{"id":465266,"date":"2026-05-29T00:30:12","date_gmt":"2026-05-29T00:30:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/il\/465266\/"},"modified":"2026-05-29T00:30:12","modified_gmt":"2026-05-29T00:30:12","slug":"what-kids-movies-are-worth-seeing-this-summer-we-asked-children-and-pixar-buff-logan-from-love-on-the-spectrum","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/il\/465266\/","title":{"rendered":"What kids’ movies are worth seeing this summer? We asked children \u2014 and Pixar buff Logan from ‘Love on the Spectrum.’"},"content":{"rendered":"

For kids, summertime isn\u2019t just camp, pool days and staying up past school-year bedtime \u2014 it\u2019s also about movies<\/a>. And this year Hollywood is making sure younger audiences have plenty to choose from.<\/p>\n

The biggest franchises \u2014 Star Wars, Minions and Toy Story \u2014 are answering the call of parents in need of two hours in a dark, air-conditioned room with snacks close at hand. There\u2019s also superhero fare, live-action Disney remakes and even some Looney Tunes energy (beep beep).<\/p>\n

To sort through the packed lineup of family films, we enlisted some serious expert help. Love on the Spectrum star Logan Pereira joined Yahoo as our Guest Movie Buff after winning over viewers with his genuine enthusiasm for Pixar and movies in general \u2014 making him the perfect guide for summer moviegoing.<\/p>\n

Logan\u2019s reactions focus on emotional stakes, animation and whether a movie will deliver for longtime fans, especially when Woody and Buzz are involved.<\/p>\n

Jump ahead to Logan\u2019s picks:<\/p>\n

We also checked in with kids \u2014 the ones these movies are trying to win over. Ranging from ages 3 to 11, the 13 young viewers shared hot takes that are honest, enthusiastic and sometimes hilariously ruthless. (\u201cSo stupid but so funny\u201d may be the review of the summer.)<\/p>\n

A few themes emerged: Kids love chaotic comedy (Minions & Monsters is an overwhelming favorite), animals are a major selling point (\u201cHer dog is really cute\u201d was enough to recommend Supergirl), and older kids are quick to call out stories that felt recycled (\u201cI already know the plot,\u201d one says about live-action Moana).<\/p>\n

Lastly, Common Sense Media<\/a> \u2014 the nonprofit organization known for its parenting guides \u2014 weighed in to help identify the best options for different age groups. After all, while summer movies should be fun, parents also want to know what might be too intense for younger viewers. That\u2019s also why we have a \u201cscare-o-meter\u201d for all the flicks.<\/p>\n

Note: This list is evolving as critic reviews roll in and trendy merch and concession picks are unveiled, so be sure to check back throughout the summer for updates.<\/p>\n

Now, on with the show \u2026<\/p>\n

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Bounty hunter and adorable apprentice embark on an action-packed adventure.<\/p>\n

Star power: Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, Jeremy Allen White<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 2 hr. 12 min.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\u2694\ufe0f\ud83d\udd25\ud83d\udc09\/\ud83d\udc0d): Fighting, fire and a Dragonsnake make this more intense than Grogu\u2019s cuddly appearance suggests.<\/p>\n

Our kid expert says: \u201cI was super excited to see it [opening weekend]. \u2018Have you ever removed your helmet? Has it ever been removed by anyone else? If the answer is no to both, this is the way<\/a>.\u2019\u201d\u00a0 \u2014 Rosalie, 11<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cIt\u2019s got lots of sci-fi action, violence and tense encounters (even a jump-scare or two), but this entertaining adventure for older tweens and up offers solid fan service \u2014 as well as themes of commitment, integrity, loyalty, teamwork and the importance of found family.\u201d<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Masters of the Universe\u00a0<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Long-lost prince returns home to save Eternia.<\/p>\n

Star power: Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes, Idris Elba, Jared Leto<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 2 hr. 12 min. (varies by theater)<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\u2694\ufe0f\ud83d\udd25\ud83d\udc80): Violence, fire, suggestive language and Skeletor are a better fit for bigger kids.<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201cI know this trailer. I already saw it on TV. \u201d [Turns away uninterested.]\u00a0 \u2014 Kaiden, 8<\/p>\n

