Even with the endless options on streaming services, there’s something magical about packing up the family for a trip to the cinema. From the smell of popcorn to the shared excitement of watching a story unfold on the big screen, it’s an experience that can’t be replicated at home.
Luckily, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for family-friendly films, with everything from animated adventures to live-action reimaginings of beloved classics. Whether you’re looking to laugh, cry, or embark on a thrilling journey, there’s something for everyone to enjoy together. Here’s our guide to the best family movies hitting cinemas this year—mark your calendars!
Dog Man
Release Date: 7 February 2025 Running Time: 89 minutes Certification: U
Dog Man, inspired by Dav Pilkey’s beloved graphic novels, is a heartwarming and hilarious animated adventure. The story introduces us to Dog Man, a lovable hero with a dog’s head and a man’s body, who is determined to protect his city from chaos. When the cunning cat villain, Petey, devises his latest scheme, Dog Man must rise to the challenge, balancing his quirky instincts with his heroic duties. With plenty of laughs, action, and a heartfelt message about friendship and courage, Dog Man promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Snow White
Release Date: 21 March 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
Disney’s 2025 live-action adaptation of Snow White reimagines the timeless fairy tale for a new generation. Starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, the film follows the classic story of the young princess forced into exile by her jealous stepmother. With the help of seven quirky dwarfs and her unwavering kindness and courage, Snow White embarks on a journey to reclaim her rightful place as queen.
A Minecraft Movie
Release Date: 4 April 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
The Minecraft movie transforms the iconic video game into an exciting cinematic adventure. When the Ender Dragon threatens to destroy their world, a group of unlikely heroes band together to save their village. Their journey takes them through the vast and unpredictable Overworld, where they face dangers like Creepers and Skeletons while discovering the strength of friendship and teamwork. Stars Jack Black and Jason Mamoa.
Lilo & Stitch
Release Date: 23 May 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
Disney’s 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch reimagines the beloved animated classic for a new audience. The story takes place in Hawaii, where Lilo, a spirited young girl, adopts an unusual pet she names Stitch. Little does she know, Stitch is an alien experiment on the run from galactic authorities. As Lilo helps him discover the true meaning of family and belonging, their growing bond is put to the test when Stitch’s past catches up to him. Full of adventure, humour, and heart, Lilo & Stitch is a touching tale about the power of ohana—family.
How to Train Your Dragon
Release Date: 13 June 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
The live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon brings the beloved animated saga to life, retelling the story of Hiccup, a young Viking who doesn’t quite fit in with his dragon-slaying tribe. Everything changes when he encounters Toothless, a rare and fearsome Night Fury, and forms an unlikely friendship that challenges his people’s long-standing beliefs about dragons. Together, Hiccup and Toothless embark on a journey of discovery, bravery, and unity, showing that sometimes the greatest battles are fought with understanding, not swords.
Elio
Release Date: 13 June 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
Elio is a heartwarming and imaginative animated adventure from Pixar. The story follows Elio, an 11-year-old boy who struggles to fit in and find his place in the world. Everything changes when he’s accidentally beamed up to an alien planet and mistaken for the leader of Earth. Thrust into the role of humanity’s ambassador, Elio must navigate intergalactic challenges, earn the trust of the aliens, and discover his own inner courage.
The Bad Guys 2
Release Date: 1 August 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
This time, the beloved crew—Mr. Wolf, Mr Snake, Mr Shark, Mr Piranha, and Ms Tarantula—are adjusting to their new lives as reformed heroes. However, their journey takes an unexpected twist when they’re approached by a mysterious group called the Bad Girls, an all-female team of skilled criminals. Together, they embark on one final, high-stakes mission that challenges their newfound sense of morality.
The film sees the return of its original star-studded voice cast, including Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, and Awkwafina. Joining them are fresh voices like Danielle Brooks, Natasha Lyonne, and Maria Bakalova, who bring life to the members of the Bad Girls.
Directed by Pierre Perifel, with a thrilling score from Daniel Pemberton, “The Bad Guys 2” promises even more action, humour, and unexpected surprises as fans reunite with their favourite crew of mischievous misfits.
Wicked: Part 2
Release Date: 21 November 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
Wicked: Part 2 brings the captivating story of Elphaba and Glinda to its dramatic conclusion, bridging the gap to the events of The Wizard of Oz. As Elphaba’s actions cement her reputation as the Wicked Witch of the West, she must confront betrayal, loss, and her fight against a corrupt system. Meanwhile, Glinda grapples with her role as the Good Witch, torn between her love for her friend and her duty to the people of Oz. Packed with emotional depth and unforgettable songs, Wicked: Part 2 delivers a powerful ending to the untold saga of Oz’s most iconic witches.
Zootropolis 2
Release Date: 28 November 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
Zootropolis 2 reunites fans with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde for an exciting new chapter in the vibrant animal city. When a mysterious threat arises, putting the harmony of Zootropolis at risk, the unlikely partners must join forces once more to solve the case. Their investigation takes them to unexplored parts of the city, introducing fresh faces and unexpected challenges.
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
Release Date: 26 December 2025 Running Time: TBA Certification: TBA
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants dives into an all-new underwater adventure when SpongeBob mysteriously vanishes from Bikini Bottom. Determined to bring their friend back home, Patrick, Sandy, and the rest of the crew set off on a daring journey across the ocean. Along the way, they face wacky challenges, meet unforgettable new characters, and uncover the secrets behind SpongeBob’s disappearance. Full of humour, heart, and the classic SpongeBob charm, this hilarious quest is a celebration of friendship and the joy of sticking together through thick and thin.
Please check with local cinemas for the most up-to-date information on release dates and certifications.
This post was originally published over on The Book, The Film, The T-Shirt – https://thebookthefilmthetshirt.co.uk/kids-movies-releasing-in-2025/
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