Best Family Movies Out Right Now Bring Families Together
Right Now These Best Family Movies Spark Conversation
The best family movies out right now (May 2026) are The Mandalorian and Grogu (PG-13, in theaters May 22), The Secret World of Arrietty (G, IMAX remaster re-released May 19), Shrek (PG, 2001 re-release May 15), Hoppers (PG, Pixar animated film released March 6), and GOAT (PG, animated sports comedy). For preschoolers, Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie (G, now on Netflix May 22) is the top choice.
Top Family Movies Currently in Theaters
Families seeking theatrical outings have exceptional options this month, with new releases spanning multiple age groups and value themes aligned with holistic education principles.
| Movie Title | MPAA Rating | Recommended Age | Release Date | Key Values |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Mandalorian and Grogu | PG-13 | 10+ | May 22, 2026 | Found family, loyalty, responsibility |
| The Secret World of Arrietty | G | 4+ | May 19, 2026 (IMAX) | Cooperation, environmental stewardship |
| Shrek (2001 Re-release) | PG | 4+ | May 15, 2026 | Acceptance, inner beauty, friendship |
| Hoppers | PG | 6+ | March 6, 2026 | Environmental protection, courage |
| GOAT | PG | 6+ | February 13, 2026 | Perseverance, teamwork, underdog spirit |
Best Streaming Family Movies This Month
For families preferring home viewing options, these streaming releases offer educational value and age-appropriate content that supports character formation.
- Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie (Netflix, May 22) - G-rated, perfect for ages 4+, emphasizes imaginative play and creativity
- GOAT (DVD/VDL May 5) - PG-rated animated sports comedy featuring Stephen Curry, promotes sportsmanship
- We Bought a Zoo (Disney+, May 1) - PG-rated, ages 7+, themes of resilience and family bonding
- Despicable Me 4 (Amazon Prime, May 1) - PG-rated, ages 5+, balances humor with family loyalty
- Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (HBO Max, May 1) - PG-rated, ages 8+, celebrates responsibility and sacrifice
Age-Appropriate Movie Recommendations by Developmental Stage
Understanding developmental readiness helps parents select films that align with their children's moral and cognitive development, a principle central to Marist pedagogy.
- Preschool (Ages 3-5): The Secret World of Arrietty, Shrek, Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie - gentle pacing, clear moral lessons, minimal conflict
- Early Elementary (Ages 6-8): Hoppers, GOAT, Despicable Me 4 - action balanced with humor, themes of teamwork and perseverance
- Late Elementary (Ages 9-11): The Mandalorian and Grogu, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse - complex narratives, moral ambiguity requiring parental discussion
- Teens (Ages 12+): The Mandalorian and Grogu (PG-13), Top Gun: Maverick re-release - mature themes, sci-fi violence requiring guidance
Values-Based Movie Selection for Faith-Focused Families
Families committed to Catholic and Marist educational values can find films that reinforce spiritual and social mission principles. These movies emphasize community, compassion, and moral courage-cornerstones of holistic education.
Studio Ghibli's The Secret World of Arrietty exemplifies environmental stewardship and respect for creation, aligning with Catholic social teaching on care for God's creation. Hoppers similarly promotes environmental protection through its narrative about saving wildlife habitat from destruction. The Mandalorian and Grogu's emphasis on found family and loyalty resonates with the Marist value of community and accompaniment.
According to parental guides, 94% of families rate The Secret World of Arrietty as excellent for value-based discussions, while GOAT receives 86% positive reviews for promoting perseverance and teamwork-qualities essential for student development.
Everything you need to know about Best Family Movies Out Right Now Bring Families Together
What makes The Mandalorian and Grogu family-friendly despite its PG-13 rating?
Audiences praise the film as a fun, family-friendly experience despite its PG-13 rating for sci-fi violence and action. Early reviews indicate the movie emphasizes found family themes and features Grogu's cuteness, making it accessible to younger viewers with parental guidance.
Is The Secret World of Arrietty suitable for young children?
Yes, this Studio Ghibli film is G-rated and recommended for ages 4+. The 2026 IMAX 4K remaster maintains the original's gentle storytelling about cooperation between miniature borrowers and humans, emphasizing environmental stewardship and mutual respect.
What is the best family movie for preschoolers right now?
Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie is the top choice for preschoolers. Rated G with no inappropriate language, it runs 98 minutes and celebrates imaginative play. Parent reviews confirm it's perfect for ages 4+ with themes suitable for all ages.
When does Toy Story 5 release in theaters?
Toy Story 5 releases in theaters on June 19, 2026. This highly anticipated Pixar sequel continues the beloved franchise's tradition of exploring friendship, loyalty, and growing up.
Are there any Studio Ghibli films in theaters now?
Yes, The Secret World of Arrietty is re-released in IMAX theaters on May 19, 2026, with a stunning 4K restoration. This is the first time the film appears in IMAX, offering families a premium viewing experience of this beloved animated classic.
