7 Animated Movies That Are Actually Fun for Adults Too

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introduction

Let’s face it, not every kids’ movie is a treat for parents. Some are loud, predictable, or just plain boring. But every now and then, a film comes along that manages to entertain the whole family without dumbing anything down. These animated picks offer more than cute characters. They bring humor, depth, and visual storytelling that adults genuinely enjoy. So if you’re looking for something to watch that won’t leave you zoning out or doom scrolling while the kids are glued to the screen, this list is for you.

1. The LEGO Movie (2014)

What’s fun about it:
This movie is pure energy. It’s hilarious, fast paced, and packed with clever pop culture references that kids miss but adults will love. The voice cast (Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Morgan Freeman) brings surprising emotion to what could’ve just been product placement. And the deeper message about creativity vs. conformity? Genuinely moving.

IMDb Rating: 7.7
Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

2. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

What’s fun about it:
This one’s a visual masterpiece. It’s stylish, kinetic, and completely fresh even if you’ve seen every Spider-Man reboot. The film explores identity, self-worth, and bravery through Miles Morales, a deeply relatable teen protagonist. Plus, the animation style is unlike anything else out there.

IMDb Rating: 8.4
Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

3. Toy Story 3 (2010)

What’s fun about it:
This one hits differently when you’re an adult. It’s still fun and silly for kids, but under the surface it’s about growing up, letting go, and how hard change can be. There’s tension, laughter, and that now famous ending that brought a generation of parents to tears. Not bad for a movie about plastic toys coming to life.

IMDb Rating: 8.3
Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

4. Zootopia (2016)

What’s fun about it:
A buddy cop mystery set in a city of talking animals, Zootopia is clever, fast moving, and layered. Beneath the adorable visuals and comedy is a thoughtful look at bias, fear, and stereotypes, handled with a surprisingly light and effective touch. Adults will catch the satire, kids will love the sloths and chases.

IMDb Rating: 8.0
Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

5. Ratatouille (2007)

What’s fun about it:
It’s about a rat who wants to be a chef—sure. But it’s really about passion, creativity, and challenging expectations. The film’s Parisian backdrop, gorgeous animation, and emotional core make it far richer than it seems at first glance. Bonus: the critic’s monologue at the end is one of Pixar’s most beautifully written moments.

IMDb Rating: 8.1
Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

6. The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021)

What’s fun about it:
It captures modern family life with wild energy, relatable chaos, and laugh out loud moments. Parents will recognize the tension between tech obsessed kids and unplugged dreams, and the animation style feels fresh and fun without being overwhelming. The dad daughter arc is sweet without being sappy.

IMDb Rating: 7.6
Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

7. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

What’s fun about it:
It’s adventurous and heartfelt, with a surprisingly mature emotional arc about understanding, empathy, and courage. The bond between Hiccup and Toothless is beautifully told without needing much dialogue, and the sweeping musical score takes it to another level. One of DreamWorks’ finest.

IMDb Rating: 8.1
Rotten Tomatoes: 99%

Final thoughts

There’s no rule that says family movie night has to be a chore for the grownups. These seven animated films deliver laughs, heart, and visual storytelling that truly works across generations. Whether you’re in the mood for clever satire, emotional depth, or just something that won’t make you cringe by the third watch, these picks hit the sweet spot. And if your kids end up loving them as much as you do? Even better. That’s movie night magic!

Written by the TimeForFam Team
We explore, review, and share the best in family entertainment so you can skip the research and jump straight to the fun.
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