Although the age of streaming has changed the game, there was a time when the hotter months meant a summer blockbuster was going to be released in theaters. These days you can still catch these awesome flicks from the comfort of your own home. You can even make a whole event of it with ice cream and popcorn.
The 10 films on this list are good for the whole family. They dominated at the box office when first released so you know they're good. So crank up the air conditioning, grab some snacks, and gather the family for a movie night.
'How To Train Your Dragon 2'
This sequel was first released in June of 2014. It grossed more than $621 million worldwide and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Feature Film. The story takes place where the first film left off. Since uniting the dragons and Vikings of Berk, Hiccup, voiced by Jay Baruchel, and his dragon Toothless are free to explore their island. On one of their outings they discover a threat from the warlord Drago Bludvist. They must rally the troops to protect their home. You can watch this film on Amazon Prime or YouTube.
'Hairspray'
This 2007 musical film is based on the Broadway show of the same name. It features an all-star cast that includes John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden, Queen Latifah, Brittany Snow, Zac Efron, and Nikki Blonsk. When plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad makes her dream of dancing on "The Corny Collins Show" a reality, she finds out that life behind the scenes is filled with racism and stage moms. She works to change things for the better through song and dance. You can't stop the beat after all. You can watch this film on Amazon Prime or YouTube.
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'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban'
The third Harry Potter film was first released in 2004 is arguably the best in the franchise. It was directed by Alfonso Cuarón. In his third year at Hogwarts, Harry faces questions about his parents’ death and recently escaped Azkaban prisoner Sirius Black’s involvement. This Is the first film featuring actor Michael Gambon in the role of Dumbledore. He took over the role after the death of Richard Harris. You can stream this film on Max.
'Jurassic Park'
This 1993 film directed by Steven Spielberg is a good pick for tweens and teens. It has a PG-13 rating and younger kids might get scared at some parts. John Hammond, played by Richard Attenborough, and his team of scientists have brought back dinosaurs, but is messing with nature ever a good idea? Watch this classic film to find out. It is available to stream on Peacock.
'Babe'
This 1995 family dramedy is all about a pig named Babe. Because he was adopted by one, Babe wants to be a sheepdog even though that's out of the ordinary. Watch this film to see if he can prove his abilities to farmer Arthur Hoggett, played by James Cromwell. This film, which is available to watch on Amazon Prime, will have you saying "That'll do pig. That'll do."
'Guardians of the Galaxy'
This Marvel movie is rated PG-13, so parents should plan accordingly. It does, however, have a killer soundtrack. After Peter Quill, played by Chris Pratt, steals a mysterious orb and learns the truth about its powers, he must rally a group of misfits to save the universe. This is available to stream on Disney+ and if your family likes it, there's a whole trilogy.
'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'
This 1988 film was directed by Robert Zemeckis and grossed over $351 million worldwide. It combines both live action and animation. When cartoon Roger Rabbit is framed for the murder of Marvin Acme, he goes to private detective Eddie Valiant for help. There's more going on here than meets the eye, and all of the toons may be in grave danger. Watch this film on Disney+ to see how this all plays out.
'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'
This 1982 science fiction film was also directed by the great Steven Spielberg. It was a commercial success as the highest-grossing film of the time until Steven broke his own record with Jurassic Park. The plot centers around 10-year-old Elliott, who discovers an alien named ET and is determined to help him get back home. This film deals with themes of empathy, loneliness, and family. You can stream it on Amazon Prime. Make sure to have tissues handy.
'Star Wars'
If your kids have yet to see the original film that started the whole franchise, it's time to remedy that. Star Wars: A New Hope was first released in 1977, and it's fair to say that even writer and director George Lucas couldn't have the predicted the phenomenon it would become. When farm boy Luke Skywalker, played by Mark Hamill, buys some new droids, he is thrust into a much bigger adventure in a galaxy far, far away. You can watch it on Disney+ along with all the other spinoffs, prequels, and sequels. This film was the first made though technically not the beginning of the story.
'Toy Story 3'
This Pixar film perfectly concludes Andy's coming of age story. It was the highest-grossing film of 2010, earning an impressive figure of more than $1.067 billion worldwide. Tom Hanks returns to voice Woody as does Tim Allen with Buzz Lightyear. This film shows Andy going off to college but not before passing on his favorite toys to a new friend. The toys go on an adventure to a day care as well. You can stream this on Disney+ and will need some tissues for this flick.
