The Best Family Movies of 2017: A Reliable Guide

Why 2017 Still Matters for Family Movies

Although 2017 is several years behind us, the films that resonated with families that year remain relevant as reliable watch choices for siblings, parents, and multigenerational viewers. In this evergreen guide, we focus on broadly appealing titles recognized by critics, awards groups, and audience scores for their strong storytelling, thematic richness, and suitability for younger viewers. Below you will find a concise explanation of what makes a movie family-friendly and how these picks measure up on lasting qualities such as emotional depth, rewatch value, and cross-generational engagement.

Criteria We Use to Define Family-Friendly

Before reviewing specific titles, it helps to agree on what we mean by family movies in 2017. These films typically carry a G or PG rating, though a handful of carefully rated PG-13 titles may qualify if their themes are accessible with adult guidance. Key attributes include clear narrative structure, age-appropriate conflict resolution, positive role models, and messages that promote empathy, cooperation, and curiosity. We also weigh production quality, voice performances (where applicable), and how well humor lands for both children and adults. The titles discussed below meet these benchmarks and are frequently recommended by parent reviewers, educators, and institutions focused on children’s media.

Top Family Movies from 2017: An Overview

2017 offered a mix of animated adventures, family-oriented dramas, and live-action comedies that balanced entertainment with substance. Several of these titles performed strongly at the box office and earned positive word-of-mouth, making them durable picks for weekend viewing or special occasions. The following entries stand out for a blend of critical reception, audience scores, and thematic richness. Note that availability on streaming or physical media may vary by region and change over time, so it is best to check current sources before planning a watch session.

Coco

Pixar’s exploration of memory, family legacy, and music earned widespread praise and multiple major awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Its vibrant depiction of the Land of the Dead invites conversations about tradition, identity, and loss in ways that are clear and moving for children and adults alike. The film underscores the importance of remembering ancestors while delivering humor, catchy songs, and visually inventive sequences that remain suitable for most ages under parental guidance.

Beauty and the Beast

A live-action remake of the 1991 animated classic, this film retains the fairy-tale core while expanding world-building and musical spectacle. Its messages about seeing beyond appearances, practicing empathy, and choosing love over fear align with classic family values. Parents may appreciate the expanded roles for supportive characters and the emphasis on reading and curiosity. As with many musical fantasies, some sequences contain mild peril, making PG a sensible guideline for younger viewers.

Hidden Figures

While often categorized as inspirational drama, this film resonates strongly with families seeking stories about perseverance, dignity, and contribution against historical odds. Its focus on mathematics, science, and civil rights offers rich context for discussions with older children and teens. Though certain scenes address discrimination and institutional bias, the overall arc centers on achievement, collaboration, and the power of education, making it a meaningful family movie when guided by adult context.

It

Though marketed primarily as horror, this film’s exploration of friendship, courage, and confronting fears can appeal to older children and families willing to handle darker themes. Its villain and small-town setting open space for conversations about bullying, grief, and standing together. Because of intense scares and suspense, parental discretion is strongly advised, and it is best suited for teens and preteens rather than young children.

Wonder

Adapted from a bestselling children’s book, Wonder centers on kindness, difference, and belonging in a middle-school environment. Its approachable format and heartfelt performances make it an accessible choice for family viewing, with clear takeaways about empathy and inclusion. The PG rating reflects some bullying content and emotional moments, but the film’s emphasis on everyday courage often prompts meaningful post-viewing discussions.

What Makes a Movie Suitable Across Generations

Beyond ratings and genres, families gain from asking a few simple questions before pressing play. Is the conflict resolution modeled in a healthy way? Do characters demonstrate curiosity, accountability, and growth? Is the humor kind rather than mocking? Does the story leave room for imagination and further discussion? When a film answers yes to these cues, it often becomes more than entertainment; it becomes a shared reference point for values and memories. The movies listed here tend to meet these criteria while also offering distinctive creative approaches that keep them fresh upon repeated viewing.

Content and Thematic Highlights

Each of the highlighted titles approaches family themes through a different lens. Coco and Beauty and the Beast lean into fantasy and music, using metaphor to explain complex ideas about identity and change. Hidden Figures introduces real-world history and STEM inspiration, demonstrating how stories of resilience can motivate young minds. Wonder translates literary warmth to the screen by focusing on micro-moments of choice that shape friendships. It uses horror elements not to frighten audiences, but to frame the cost of inaction in the face of injustice. These thematic threads reinforce why certain films endure as reference points in family culture.

A Quick Comparison of Key Details

The table below provides a concise snapshot of runtime, rating, and primary themes for quick reference. Runtimes are approximate and sourced from official releases.

Availability and Viewing Tips

As of the mid-2020s, many of these titles are accessible on major streaming services or through digital rental and purchase platforms; physical media such as Blu-ray and DVD remains a reliable option for permanent access. When planning a family movie night, consider creating a shared schedule, preparing discussion prompts in advance, and selecting a viewing environment that minimizes distractions. For families new to a particular film, a brief overview of its premise without spoilers can help set expectations. Pausing for quick reflections—such as asking what a character might do next or how a scene made a viewer feel—can transform passive watching into an active learning experience.

Closing Thoughts on Family Movies in 2017

The best family movies of 2017 combine strong storytelling with emotional authenticity, giving parents and caregivers dependable material for shared viewing and meaningful dialogue. By balancing entertainment with thoughtful themes, these films earn a lasting place in home libraries and watchlists. Whether you are revisiting old favorites or discovering them for the first time, focusing on clear values, age-appropriate content, and opportunities for discussion helps ensure that screen time supports connection rather than distraction. This guide is designed to serve as a neutral, practical reference you can return to whenever you plan the next family movie night.