Top 10 Kid Friendly Action Movies
#10: “Agent Cody Banks” (2003)
In “Agent Cody Banks”, Frankie Muniz stars as the titular teenager who goes undercover for the CIA. Since he’s assigned to learn more about Dr. Albert Connors, he gets close to his target’s daughter. The movie offers great spy fun for the whole family. Additionally, Muniz and co-star Hilary Duff have enjoyable chemistry. Like most spy movies, there’s a fair amount of violence to be found. But it’s all bloodless and is mostly relegated to hand-to-hand scuffles. “Agent Cody Banks” is essentially like a PG James Bond film. Any young children looking for a bit of adrenaline and who dream of being a spy would love to go on this mission alongside Muniz.
#9: “Speed Racer” (2008)
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Although “Speed Racer” wasn’t beloved when it first came out, the movie later became a cult classic. While the bright colors and wacky story were once criticized, both adults and kids have come around to how much the movie commits to its ridiculous elements. And that includes its great action. Thanks to fantastic technical filmmaking, “Speed Racer” delivers fun and exciting action sequences. It essentially feels like it’s perfectly recreating scenes from the original anime in live action. The cartoony fights and races will likely appeal to kids who already love animated content. Despite “Speed Racer'’s original struggles, it’s now earned a spot in the action movie winner’s circle.
#8: “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (2008)
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Published back in 1864, Verne’s novel about a fantastical journey has long been regarded as a masterpiece of science fiction. Hollywood was able to take advantage of advancements in technology to create a visually stunning kids’ movie in 2008. This adaptation stars Brendan Fraser and Josh Hutcherson and is full of imaginative sequences and setpieces. While the movie features a few chaotic sequences, it’s nothing that mature children can’t handle. And there’s enough comedy mixed in to keep them laughing. If the young audience stick with the film, they will be rewarded with a shiny new spin on an old school adventure like no other.
#7: “Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” (2010)
Fans of the “Percy Jackson” book series were thrilled when they found out that former “Harry Potter” director Chris Columbus would adapt the “Lightning Thief”. In this adaptation, a young boy named Percy discovers that many aspects of Greek mythology are real. Not only is he the son of Poseidon, but he’s also destined to play a bigger part in the world. Director Chris Columbus expertly directed a movie full of strong action sequences and relatable characters. While Logan Lerman made for a great lead, Alexandra Daddario’s intelligent and heroic Annabeth served as an excellent role model for young girls too. They starred in a movie that cleverly integrates Greek mythology in an informative and action-packed way.
#6: “Sonic the Hedgehog” (2020)
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Everyone’s favorite blue blur generated a lot of good buzz during his first live-action outing. Sonic is introduced as a lonely and movie obsessed kid who wants to find a place where he belongs. Fortunately, he finds a family and new job as a hero while racing in and out of danger. The story’s depth and humor went over well with kids whether they were fans or new to the franchise. The inventive action sequences were also pure eye candy for all audiences. And last but certainly not least, Jim Carrey’s Dr. Robtonik was hilarious in every scene he appeared in. Since the movie broke box office records for video game movies, it’s safe to say that Sonic’s tale was welcomed by many people.
#5: “Jumanji” (1995)
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While “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” is a great action comedy, its PG-13 rating disqualifies it here. But if you’re looking for a kid’s film that pushes the boundaries of family friendly entertainment and is still PG, you just need to revisit the original. Besides, you can never go wrong with more Robin Williams in your life. He plays Alan Parrish, a man who has been stuck inside a dangerous board game for nearly 30 years. The only way to be free of it is to finish the game with two new players. A few of “Jumanji’s” obstacles are quite scary and challenging for younger children. But those who are ready for a good dose of intensity will love watching this dangerous game.
#4: “Sky High” (2005)
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Co-written by the creators of “Kim Possible,” “Sky High” is a superhero movie aimed at children and young teenagers. It’s all right there in the punny title! Michael Angarano plays Will Stronghold, a teenager with famous superhero parents who attends the titular Sky High. But since he initially doesn’t know if he has powers, he struggles to thrive in a school of budding heroes. His story makes for both an exciting superhero movie and relatable coming-of-age school comedy. The cast is also fantastic, featuring many notable performers like Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Bruce Campbell, and Kurt Russell. Packed with a few surprises along the way, “Sky High” is one school we desperately wish we could enroll in.
#3: “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981)
The PG rating on the first “Indiana Jones” may seem deceptive. It has a fair amount of gunplay, violence and gruesome demises. There’s also a famous climax in which many of the movie’s antagonists die in an absolutely brutal and terrifying fashion. However, since the PG-13 rating didn’t exist at the time, the movie had to market itself as PG. To its credit, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” has long been regarded as a family classic. Who knows how many kids and their parents sat on the couch and watched Indy run from that iconic boulder? While it may be too much for young children, preteens should have no problem with it. This classic movie still holds up as an edgy treasure for younger audiences.
#2: “The Karate Kid” (1984)
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Speaking of ‘80s classics, audiences can’t go wrong with “The Karate Kid.” The film shows us how the young Daniel Larusso found balance in his life and himself by learning karate from Mr. Miyagi. One of the biggest sleeper hits of its day, “The Karate Kid” wowed viewers of all ages with fine performances, a warm and friendly tone, and enjoyable martial arts action. Actor Pat Morita’s Miyagi also has incredible chemistry with Ralph Macchio’s Daniel. This movie was lucky enough to find a new generation of viewers thanks to the popularity of the sequel tv series “Cobra Kai.” Fun for the whole family and containing great messages, “The Karate Kid” is an undeniable classic.
#1: "Spy Kids" (2001)
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Coming from the acclaimed Robert Rodriguez, “Spy Kids”is another Bond inspired espionage thriller that has children take the lead. The sibling duo of Juni and Carmen Cortez are tasked with saving their spy parents from eccentric villains. Their adventure is a ton of fun, features strong performances and is packed with hilarious gags and lines. Rodriguez put his filmmaking talents into a movie that doesn’t condescend to children. He places a lot of important life lessons about courage and valuing family in between all the slickly-made action and cool gadget sequences. And yes, Rodriguez teaches children that they can kick butt as well. All of the film’s brilliant elements added up to one of the greatest kid friendly action movies of all time.
