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Finding superhero movies for kids can be a fun task as these movies are thrilling, fun, exciting, and full of suspense. Children love to watch their costume-clad, powerful, and favorite fictional characters as they are fascinated by their extraordinary supernatural powers. These movies take children into a different world and fire their imagination. They also help teach children about courage, teamwork, resilience, and the importance of standing up for what’s right while making them believe that they can make a positive difference.
So, plunge into our post to know about the popular movies and let your children have super fun watching their superheroes fight and save the world. These movies have been selected on their general ratings and box office success.
Key Pointers
- The Powerpuff Girls Movie tells how the Powerpuff girls originated before the cartoon series.
- Spiderman into the spider-verse is the story of a teen from Brooklyn who achieves powers like spiderman after being bitten by a radioactive spider.
- Superman Returns is an action drama that shows the return of Superman to earth after a five-year fight to save humans.
16 Kids Superhero Movies
When it comes to superhero movies for kids, these options provide family-friendly action and adventure. Let’s have a look at action-packed movies you can watch with your children.
1. The Powerpuff Girls Movie
“The Powerpuff Girls Movie,” a 2002 American superhero film, is based on the Cartoon Network’s animated television series, “The Powerpuff Girls.” The movie describes how the Powerpuff Girls originated, before the cartoon series, by a professor. There will be three girls: Blossom (the leader), Bubbles (the sweet girl) and Buttercup (the kickass hardcore), who are known to be a power-packed combo of sugar, spice, and everything nice. The girls harbor superpowers which cannot be controlled. In the city of Townsville, the girls are hated in response to an accidental game of tag. Watch the movie to find out how they fight an army of primates and face troubles while protecting the city and its honor. The movie shows the importance of teamwork and perseverance. It promotes being fearless when standing up for what’s right. This might inspire young viewers to follow the right path in life.
Recommended Age: 6+
Available on: Warner Bros Movies
MPAA Rating: PG (mild action and rude humor)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Annie Awards (Outstanding Character Design)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 6.5/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 64% (Critics Score)
Point to consider2. Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse
Spiderman into the Spider-Verse is an animated superhero movie released in 2018. In a turn of events, Miles Morales (a teen from Brooklyn) is bitten by a radioactive spider and acquires powers, similar to the Spiderman. The teen then turns to Spiderman (Peter Parker) for advice to find out the limitless possibilities of the Spider-Verse (a multiverse). The storyline revolves around how Miles Morales becomes the new Spiderman and joins others from the Spider community who belong to various parallel universes to save New York City from the Kingpin (a fictional supervillain). Winner of the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film (1), this movie celebrates diversity and teamwork. It follows the path of self-discovery with stunning visuals and humor that kids might enjoy.
Recommended Age: 8+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG (frenetic sequences of animated action violence)
Notable Awards: Academy Award for Best Animated Feature (2019)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 8.4/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 97% (Critics Score)
3. The Incredibles
The Incredibles, an animated film, was released in 2004. The film is based on famous crime-fighting superheroes Bob (aka Mr. Incredible) and Helen Parr (aka Elastigirl) and their three kids. Years later, Bob and Helen are forced to hide their powers in accordance with the government. However, in response to a mysterious communication, Mr. Bob returns to action to battle an unruly robot. But only to put his family and self in trouble. The movie bagged the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2005 (2). It explores themes like family bonds and bravery. It presents self-acceptance with a twist of exciting action and witty humor, making it a great watch for children.
Recommended Age:8+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG (action violence)
Notable Awards: Academy Award for Best Animated Feature (2005)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 8.0/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 97% (Critics Score)
4. Superman Returns
Superman Returns is an epic action-adventure drama, released in the year 2006. It is the sixth and final installment in the original Superman film series. This film shows the return of Superman to the earth after five years and his fight against the archenemy Lex Luthor to save the human race. Emphasizing themes like heroism and sacrifice, the movie explores the importance of hope in the face of adversity inspiring its young viewers.
