The G for general rating differs from country to country, but it’s riveting to think of how it’s a majority of these movies that mold and shape audiences. How some people might be more fascinated by them at a younger age, then fall out of love with them as they get older. More importantly, it’s these universally revered films that have stood the test of time and have broken barriers to create a lasting impact in filmmaking to signal what type of content people could use more of.
From the legendary (and best) adaptation of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to the strongest works of animation in years, here are the top 10 best G-rated movies, streaming on platforms like HBO Max, Disney+, and more.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Inarguably the best adaption of A Christmas Carol—and the best Muppets movie—The Muppet Christmas Carol is a national treasure to watch every year during the holidays. In true Muppet form, the majority of the key players are portrayed by the renowned Muppets, with the exception of a few human actors, such as the legendary Michael Caine, who embodies Ebenezer Scrooge brilliantly. The story follows the classic tale to a T, with astounding performances from everyone involved and exceptional fourth-wall-breaking from Gonzo as Dickens and Rizzo the Rat as himself. Appealing to kids and adults, with a universal message centered on empathy, The Muppet Christmas Carol is top-tier in all accounts.
The Sound of Music (1965)
Although the themes in The Sound of Music are undoubtedly more evocative for the adults with more cognizant awareness of history, Robert Wise’s classic musical is a stunning treat regardless. When Julie Andrews’ Maria is sent to the von Trapp house, she finds more than a job as a governess—she finds love, a family, and, more importantly, a place to belong. With breathtaking scenic shots, a catchy soundtrack, and beautiful performances from everyone involved, it’s one of the few three-hour films that passes so quickly that it’s hard to believe its runtime. And as one of AFI’s Top 100 films, The Sound of Music holds a special place, no matter how old the person watching it is.
Toy Story (1995)
Pixar’s biggest and most legendary hit, Toy Story, doesn’t miss a single beat in presenting themes on abandonment, loyalty, compassion, and the idea of a found family. The notion that Andy’s toys come to life when he isn’t around and look after him is a comforting idea to hold onto as kids. And as adults, it becomes even more heartbreaking to look back and see how brilliantly the layers of childhood and varying personality types come into play with each different toy. With astounding animation, iconic voice acting from Tom Hanks as Woody, and an undoubtedly timeless story, knowing that Disney+ will likely always stream Toy Story is the gift that keeps on giving.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
As a heartwarming story about animals and the love they have for their owners, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a beloved film for countless reasons. Chance, Shadow, and Sassy are a family of two dogs and a cat, each completely different than the other, before an adventure out of the comfort of their own home draws them closer together. Wholesome, surprisingly honest, and vulnerable, the adorable film ties humans and animals together in the kind of story that’s as well-made as it is a classic. Safe from an unfortunate animal death that the majority of viewers hate, it’s one of the few films that ensures that trials lead to a happy ending.
Anastasia (1997)
One of the most breathtaking animated films to exist, Anastasia takes a dark piece of history and makes it accessible to all audiences, managing still to leave family as the heart of the story. Woven deep into the fabric of the film, Anastasia is all about homecoming and the great lengths people will go to in order to keep the promises they make. Gorgeously animated and featuring some of the best voice acting in generations, Anastasia takes the story of the Russian princess and adds the type of romance and humor that can continually stand the test of time.
The Aristocats (1970)
Sweet, effortlessly quotable, and hilariously charming from beginning to end, The Aristocats is as much about family as it is about finding a place to belong. Living in Paris and cleverly named after renowned French figures, Duchess and her three kittens, Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse, experience every cat's dream life with their owner, retired opera singer, Madame. But when they're kidnapped, the fancy Parisian cats meet an alley cat named Thomas O'Malley who shows them a different side of Paris, all while doing everything in his power to get them back home. The film's depth becomes clearer as we grow older and understand all the historical themes present within, but for kids, the G-rating allows them to embark on the best kind of adventure.
Mary Poppins (1964)
The name alone says everything, and as a G-rated film, Mary Poppins is also yet another classic that feels like a homecoming of sorts. Starring the inimitable Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, it’s a classic for a reason—even if the book’s original author, P. L. Travers, never wanted the film to be made. Primarily marketed as a story for children, themes of retaining our childhood amid stress and adversaries feel especially relevant to the kids who grow up and rewatch it. Sprinkled with catchy music and wholesome animated beats with live-action, the London-based film is an adorable joyride in every way.
Ratatouille (2007)
Pixar’s Ratatouille might not be the most realistic of films, but it certainly features a significant message about acceptance and beliefs. The idea that everyone can cook is born when Remy, an actual rat, aids the kitchen worker Linguini in cooking what’s the greatest meal set in Paris. In addition, while the dish itself isn’t all that unique, the end message of what criticism actually means and how we approach what’s unfamiliar to us makes Ratatouille the type of standout feature that’s sure to remain timeless. Featuring glittering animation and one of the best original scores from Michael Giacchino, there’s no denying that Ratatouille is a film for all ages.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
While it certainly isn’t as dark as Wicked, the origin story that coined the phrase “there’s no place like home” is indeed a solid G-rated film, best suited for anyone who’s a little nerdy. The Wizard of Oz holds plenty of nuance in its short timeframe, but it’s overall a solid showcase of unlikely friendships and the lengths people are willing to go for those they love. Emphasizing the idea that people are more than capable of whatever they’d like to accomplish, Dorothy’s journey back to Kansas is a classic for a reason.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
It’s only as adults that the themes of greed become more profound, but as a film we’re introduced to as kids, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is an addicting spectacle for many reasons. With a brilliantly memorable performance from Gene Wilder as the titular character and a hilarious soundtrack, everything about the movie is a joy ride to appreciate. We have had a few adaptations afterward, but none have had the same impact. Narratively, structurally, and performance wise, this adaptation is the best on all fronts.
Where To Watch The Best G-Rated Movies Streaming Right Now Online
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