19 Kids’ Movies With Deeper Meanings That Will Make You Never Watch Them The Same Way Again
These are instances of films with deeper messages than what is being displayed.
Kids want to be entertained when they watch a movie, just like everyone else does. However, once they reach a certain age, bright colors and crude humor no longer suffice to properly amaze a youngster.
A larger role is beginning to be played by character growth and more interesting plotlines. A superb "kids" movie needs to appeal to more than just kids; it may be appreciated and enjoyed by individuals of all ages.
Disney's Pixar studio is a great example of a studio producing family films that appeal to people of all ages. They produced movies that have a deeper meaning than what is being shown, and a quick thinker will catch the twist.
According to Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, “Children's films often serve as a mirror to their emotional experiences, helping them navigate complex feelings.” Movies like Finding Nemo teach resilience, while Turning Red emphasizes the importance of trust in parent-child relationships. Inside Out illustrates how our emotions can coexist, reminding us that “feeling sad is a part of being human,” as noted by Dr. Dan Gilbert, a happiness researcher.
Below are some of the deeper messages we've gathered from their replies and they are all taken from your favorite kids' movies.
1. Kiki's Delivery Service
"This feels like one of the lighter Miyazaki films, but I think anyone who has ever hit a professional wall or experienced writer's block can relate to Kiki and her quest to keep moving forward. As Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, states, 'The ability to navigate life's challenges is essential for personal growth and resilience.'"
Toei Company2. The Emperor’s New Groove
"It teaches individuals the importance of treating others with respect and kindness, the value of humility, and that anyone can transform their negative traits into positive ones with effort. Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of being responsible, such as properly labeling potions and poisons!"— Dr. John Gottman, marriage researcher
Buena Vista Pictures3. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame poignantly illustrates society's tendency to ostracize those who are different, revealing the darker aspects of human nature and the justifications used in the name of morality. As Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, states, 'The film serves as a powerful reminder of how prejudice can manifest in harmful ways, often cloaked in the guise of righteousness.'"
Buena Vista Pictures4. Finding Nemo
"Where to start? Nemo loses all of his siblings and his mum before he's even born, and then has to cope with a deformed fin. As a child psychologist, I often emphasize the importance of resilience in children. It's crucial for them to understand that their perceived limitations do not define their potential," says Dr. Michael Thompson, PhD.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures5. Encanto
"This film is undoubtedly crafted by millennials for millennials, addressing themes of generational trauma and the societal pressures that shape our identities. It illustrates the struggle to break free from imposed expectations," says Dr. Tara Brach, a renowned psychologist and meditation teacher at tarabrach.com."While it may appear to be a light-hearted family musical, the deeper narrative about Alma and Pedro reveals complexities that resonate more with older audiences," notes Dr. Michele Weiner-Davis, a marriage therapist and author at divorcebusting.com.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures6. The Incredibles
"If you watch this as an adult and think about the themes, you realize it is (in part) a commentary on the No Child Left Behind Act and standardization in American schools," says Dr. Yong Zhao, education expert and author of "World Class Learners." He emphasizes that the Parr family, while superheroes, are pressured by the government to suppress their true identities to conform to societal expectations."Ultimately, it's about people expressing their talents and passions rather than conforming to societal norms. Everyone has something that makes them special!" adds Dr. Madeline Levine, child psychologist and author of "The Price of Privilege."— Dr. Yong Zhao and Dr. Madeline Levine
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures7. Inside Out
"This film beautifully encapsulates the complex emotions of growing up. It reminds us that while our feelings can be overwhelming, they are all valid, including the difficult ones. It's essential to embrace joy alongside our fears and sadness," says Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading researcher in self-compassion.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures8. A Bug's Life
"On the surface, the movie is about giving yourself time to grow and transform from a seed into a beautiful tree. It doesn't happen overnight and it's not always pretty, but you'll overcome it and become a beautiful butterfly. The deeper meaning, however, is about standing up for yourself and overthrowing systems of oppression," says Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author of *Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance*, who emphasizes the importance of resilience in personal growth.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures9. Coraline
"I appreciate Coraline for many reasons, particularly for its profound life lesson. It embodies the idea that 'curiosity killed the cat' while also reminding us that 'the grass isn't always greener on the other side.' This is an essential lesson for children, teaching them that pursuing an idealized version of life can lead to disappointment, as nothing is perfect."– Dr. Ramani Durvasula, Clinical Psychologist
Focus Features10. Turning Red
"Pixar is getting very existential these days! Mei's mother forces her into a 'box' of what she deems appropriate, while disregarding her autonomy and being overly controlling. This extends to the point of physically assaulting her 11-year-old daughter just because she's doing normal kid stuff!"This message for parents is to trust in your relationship with your child and allow them the freedom to grow. As Dr. Madeline Levine, a renowned child psychologist, states, "When parents impose too many restrictions, it can stifle a child's growth and independence." This is crucial unless you want to risk a strained relationship once they leave home!
