The best '90s kids' movies to watch with your kids in 2025
As a child of the nineties myself, I might be biased, but it really felt like a golden age for family movies. Epic symphonic film scores paired with wholesome messages offset some of the genuinely terrifying and dark family movies of the eighties (I'm still recovering from The NeverEnding Story).
Walt Disney Pictures ruled the animation world (with matching soundtrack bangers by Elton John and Celine Dion), Nickelodeon movies were a weekend staple, and family movie nights meant rewinding VHS tapes and gathering around the TV with popcorn in hand. The ’90s offered a treasure trove of cinematic goodness that continues to inspire young imaginations.
Let’s take a nostalgic journey through some of the most iconic, heartwarming, and unforgettable ’90s kids movies that we think you should revisit in 2025 with your kids.
Iconic '90s animated movies for kids
The ’90s were abundant in animated films, with studios like Walt Disney Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures, and the very first Pixar movies delivering stories that have stood the test of time.
Aladdin (1992)
We all know the plot… A street-smart young man discovers a magical lamp and, with the help of a talking parrot and a wish-granting genie (voiced by the incomparable Robin Williams), embarks on a journey to win the heart of Princess Jasmine. This Disney fave is packed with magic, catchy tunes (that ‘Whole New World’ song will be in your head for weeks), and lessons about being true to oneself.
Stream it on Disney+
Toy Story (1995)
As the first movie entirely created with CGI, Toy Story introduced us to Woody and Buzz Lightyear, toys who come to life when humans aren’t around. It was such a fun concept that also spawned a generation of matching movie merchandise. Not many houses didn’t have a Buzz Lightyear or Woody in the toy box.
This movie explores themes of friendship and loyalty, and is a genuinely lovely story with charming characters voiced by heavyweights like Tom Hanks and Tim Allen. Perfect for young and old.
Stream it on Disney+
The Lion King (1994)
This movie is an absolute must-watch. The award-winning soundtrack from Hans Zimmer and Elton John will give you all the feels, and ‘hakuna matata’ (it means no worries) will enter your everyday vernacular.
It follows the story of Simba, a lion cub who must embrace his destiny as king after a family tragedy (brace yourself for the tears). The animation is stunning, with memorable characters voiced by an all-star cast including Matthew Broderick, my nineties crush Jonathan Taylor-Thomas, Rowan Atkinson, Whoopi Goldberg, James Earl Jones and more. The Lion King rightly remains one of the most beloved 90s movies of all time.
Stream it on Disney+
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Best live-action '90s kids movies
There were some absolutely cracking live-action films in the ’90s. From Roald Dahl adaptations to killer board games coming to life, talking sheep-dog-pigs, and underdog sports stories – they really raised the bar on what was possible.
The Mighty Ducks (1992)
Self-centred lawyer Gordon Bombay, played by Emilio Estevez, is sentenced to coach a ragtag youth hockey team, leading to unexpected bonds and life lessons. Of course, Gordon Bombay and his team go on a journey of emotional growth, culminating in them coming together as a team to beat the odds. This movie is the gold standard for the tried-and-tested underdog sports team trope. The Mighty Ducks is a testament to teamwork and perseverance, making it compulsory viewing for families. (Quack, Quack, Quack!)
Stream it on Disney+
Jumanji (1995)
Was it even worth watching if it didn’t have Robin Williams in it? Jumanji follows the story of two kids who discover a mysterious board game in their creepy new house. They accidentally unleash a world of adventure and danger, including a man (Robin Williams) who had been trapped inside the game for decades. This film combines fantasy, excitement, and action, which makes for a wild ride!
Stream it on Stan
Little Rascals (1994)
This childhood classic was a remake of a series made between 1922 and 1944. It follows a group of mischievous neighbourhood kids as they navigate friendship and life. We loved it as kids for its adorable and endearing characters (Alfalfa with his sticky-uppy hair) and humorous antics. Little Rascals is a delightful trip down memory lane.
Stream it on Paramount+
Babe (1995)
You might not pick it, but this is an Aussie classic (starring the incredible Magda Szubanski). A piglet raised by sheepdogs defies expectations by learning to herd sheep and participating in the sheepdog championships. I showed this to the kids recently and they absolutely loved it. It’s a beautiful story of determination and unlikely friendship that demonstrates that anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background.
Stream it on Binge
Cool Runnings (1993)
Another underdog sporting classic that captured the hearts of a generation, and one that probably resonated with us Aussies due to the subject matter.
Based on the true story of the Jamaican bobsled team, this film follows their journey to compete in the Winter Olympics. Of course, Jamaica doesn’t have snow… so how do they learn to compete in this winter sport? Starring the late, great John Candy, this is an inspiring story about chasing dreams against all odds.
Stream it on Disney+
Free Willy (1993)
A Warner Bros classic with a killer Michael Jackson soundtrack, Free Willy is a moving story about a troubled young boy who, after vandalising a theme park, is sent to work there. He forms a bond with a captive orca whale (Willy), who becomes his best friend. He devises a crazy plan to return him to the ocean.
