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83 Best Movies for Tweens and 12 Year Olds to Watch

Choosing the best movies for 12-year-olds can be a delightful yet daunting task. It’s a time to explore genres, narratives, and characters that resonate with young minds, ensuring the whole family can enjoy a great movie together. This guide will help navigate through various categories, focusing on films with both male and female protagonists, and spanning genres from group adventures and sci-fi to fantasy and cartoons.

Let’s embark on this cinematic journey together, ensuring your next family movie night is a hit with older kids and younger viewers alike!

What to Look for in a Movie for 12-Year-Olds?

When selecting a movie, consider the themes and content to ensure they are suitable for all age groups. Look for films that offer life lessons, positive messages, and appropriate content, ensuring a good movie experience for the entire family.

How to Ensure a Movie is Appropriate for All Age Groups?

Check reviews from trusted sources like Rotten Tomatoes and Good Housekeeping. They provide insights into the movie’s content, helping to determine if it’s a fit for family movie night.

Why is Genre Important When Choosing a Movie for Tweens?

Genre plays a significant role in setting the tone and content of a film. For tweens, opt for genres that are engaging and age-appropriate. Adventure, fantasy, and family-friendly comedies are often great picks, offering entertainment, excitement, and positive messages without inappropriate content.

How Can I Find Movies That Align with My Tween’s Interests?

To find movies that resonate with your tween, engage them in conversation about their interests and preferences. Whether they enjoy thrilling adventures, love stories, or mysteries, understanding their tastes will help in selecting films that captivate and entertain them.

What are Some Good Sources for Finding Family-Friendly Movies?

Apart from Rotten Tomatoes and Good Housekeeping, other reliable sources for finding family-friendly movies include Common Sense Media and the Parents’ Choice Foundation. These platforms offer detailed reviews, age ratings, and content information, aiding in the selection of suitable films for family viewing.

How to Make Movie Watching an Educational Experience for Tweens?

Choose films that not only entertain but also educate. Opt for movies that explore historical events, cultural stories, or life lessons. Discuss the themes, characters, and messages of the film with your tween post-viewing, turning movie night into a learning experience.

Are Animated Movies a Good Choice for Tweens?

Absolutely! Animated movies often contain vibrant stories, relatable characters, and important moral lessons. They are not just for younger viewers but offer rich narratives and themes that resonate with tweens, making them a fantastic choice for family movie nights.

Male Protagonists

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (2001)

A young boy, Harry Potter, discovers his magical heritage and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and courage. The film is a great pick for families, filled with magical adventures, compelling characters, and important life lessons.

“Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” (1977)

Join young Luke Skywalker in a galaxy far, far away as he embarks on an epic journey to defeat the evil Empire. This classic movie is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts and offers thrilling adventures, memorable characters, and a timeless battle between good and evil.

“The Karate Kid” (1984)

Daniel, a high school student, learns about karate and life from Mr. Miyagi, a wise martial arts master. This classic film showcases themes of friendship, perseverance, and the triumph of good over evil.

“Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” (2010)

Percy Jackson discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods. The film is filled with mythical creatures, heroic deeds, and a journey of self-discovery.

“Hugo” (2011)

Set in 1930s Paris, an orphan named Hugo embarks on a quest to solve the mystery of a broken automaton, discovering connections to his deceased father and pioneering filmmaker Georges Méliès.

“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” (2004)

In his third year at Hogwarts, Harry Potter faces new challenges and dangers as he uncovers the truth about his family and the prisoner Sirius Black.

“The Karate Kid Part II” (1986)

Daniel accompanies Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, where he is drawn into a conflict with an old rival of Mr. Miyagi, learning deeper lessons about life, honor, and friendship.

“National Treasure” (2004)

Historian and code-breaker Ben Gates embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt, following clues left by the Founding Fathers of the United States. The film combines adventure, history, and intrigue in a compelling narrative.

“The Maze Runner” (2014)

Thomas wakes up trapped in a massive maze with a group of other boys, with no memory of the outside world. Together, they must work to escape the maze and uncover the truth about their situation.

“October Sky” (1999)

Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows a young man’s pursuit of rocket science in a coal-mining town, against the odds and the expectations of his family and community.

Female Protagonists

“The Parent Trap” (1998)

Lindsay Lohan stars as identical twins separated at birth who meet at summer camp and swap places to reunite their divorced parents. This delightful film is filled with humor, heart, and the enduring bond of family.