\u201cVery suspenseful. Um, I’m really picky with my movies. I always, like, pick one and that\u2019s my movie for the month. That probably wouldn\u2019t be one.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cI think they took \u2018I have the power\u2019 from the Barb the Last Berzerker book series<\/a>.\u201d Told it was the other way around: \u201cOh.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cBased on the hugely popular media franchise originally created in the 1980s, this live-action adaptation promises plenty of fight scenes and fantasy violence, as well as the potential for themes like identity, duty and resilience \u2014 likely making it best for tweens and teens.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: Skeletor mask<\/a> with 10 sounds to haunt your house.<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

The Last Whale Singer<\/p>\n

Out in theaters: \u00a0June 5<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Orphaned teen whale tries saving oceans in educational animated tale.<\/p>\n

Star power: Vincent Tong, Lisa Ortiz<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 1 hr. 31 min.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83c\udf0a\ud83d\udc33\ud83c\udf0e): Mild peril and emotional themes, but overall calm waters for most kids.<\/p>\n

Our kid expert says: \u201cI really want to see it because it\u2019s a brand-new movie. Not a sequel. They have to save the world. I like stories with two little characters who save the day, find their voice. Since this is a children\u2019s movie, they\u2019ll win in the end. Happily ever after.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cThis story about a grief-stricken orphaned humpback whale finding his purpose looks to have lovely animation, with messages about the impact of our actions. Since it also deals with loss, expect it to land best with younger grade-schoolers and older kids.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: They really don\u2019t have any that we can find, which will also save parents a few bucks.<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: Ditto.<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Toy Story 5<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Bonnie gets a tablet, making toys vie for her attention.<\/p>\n

Star power: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Keanu Reeves, Bad Bunny, Conan O’Brien, Tony Hale<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 1 hr. 42 min.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83e\udd79\u26a0\ufe0f\ud83d\udcf1): Some emotional themes (bring a tissue) and some mildly rude humor, but it\u2019s a Toy Story movie, guys. You know the drill.<\/p>\n

Logan thinks: \u201cI wonder what the Lilypad character is gonna add to the plot. I\u2019m excited to see Woody and Buzz again because they\u2019re my favorite Pixar characters, next to Lightning McQueen. I hope it\u2019s gonna work out with Woody not living there anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: We actually did a whole story<\/a> on kids\u2019 reactions to this one, but Esme, 10, adds, \u201cI like the trailer because of how funny and dramatic it seems. It\u2019s funny how Woody seems like an old toy now because he has a bald spot. It\u2019s dramatic when the many Buzzes come out of the water all loaded with weapons.\u201d<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cWoody, Buzz and the gang are back for another big-screen outing that’s expected to tackle the usual themes of friendship and loyalty, plus timely questions about the relationship between kids and technology. It may be a bit more mature than its predecessors, but it’s still expected to be appropriate for younger grade-schoolers and up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: LeapFrog made a real Lilypad<\/a> for kids who want to embrace the \u201cvillain.\u201d And here\u2019s hoping we see some Jessie \u201cCroots\u201d Croc boots<\/a> out in the wild.<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: It\u2019ll be hard to choose between the collectible cups, but the Buzz popcorn holder<\/a> feels inevitable.<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Supergirl<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Kara Zor-El battles baddies while delivering sarcastic quips.<\/p>\n

Star power: Milly Alcock, Eve Ridley, Jason Momoa<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 1 hr. 50 min.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\u26a1\ud83d\udca5\ud83d\udc4a): Superpowered fights, explosions and darker themes make this better for older action-film-loving kids.<\/p>\n

Logan thinks: \u201cSupergirl looks like it has good characters, a good plot and a good storyboard. And it feels like it gonna be emotional. The dog reminds me of my dog, BamBam. He\u2019s a jumpy, playful dog.\u201d<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201cI want to see it. It was really cool how there were special effects with Supergirl\u2019s laser eyes. And her dog is really cute.\u201d \u2014 Hayley, 10<\/p>\n