This touching story emphasises the importance of compassion and the bond between humans and wild animals.
Rent it now on Prime Video
The Addams Family (1991)
Like The Little Rascals, this movie is also a big screen adaptation of the sixties sitcom of the same name. The Addams Family are a quirky family of misfits, who despite being spooky weirdos are totally hilarious and lovable. With its brilliant cast, including Christina Ricci’s iconic Wednesday character and Christopher Lloyd as Uncle Fester, the movie has the perfect blend of humour and gothic charm.
The Addams Family is probably better suited to older kids and adults, with some creepy scenes and a few more mature themes.
Stream it on Stan
Matilda (1996)
This is mandatory nineties movie viewing. A girl with extraordinary intellect and magical powers overcomes her awful, neglectful parents and a tyrannical school principal – Miss Trunchbull. Based on Roald Dahl’s novel, Matilda is an inspiring story for kids who feel out of place.
It always felt so empowering watching this little girl using her amazing brain to overcome the bad guys. Fun fact: Danny DeVito and his wife Rhea Perlman (who played Matilda’s parents in the movie) took in Mara Wilson and became a surrogate family for her after her mother tragically died from breast cancer during the filming of Matilda.
Stream it on Stan
Hook (1991)
Another Robin Williams classic, this movie was a modern spin on the Peter Pan tale. Robin Williams plays a grown-up Peter Pan who has lost the magic of his childhood. He returns to Neverland to rescue his children from Captain Hook (played by Dustin Hoffman). Hook explores the importance of family and finding the magic and wonder in life every day.
Stream it on Stan
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
My kids absolutely love this Aussie Baz Luhrmann classic. Full of outrageous bright ballroom dancing costumes, big hair and ridiculous eye-shadow, the movie is the reimagining of the classic ‘ugly duckling’ story.
Scott Hastings (Paul Mecurio) wants to break the mould and dance his own steps at the Pan Pacific Grand Prix ballroom dancing championships. He has to find the right dance partner and overcome all the odds. Your whole family will be up and dancing to “Love is in the Air” by Paul Young by the end of this movie.
Stream it for free on ABC iview
Casper (1995)
Another nineties Christina Ricci gem, a friendly ghost befriends a young girl who moves into his haunted mansion. This feature film blends humour with a spooky supernatural edge, offering a gentle introduction to ghost stories for younger kids.
It also starred the dreamy Devon Sawa as the real-life Casper.
Rent it on Apple TV
Hidden gems: Forgotten '90s kids movies you might have missed
While some films became household names, others flew under the radar but are equally deserving of a spot in your movie marathon.
- The Pagemaster (1994): A blend of live-action and animation, this film follows a young boy who discovers courage through classic literary adventures.
- A Little Princess (1995): Set during World War II, this adaptation tells the story of a little girl who uses imagination to cope with adversity.
- The Secret Garden (1993): A young girl discovers a hidden, neglected garden and, through its restoration, heals herself and those around her.
Even more '90s kids movies to watch with your family
Still want more options for your family movie night? Here are some that will keep the family entertained.
- Space Jam (1996): Another Warner Bros classic from a time when the world went basketball mad… Michael Jordan teams up with Looney Tunes characters in a basketball showdown that’s out of this world.
- The Parent Trap (1998): Lindsay Lohan plays twin sisters who, after meeting at summer camp, devise a plan to reunite their divorced parents.
- Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993): Little kids always love an animal adventure… Two dogs and a cat embark on an incredible journey to reunite with their family, showcasing the strength of friendship.
- Jurassic Park (1993): Iconic Steven Spielberg film with what was ground-breaking new CGI animation for the dinos. Scientists bring dinosaurs back to life, leading to terrifying consequences.
'90s movies for tweens and teens
The nineties were also a golden age of movies for tweens and teenage coming-of-age stories. These tackle themes of identity, growth, and adventure.
- Clueless (1995): A modern retelling of Jane Austen’s “Emma,” this film follows a fashionable college student navigating high school life and matchmaking.
- 10 Things I Hate About You (1999): A witty adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” this romantic comedy explores teenage love and rebellion.
- Now and Then (1995): Another Christina Ricci and Devon Sawa film… Four women reflect on their childhood friendships and the pivotal summer that shaped their lives.
Movies like Clueless and 10 Things I Hate About You are definitely suited to older kids and teens as they cover sex, drinking and drugs. You might get some curly questions if you show these ones to younger kids.
Wrapping it up
Revisiting these ’90s kids’ movies is like a nice warm hug. Whether you’re introducing these classics to a new generation or just reliving childhood memories filled with Steve Martin and Rick Moranis, these films are perfect for spending quality time with your whole family.
So grab some snacks, dim the lights, and let the magic of the ’90s transport you back to a world where bowl-cuts and fringes were trendy, and anything was possible.
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