“Enola Holmes” (2020)

Meet Enola Holmes, the younger sister of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. This film follows her adventurous quest to find her missing mother, showcasing her wit, courage, and determination. It’s a captivating movie for the entire family, especially for young girls seeking strong female protagonists.

“Matilda” (1996)

Matilda, a young girl with extraordinary intelligence and magical powers, stands up against her cruel parents and tyrannical school principal. This adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s book is a heartwarming and empowering film for all ages.

“Alice in Wonderland” (2010)

In Tim Burton’s visually stunning adaptation, Alice, now a young woman, finds herself tumbling back into Wonderland, a place she visited as a child but has since forgotten. She embarks on a journey to discover her true destiny, meeting a host of quirky characters along the way, including the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp) and the malevolent Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter). The film is a fantastical adventure that explores themes of self-discovery, courage, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

“Hunger Games” (2012)

In a dystopian future, Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the annual Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death between representatives from each district. Jennifer Lawrence stars as Katniss, who uses her wits, skills, and instincts to survive in a deadly arena, becoming a symbol of hope and rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. The film explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the impact of violence on society and individuals.

“Little Women” (2019)

Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel follows the lives of the March sisters as they navigate the challenges of youth, love, and ambition during the Civil War era. With a stellar cast including Saoirse Ronan as Jo, the film beautifully captures the joys and struggles of sisterhood, offering a timeless exploration of gender roles, societal expectations, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

“Wonder Woman” (2017)

In this empowering superhero film, Gal Gadot stars as Diana, an Amazonian princess and warrior who leaves her secluded island to help end World War I. As she discovers her full powers and true destiny, she transforms into Wonder Woman, a symbol of peace, justice, and equality. The film’s thrilling action, compelling narrative, and message of hope and empowerment make it a standout in the superhero genre.

“The Book Thief” (2013)

Set in Nazi Germany, “The Book Thief” follows Liesel, a young girl living with a foster family, who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. Under the stairs in her home, a Jewish refugee is being sheltered by her adoptive parents. The film, based on the acclaimed novel, is a poignant exploration of friendship, loss, and the transformative power of words and stories during dark times.

“Akeelah and the Bee” (2006)

Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl living in South Los Angeles, discovers she has a talent for spelling, which leads her to compete in the National Spelling Bee. Despite her mother’s objections and the challenges she faces, Akeelah is determined to make her dreams come true, with the help of her coach, Dr. Larabee. The film is an inspiring story of determination, friendship, and the power of believing in oneself.

“The Diary of Anne Frank” (1959)

This classic film tells the true story of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who goes into hiding with her family during World War II. The film is a moving portrayal of Anne’s life in the secret annex, her fears, hopes, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship.

“Whale Rider” (2002)

In a small New Zealand coastal village, Pai, a young Maori girl, aspires to become the chief of her people, a role traditionally reserved for males. Despite the skepticism and opposition she faces, Pai is determined to prove her worth and fulfill her destiny. The film is a beautiful and inspiring tale of courage, tradition, and the struggle for equality and respect.

“He Named Me Malala” (2015)

This compelling documentary follows the life of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who was shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education. The film explores her recovery, her unwavering commitment to education, and her global advocacy work, offering a powerful and inspiring look at a young woman’s fight for equality and the right to education.

“The Secret Garden” (1993)

“The Secret Garden” is a beautiful adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel. It tells the story of Mary Lennox, a lonely and spoiled girl who is sent to live with her uncle in England after the death of her parents. She discovers a neglected garden on the estate and, along with her cousin Colin and friend Dickon, brings it back to life. The film is a delightful and visually stunning tale of friendship, transformation, and the healing power of nature, making it a wonderful fantasy film for families and tweens.

Group Adventures

“The Goonies” (1985)

A group of young friends embarks on a thrilling quest to find a legendary pirate’s ancient treasure. This adventure film is filled with action, humor, and the unyielding spirit of friendship.

“Jumanji” (1995)

When two siblings discover a magical board game, they unwittingly release a man (Robin Williams) trapped within it for decades. Together, they must complete the game to save their world from chaos.

“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” (2005)

Four siblings are propelled into the magical world of Narnia, where they join the noble lion Aslan in the fight against the evil White Witch. This epic fantasy adventure explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the enduring power of good over evil.

“Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989)

Join Indiana Jones in a thrilling quest to find the Holy Grail, navigating challenges, adversaries, and uncovering family secrets along the way.

