I don’t know about you, but I sometimes think choosing a film for family movie night gets harder as the children get older. When they were little, it was usually quite straightforward to find something we’d all enjoy, but now that mine are 18, 16 and 13, everyone has their own ideas about what makes a good film. One might be in the mood for an action-packed adventure, another would rather watch a comedy, and there’s always the possibility that someone simply isn’t interested in watching anything at all.
Thankfully, watching films together is still something we genuinely enjoy as a family, even if agreeing on what to watch can sometimes take longer than we’d like! I think that’s one of the lovely things about having teenagers. Family time changes as they grow up, but it doesn’t have to disappear. Sometimes all it takes is a good film, a few snacks and an evening when nobody has somewhere else they need to be.
If you’re finding it increasingly difficult to choose films that appeal to both teenagers and adults, I’ve put together a selection of family movie night ideas that are worth considering. From laugh-out-loud comedies and action-packed adventures to films that might spark an interesting conversation afterwards, hopefully you’ll find something that everyone can agree on.
Why Family Movie Nights Still Matter When Your Children Are Teenagers
One thing I’ve noticed as my children have grown older is how much family time changes. When they’re little, you’re involved in almost everything they do, but as they become teenagers, they naturally want more independence. Between school, work, friends and their own interests, finding opportunities to spend time together isn’t always as easy as it once was. That’s why I think it’s worth making the most of those quieter moments when everyone happens to be at home.
For us, watching films together is one of those activities that doesn’t require much planning or effort. There’s no pressure to make conversation or organise something elaborate; we can simply settle down, enjoy a good story and spend a couple of hours in each other’s company. I also like that a film gives us something in common to talk about afterwards, whether it’s a funny moment, an unexpected twist or a character whose decisions we completely disagree with.
Of course, I don’t expect my teenagers to want to spend every evening sitting with us, and I wouldn’t want them to feel that they have to. They’re growing up and developing their own lives, which is exactly what we want for them. But I do think there’s something lovely about keeping those little opportunities for family time open. It doesn’t always have to be a big day out or a carefully planned activity; sometimes a film and a bowl of popcorn are more than enough.
How to Choose a Film Everyone Will Actually Enjoy
Finding a film that appeals to everyone can be a bit of a balancing act, especially when you’ve got teenagers of different ages. What interests a 13-year-old might not appeal to an 18-year-old, and even children who are close in age can have completely different tastes. I’ve found that it helps to be flexible rather than expecting everyone to be equally enthusiastic about every film.
One way to make choosing easier is to let everyone have a say. Instead of spending ages scrolling through Netflix or Disney+ trying to find something that looks interesting, ask each person to suggest a film and then narrow the choices down together. You could even take turns choosing on different movie nights, so everyone gets an opportunity to introduce the family to something they enjoy. It might mean watching a film you wouldn’t normally choose yourself, but sometimes those turn out to be surprisingly good.
It’s also worth looking beyond the traditional children’s films as your family gets older. Teenagers often enjoy more complicated storylines, clever humour and characters they can relate to, but that doesn’t necessarily mean choosing something with a higher age rating. There are plenty of PG and 12-rated films that are entertaining for adults too, so I wouldn’t dismiss something simply because it’s technically suitable for younger viewers.
That said, I always think it’s sensible to check the UK age classification before settling down to watch something, particularly if you have younger teenagers. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) provides useful information about language, violence, frightening scenes and other content that parents might want to be aware of. A film rated 12 won’t necessarily suit every 12 or 13-year-old, so it’s worth considering your own child’s sensitivities as well as the official classification.
Finally, I’d recommend having a backup option ready. There’s nothing worse than getting everyone comfortable, sorting out the snacks and then discovering that the film you’ve chosen isn’t available on your streaming service or nobody likes the look of the trailer. Having two or three possibilities in mind can save a lot of time and make the evening feel much more relaxed.
The Best Films for Family Movie Night With Teenagers
When it comes to choosing films to watch with teenagers, I think a good mixture of genres is the way to go. Some evenings you might fancy something funny that doesn’t require too much concentration, while other times an action-packed adventure or a more thought-provoking story might be just what you’re looking for. The important thing is finding something that appeals to the people sitting on the sofa with you.
