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The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is a special one, and it often involves sharing experiences that span generations. Watching classic movies together is one easy way to connect and create memories with your grandkids!
From classic Disney animations to timeless dramas and comedies, there are plenty of classic movies that will delight everyone in the family.
Whether you’re looking for a movie to watch on a lazy Sunday afternoon or something to spur a lively discussion, these classic movies will provide hours of entertainment. Get ready to settle in and watch the best classic movies with your grandkids!
Note: I included where to watch the movie, but please note most require a subscription to the respective service. You can always purchase or rent most movies with Apple TV or Amazon Prime too.
1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
The Wizard of Oz is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for generations. It’s a fantastical adventure story about a young girl named Dorothy who gets swept away to a magical land where she meets new friends and goes on a quest to find her way back home. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of fun, colorful characters, and it teaches important lessons about friendship, bravery, and the power of believing in yourself. It’s also a great opportunity for grandparents to share their own childhood memories and experiences with their grandchildren.
IMDB Rating: 8.0
Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu, Sling TV, Amazon Prime
2. Mary Poppins (1964)
Mary Poppins is a beloved musical that tells the story of a magical nanny who brings joy and wonder into the lives of a young brother and sister. It’s a fun, whimsical movie that features catchy songs and memorable characters. Watching this movie with grandchildren can be a fun way to introduce them to classic musicals and to share in the joy of singing and dancing together. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about the importance of imagination and creativity.
IMDB Rating: 7.8
Where to watch: Disney Plus
3. The Sound of Music (1965)
The Sound of Music is a heartwarming movie based on the true story of a woman who becomes a governess to a large family and helps them find joy and music in their lives. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of memorable songs, beautiful scenery, and a touching story about the power of love and family. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about history and culture, as the movie is set during the rise of the Nazi party in Austria.
IMDB Rating: 8.0
Where to watch: Disney Plus
4. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a classic movie about a young boy who befriends an alien and helps him find his way back home. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s a fun, heartwarming adventure story that teaches important lessons about friendship, empathy, and the power of imagination. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about science and outer space, as well as to share memories and stories about childhood.
IMDB Rating: 7.8
Where to watch: $3.99 rental on YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime
5. The Lion King (1994)
The Lion King is a beloved animated movie that tells the story of a young lion named Simba who must overcome adversity and fulfill his destiny as the king of the Pride Lands. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s a fun, exciting adventure story that teaches important lessons about courage, responsibility, and the circle of life. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about animals and nature, as well as to sing along to the catchy songs.
IMDB Rating: 8.5
Where to watch: Disney Plus
6. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968)
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a fun, magical movie about a magical car that takes a family on a fantastical adventure. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of fun, whimsical characters, catchy songs, and exciting adventures. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about creativity and imagination, as well as to share in the joy of singing and dancing together.
IMDB Rating: 6.9
Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime
7. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is a delightful movie based on the classic Roald Dahl book, about a young boy who wins a golden ticket to tour a magical candy factory run by the eccentric and mysterious Willy Wonka. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of fun, colorful characters, memorable songs, and a sense of wonder and magic that will capture the imagination of both young and old. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about important themes like kindness, greed, and the importance of being true to oneself.
IMDB Rating: 7.8
Where to watch: Tubi (or rental from main services)
8. The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride is a charming, romantic movie about a young woman named Buttercup who falls in love with a brave hero named Westley and must rescue him from the clutches of an evil prince. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of humor, adventure, and memorable characters that will delight both young and old. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about important themes like love, loyalty, and the power of storytelling.
IMDB Rating: 8.1
Where to watch: Disney Plus
9. The Karate Kid (1984)
The Karate Kid is a classic underdog story about a young boy named Daniel who learns martial arts from a wise mentor named Mr. Miyagi and uses his newfound skills to stand up to bullies and compete in a karate tournament. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s full of important lessons about hard work, perseverance, and standing up for oneself. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about martial arts, different cultures, and the importance of having a strong role model in life.
IMDB Rating: 7.3
Where to watch: YouTube premium, Sling, Amazon Prime
10. The Secret Garden (1993)
The Secret Garden is a magical movie about a young girl named Mary who discovers a hidden garden and learns to heal both herself and those around her through the power of nature. This movie is a great choice to watch with grandchildren because it’s a touching story that will inspire both young and old to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and the healing power of friendship and love. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about the importance of taking care of the environment and the beauty of gardening.
IMDB Rating: 7.3
Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime
Conclusion
I hope this list of classic movies for grandmas to watch with their grandchildren has given you some great ideas for your next movie night! Watching movies together is not only a great way to bond and create special memories, but it’s also an opportunity to have important conversations about important themes and ideas.
Whether you choose a timeless musical like The Sound of Music, a heartwarming story like E.T., or a thrilling adventure like The Goonies, I hope you and your grandkids enjoy spending time together and discovering the magic of these beloved films.
Happy watching!