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
11. Lilo and Stitch
"This film explored grief and trauma really well, with Lilo feeling angry and confused until she met Stitch who seemed to understand her. Hence they became their own version of a family!"– Dr. Jane Nelsen, Parenting Expert
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
12. Fern Gully
"I remember watching Fern Gully in reception and thinking it was the scariest thing I'd ever watched, but I guess it exposed me to the harsh reality of deforestation."
20th Century Fox
13. Mary Poppins
"Isn't Mary Poppins all about how men and women fit into the domestic space and society at large? You have Mr. Banks who struggles to connect with his children and is consumed by work, while Mrs. Banks is actively engaged in the women's suffrage movement. This narrative challenges traditional gender roles, especially as Mr. Banks undergoes a transformation by the film's conclusion,"– Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist
"Moreover, the film beautifully illustrates the importance of empathy and kindness, particularly through the character of the 'Bird Woman', who represents the often-overlooked individuals in society,"– Dr. Esther Perel, couples therapist and author
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
14. The Little Prince
"As Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, emphasizes, 'It is only with the heart that we can truly understand the essence of our experiences; what is essential often lies beyond our immediate perception.'"
Paramount Pictures
15. An American Tail
"As a child, I adored this film about a little mouse searching for his family, complete with memorable songs! However, upon rewatching it as an adult, I discovered the profound themes woven throughout." "The narrative reflects the experiences of Jewish people facing forced immigration, with certain characters working in sweatshops, while the cats symbolize an anti-Semitic mob."— Dr. Sue Johnson, couples therapy pioneer
Universal Pictures
16. Up
"Life is not just about reaching a destination; it's about the experiences we gather along the way and the connections we make. In the rush to achieve our goals, we often overlook the beauty of the journey itself," says Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a happiness researcher at sonjalyubomirsky.com."We must cherish our relationships and live in the present, as time is fleeting. It's essential to focus on the here and now rather than being overly concerned about the future," adds Dr. Rick Hanson, a neuropsychologist at rickhanson.net.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
17. Coco
"This film poignantly illustrates the emotional turmoil of separation from loved ones, often exacerbated by external circumstances. It encapsulates themes of love, betrayal, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds of family and tradition. While I found it deeply moving, I doubt I could bear to watch it again!"– Dr. Terri Orbuch, Relationship Researcher and Author
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
18. The Fox and the Hound
"Growing up often forces us to confront the harsh realities of life, including the loss of innocence and the challenges we must navigate. It's a poignant reminder of how difficult life can be, which resonates deeply with audiences, especially in beloved Disney films."– Sir Ken Robinson, Education Expert
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
19. Pocahontas
"Watching this film as a child, I didn't grasp the underlying themes of colonialism and the impact of white-supremacist ideologies. It's heartbreaking to see the native tribe forced into conflict."– Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Despite all these, a film must, at its core, be one that kids will enjoy the most if it is being advertised as a movie for kids. The movies above are very nice to watch given that they have amazing deep meanings to them.
Which of these movies is your favorite and why? Leave a comment below and share this post as well.