I’ve included a mixture of older favourites and more recent releases, with films that offer something for both teenagers and adults. Some are perfect for a relaxed evening when everyone needs a good laugh, while others might lead to an interesting conversation afterwards. Not every film will suit every family, of course, so it’s always worth checking the age classification and content advice before watching.
Funny Films That Teenagers and Parents Can Enjoy
School of Rock (2003)
If your family enjoys music and a bit of silly humour, School of Rock is definitely worth considering. Jack Black plays Dewey Finn, a struggling musician who finds himself pretending to be a substitute teacher at a prestigious school. Rather than sticking to the usual lessons, he discovers that his pupils have some impressive musical talents and decides to turn them into a rock band.
What I like about the idea of this film for a family movie night is that there’s plenty for different ages to enjoy. Teenagers might appreciate the music and rebellious humour, while parents can enjoy the comedy and the underlying message about recognising people’s talents and encouraging them to be themselves. It’s the sort of film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which can be exactly what you need after a busy week.
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)
For families who enjoy gaming, action and comedy, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle could be a good choice. The story follows four teenagers who find themselves transported into a video game, where they suddenly become the adult characters they’ve selected. With Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan playing the unlikely team, there are plenty of funny moments as they try to navigate their unfamiliar surroundings and work out how to get home.
I think the video game concept makes this particularly appealing for teenagers, but there’s enough adventure and humour to keep adults entertained too. It’s fast-paced, doesn’t require you to have watched the original Jumanji, and offers a nice mixture of action and comedy without becoming overly complicated.
Paddington 2 (2017)
I know some teenagers might raise an eyebrow at the suggestion of watching a film about Paddington Bear, but I’d encourage them to give Paddington 2 a chance. It’s one of those rare family films that manages to be charming, genuinely funny and entertaining for adults without relying on humour that goes over younger viewers’ heads.
The story follows Paddington as he tries to buy a special birthday present for Aunt Lucy, only to find himself wrongly accused of stealing it. Hugh Grant is particularly entertaining as the wonderfully over-the-top villain, and there’s a lovely mixture of humour, adventure and heart throughout. If you’re looking for something light-hearted that everyone can settle down and enjoy, this would be a good one to add to your shortlist.
Adventure and Action Films for Family Movie Night
Back to the Future (1985)
Some films seem to stand the test of time, and Back to the Future is one of those classics that’s worth introducing to a new generation. Michael J. Fox plays Marty McFly, a teenager who accidentally travels back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean invented by his eccentric friend Doc Brown. Unfortunately, Marty manages to interfere with his parents’ first meeting, putting his own future at risk unless he can find a way to put things right.
I think part of the appeal of watching older films with teenagers is seeing how they react to things that seemed perfectly normal when we were growing up. The fashion, music and technology can be just as entertaining as the storyline itself, and Back to the Future has plenty of humour and adventure to keep things moving. Some of the language and attitudes are very much of their time, but that can also make for an interesting conversation afterwards.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
If your teenagers enjoy superhero films, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a brilliant alternative to the usual live-action adventures. The story introduces Miles Morales, a teenager who discovers that he has Spider-Man’s abilities, only to find himself caught up in a situation involving several different versions of the famous superhero. The animation is unlike anything you’d see in a traditional Disney or Pixar film, with its comic-book-inspired style making the action sequences particularly striking.
Although it’s animated, I wouldn’t automatically put this in the category of children’s films. There’s plenty of fast-paced action, clever humour and an engaging story about confidence, responsibility and finding your own way. It’s also a good reminder that animated films can be just as entertaining for older teenagers and adults as live-action ones.
Enola Holmes (2020)
For something a little different, Enola Holmes offers a mixture of mystery, adventure and humour, with Millie Bobby Brown playing the younger sister of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. When her mother unexpectedly disappears, Enola sets off to find her, determined to solve the mystery herself rather than follow the plans her older brothers have made for her future.
Set in Victorian England, the film has plenty of entertaining twists, along with a strong central character who isn’t afraid to challenge expectations. I think this would particularly appeal to teenagers who enjoy mysteries and stories about young people finding their independence. It also makes a refreshing change from superhero films and big action blockbusters, without feeling too slow or serious.