\u201cI really love dogs, so I would probably watch that. Also, there’s usually not really that many movies about women superheroes. It’s always like Spider-Man. Iron Man. Man, man.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cI kind of want to see it because the dog looks cute.\u201d \u2014 Kaiden, 8<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cDC’s latest superhero adventure explores the backstory of Superman\u2019s younger cousin, Kara Zor-El, who does a lot of partying as she grapples with the trauma of seeing her home planet destroyed during her childhood. That, plus the likelihood of intense, violent battle scenes, probably makes this best for older tweens and teens.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: If you don\u2019t already have a dog, your kid may beg for one. As far as things that aren\u2019t alive and require much less care, we\u2019re partial to the Supergirl and Krypto Funko Pop<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Minions & Monsters<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Quirky yellow troublemakers cause monster mayhem in Hollywood.<\/p>\n

Star power: Allison Janney, Christoph Waltz, Jeff Bridges<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: A sweet 1 hr. 30 min.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83d\udca5\ud83e\uddfb\ud83d\udc79): Cartoon creatures and chaotic action \u2014 including explosions \u2014 but the Minions tend to keep things silly. Expect toilet jokes.<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201c[It] was funny because they found a mummy and the Minion needed more toilet paper. He used the mummy as toilet paper.\u201d \u2014 Renae, 8<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see that movie. It looks good.\u201d After the mummy scene where the Minion says \u201cpor favor,\u201d he adds, \u201cThe minions speak Spanish instead of English. You know what ‘por favor’ means?\u201d \u2014 Beau, 7<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s funny and stupid at the same time because you think the men are going to win, but then the Minions come and cause wreckage and stuff. It\u2019s so stupid but so funny! And it has a lot of my favorite things: monsters and stuff like that. It looks so good.\u201d \u2014 Miles, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cIt starts off normal, like a show, and then it just keeps getting funnier. Random stuff pops up. I would probably watch it immediately. It should be a good movie.\u201d \u2014 Logan D., 10<\/p>\n

\u201cThe monsters look cool. The Minions look cool too.\u201d \u2014 Kaiden, 8<\/p>\n

\u201cI always love seeing all these [Despicable Me] movies, so, yeah, I\u2019d see that. I just like seeing funny movies.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cGru is not in that trailer. Where the heck is Gru? I think I know why: because he has a wife and kids now. Maybe they\u2019re on vacation. I\u2019m so happy Gru\u2019s married.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cGru’s beloved yellow sidekicks are back in this 1920s-set installment, in which they try to find scary monsters to star in the movie they’re directing. As with the other movies in the franchise, there’s likely to be peril, slapstick pranks, cartoon violence, explosions and destruction, along with mild potty humor and insults \u2014 but all of it should be OK for younger grade-schoolers and up.<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Moana<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Make way for Moana\u2019s live-action journey across the dangerous seas.<\/p>\n

Star power: Catherine Laga’aia, Dwayne Johnson<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: 2 hr.<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83c\udf0a\ud83c\udf0b\ud83e\udd88): Ocean peril and battles, but Maui\u2019s humor and heart make this good for most ages.<\/p>\n

Logan thinks: \u201cI saw the 2016 original, and I liked it. This live-action looks good, and the singing sounds great. It feels emotional and good to listen to at the same time. Dwayne Johnson really fits the live-action too. I\u2019m excited to see him do another Moana movie. \u201c<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201cI thought this already came out? The characters are the same. I like that. Wait, they\u2019re real people? I think I like that too. It’s a yes.\u201d \u2014 Jolie, 7<\/p>\n

