Some movies stick with us throughout our lives long after the credits roll, not necessarily because they were perfect, but because they were a part of growing up. Whether it was through unforgettable characters, catchy soundtracks, merchandise, or even just the feeling of watching them for the first time, these films left a lasting impact and still hold up today.
The Lego Movie (2014)
The Lego Movie. The film that had us all singing “Everything is Awesome.” Emmet, an ordinary LEGO figure who always follows the rules, is mistakenly identified as the Special someone destined to save the world. He’s pulled into an unexpected mission alongside a group of characters from different LEGO worlds, including Batman, Dumbledore, and Superman. Together, they try to stop an evil businessman who plans to freeze the LEGO universe by gluing the pieces together with the Kraggle. Emmet isn’t exactly hero material, and he knows it, but he’s ready to try anyway.
Toy Story (1995)
It wouldn’t be a proper childhood movie discussion without mentioning Toy Story. A film that impacted children worldwide, not just because of its groundbreaking animation, but also because of the massive cultural impact it had on a generation of kids. From Buzz Lightyear action figures to clothes, backpacks, and even bedspreads, his catchphrase “To infinity and beyond!” was everywhere. The merchandise took over kids’ lives, making Buzz Lightyear an instant hero in the hearts of many. Toy Story follows Woody, a loyal cowboy doll, whose world is turned upside down when a new toy, Buzz Lightyear, enters the picture. Buzz, who believes he’s a real space ranger, challenges Woody’s position as the favorite toy. As the two toys find themselves lost and in a race to return home, they develop an unlikely friendship and learn the true meaning of loyalty and teamwork. Toy Story not only redefined animation but also captured the imagination of children everywhere, teaching them that toys aren’t just objects they have their own adventures and stories to tell.
Cars (2006)
Just like Toy Story, this list would not be complete without Cars. Arguably one of the most iconic childhood films not just because of its popularity, but also because of the way its merchandise took over kids’ lives (mine included). From Lightning McQueen blankets to toothbrushes, and even TVs, anything you could imagine had his face on it. The movie follows a racecar named Lightning McQueen, who finds himself lost in the rural town of Radiator Springs. Stranded and far from the spotlight, he must find his way back to the Grand Prix before he misses the biggest race of his career.
WALL-E (2008)
One of the first childhood movies to address the importance of protecting our environment and the potential future we face if we don’t, Wall-E stands out as a unique film in its own right. The movie, set in a future where humans are no longer capable of cleaning up the planet, introduces Wall-E, a small robot tasked with cleaning up Earth’s trash one piece at a time. What makes Wall-E even more remarkable is that it relies on very little dialogue to tell its story. Through its expressive animation and visual storytelling, the movie conveys deep ideas about environmental decay and the power of connection. When Wall-E meets Eve, a sleek robot sent to Earth on a mission, he begins to experience emotions. This sparks a journey to find Eve after their first encounter. Though it’s a children’s movie, Wall-E communicates a profound message about the importance of caring for our planet, showing the potential consequences of neglecting our environment. It’s a film that speaks volumes without many words, highlighting the power of actions over time and their long-term impact on the world.
Finding Nemo (2003)
Finding Nemo. A classic. A staple. For many of us, it’s the greatest childhood movie of all time a story that reminds us our actions have consequences. Whether you watched it at home, in school, or in a movie theater, Finding Nemo is an Iconic movie. Nemo, a young clownfish with a foreshortened fin, wants to prove himself. Ignoring his father’s warnings, he swims too close to the ocean’s surface and is captured by a diver. His overprotective father, Marlin, embarks on a journey to find him, joined by Dory, a fish with short-term memory loss who both helps and complicates their encounters with sharks, jellyfish, and other ocean dangers. Meanwhile, Nemo plots his escape from a dentist’s fish tank with the help of his new aquatic friends.
Spy Kids 3 (2003)
* Available at consortium libraries
As children, if you could be in any movie, Spy Kids 3 was likely the one you dreamed of. Virtual reality games, thrilling missions, cool suits, and high-tech gadgets what’s not to love about being a spy? In Spy Kids 3, Juni, the main protagonist, must enter a virtual game to rescue his sister, Carmen, who is trapped inside a game called “Game Over.” To save her, Juni’s mission is to reach the impossible level five and stop the evil Toymaker, the film’s antagonist, from carrying out his sinister plan. What makes Spy Kids 3 stand out is its creative blend of action and imagination, giving kids the chance to explore a world where technology and adventure collide. It’s a fun and futuristic film that captures the excitement of being a secret agent in a digital world, while also highlighting the importance of family and teamwork.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
The Wizard of Oz. A movie that has transcended generations. The movie that had us all singing, “Follow the Yellow Brick Road.” When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy (Judy Garland) and her dog, Toto, are whisked away from their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City, where a wizard who claims he can grant their wishes resides on the condition that they bring him a certain broom. On their journey, Dorothy and Toto meet their eventual group of friends, who are also headed to the Emerald City. This includes a Tin Man who longs for a heart, a Scarecrow who seeks a brain, and a Cowardly Lion who wants to find courage.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009)
Cloudy with a chance of meatballs. As kids, it made us want to be inventors, dream big, and believe that even the wildest ideas could change the world if handled wisely. The story follows Flint Lockwood, a failed inventor, who believes he can help the city of Shallow Falls eat better food. He comes up with a solution that converts water into food and, slowly but surely, becomes a local hero as delicious treats start falling from the sky like rain. However, when the machine spins out of control and threatens to bury the world under giant pieces of food, Flint must race against time to find a solution. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs teaches us about perseverance, creativity, and the importance of responsibility.
Up (2009)
A flying house lifted by hundreds of balloons this movie was set to be a success. Up tells the story of a 78-year-old balloon salesman named Carl who tries to do the impossible by attaching balloons to his house and setting off for the South American wilderness in hopes of reaching a place called Paradise Falls. To Carl’s surprise, a young boy named Russell is hiding on board. The house ends up landing on the mountain opposite Paradise Falls, and the film follows their adventure through the Venezuelan forest.
Pocahontas (1995)
Arguably one of the most memorable animated films not just because of its popularity, but also because of the way it left a lasting impression on a generation of kids. From Pocahontas dolls to backpacks and even bedsheets, her presence was everywhere. The movie follows Pocahontas, a brave and curious young woman who crosses paths with English settler John Smith as her homeland faces the arrival of outsiders. Torn between following her heart and protecting her people, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, guided by the wisdom of nature and the spirits around her.
Robots (2005)
Robots stands out for it’s colorful world, imaginative characters, and the way they sparked kids’ creativity with its futuristic robot universe. The movie follows Rodney Copperbottom, a young inventor who dreams of making a big difference in a world where robots are treated as mere machines. When he travels to the big city to meet his hero, Bigweld, he discovers that the company that once celebrated innovation has now become driven by profit. Rodney teams up with a quirky group of robots to restore Bigweld’s vision and stand up against the villainous Ratchet. Robots is not just a fun-filled adventure; it’s a story about perseverance, believing in yourself, and standing up for what’s right. It reminds kids that, no matter your size or shape, you have the power to change the world.
These movies shaped much of our childhood and carry a deep sense of nostalgia. The memories they created through their visuals and storytelling perfectly capture the essence of our younger years. Even though they are children’s movies, they still hit the spot every time, bringing back the same joy and excitement no matter how many times we watch them.