The Martian (2015)
If your family enjoys science fiction and survival stories, The Martian is definitely one to consider, particularly with older teenagers. Matt Damon plays astronaut Mark Watney, who becomes stranded on Mars after his crew are forced to evacuate during a dangerous storm. With limited supplies and no immediate way of contacting Earth, he has to use his scientific knowledge, creativity and determination to find a way to survive.
What makes this film interesting is that so much of the story revolves around problem-solving rather than simply relying on action sequences. There’s humour alongside the more tense moments, and it’s fascinating to watch how the different characters work together to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. It’s worth checking the BBFC content advice before watching with younger teenagers, as there is some strong language and injury detail, but for families interested in science and space exploration, it could be an excellent choice.
Feel-Good Films for a Relaxed Evening
The Greatest Showman (2017)
If your family enjoys a good musical, The Greatest Showman is definitely one to consider. Hugh Jackman stars as P. T. Barnum in this colourful, energetic film inspired by the creation of his famous entertainment business. With spectacular performances, memorable songs and a story about ambition, friendship and finding somewhere to belong, it’s the sort of film that’s easy to get caught up in, even if musicals aren’t usually your first choice.
One of the things I think makes this film appealing for a family movie night is that there’s so much happening visually as well as musically. The performances are impressive, the songs are catchy, and there are plenty of moments that might get everyone singing along. It’s worth remembering that the film takes considerable liberties with the real history of Barnum and his performers, but as an entertaining musical rather than a history lesson, it has plenty to offer.
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Bend It Like Beckham is a British comedy-drama that deserves a place on any list of films to watch with teenagers, particularly if anyone in your family enjoys football. Parminder Nagra plays Jess, a talented young footballer whose ambitions clash with her family’s expectations. When she joins a local women’s football team, she finds herself trying to balance her love of the sport with friendships, family responsibilities and the future her parents have imagined for her.
Although football is central to the story, you certainly don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy it. There’s plenty of humour, and the relationships between the characters give the film a lot of heart. I particularly like that it explores the challenges of growing up and wanting to make your own decisions while still caring about your family’s opinions. It’s the kind of story that teenagers and parents might see from slightly different perspectives, which could make for an interesting conversation afterwards.
Little Women (2019)
For families who prefer something more character-driven, Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Little Women is a lovely choice. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, the film follows the four March sisters as they navigate growing up, relationships, ambitions and the expectations placed on women during the nineteenth century. With Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Emma Watson and Eliza Scanlen playing the sisters, there’s a wonderful mixture of personalities and family dynamics throughout the story.
This is a gentler film than some of the action-packed recommendations on the list, but that doesn’t make it any less engaging. I think one of its strengths is the way it explores how children growing up in the same family can have completely different dreams and ideas about their futures. It’s a particularly good option for teenagers who enjoy emotional stories, strong characters and films that give you something to think about long after they’ve finished.
Films That Might Spark a Good Conversation Afterwards
The Truman Show (1998)
If you’re looking for something a little different, The Truman Show is a fascinating film that feels surprisingly relevant today, despite being released in 1998. Jim Carrey plays Truman Burbank, a seemingly ordinary man living in a picture-perfect town who gradually begins to suspect that there’s something rather strange about the world around him. Without giving too much away, it’s a clever mixture of comedy, drama and science fiction that raises some interesting questions about privacy, entertainment and how much control we really have over our own lives.
I think this could be a particularly interesting film to watch with teenagers who have grown up surrounded by social media, reality television and online influencers. The idea of people’s lives becoming entertainment for others is something that feels much more familiar now than it might have done when the film was first released. It’s certainly the sort of story that could get everyone talking afterwards, especially if you ask whether they’d make the same choices as Truman.
Inside Out 2 (2024)
Inside Out 2 takes us back inside Riley’s mind as she enters her teenage years, bringing a whole new collection of emotions into the mix. Alongside the familiar characters from the first film, we’re introduced to Anxiety, Envy, Embarrassment and Ennui, who arrive just as Riley is trying to navigate changing friendships, new experiences and the pressures of growing up. As you might expect from Pixar, there’s plenty of humour, but also some touching moments that parents and teenagers may recognise.
