They may not all be Oscar nominees, but they’re the best movies of 2015 for kids, tweens and teens
Lucy and Charlie Brown in "The Peanuts Movie." (Photo courtesy 20th Century Fox)
A scene from "Inside Out" showing Anger, from left, (voiced by Lewis Black) Joy (Amy Poehler) and Disgust (Mindy Kaling). (Photo courtesy Pixar)
A scene from "Shaun the Sheep." (Lionsgate)
Arlo the dinosaur and his human friend Spot in "The Good Dinosaur." (Walt Disney Studios)
Daisy Ridley and John Boyega in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." (Photo courtesy Lucasfilm)
Though you won’t see most of these films nominated in the Best Picture category at the Oscars, we think these movies — featuring everything from animal adventures to space survival, superheroes to speaking up — are the best of 2015 for kids, teens, and families. They entertained us, made us think, and gave us plenty to talk about. At the same time, they offered up worthwhile messages, positive role models, and beautiful images that linger long after the credits roll.
’The Peanuts Movie,’ ages 4 and older
Sweet, gentle, and nostalgic in tone, this family-friendly comedy honors the legacy of the beloved comic strip and classic TV specials and offers great messages about being yourself, trying hard, and liking people for who they really are.
’Shuan the Sheep Movie,’ ages 5 and older
Yes, it has some potty humor and peril, but this British import is a sweet little adventure that’s fine for almost all ages, with positive messages about teamwork, friendship, and acknowledging and fixing your mistakes.
’Inside Out,’ ages 5 and older
Not only is this Pixar masterpiece a heartfelt, engaging, endlessly inventive adventure with strong themes of friendship and acceptance, but it has real potential to help kids and parents navigate the powerful emotions that come with growing up.
’Monkey Kingdom,’ ages 4 and older
This funny, educational documentary narrated by Tina Fey has its share of heavy moments, but ultimately it’s a family-friendly pick with strong positive messages about motherhood and sacrifice.
’Paddington,’ ages 6 and older
A delightful adaptation of Michael Bond’s beloved book, this charming tale takes kids on a fun adventure while also touching on bigger issues. It’s a sweet film for young kids, with enough slapstick comedy to entertain older viewers, too.
’Batkid Begins,’ ages 7 and older
Packed with excellent messages and role models, this tremendously heartwarming documentary has basically zero iffy content and makes a strong case for the positive power of social media.
’The Good Dinosaur,’ ages 7 and older
This visually beautiful and emotionally authentic — but frequently intense — tale about a young dinosaur who experiences loss and struggles to find his way home will entrance kids and parents alike with its stunning visuals and strong messages.
’Zarafa,’ ages 9 and older
Filled with funny moments, terrific performances, insightful messages, offbeat and interesting characters, and a bounty of exotic global settings, this enchanting animated story also has some very emotional moments.
’McFarland, USA,’ ages 10 and older
An uplifting real-life tale about a team of underdogs and the coach who expects greatness from them, this feel-good drama has strong positive messages about teamwork, cooperation, and community.
’Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens,’ ages 10 and older
The Force is back and as strong as ever in this action-packed, well-acted adventure with universal themes that will appeal to “Star Wars” fans of all ages.
’A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story,’ ages 12 and older
This intense but very meaningful documentary about bullying is an important movie for parents and kids to watch together; hopefully it will encourage everyone who sees it to embrace who they are and stand up for themselves and others.
’He Named Me Malala,’ ages 5 and older
Both inspiring and humanizing, this documentary about teenage Nobel Prize winner Malala Yousafzai has powerful messages about courage, the importance of education, and standing up for your beliefs.
’The Martian,’ ages 12 and older
Star Matt Damon’s charm, humor, and gravitas make this smart, action-packed adaptation of Andy Weir’s best-selling novel an all-around perfect film for families with curious, science-loving teens and older tweens.
’Bridge of Spies,’ ages 13 and older
A refreshing change of pace from many modern spy movies, Steven Spielberg’s fact-based Cold War thriller starring Tom Hanks creates tension crisply and carefully, keeping the twists and turns coming.
’Brooklyn,’ ages 14 and older
This romantic drama about a young Irish woman who moves to New York in the 1950s has great performances and is an ideal film for teens and parents to see together and to use as a way to talk about family, immigration, independence, and what makes a place feel like home.
’Testament of Youth,’ ages 14 and older
Based on Vera Brittain’s World War I memoir, this wonderful — albeit heartbreaking — drama starring Alicia Vikander is beautifully acted and full of poignant moments that convey the painful price of war, no matter how noble.
’Spotlight,’ ages 15 and older
This fact-based drama about the investigative reporters behind the Boston Globe’s trailblazing articles about priests abusing children isn’t easy to watch, but — similar to “All the President’s Men” before it — it’s an extraordinary story about media’s power to expose wrongs and call for accountability.