Recommended Age:9+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (intense action violence)
Notable Awards: Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film (3)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 6.1/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 74% (Critics Score)
5. Iron Man
Iron man is a 2008 American superhero film series. The movie is based on the Marvel character, Iron Man. After being kidnapped, the story describes how an engineer and industrialist (Tony Stark) builds a hi-tech mechanized suit to escape and become the superhero- Iron Man. He later refines the suit, uses it to fight crime and save the world. Children will love this film for its innovation and resilience. It can inspire them to overcome challenges just as creatively as Iron Man.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence)
Notable Awards: Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film (2008) (4)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.9/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 94% (Critics Score)
6. Ant-man
Ant-man is a 2015 released superhero film. The plot revolves around a con man (Scott Lang) and his mentor (Hank Pym). Lang becomes the Ant-man by donning a superpowered suit designed by Pym with shrinking technology. They face new challenges defending the suit and fighting off villains to save the world from unpredictable events.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (sci-fi action violence)
Notable Awards: Saturn Award for Best Comic-to-Film Motion Picture (5)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.2/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 83% (Critics Score)
7. Aquaman
Aquaman is a 2018 superhero flick based on DC comic characters. The film’s main character is Aquaman, Arthur Curry (played by Jason Momoa), the human heir of the Atlantic Kingdom. Witness his spectacular journey to protect the worlds of ocean and land from evil plots of the power-hungry king and his half-brother, Orm. Aquaman teaches children the importance of courage and loyalty. The movie highlights the hazards of not preserving our environment. Its stunning underwater visuals make it an enjoyable experience for children.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (sequences of sci-fi violence)
Notable Awards: Nominated Teen Choice Awards for Choice Sci-Fi/Fantasy Movie
Ratings:
- IMDb: 6.8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 66% (Critics Score)
8. Captain Marvel
Captain Marvel is a 2019 American superhero film. The story’s plot is set in 1995, showcasing a battle between the people of earth and Skrulls. Witness this action-packed movie of Captain marvel unraveling her past, discovering her superhuman abilities, and harnessing her superpowers to end the war with Skrulls. The movie explores the journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Strong little girls will love this daring and bold superhero.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (sci-fi violence and brief suggestive language)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Saturn Award for Best Comic-to-Film Picture
Ratings:
IMDb: 6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 79% (Critics Score)
Quick tip9. Big Hero 6
Big Hero 6 is an animated superhero film released in 2014. This movie is about Hiro Hamada, a mechanical (robotic) prodigy, and Baymax, a robot. In a devastating turn of events, they form a group of hi-tech heroes who together fight to combat a masked villain. Through this heartwarming movie, children will likely learn the importance of friendship and the power of innovation in overcoming challenges.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG (action and peril)
Notable Awards: Academy Award for Best Animated Feature (2015) (6)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 90% (Critics Score)
10. Astroboy
Astroboy is a computer-animated based superhero movie, released in 2009. Astroboy (Freddie Highmore) is a robotic superhero with x-ray vision and has flying ability. Finding his city (metro) in danger, he returns from his search of purpose with the mission to save his friends and family with his incredible powers. This visually captivating film highlights the value of kindness in building a better world. Enjoy this thrilling and friendly movie with your children and friends.
Recommended Age: 8+
Available on: Netflix
MPAA Rating: PG (action and some peril)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Annie Award (Storyboarding in a Feature Production)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 6.2/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 49% (Critics Score)
11. MegaMind
Megamind, a 2010 famous superhero comedy movie for kids, tells the story of Megamind, a highly intelligent supervillain. After defeating his opponent, Megamind creates a new superhero from Metro Man’s DNA. In a turn of events, Megaman is forced to become a hero as the new superhero turns evil. The movie wins the hearts of its little viewers with playful humor and a positive message about personal growth. The movie also teaches children that people who are labeled as ‘bad’ can make better choices and rise to the occasion.
Recommended Age: 5+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG (action and some language)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Annie Award (Best Animated Feature)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 73% (Critics Score)
12. The Lego Batman Movie
The Lego Batman is a 2017 animated superhero comedy movie. Witness the team of Batman, his superhero sidekick Robin, loyal butler Alfred, and others as they attempt to save the city of Gotham from the evil plans of the Joker. The action-packed thriller is set to keep you and your child hooked throughout the movie as it explores themes like self-discovery and family. It highlights the importance of teamwork through its humor and fast-paced action that keep kids entertained while conveying valuable lessons.
Recommended Age: 8+
Available on: Netflix
MPAA Rating: PG (rude humor and action)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Critics’ Choice Movie Awards (Best Animated Film)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 89% (Critics Score)
13. Thor: Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok, a sequel to Thor (2011) and Thor: The Dark World (2013), an American superhero film of 2017, is based on the Marvel Comics character Thor. This tale shows Thor’s escape to return to Asgard and battle against time to stop Ragnarok (destruction of his world) from the ruthless Hela (supervillain). The movie is the perfect blend of intense action and humor. It inspires children to be courageous and resilient when facing challenges in life.
Recommended Age: 10+
Available on: Disney+
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (intense sci-fi violence and action)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Saturn Award (Best Comic-to-Film Motion Picture)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.9/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics Score)
14. Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman is an American superhero film released in the year 2017. Diana, an Amazonian princess, is a trained warrior sheltered on the Amazon island of Themyscira. Her life turns upside down when a pilot crashes offshore and reveals a terrifying reality of a devastating war. She then sets off to fight a war raging in the world outside, with a hope of putting an end to it. Watch this amazing story of a warrior princess who discovers her superpowers and true destiny on her journey. With a strong female lead, the film promotes courage and compassion. It teaches its young viewers the power of standing up for what is right. It is an inspiring tale of heroism and self-discovery that children will enjoy.
