12 Disturbing “Family” Movies You Might Want to Rethink Watching with Your Kids
Finding a movie that’s genuinely suitable for the entire family can feel like navigating a minefield. What appears to be a fun, wholesome film in the trailer may be peppered with inappropriate jokes, disturbing imagery, or mature themes that are far from child-friendly. And while it’s tempting to revisit your favorite childhood movies with your kids, nostalgia can sometimes blur the truth about how kid-appropriate those films are.
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Whether it’s violence hidden behind animation, sexual innuendos disguised in catchy musical numbers, or surprisingly dark plots beneath colorful covers, some movies labeled “family” aren’t ideal for younger viewers. This guide offers a closer look at 12 movies you might want to screen solo before watching them with your kids.
We’ve included suggested age recommendations, but ultimately, you know your child best. Always trust your gut, and encourage open conversations about anything that might come up during or after viewing.
THE CULT CLASSICS
Enjoy a nostalgic journey back to your childhood television. These shows weren’t only shows, they were obsessions. These gems, from quirky characters to memorable theme songs, defined a whole generation of ’80s children.
1. Grease (1978)
Rated: PG | Recommended Age: 15+
To adults, Grease is a feel-good musical classic. It’s full of energetic dance routines, iconic songs, and youthful romance. But if you haven’t seen it in a while, you may have forgotten just how loaded it is with sexual references, gender stereotypes, and outdated views on relationships.
From lines like “chicks are only good for one thing” to the infamous scene of Rizzo and Kenickie having sex in a car (even after the condom breaks), the film sends questionable messages to young viewers. Casual references to body parts and jokes about getting into girls’ underwear can be jarring. It might be fun to watch as an adult, but it’s worth holding off until your kids are old enough to understand and talk about the context.
2. Return to Oz (1985)
Rated: G | Recommended Age: 11+
Although The Wizard of Oz is a time-honored family favorite, its lesser-known sequel, Return to Oz, is far darker and more disturbing. Don’t let the G rating fool you—this movie feels like a psychological thriller for kids.
The plot begins with young Dorothy being admitted to a mental institution and nearly subjected to electroshock therapy. Once back in Oz, she finds a post-apocalyptic wasteland where creepy villains like the Wheelers and Mombi—the witch who collects severed heads—roam free. One particularly unsettling scene shows a headless body chasing Dorothy through a hall of screaming, animated heads.
For sensitive or younger children, this film can easily induce nightmares.
3. Forrest Gump (1994)
Rated: M | Recommended Age: 13+
At first glance, Forrest Gump appears to be a heartwarming story about a man with a low IQ who overcomes adversity and lives a life full of adventure. But despite its inspirational tone, the movie dives into mature themes not suitable for kids.
It includes graphic depictions of war during the Vietnam scenes, multiple sexual situations (including implied sex and foreplay), suicide attempts, domestic abuse, and drug use. There’s also strong language peppered throughout the dialogue. While the story offers rich opportunities for conversation around history, love, and perseverance, it’s best reserved for teens who can handle its emotional and mature weight.
CARTOONS AND ANIMATION
Cartoons and animated series of the 1980s were bright, bold, and brilliantly bizarre. They brought imagination to life. These animated classics were packed with action and friendship, whether it was superheroes or heartwarming stories. They kept kids glued to their screens for years.
4. Arthur and the Invisibles (2006)
Rated: PG | Recommended Age: 8+
At first glance, Arthur and the Invisibles seems like a charming adventure perfect for young viewers. With its tiny magical characters and the classic “save the house” storyline, it appears innocent enough. But look closely, and the darker undertones become evident.
The film includes scenes of physical violence, such as a small creature being found beaten and bleeding, and a villain threatening mass drowning with the line: “The Minimoys will die in agony with his [Arthur’s] name on their lips.” The intensity and frequency of violence make it more appropriate for older kids, despite its marketing.
5. The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
Rated: PG | Recommended Age: 10+
Steven Spielberg’s animated adaptation of Tintin is beautifully made and action-packed. But while the source comics had their fair share of violence, it’s easier to overlook in a static panel than when fully animated on screen.
The film includes scenes of gun violence, sword fighting, fistfights, explosions, and even torture. Tintin is knocked unconscious, characters bleed from gunshot wounds, and the villains are genuinely threatening. It’s a thrilling ride, but one that may be too intense for younger children, despite the animation.