\u201cTe K\u0101! Why does [the Rock] have so much hair? I noticed that Maui this time didn’t shape-shift into a great white shark \u2014 he’s a hammerhead. If I had to pick between this and another movie, I may not pick this one because I already know the plot.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cI would probably watch that because Moana used to be one of my favorite movies. And this is the real version.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cPookamunga!!\u201d (Mom note: I think that\u2019s a yes.) \u2014 Rosie, 3<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cWhile this live-action version of Moana and Maui’s quest to save her endangered island will probably feel a bit more intense than the animated original \u2014 perhaps edging it up into young-tween territory \u2014 you can still expect plenty of positive themes, including courage, self-discovery and the power of family and community. \u201c<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: They probably have something left over from Moana 2, but the live-action collectible dolls<\/a> will be fun to put in power poses. We\u2019re still adjusting to the Rock\u2019s wig<\/a>, though.<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Spider-Man: Brand New Day<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Peter Parker erases himself from the memories of loved ones.<\/p>\n

Star power: Tom Holland, Zendaya<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83d\udd77\ufe0f\ud83d\udc94\ud83d\udca5): Intense action, scary villains and emotional moments make this better suited for older kids.<\/p>\n

Logan thinks: \u201cThe climax looks like it\u2019s gonna be amazing. The previous movies were great, and I like Zendaya and Tom Holland. I\u2019m excited to see Spider-Man live-action again.\u201d<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201cIt\u2019s suspenseful as well, and there is some humor in it that I like. I probably might watch it \u2014 I just don’t really like going to theaters a lot. I would watch it at home.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel like that movie would be really cool. It just seems sad. His wife [referring to MJ]\u00a0 forgot him. If that ever happened to me with a loved one, that would be so hard.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cEveryone’s favorite neighborhood web slinger returns for another adventure \u2014 and some surprising evolutions of his powers. Like the MCU movies that came before it, it promises plenty of older tween-\/teen-oriented comic-book-style fighting and peril, plus weapons and threats, but also core themes that center on community, serving others and the connection between power and responsibility. \u201c<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: \u00a0Coming soon<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: The pups must stop Mayor Humdinger, of course. Now, with dinosaurs.<\/p>\n

Star power: Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Jennifer Hudson<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: TBD<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83d\udc36\ud83e\udd96\ud83c\udf0b): Mild dinosaur danger and action scenes, but Paw Patrol is always pretty tame for kids.<\/p>\n

Logan thinks: \u201cThe trailer looks good. The animation looks great. The voice acting is perfect. I feel like this movie is going to be one of my favorite animated movies of the decade, next to the Tom and Jerry <\/a>movie from 2021. I like them because they look like little firefighters.\u201d<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say:\u00a0\u201cPaw Patrol, used to like it. Now it’s sort of like when things are supposed to be scary, it’s not scary. So, yeah, probably no.\u201d \u2014 Sarai, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a new dog<\/a>! It\u2019s beautiful. I still love Paw Patrol. I\u2019d see it.\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cNot that much.\u201d \u2014 Kaiden, 8<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cBased on Nickelodeon’s beloved animated series<\/a>, this movie follows Ryder and his crew of puppy hero friends as they encounter an island full of dinosaurs. Expect mild cartoon violence and peril but also kid-friendly messages about courage, perseverance, teamwork and problem-solving, likely making this outing as preschooler-friendly as the crew’s previous big-screen adventures.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: The Paw Patrol offerings are endless, but the Dino Mobile HQ<\/a> may catch their eye.<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

Coyote vs. Acme<\/p>\n

Plot in 10 words: Wile E. Coyote sues Acme over failed Road Runner traps.<\/p>\n

Star power: Will Forte, John Cena, Lana Condor<\/p>\n

The sit-still factor: TBD<\/p>\n

Scare-o-meter (\ud83d\udca3\ud83e\ude82\ud83d\udc26): Classic cartoon explosions and slapstick violence played mostly for laughs. Remind the kids not to try any of it at home.<\/p>\n

Our kid experts say: \u201cI think it looks really funny. I watch Looney Tunes a lot, so I understand it. [Wile E. Coyote and Roadrunner] are like my second-favorite characters. Bugs Bunny is my first. I saw they put all the characters in, which I think will be funny. I also like how it\u2019s cartoon and live action at the same time.\u201d \u2014 Tayla, 10<\/p>\n

