21 Kids Movies That Should Come with a Warning Label
Many movies labeled as “family-friendly” can surprise us with themes and jokes that resonate more with adult audiences. While they may feature colorful animations and playful characters, these films often contain underlying messages and humor that fly right over children's heads.
In this article, we explore 25 kids movies that, despite their playful appearances, are filled with content that clearly wasn't made for young viewers. Prepare for a trip down memory lane, where you might rethink your next family movie night!
The Wizard of Oz
The classic tale of Dorothy’s adventure in Oz is filled with dark themes, including murder and the concept of leaving home. While it's a beloved film, many adults note that some scenes can be quite frightening for young viewers.
The Wicked Witch of the West's threats and the ominous flying monkeys might leave kids more scared than enchanted.
Coraline
On the surface, “Coraline” appears to be a whimsical story about a girl discovering a parallel universe. However, the darker elements, including themes of identity theft and psychological manipulation, make it more suited for older children.
The eerie atmosphere and unsettling imagery could easily disturb younger audiences.
The Land Before Time
This animated classic showcases the journey of young dinosaurs, but it’s not without its heart-wrenching moments. The film addresses themes of loss and grief, particularly in the loss of Littlefoot's mother.
While it provides valuable life lessons, the emotional weight may be too heavy for very young kids.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Shrek
“Shrek” is famous for its clever humor that appeals to both kids and adults. However, some of its jokes and cultural references are more suited for older audiences, which can fly over children's heads.
The film cleverly critiques fairy tale norms, but its adult themes might confuse younger viewers.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Tim Burton's film blends whimsical visuals with darker themes like death and existential dread. While it features catchy songs and charming characters, some scenes may be too intense for younger children.
The film's unique animation style may attract kids, but its themes are more suited for a teen audience.
Zootopia
“Zootopia” cleverly tackles social issues such as prejudice and discrimination through its anthropomorphic characters. While the film delivers a powerful message, the complexities of these themes may be lost on younger viewers.
Some jokes and references resonate more with adults, making it a layered film.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Inside Out
While “Inside Out” beautifully illustrates emotional intelligence, it also delves into complex emotional experiences. Themes of sadness, depression, and identity are explored in ways that may be difficult for young kids to fully grasp.
The film’s depth provides meaningful conversations for older audiences.
Monsters, Inc.
This film's premise about monsters scaring children is comedic, yet it also delves into themes of fear and vulnerability. The emotional journey of the characters may resonate more with adults, as it touches on the nature of fear and relationships.
Kids might enjoy the animation, but the underlying messages could be complex for them.
Finding Nemo
The story of a father searching for his son is heartwarming, but it also features intense moments of peril and loss. The film addresses themes of parental anxiety and the importance of family, which might resonate more with adults.
While kids enjoy the underwater adventure, the emotional depth may be heavy for younger viewers.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
The Iron Giant
This animated film addresses themes of friendship, fear of government, and the potential for violence. While it’s often regarded as a children's film, its poignant moments and moral dilemmas make it more appropriate for older kids.
The film’s anti-war message may be missed by younger audiences.
The Peanuts Movie
While it appears innocent, “The Peanuts Movie” addresses issues of loneliness and existential pondering. Characters like Charlie Brown struggle with self-doubt and social anxiety, themes that might not resonate with younger kids.
The film blends humor with deeper reflections on life, making it more relatable for adults.
How to Train Your Dragon
The story showcases themes of acceptance and friendship but also delves into darker themes of war and loss. The relationship between humans and dragons raises complex questions about coexistence and acceptance.
While visually stunning, the emotional stakes can be intense for younger viewers.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Bambi
While a classic, “Bambi” includes one of the most famous death scenes in animation history. The film explores the cycle of life and loss, which can be heartbreaking for young children.
Its poignant themes make it more appropriate for slightly older audiences.
Aladdin
The animated classic features lighthearted moments but also includes darker themes such as betrayal and power struggles. Some scenes involving the villain Jafar may frighten younger viewers, detracting from the film's enjoyment.
While it's a beloved tale, its deeper messages may be lost on children.
Kung Fu Panda
This film contains action-packed sequences and humor, but it also includes themes of identity and self-discovery. The protagonist's journey to self-acceptance can resonate more with an adult audience.
Younger kids may find the action entertaining, but the emotional lessons are more profound.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
While charming, this film contains some mildly scary elements that could frighten younger children. The humor often plays off British cultural references that may be lost on younger audiences.
The film’s themes of responsibility and friendship are best appreciated by older viewers.
Space Jam
This film merges animation with live-action but also includes humor and themes that cater more to adults. While kids enjoy the basketball and cartoons, many jokes will resonate more with a grown-up audience.
The cultural references throughout the film can often be overlooked by children.
The Addams Family
This classic film features dark humor and macabre themes, making it unsuitable for younger kids. While it’s beloved for its quirky characters, the humor and situations may be better suited for older audiences.
The film's take on family dynamics provides a unique perspective that adults might appreciate more.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Lilo & Stitch
The film tackles themes of family and belonging but also touches on concepts of trauma and loss. The character's struggles resonate deeply with adults while the humor keeps kids entertained.
The emotional journey is layered, making it impactful for older viewers.
The Little Mermaid
While it’s a Disney favorite, it contains themes of rebellion and sacrifice that might confuse younger audiences. Ariel’s longing for freedom and the price she pays to achieve it presents complex issues.
The film’s messages about identity may resonate more with teenagers and adults.
Spirited Away
This animated classic explores identity and spirituality in ways that can be too complex for young children. While visually stunning, its themes of growing up and self-discovery might resonate more with an older audience.
The film’s surreal elements may be confusing for younger viewers.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
More from IEPMommy
- 30 Beautiful Baby Girl Names You’ll Never Regret Choosing
- Disillusioned Parents Share 26 Harsh Realities of Raising Kids
- We Asked Our Parents to Stop Giving Toys to Our Kids And Give Them These Instead
- The 25 Sweetest and Girliest Names for Your Little Princess
- 20 Common Parenting Habits That Lead to Spoiled Kids—and How to Avoid Them
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