Although it’s an animated film, I think Inside Out 2 has plenty to offer older viewers, particularly because it explores experiences that can feel familiar at different ages. It’s not intended to be a psychology lesson, but it does provide an accessible way to think about emotions and how complicated growing up can sometimes feel. If your family enjoyed the original Inside Out, this would be an obvious addition to your movie night shortlist.
Hidden Figures (2016)
Based on the achievements of three remarkable women who worked at NASA during the early years of the American space programme, Hidden Figures is both entertaining and inspiring. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe play Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, whose mathematical abilities and determination helped them overcome significant barriers in a workplace shaped by racial and gender discrimination.
What I particularly like about the premise of this film is that it introduces viewers to real people whose contributions to history weren’t always widely recognised. There’s a good balance of humour, emotion and fascinating scientific achievements, making it an appealing choice for families who enjoy stories based on real events. Some elements have been dramatised for the film, but it could be a great starting point for learning more about the women behind the story and the important work they carried out.
Wonder Woman (2017)
If your family enjoys superhero films with plenty of action, Wonder Woman is another good option. Gal Gadot plays Diana, an Amazonian princess who leaves her sheltered island home after learning about the devastating conflict taking place during the First World War. As she discovers more about the world beyond her own, she becomes determined to use her abilities to help others, even when the people around her question what she’s capable of achieving.
This is one film I can genuinely connect to our own family experience, as I’ve previously shared my thoughts about watching Wonder Woman on Mummy Matters. I enjoyed the mixture of action, humour and the story behind Diana’s character, and it’s a film that offers more than simply watching superheroes battle villains. If you’re interested in reading more, you can take a look at my earlier Wonder Woman film review. With its wartime setting and some intense action sequences, it’s worth checking the age guidance before watching with younger teenagers.
How to Make Family Movie Night Feel Special Without Spending Much
One of the things I love about family movie nights is that they don’t have to cost much at all. You don’t need an enormous television, expensive projector or a dedicated cinema room to make the evening enjoyable. Sometimes it’s simply a case of making the living room a little more comfortable, choosing a good film and having something nice to eat while you watch. After all, it’s the time spent together that matters, not how much money you’ve spent creating the perfect setup.
I always think that making the room feel cosy is a good place to start, particularly during the colder months when nobody really wants to venture outside. Bring out a few extra blankets, add some cushions and switch off the main lights in favour of softer lamps or fairy lights. It’s also worth making sure everyone has somewhere comfortable to sit, especially when you’ve got teenagers who might not appreciate being squashed together on the sofa! If you’d like a little more inspiration, I’ve previously shared some ideas for creating a cosy family movie night space.
Of course, no family movie night feels quite complete without something to snack on. Popcorn is always an easy option, but you don’t need to spend a fortune on cinema-style treats. Depending on what you’ve already got in the cupboards, you could put together a few simple things for everyone to share, such as:
- Homemade popcorn with a choice of sweet or savoury toppings.
- Tortilla chips with salsa, guacamole or melted cheese.
- A sharing platter with strawberries, grapes, chocolate and biscuits.
- Homemade pizzas or loaded potato wedges if you’re making an evening of it.
- Hot chocolate with marshmallows for a cosy winter film night.
You could even let everyone choose one snack to add to the table, which makes the evening feel a little more special without creating lots of extra work. I also think it’s worth getting everything ready before the film starts, rather than spending the first twenty minutes going backwards and forwards to the kitchen. That way, you can actually sit down and enjoy the evening too.
Another idea is to let your teenagers take charge of the arrangements occasionally. They could choose the film, organise the snacks or decide whether you’re having a comedy night, an action adventure or something completely different. As children get older, giving them more of a say can make family activities feel less like something their parents have organised and more like something everyone has chosen to do together.
And if you’re looking for other ways to spend time together without spending a fortune, I’ve also shared four fun family activities you can do at home. Sometimes the simplest activities turn out to be the ones everyone enjoys most.
Where Can You Watch These Films in the UK?
