One of the most anticipated family movies ever is splashing our way now. I remember how exhilarating it was when we all (spoiler alert) found Nemo 13 years ago. I’m absolutely animated about taking my son to the next chapter of the Nemo story, Finding Dory.
If your family can’t get enough of Nemo and Dory, you may want to take a deep dive into these 11 additional family-friendly aquatic-themed movies.
Free Willy - PG/Live Action
It’s crazy, but this film is over 20 years old! The moving story about a boy (who is in the foster care system) and a killer whale is a total heartstring yanker. If your little one gets caught up in the story you are in luck as there are several sequels. Watch the trailer.
Dolphin Tale - PG/Live Action
We LOVE this movie, which is based on a real dolphin and the team who saved him. Make sure you watch the end credits to see behind-the-scenes footage featuring the kids, doctors and dolphin the film is based on. (Bonus: Harry Connick Jr. plays a doctor.) Watch the trailer.
Whale Rider - PG-13/Live Action
This is a great family movie beautifully filmed around a culture that celebrates whales. It’s also a wonderful tool to start conversations about traditions and gender. (According to the MPAA it is rated PG-13 because of “brief language and a momentary drug reference.”) Watch the trailer.
Little Mermaid - G/Animated
It was so much fun to show this film to my son. (And we sing about “Les Poissons” often!) It’s a classic story with a clear good side to cheer for and baddy to root against. Go ahead and load up the kids on this one now, because Disney is at work on a live-action version starring Chloe Moretz. Watch the trailer
Aquamarine - PG/Live Action
This sweet movie about friendship and loyalty has great messaging. Sure, a major plot involves getting a boy to fall for one of the main characters, but you’ll appreciate how that all plays out. This is a perfect film for a mother-daughter movie date. Watch the trailer.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks - G/Live Action and Animated
While not entirely an aquatic adventure, this film is one of my all-time favorites. One of the best parts of the film DOES take place underwater and of course there is a song involved! “Under the Briny Sea” is a great moment in live-action animation that will crack your family up. Watch the trailer.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea - G/Live Action
Introduce your children to the original Nemo of the sea - Captain Nemo! This science fiction film from 1954 still holds up as one of the most epic sea films ever. Great for comic book reading kids or if you have a kid whose eyes light up if you say, “GIANT SQUID BATTLE!”
Soul Surfer - PG/Live Action
This 2011 film based on the shark attack of Bethany Hamilton is surprisingly kid friendly. Sure, it’s heavy with messaging, but what’s not to love about a “get back on the surfboard!” message?! Watch the trailer.
The Incredible Mr. Limpet - G/Live Action and Animated
There are a LOT of submarine films (trust me) and most of them are not family friendly. But this 1964 classic starring Don Knotts (!!) as a man who turns into a fish is a fun way to introduce your family to the genre of U-boat films. Watch the trailer.
Ponyo - G/Animated
This film is an absolute MUST see for anyone who is a Nemo or Dory fan. Created by one of the most celebrated animators of our generation (OK, clearly I am a fan), Ponyo is fable/magic/fairy tale and fish-out-of-water story. Watch the trailer.
Oceans - G/Documentary
Get ready to repeatedly gasp during this visually stunning underwater documentary. This film is a treasure and perfect family viewing to prep for Finding Dory. Watch the trailer
Dresden Shumaker is a writer, advocate and appreciator of (butterless) movie popcorn. She chronicles her adventures in single parenting on CreatingMotherhood.