“The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” (2001)

In this epic fantasy adventure, a young hobbit, Frodo Baggins, is entrusted with an ancient ring and embarks on a perilous journey to destroy it in the fires of Mount Doom. Joined by a diverse group of companions including elves, dwarves, and men, the fellowship faces untold dangers, from monstrous creatures to betrayal, highlighting the themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the enduring battle between good and evil.

“Stand by Me” (1986)

Based on Stephen King’s novella, “Stand by Me” is a poignant coming-of-age film that follows four friends as they embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. As they traverse the Oregon wilderness, they confront their fears, test the bonds of friendship, and face the harsh realities of life and death, offering a heartfelt exploration of adolescence, loyalty, and personal growth.

“Jurassic Park III” (2001)

This installment of the “Jurassic Park” series follows a group of people who travel to Isla Sorna, a dinosaur-inhabited island, to rescue a boy who has become stranded there. They encounter various prehistoric dangers and must work together to survive, highlighting themes of cooperation, survival, and the unpredictable forces of nature.

“The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian” (2008)

In this sequel to “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” the Pevensie siblings return to Narnia to aid Prince Caspian in his struggle for the throne against his corrupt uncle. The film is a captivating adventure that explores themes of leadership, faith, and the enduring battle between good and evil.

“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003)

This swashbuckling adventure follows Captain Jack Sparrow and a blacksmith as they pursue a group of cursed pirates who have kidnapped the governor’s daughter. The film is a thrilling adventure on the high seas, filled with action, humor, and supernatural elements, exploring themes of freedom, loyalty, and redemption.

“The Mummy” (1999)

In “The Mummy,” a group of explorers and archaeologists accidentally awakens an ancient Egyptian mummy while searching for a buried treasure. They must navigate various dangers, including curses and creatures, to prevent the mummy from unleashing havoc on the world, highlighting themes of curiosity, responsibility, and the clash between the past and the present.

“Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984)

In this iconic adventure film, Indiana Jones embarks on a perilous quest in India to find a mystical stone and rescue children who have been kidnapped by a cult. The film is a thrilling journey that explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the battle against darkness.

“National Treasure: Book of Secrets” (2007)

In this sequel, treasure hunter Ben Gates and his team embark on a global quest to clear his ancestor’s name and uncover a hidden treasure. They navigate various challenges, puzzles, and adversaries, exploring themes of history, family, and the pursuit of truth.

Science Fiction

“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982)

Steven Spielberg’s timeless classic tells the story of a young boy who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of home.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015)

Join new and familiar faces in the Star Wars universe as they battle against the sinister First Order. This installment introduces Rey, a young woman with a mysterious past and incredible strength.

“Jurassic Park” (1993)

Visitors to a unique theme park encounter danger and dinosaurs when the park’s security system fails. This thrilling adventure, directed by Steven Spielberg, explores themes of ethics, wonder, and the unpredictable forces of nature.

“Journey to the Center of the Earth” (2008)

In this modern adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic novel, a scientist, his nephew, and their guide discover a fantastic and dangerous lost world in the center of the earth. The film, starring Brendan Fraser, is a thrilling adventure filled with stunning landscapes, mysterious creatures, and non-stop action, making it an engaging sci-fi adventure for tweens and families.

“Zathura: A Space Adventure” (2005)

In “Zathura: A Space Adventure,” two brothers find an old space-themed board game and start playing it, only to find their house propelled into outer space. With their sister and an astronaut, they navigate various space hazards to return home. The film combines adventure, humor, and heart, offering a fun and exciting sci-fi experience for families and tweens.

“Men in Black” (1997)

“Men in Black” follows Agent K and Agent J, members of a top-secret organization established to monitor and police alien activity on Earth. The film, starring Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith, combines science fiction with comedy, making it a fun and entertaining choice for tweens and families, while exploring themes of identity, diversity, and teamwork.

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” (2005)

Based on the beloved book by Douglas Adams, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is a quirky and humorous sci-fi adventure. It follows Arthur Dent, an unwitting Earthman, as he’s rescued just before Earth’s destruction and thrust into a bizarre space adventure. The film’s humor, unique characters, and imaginative story make it a delightful sci-fi comedy for families and tweens.

“Tomorrowland” (2015)

In “Tomorrowland,” a scientifically curious teenager teams up with a disillusioned inventor to explore a mysterious and technologically advanced place called Tomorrowland. The film, starring George Clooney and Britt Robertson, is a visually stunning sci-fi adventure that explores themes of optimism, creativity, and the power of imagination and innovation.

