There’s something special about huddling the family in front of the TV with a bowl of popcorn in hand and escaping into a wonderful movie together. Family movie nights aren’t about entertainment alone—parents can use them as a powerful tool to teach values of honesty, courage, and perseverance without sounding preachy. When the credits are rolling, you don’t have empty snack bowls left behind—you’ve got a golden chance to have real conversations that make kids smarter about the world and where they fit into it.
Why do films do so well at this? It’s all about storytelling. A good film draws us in, makes us care, and gets us to look at things through someone else’s eyes. Children—and I guess adults, too—get emotionally attached to the characters. That’s when they’re most receptive to new concepts. Rather than zoning out when you attempt to discuss “doing the right thing,” you may find your children engaged in a conversation about what they just witnessed and how it applies to their lives.
Here are seven of the top family films for character and values instruction. Each is packed with enough material to discuss after the credits stop rolling.
Hoosiers
This underdog basketball story is more than just a sports movie. It’s full of moments that highlight respect, redemption, and the importance of second chances. Watching how the small-town Indiana team comes together gives parents an easy way to start conversations about teamwork, learning from mistakes, and what it means to give someone a fresh start.
The Incredibles
Pixar’s superhero family isn’t only fighting bad guys—they’re learning how to function as a team and look out for one another. It’s a great way to tackle large themes such as integrity, responsibility, and accepting what makes us special.
Because of Winn-Dixie
This sweet, you can’t help but feel good movie about a sad girl and her dog is a subtle yet effective lesson about kindness and compassion. It’s an excellent choice for younger children and provides an opportunity to discuss how small gestures of kindness can add up.
Chariots of Fire
This classic tale of Olympic athletes is all about perseverance and staying true to your values. It’s especially good for older kids and teens and opens up meaningful conversations about standing your ground and chasing your dreams without compromising your beliefs.
A Walk to Remember
This moving tale of love, redemption, and transformation provides families with a vehicle to discuss change and the power of one human being to help another. It’s an excellent choice for teens and can lead to discussions of empathy, religion, and redemption.
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
At first blush, it seems like a Western, but things are a lot more complicated than they appear. This film asks some real questions about justice, about sacrifice, and about what it actually means to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. It’s great for older children who are ready for something a little more mature.
Finding Nemo
A favorite for a reason, this cartoon classic has heart, humor, and substance. It’s a great way to discuss courage, family ties, and overcoming fear to do what is important. Young children particularly resonate with its message of perseverance and unconditional love.
To make the most of movie night, keep it casual and playful. Have everyone take turns picking the film. Don’t be afraid if things get a bit goofy—laughter is part of the magic. Then, pose easy questions such as, “What caught your attention?” or “What would you have done differently?” These open-ended discussions can encourage your children to consider their values in an authentic, interesting way.
Attempt to make movie night a routine. Include the small things, such as movie tickets created at home or fun snacks, to turn it into something everyone anticipates. But the magic lies not in the popcorn or the film itself—it lies within the discussions that follow. That’s when the stories are brought to life, values are imparted, and memories last a lifetime. One film at a time.