Recommended Age: 11+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (sequences of violence and some suggestive content)
Notable Awards: Saturn Award for Best Actress (Gal Gadot)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics Score)
15. Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice
Batman V Superman: Dawn of justice is a 2016 released superhero movie based on two of the most iconic and kid’s favorite superheroes, Batman and Superman. This is the first live-action film to feature Batman and Superman together. It is a sequel to Man of Steel (2013). After destroying the metropolis in a colossal battle between Superman and Zod, the people of the city, and Batman find Superman to be a threat. On the other side, Lex Luthor launches his plots to destroy humanity, while Wonder Woman plots her plans. As Batman rages war against Superman, will one triumph over the other, or will the world witness another devastation? Watch the movie to find out! The movie explores themes of morality and justice. This highlights the possibility of resolving conflicts through understanding. Children will enjoy its beautiful story along with its action-packed scenes.
Recommended Age: 12+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (intense sequences of violence and action)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Saturn Award (Best Comic-to-Film Motion Picture)
Ratings:
- IMDb: 6.5/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 29% (Critics Score)
16. Shazam
Shazam is a DC Comics superhero movie released in 2019. The movie revolves around a quirky teenager, Billy Batson, who discovers a strange ability to transform into an adult superhero with supernatural powers by uttering the word “Shazam.” His foster brother Freddy helps him explore his new-found powers as Billy grapples with his responsibilities. This is when the world is threatened by the cunning Dr.Thaddeus Sivana, who derives power from ancient wizardry and unleashes the formidable Seven Deadly Sins. A mix of humor and action, this movie teaches children about responsibility and courage in a fun and interesting manner. It also explains the importance of family and friendship.
Recommended Age: 14+
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (intense action and language)
Notable Awards: Nominated for Saturn Award for Best Comic-to-Film Motion Picture
Ratings:
- IMDb: 7.0/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 90% (Critics Score)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most kid-friendly Marvel movies?
Some kid-friendly Marvel movies are Captain America: The First Avenger, Iron Man, Captain Marvel, Ant-Man and Ant-Man and the Wasp, Spider-Man: Homecoming, and Hawkeye on Disney+.
2. Is playing superheroes good for children?
Superhero plays allow children to step outside their own or outside constraints and attain a sense of power. They may look at all of their options to find the best solution to a problem, become aware of the needs of others, learn to express themselves better, and hone their communication skills. Superhero plays also help children understand concepts of right and wrong and good and evil.
Cassandra Hathaway, a teacher and blogger shares how superhero play and activities promote better learning in her students. She says, ”During math, we played a lot of different superhero activities!! My kids were playing Bump with multiples of 2, 5, and 10… In another corner of the room, I had students using rulers and unifix cubes to measure superheroes! They loved it, and were engaged! We were graphing superheroes too!! Students used their pencils and a paper clip to spin their spinners. They were each able to spin ten times, and then record their data and analyze it!
“Later in the afternoon, we met up with our first-grade friends and we created our own superhero and wrote about them! We had some very creative superheroes coming to life (i).”
3. How do superheroes inspire kids?
The effects of superheroes on children can be both positive and negative. However, often, superheroes serve as role models and foster compassion and confidence in children. They inspire children to choose the right path and fight evil. They also teach teamwork and impart good values to them.
4. Which superhero movies feature strong female leads?
Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel, and The Incredibles are a few movies that feature strong female characters. These characters embody courage, resilience, and leadership and are positive role models for children.
Pick a superhero movie when you run out of family movie night ideas. Superhero movies for kids can be enjoyable, especially if their favorite superheroes star in them. Superheroes can be role models for children, and witnessing them on screen can influence their behaviors. So, it is important to ensure that the superheroes in the movies showcase life attributes such as empathy, humanity, compassion, and self-confidence. You may avoid superhero movies with brutal action and negativity. Further, explain the difference between fiction and reality to children to prevent them from obsessing over superhero stories. Also, let them know that one does not require such superpowers to become a real-life hero. Once you have watched these movies, you could also engage your kids in some amazing superhero activities for kids.
Infographic: Superhero Movies For Children
Superheroes Assemble! The adrenaline rush and excitement that children get from watching superheroes in movies is worth everything. So, if you have run out of movie suggestions, we have the right list for you in the infographic below. So, do give it a read and save it for the future. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Top Superhero Movies For Kids Of All Ages
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Wondering where you can find a list of live-action films? This video features top movies like X-Men, Deadpool, and Ironman. Watch it and pick one.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Superhero fun!!https://mrs3rdgrade07.blogspot.com/2015/01/superhero-fun.html
References:
- The 91st Academy Awards | 2019.
https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2019 - The 77th Academy Awards | 2005.
https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2005 - Film Awards Best Fantasy Film 2006.
https://www.saturnawards.org/The-Saturn-Awards-Past-Winners.php?cat=Best%20Fantasy%20Film&div=FILM%20AWARDS&show=all - Film Awards Best Best Science Fiction Film 2008.
https://www.saturnawards.org/The-Saturn-Awards-Past-Winners.php?category=1&year=2008#b - Film Awards Best Superhero Film 2015.
https://www.saturnawards.org/The-Saturn-Awards-Past-Winners.php?action=search - The 87th Academy Awards | 2015.
https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2015
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