“Tron” (1982)

“Tron” is a groundbreaking sci-fi film that follows a computer programmer who is transported into a computer system and must navigate this digital world, teaming up with allies to defeat the system’s oppressive Master Control Program. The film’s pioneering visual effects and exploration of technology and virtual worlds make it a notable and entertaining sci-fi adventure for families.

“WarGames” (1983)

In “WarGames,” a young man accidentally hacks into a military supercomputer and starts a game of global thermonuclear war. The film is a thrilling sci-fi adventure that explores themes of technology, responsibility, and the consequences of human and artificial intelligence actions, making it a thought-provoking film suitable for older tweens and families.

“Flight of the Navigator” (1986)

“Flight of the Navigator” is a delightful sci-fi adventure where a 12-year-old boy is abducted by an alien spacecraft and then returns to Earth eight years later, while only having aged a few hours. The film explores themes of time, space, and family, offering a heartwarming and exciting sci-fi adventure for tweens and families.

Fantasy Films:

Fantasy:

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” (2002)

Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts for his second year, only to find the school plagued by a series of mysterious attacks and a voice haunting him.

“The Princess Bride” (1987)

“The Princess Bride” is a timeless fantasy adventure that combines romance, action, and humor. The film follows the journey of Westley, a young man who must rescue his true love, Princess Buttercup, from an unwanted marriage. With memorable characters, witty dialogue, and themes of love, bravery, and friendship, it’s a delightful film for viewers of all ages.

“Stardust” (2007)

In “Stardust,” a young man named Tristan ventures into a magical realm to capture a fallen star for his beloved, only to discover that the star is a living woman. Together, they embark on an adventure to evade witches and pirates, finding love and self-discovery along the way. The film’s enchanting story, vibrant characters, and themes of love and adventure make it a captivating fantasy tale for families and tweens.

“The Golden Compass” (2007)

“The Golden Compass” is a thrilling fantasy adventure set in a parallel universe where each human has an animal companion linked to their soul. The film follows Lyra, a young girl who embarks on a quest to the Arctic to rescue her kidnapped friend and uncover a sinister plot. With its compelling storyline, strong heroine, and exploration of themes like friendship, courage, and freedom, it’s a suitable and engaging film for tweens and families.

“The NeverEnding Story” (1984)

In “The NeverEnding Story,” a young boy named Bastian discovers a magical book that tells the tale of Atreyu, a young warrior on a quest to save the land of Fantasia from destruction. As Bastian reads the book, he realizes that he is also a part of the story. The film explores themes of imagination, hope, and the power of storytelling, offering a mesmerizing fantasy adventure for viewers of all ages.

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” (2017)

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” is a fun-filled fantasy adventure where four teenagers are sucked into a video game and transformed into their chosen avatars. To return to the real world, they must complete the game, navigating various challenges and learning important lessons about courage, teamwork, and self-discovery.

“Inkheart” (2008)

“Inkheart” follows Mo, a man with the ability to bring book characters to life by reading aloud. When a villain from a book captures Mo’s daughter, he must use his powers to rescue her. The film is a captivating fantasy adventure that explores themes of imagination, courage, and the magic of stories and books.

“Bridge to Terabithia” (2007)

Bridge to Terabithia” is a heartfelt fantasy film that follows Jess and Leslie, two friends who create an imaginary kingdom filled with magical creatures. The film explores themes of friendship, imagination, loss, and the power of art and creativity, offering a touching and thought-provoking fantasy adventure for families and tweens.

“Ella Enchanted” (2004)

In “Ella Enchanted,” Anne Hathaway stars as Ella, a young woman cursed with obedience. Determined to break the spell and live life on her own terms, Ella embarks on a quest, encountering ogres, giants, and a handsome prince along the way. The film is a charming and humorous fantasy adventure that explores themes of freedom, self-determination, and the power of kindness and love, making it an enjoyable and empowering film for tweens and families.

“Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events” (2004)

“Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events” follows the Baudelaire orphans as they navigate a series of misadventures and mysteries after the death of their parents. With Jim Carrey as the villainous Count Olaf, the film is a visually imaginative and darkly humorous fantasy adventure. It explores themes of resilience, ingenuity, and the bond of family, offering a captivating and offbeat cinematic experience for families and older tweens.

