"Part of growing up for kids is outgrowing games they loved or losing interest in past go-to activities. It’s safe to say, though, that there’s at least one pastime that remains a consistent favorite: going to the movies to watch the newest releases (with some good ol’ popcorn and candy in hand, of course).
While we love our streaming services as much as anyone, nothing really compares to catching a feel-good flick at your local theater with the kids. This is especially true during summer and school breaks when you need something to entertain your LOs. If you can’t help but agree, you may be excited to hear that there are some exciting new kids movies coming out this year that would make for a perfect family outing.
In the second half of 2024, we can expect a lot of excitement in the movie world. We’re going to see plenty of highly-anticipated sequels and prequels. Not to mention, a live-action adaptation of a childhood favorite book. The best part? Even though these are new kids movies coming to theaters this year, they’re also sure to be highly enjoyable for parents, too.
There’s nothing quite like going to the movies a family. Get excited with this list of 10 of the best new kids movies coming to theaters this year.
IF
Rating: PG
When 12-year-old Bea moves in with her grandmother in New York City, she befriends an older neighbor named Cal who, she discovers, works to place Imaginary Friends (aka IFs) with new children after their original kids grow up and forget about them. This movie is sure to speak to everyone’s inner child and make you nostalgic for the simple days of playing with imaginary friends.
The Garfield Movie
Rating: PG
Based on the beloved comic strip, everyone’s favorite orange cat returns to the big screen in this new movie that follows Garfield’s reunion with his long-lost father. Along the way, Garfield and friends find themselves in a high-stakes adventure. Though the film got some negative critic reviews for failing to stick to parts of the original comic’s storyline, this flick is sure to be one that little kids enjoy watching at the theater.
Inside Out 2
Rating: PG
In the first Inside Out movie, viewers were introduced to 11-year-old Riley and her emotions—namely, Joy, Sadness, Fear, and Anger. Now 13-year-old Riley is experiencing a new set of emotions that kids today know all too well. Get ready to feel all the feels when you meet Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment.
Despicable Me 4
Rating: PG
Kids aren’t the only ones who can’t get enough of the minions. In Despicable Me 4, the little yellow guys are back to take on a new evil threat. As Gru is welcoming little Gru Jr., the evil Maxime Le Mal escapes from prison and sets out to take revenge on him.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Rating: PG
A story we know and love thanks to a classic book is heading to theaters this summer. Young Harold grew up in his book where the possibilities were endless thanks to his crayon. Now, as an adult, he draws himself into the real world and quickly learns more than he bargained for about real life.
The Wild Robot
Rating: Not Yet Rated
A movie of perseverance based on a novel of the same name, robot Roz finds himself in unfamiliar territory when he’s deserted on an island. He must learn to adapt to his new surroundings, and maybe even make friends along the way. His journey becomes even more heartwarming when he comes across an orphaned gosling.
Moana 2
Rating: PG
If it feels like you’ve been waiting in anticipation for this sequel as much as your kiddos have, you’re certainly not alone. Our favorite Motunui Cheiftess is back—along with her beloved friends—for a brand new adventure in Disney’s Moana 2. This time, Moana and Maui set sail to answer an unexpected call from the ancestors.
Wicked
Rating: Not Yet Rated
A classic like we’ve never seen it before! Starring Ariana Grande as Glinda, this version of Wicked explores her unlikely friendship with Elphaba, who’s misunderstood due to her green skin. After an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their friendship is put to the test as they are drawn in separate directions. The movie’s first part is set to be released in November of this year, and the second will debut in November 2025.
Mufasa: The Lion King
Rating: Not Yet Rated
A prequel to the 2019 adaptation of the 1994 classic, The Lion King, the new film takes us back in time. Now, we learn the backstory of King Mufasa and how he came to rule over everything the light touches in the Pride Lands. Expect a star-studded cast including Beyoncé, Blue Ivy Carter, Seth Rogan, Donald Glover, and more.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Rating: Not Yet Rated
Big names like Jim Carrey, Keanu Reeves, James Marsden, and Ben Schwartz ensure this movie is going to be a hit your little ones can’t get enough of. This time, Sonic goes head to head with Shadow, a dark hedgehog driven by anger and revenge.