6. Alice in Wonderland (2010, Tim Burton)
Rated: PG | Recommended Age: 13+
Tim Burton’s version of Alice in Wonderland is a visual spectacle, but don’t expect a whimsical tea party. This darker reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s classic story leans heavily into themes of violence, madness, and cruelty.
Among the film’s unsettling moments: Alice is stabbed in the foot, she walks across a stream stepping on decapitated heads, and the Red Queen uses terrified animals as sports equipment. The battle scenes are vivid, and Alice decapitates the monstrous Jabberwocky. It’s an intense, gothic fantasy best left for tweens and teens.
THE FANTASTICAL
Enter a world of magic, talking animals, and distant lands. These shows inspired our childhood fantasies and reminded us of the adventure that was just a television screen away.
7. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Rated: G | Recommended Age: 10+
The bright visuals, catchy songs, and quirky characters of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory are undoubtedly captivating. But it’s not all fun and games. One scene in particular—the infamous boat tunnel ride—is unexpectedly disturbing.
Amid flashing lights and haunting music, the film bombards viewers with creepy images, including insects, snakes, and screaming passengers. The scene feels like it belongs in a psychological horror movie. The moral lessons are still valuable, but the unsettling tone in some parts can be too much for younger children.
8. Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
Rated: PG | Recommended Age: 12+
On the surface, Bridge to Terabithia looks like another magical kids’ adventure. But this poignant film explores deep emotional territory, including bullying, loss, and grief.
Fantasy elements—including a whimsical, imagined world of trolls and giants—serve as a backdrop to a heartbreaking story about friendship and tragedy. A major character dies unexpectedly (offscreen), and the film doesn’t shy away from showing the profound impact of this loss. For emotionally sensitive children, especially those unprepared for the concept of death, this story may hit too hard without parental guidance and post-viewing discussion.
9. The Harry Potter Series (2001–2011)
Rated: Varies (PG to M) | Recommended Age: 8+ for the first film, 13–15+ for later films
There’s no denying the cultural phenomenon that is Harry Potter. What starts as a magical adventure with flying broomsticks and friendly giants quickly transforms into a dark battle against evil forces and inner demons.
As the characters grow older, so too do the themes—loss, war, betrayal, and death. The first two films are relatively tame, but by The Prisoner of Azkaban (film 3), the content becomes increasingly intense, violent, and emotionally heavy. Younger children might be overwhelmed by the dark turns, while older tweens and teens may find the progression more age-appropriate.
THE FAMILY COMEDIES (THAT AREN’T REALLY FOR KIDS)
At first glance, they looked like good-natured fun — funny families, heartwarming moments, and laugh tracks. Behind the jokes, there were stories and themes that we didn’t understand as children (and perhaps should have). ).
10. Parenthood (1989)
Rated: PG-13 | Recommended Age: 13+
Starring Steve Martin, Parenthood explores the ups and downs of raising children. It’s funny, honest, and heartfelt—but it’s also loaded with adult themes.
There are frank discussions about sex, parenting stress, and even a vibrator and diaphragm make a surprise appearance. The film includes scenes touching on teen sexuality, pornography, and family dysfunction. While older kids might find it funny and relatable, it’s not appropriate for younger viewers.
11. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Rated: R | Recommended Age: 14+
With a bright yellow van and a quirky family on the DVD cover, Little Miss Sunshine might seem like your typical family road-trip comedy. But don’t be fooled—it’s much more complex.
The film explores themes of depression, drug abuse, death, and f, failure—all through a darkly comedic lens. One of the main characters is recovering from a suicide attempt, and there’s a heavy subplot about the toxicity of beauty pageants. The movie is brilliant, layered, and emotionally rich, but far too mature for younger children.
12. We’re the Millers (2013)
Rated: R | Recommended Age: 17+
At first glance, We’re the Millers looks like another silly road-trip comedy, but it’s really about a drug dealer, a stripper, and two teenagers posing as a fake family to smuggle drugs across the Mexican border.
The film includes frequent profanity (including f-bombs and more), sexual references, and nudity. A particularly awkward scene shows a teen boy’s severely swollen genitals after a spider bite, and another features a three-way French kiss between two teens and an adult. Nott one for family movie night.
Conclusion
Just because a film features kids, cartoons, or a quirky cover doesn’t mean it’s appropriate for all ages. While many of the movies above are excellent in their own right, they touch on heavy themes that young children may not be emotionally ready for.
Before you press play on a movie night, take the time to read reviews, check age ratings, and when in doubt, preview it yourself. It’s the best way to ensure that screen time is safe, enjoyable, and meaningful for your child.