“The Pagemaster” (1994)

“The Pagemaster” is a captivating animated and live-action film that follows the journey of Richard Tyler, a young boy who seeks shelter in a library during a storm and finds himself transformed into an animated illustration. Guided by the Pagemaster, he navigates through various literary worlds, encountering classic characters and learning valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the power of imagination. The film is a delightful adventure that celebrates literature and the exciting worlds within the pages of books.

“The House with a Clock in Its Walls” (2018)

In “The House with a Clock in Its Walls,” a young orphan named Lewis Barnavelt aids his magical uncle in locating a clock with the power to bring about the end of the world. This fantastical tale, starring Jack Black and Cate Blanchett, is filled with enchantment, mystery, and adventure. The film beautifully blends humor with darker themes, offering a compelling narrative that explores family, bravery, and the battle between good and evil, making it a suitable and engaging film for families and tweens.

“The Secret of Roan Inish” (1994)

“The Secret of Roan Inish” is a mesmerizing film that delves into Irish folklore as it follows young Fiona, who is sent to live with her grandparents and uncovers an ancestral secret involving selkies – seals that can turn into humans. The film’s stunning cinematography and heartfelt storytelling create a magical and atmospheric tale of heritage, family, and the deep connections between humans and nature.

“Enchanted” (2007)

“Enchanted” is a charming and inventive film that blends animation with live-action to tell the story of Giselle, a fairy-tale princess who is thrust into the real world of New York City. As she navigates the complexities of life in the city, she discovers what true love really means. The film, starring Amy Adams, is a delightful and humorous adventure that explores themes of love, reality, and the blending of different worlds, making it a wonderful and entertaining film for viewers of all ages.

“North” (1994)

In “North,” a young boy named North, feeling unappreciated by his own parents, embarks on a global journey to find the perfect parents. Along the way, he encounters a variety of cultures and families, learning valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family. Despite its light-hearted premise, the film delves into profound themes, offering a unique exploration of family dynamics and self-discovery.

“Eragon” (2006)

“Eragon” is a thrilling fantasy adventure based on the bestselling novel by Christopher Paolini. The film follows Eragon, a young farm boy who discovers a mysterious dragon egg and soon realizes his destiny as a Dragon Rider. Joined by a wise mentor and loyal friends, Eragon embarks on a quest to overthrow a tyrannical king and bring peace to his homeland. The film is a captivating tale of bravery, friendship, and the timeless battle between good and evil, offering an engaging cinematic experience for families and tweens.

Animated Films:

“Finding Nemo” (2003)

Embark on an underwater adventure with Marlin and Dory as they traverse the ocean to find Marlin’s lost son, Nemo. This animated film is a delightful and heartwarming tale for viewers of all ages.

“The Lion King” (1994)

Follow the journey of Simba, a young lion prince who must navigate the path to adulthood and reclaim his rightful place as the king of the Pride Lands after the murder of his father, Mufasa.

“Inside Out” (2015)

This imaginative animated film from Pixar takes you inside the mind of Riley, a young girl navigating a tumultuous time in her life. Her emotions, personified as characters like Joy, Sadness, and Anger, guide her through this transition, offering insight into emotional growth and resilience.

“Spirited Away” (2001)

From the acclaimed Studio Ghibli, “Spirited Away” is a visually stunning and emotionally compelling adventure. It follows Chihiro, a young girl who becomes trapped in a mysterious and magical world. As she searches for a way out, she encounters a series of strange and fantastical creatures, learning important lessons about courage, friendship, and the nature of good and evil.

“My Neighbor Totoro” (1988)

Another masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, “My Neighbor Totoro” is a heartwarming tale of two young sisters who move to the countryside and discover the magical creatures that inhabit the nearby forest, including the lovable Totoro. The film explores themes of family, nature, and the wonder of childhood.

“Kung Fu Panda” (2008)

Po, a clumsy and overweight panda, dreams of becoming a kung fu master. When he is unexpectedly chosen as the Dragon Warrior to fight against the fearsome Tai Lung, he embarks on an epic journey of self-discovery, training, and bravery. Jack Black lends his voice to the lovable Po, making it a humorous and inspiring film for all.

“The Incredibles” (2004)

This action-packed animated film follows the Parr family, who are secretly superheroes trying to live a quiet suburban life. When Mr. Incredible is called back into action, the entire family must work together to save the world from a new villain. The film explores themes of family, identity, and the balance between personal desire and responsibility.

“Coraline” (2009)

In this darker animated film, Coraline, a young girl, discovers a parallel universe where everyone has buttons instead of eyes. Despite the seemingly perfect world, she uncovers a sinister secret and must use her wits and courage to save her real family and herself from the evil Other Mother.

