene Wilder as the eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka. The film follows Charlie Bucket, a poor boy who wins a tour of Wonka’s magical chocolate factory, where he encounters a world of wonder and danger. With memorable songs like Pure Imagination, this film is an enchanting choice for families to enjoy together after Thanksgiving. Its mix of fantasy, humor, and valuable lessons about greed and kindness make it both entertaining and educational. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a fun and whimsical way to wrap up the holiday.
The family-friendly nature of this film is found in its message about the consequences of poor behavior and the rewards of kindness. Each character in the movie, from Charlie to the spoiled children, serves as a lesson for the audience. The charm of Gene Wilder’s performance and the magical set design make this movie a visual and emotional treat. It’s a fantastic family experience that’s perfect for relaxing after a hearty meal. The film continues to be a favorite for all generations, making it an enduring classic for Thanksgiving night.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Premiering in 1973, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving features the beloved Peanuts gang as they celebrate the holiday. Charlie Brown is tasked with hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for his friends, but things don’t go quite as planned. The short film is filled with the typical Peanuts charm, humor, and simple lessons about friendship and giving thanks. The classic animation and gentle storytelling make it ideal for younger viewers, and it’s perfect for a relaxed post-Thanksgiving watch. This special has become a staple of the holiday season for families everywhere.
What makes this film family-friendly is its lighthearted, warm message about gratitude and friendship. The Peanuts gang always delivers timeless lessons in a fun, relatable way. The simplicity and sweetness of the animation make it easy to enjoy with children and adults alike. With a short runtime, it’s ideal for watching after a big meal when everyone needs a quiet, enjoyable break. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving will fill your home with the right amount of holiday spirit.
The Wizard of Oz
Released in 1939, The Wizard of Oz is one of the most famous and magical films ever made, starring Judy Garland as Dorothy. The movie follows Dorothy as she is swept away to the magical land of Oz, where she embarks on an adventure to find the Wizard who can send her back home. Filled with memorable songs like Somewhere Over the Rainbow, this film remains a timeless favorite. Its enchanting plot, colorful characters, and valuable lessons about home and self-discovery make it perfect for family viewing after Thanksgiving. The Wizard of Oz is a wonderful way to bring a little magic to the holiday season.
The movie is family-friendly because it’s full of positive messages about bravery, friendship, and the importance of home. The characters of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion each represent traits that children can learn from. The fantasy elements and imaginative storytelling make this film a great choice for kids, while the themes resonate deeply with adults as well. The Wizard of Oz continues to be one of the most loved films across generations. Its combination of heartwarming moments and fantasy adventure makes it ideal for an after-Thanksgiving movie session.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.