2010s movies · animated movies · musicals · emotional stories · modern classics
Top 5 Movies Every 2010s Kid Knows
Movie Knight Editorial Team ·
From a supervillain-turned-dad and toys facing their future to a video game hero's quest and a queen's icy powers, these 2010s films deliver emotional depth, stunning animation, and powerful family themes.
The top movies every 2010s kid knows are a powerful blend of heartfelt animated adventures and dazzling movie musicals. These films are known for their emotional depth, stunning visuals, and complex characters who grapple with identity and belonging.
This decade perfected the art of family films that resonate just as strongly with adults, exploring themes of change, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a family. From villains turned heroes to princesses saving themselves, these stories offer empowering and memorable experiences for all.
Choose tonight’s movie
Quick picks
- Despicable Me
- Toy Story 3
- Wreck-It Ralph
- Frozen
- The Greatest Showman
Movie Knight guide
The full list
No. 1
Despicable Me
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Villain turned dad
Despicable Me
Supervillain Gru adopts three orphan girls as pawns in his scheme to steal the moon, only to find his heart changed by fatherhood. Parents should know the film includes slapstick violence and conflict between rival supervillains. This heartwarming comedy works best for kids 6 and up.
No. 2
Toy Story 3
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Saying goodbye
Toy Story 3
When Andy heads to college, his loyal toys are accidentally donated to a daycare run by a tyrannical teddy bear. The film is emotionally intense, with themes of abandonment and a famous, high-stakes escape sequence involving an incinerator that is very perilous for the toys. This poignant adventure works best for kids 6 and up.
No. 3
Wreck-It Ralph
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Bad-guy affirmation
Wreck-It Ralph
A video game villain tired of being the bad guy sets off to become a hero, causing chaos across the arcade. The movie contains video game action and peril, as well as emotional moments of bullying and rejection that may be sad for some kids. This creative story works best for kids 6 and up.
No. 4
Frozen
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Let it go
Frozen
Princess Anna journeys to find her estranged sister, Queen Elsa, whose magical ice powers have trapped their kingdom in eternal winter. The film has moments of peril, including chases by a snow monster, and deals with emotional themes of parental loss, sibling separation, and fear. This beloved musical works best for kids 5 and up.
No. 5
The Greatest Showman
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A million dreams
The Greatest Showman
This musical celebrates the life of P.T. Barnum, who created a worldwide spectacle with a cast of unique performers. Parents should be aware of some brief physical fights, social drinking, and a subplot where a main character briefly considers an affair. This dazzling spectacle works best for kids 8 and up.
Before you press play
A note for parents
The major family films of the 2010s are often more emotionally intense than they are physically violent. Be prepared for stories that directly address complex feelings like loss, rejection, and the fear of change. The famous incinerator scene in Toy Story 3 and the themes of parental loss and isolation in Frozen are prime examples of moments that can be deeply affecting for young viewers and may warrant a post-movie conversation.
Questions parents ask
Parent FAQ
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