\u201cJohn Cena!\u201d \u2014 Gigi, 11<\/p>\n

\u201cIt should be pretty funny. It was a funny start to the trailer. If I had to pick this or Minions & Monsters, I\u2019d probably pick Minions. The Minions have been going for a while. It\u2019s like a new start to the Minions era.\u201d \u2014 Logan D., 10<\/p>\n

Common Sense Media\u2019s take: \u201cAs it follows Wile E. Coyote’s lawsuit against Acme Corporation over their endless product failures in his pursuit of the Road Runner, this slapstick comedy blends classic Looney Tunes animation and live-action actors and settings. True to the characters’ history, there will be lots of explosions, injuries, weapons and chases, though probably little lasting harm, which means it’s probably OK for young tweens and up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Merch your kid will beg for: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Concession-stand danger zone: Coming soon<\/p>\n

Get tickets<\/a><\/p>\n

But that’s not all \u2026<\/p>\n

The Sheep Detectives: Hugh Jackman stars as a lonely shepherd whose sheep become amateur sleuths after his murder \u2014 and prove far better at solving the crime than the local police. The hybrid live-action and animated whodunit mixes mystery, surprisingly tender moments and thoughtful life lessons. Gigi skipped school to interview Jackman<\/a> about the film. In theaters now<\/a><\/p>\n

The Breadwinner: Comedian Nate Bargatze stars in this wholesome Mr. Mom-style comedy (minus the male dance revue). A dad suddenly becomes a stay-at-home parent when his wife (Mandy Moore) leaves for a monthlong business trip, forcing him to juggle the chaos of three young daughters on his own. In theaters May 28<\/a><\/p>\n

Propeller: One-Way Night Coach: Frequent flyer John Travolta, whose love of aviation is well known, is behind this film about a young airplane enthusiast on a cross-country trip to Hollywood. It\u2019s a family affair, with daughter Ella Bleu Travolta starring. Streaming on Apple TV+ May 29<\/a><\/p>\n

Enola Holmes 3: Fan fave Millie Bobby Brown returns as Sherlock Holmes\u2019s sharp-witted little sis for another mystery-filled adventure \u2014 this time in Malta. There\u2019s romance and danger alongside the sleuthing, raising emotional stakes. Streaming July 1 on Netflix<\/a><\/p>\n

Descendants: Wicked Wonderland: The latest VK [Villain Kids] installment sends Red (Kylie Cantrall) and Chloe (Malia Baker) to Wonderland for the Kingdom Cup Games, where their time-travel meddling continues to cause chaos and threaten the future of Auradon. It\u2019s Disney fantasy, music and teen drama all in one, and franchise loyalists will absolutely want in. TBD on Disney+<\/a><\/p>\n

Camp Rock 3: This Disney musical franchise hopes to hook a new generation through fresh rivalries, big performance numbers and Disney Channel prince Malachi Barton, who already has young fans swooning. Aug. 13 on Disney Channel, Aug. 14 on Disney+<\/a><\/p>\n

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer\u2019s Stone (25th anniversary re-release): The magical movie that launched a generation of young robe-wearing, wand-waving fans returns to theaters for a limited run so that families can experience Hogwarts on the big screen all over again. Or for the very first time. In theaters Aug. 27-Sept. 3<\/p>\n

Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom: The mischievous sheep returns for another stop-motion film, this time racing to save Halloween. We know: Summer isn\u2019t even here and we\u2019re already talking about October, but this one looks worth planning ahead for. In theaters Sept. 18<\/p>\n

Forgotten Island: Any film trailer set to The Breakfast Club theme song is clearly aiming for parents too. This DreamWorks Animation flick follows best friends swept into a fantasy world far beyond ordinary school days. In theaters Sept. 25.<\/p>\n

Looking for more recs? Find your next watch on the Yahoo 100<\/a>, our daily list of the most popular movies of the year.<\/p>\n