“Princess Mononoke” (1997)

This Studio Ghibli film is a historical fantasy epic that explores the conflict between the natural world and industrialization. Ashitaka, a young warrior, finds himself caught between warring human factions and ancient forest gods. The film’s mature themes and breathtaking animation make it a compelling watch for older kids and adults alike.

“Toy Story” (1995)

Join Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and a group of toys as they navigate life when their owner is not around. This animated film is a delightful adventure for the whole family, exploring themes of friendship, change, and belonging.

“The Little Mermaid” (1989)

Ariel, a young mermaid princess, makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch Ursula to become human and win the heart of Prince Eric. This animated movie is a timeless tale of true love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness.

“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018)

Miles Morales becomes Spider-Man and meets other Spider-People from different dimensions. Together, they fight against a threat that endangers all their realities.

“Frozen” (2013)

“Frozen” tells the story of two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna, who are separated by Elsa’s magical ice powers. When Elsa accidentally traps their kingdom in eternal winter, Anna embarks on a perilous journey to save her sister and their home. The film is a beautiful tale of love, self-acceptance, and the bond of sisterhood, featuring stunning animation and memorable songs.

“Moana” (2016)

“Moana” is an adventurous and visually stunning animation that follows Moana Waialiki, a Polynesian girl who sets sail on a daring mission to save her people. Guided by the spirit of her grandmother and accompanied by the demigod Maui, Moana discovers her own identity and destiny as a wayfinder. The film explores themes of heritage, bravery, and environmental stewardship.

“Coco” (2017)

“Coco” is a vibrant and heartwarming animated film that explores themes of family, culture, and music. Young Miguel embarks on a colorful journey to the Land of the Dead to uncover his family’s history and prove his musical talent. The film beautifully celebrates Mexican traditions and the enduring connections between generations.

“Zootopia” (2016)

“Zootopia” is a witty and thought-provoking animated film set in a city where predators and prey coexist peacefully. Judy Hopps, the first rabbit police officer, teams up with a con artist fox to solve a mysterious case. The film cleverly tackles themes of prejudice, diversity, and cooperation, making it both entertaining and educational for families and tweens.

“How to Train Your Dragon” (2010)

In “How to Train Your Dragon,” young Viking Hiccup forms an unlikely friendship with a dragon he names Toothless. Together, they work to bridge the gap between Vikings and dragons, changing their world forever. The film is a touching tale of friendship, understanding, and acceptance, with breathtaking animation and thrilling action sequences.

“Big Hero 6” (2014)

“Big Hero 6” is a heartwarming and action-packed animated film that follows Hiro Hamada, a young robotics prodigy who teams up with a group of friends and an inflatable robot to solve a mysterious crime. The film explores themes of friendship, loss, and innovation, offering a captivating and emotionally resonant viewing experience for families and tweens.

“Wreck-It Ralph” (2012)

“Wreck-It Ralph” is a delightful animated film that follows Ralph, a video game villain who dreams of being a hero. Embarking on a journey across various games, Ralph learns valuable lessons about identity, friendship, and self-acceptance. The film’s creative concept, colorful animation, and heartfelt message make it a standout choice for families and tweens.

“Ratatouille” (2007)

“Ratatouille” is a charming and visually stunning animated film that follows Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking. Teaming up with a young kitchen worker, Remy pursues his culinary dreams, breaking barriers and challenging expectations. The film is a delightful tale of passion, creativity, and the breaking of societal boundaries.

“Tangled” (2010)

“Tangled” is a vibrant and engaging animated film that reimagines the classic tale of Rapunzel. The film follows Rapunzel as she escapes her tower and embarks on a thrilling adventure with a charming thief, discovering the world beyond her window and finding her true self. The film’s humor, adventure, and themes of freedom and self-discovery make it a wonderful choice for families and tweens.

These films, with their diverse themes, engaging stories, and stunning animation, offer a rich viewing experience for 12-year-olds, ensuring enjoyment and thoughtful conversation for the entire family.

In conclusion, choosing the right movie for 12-year-olds doesn’t have to be a challenge. This guide offers a diverse selection of films, ensuring enjoyment for the entire family. Whether embarking on a fantastical adventure, exploring the depths of space, or enjoying a heartwarming tale, these movies promise a memorable and enjoyable family movie night. So gather your family members, prepare some popcorn, and get ready for a cinematic adventure that caters to all preferences and age groups!

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