Once you’ve finally agreed on a film, the last thing you want is to discover that it isn’t available on any of the streaming services you subscribe to. With so many different platforms to choose from, it isn’t always obvious where you can watch a particular film, especially when titles regularly move between services.
I find that JustWatch UK is a useful place to check what’s available before settling down for the evening. You can search for a film and see whether it’s included with a streaming subscription or available to rent or buy digitally. It’s worth checking before making plans, as streaming catalogues can change and a film that’s included in your subscription one month might not be there the next.
And don’t forget about DVDs and Blu-rays if you still have a collection at home. Sometimes the easiest and cheapest option is to watch something you already own, rather than paying to rent a film that’s sitting on your shelf.
Where to Watch Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
What If Your Teenager Doesn’t Want to Join In?
As much as we might enjoy the idea of everyone settling down together for a family movie night, there are bound to be occasions when one of the teenagers simply isn’t interested. They might have had a long day at school or work, be busy chatting with friends or just fancy spending some time on their own. I think it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of growing up, rather than taking it personally or turning it into an argument.
I’ve always felt that family time should be something we enjoy rather than something the children feel obliged to take part in. There’s nothing wrong with inviting everyone to join you, but if somebody isn’t in the mood, sometimes it’s better to leave the invitation open and carry on with your plans. They might decide to come and sit with you halfway through, or they might prefer to do something else that evening. Either way, it doesn’t have to become a big issue.
It can also help to think about what your teenagers genuinely enjoy doing, rather than expecting them to take part in the same activities they loved when they were younger. One might enjoy watching films, while another would rather play a board game, go for a walk or spend time cooking together. The important thing is finding those little opportunities to connect in ways that work for your family, even if that means doing different activities with different children.
At the end of the day, I don’t think successful family time should be measured by how often everyone is in the same room. As our children get older, their independence becomes increasingly important, but that doesn’t mean they stop needing or enjoying our company. Sometimes simply knowing they’re welcome to join in, without any pressure, is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Movie Nights With Teenagers
What are good films to watch with a 13-year-old?
If you’re planning a movie night with a younger teenager, films such as Paddington 2, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Inside Out 2 and Enola Holmes are all worth considering. They offer a mixture of humour, adventure and engaging stories without necessarily feeling too childish for older viewers. Of course, every teenager is different, so I’d always recommend checking the BBFC age classification and content advice before choosing, particularly if your child is sensitive to frightening scenes or certain themes.
What films can parents and older teenagers enjoy together?
For older teenagers, you might want to explore films with more complicated storylines or mature themes. The Martian, The Truman Show, Little Women and Hidden Figures are all interesting options that offer plenty for adults to enjoy too. If your family prefers something more action-packed, Wonder Woman or Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle could be better choices. It really depends on whether you’re in the mood for something funny, exciting or thought-provoking.
How often should you have a family movie night?
I don’t think there’s any need to set a strict schedule unless that’s something your family particularly enjoys. Some families might love the idea of a Friday film night every week, while others might only manage one occasionally when everyone happens to be at home. With teenagers juggling school, work, friendships and other commitments, flexibility can make family activities much more enjoyable. Personally, I’d rather have an occasional evening that everyone looks forward to than insist on a weekly tradition that starts to feel like another obligation.
Final Thoughts: Family Time Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
As my children have grown older, I’ve realised that spending quality time together doesn’t always have to involve planning elaborate days out or organising activities that everyone can take part in. Sometimes it’s the quieter evenings at home that are just as enjoyable, particularly when everyone has had a busy week and simply wants to relax. A family movie night might seem like a small thing, but I think those shared moments are worth making time for while we still have the opportunity.
Of course, finding a film that everyone agrees on isn’t always straightforward, and there will inevitably be evenings when someone would rather do their own thing. That’s all part of family life with teenagers, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. But when everyone does settle down together, with a good film, a few snacks and nowhere else they need to be, it’s a lovely reminder that family time doesn’t have to be complicated to be enjoyable.
I’d love to know what films your family enjoys watching together. Have you discovered a brilliant film that keeps both teenagers and parents entertained? Let me know in the comments, as I’m always looking for ideas for our next family movie night!