If there's one thing parents eagerly await at the end of the year, it's the list of new family movies coming out. 2026 is packed with exciting releases, offering plenty of family-friendly entertainment options.

So, what are the most anticipated family movies coming out in 2026? Top new movies to add to your 2026 must-watch list include The Cat in the Hat, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, and Toy Story 5, to name just a few. These films promise a mix of nostalgia, adventure, and heartwarming stories, making them perfect for family viewing. And if you can't make it to the cinemas, don't stress because all of your favourite family movies will be available on streaming services after their initial cinema run - phew!

The Best New Family Movies in 2026

New Family Movies in Cinemas Now

1. Hoppers

Disney-Pixar's 2026 instalment has arrived, and it looks like a hopping good time — pun intended! 

Hoppers is an animated adventure that blends heart, humour and a gentle environmental message. The story follows Mabel, an animal-loving girl who discovers a new technology that allows humans to "hop" their consciousness into robotic animal bodies and communicate with wildlife. Curious and determined, Mabel uses the invention to enter the animal world, only to uncover a threat to their natural habitat. As she navigates friendships, identity and the delicate balance between humans and nature, Mabel must find the courage to stand up for the wild places she loves.

Warm, funny and imaginative, Hoppers explores empathy, conservation and seeing the world through someone else's eyes

2. The Magic Faraway Tree

Us parents might actually be more excited about this new release than the kids! For those who grew up reading the iconic Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton, you'll be thrilled to hear that a live-action remake is coming to cinemas in 2026 with a stellar cast reprising all your favourite characters!

Nicola Coughlan and Andrew Garfield are among the cast as they lead us on the tale of three siblings — Beth, Joe and Franny — who discover a magical forest in the English countryside. At the centre of this magical forest is the Faraway Tree, home to bold and peculiar characters and a portal to several eccentric lands, including the Land of Take What You Want and the Land of Goodies. 

3. GOAT

 

If you're looking for a fun, feel-good new kids' movie, GOAT is a high-energy animated hit that's all about dreaming big and backing yourself.

Set in a colourful world of talking animals, the story follows Will — a small goat with massive ambitions — who gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at playing "roarball", a fast-paced, basketball-style sport dominated by the biggest and toughest animals around. Despite being underestimated at every turn, Will is determined to prove that size doesn't matter and that even the smallest player can be the greatest of all time!

New Family Movies Coming Out in 2026

4. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Release date: 2 April 2026

It's the new family movie release we've all been waiting for! With a superstar cast including Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jack Black, and Keegan-Michael Key, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is an animated action-comedy film set in the world of Nintendo's famous Super Mario Bros series and serves as a sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023). 

5. Toy Story 5

Release date: 18 June 2026

Yes, you read that right, a fifth Toy Story movie is coming out! There is so much to be excited about in the latest Toy Story movie.

While a full trailer hasn't been released yet, we do know that Tom Hanks and Tim Allen will be back as Woody and Buzz, alongside other favourite toys such as Forky, Hamm, Slinky Dog, Bullseye, and Jesse. This time around, the toys are up against a new threat: technology. Toy Story 5 will focus heavily on the impact technology, eg, iPads, mobile phones, Xbox, and computer games, is having on kids and their ability, or lack thereof, to play with traditional toys. 

6. Minions 3

Release date: 2 July 2026

We can't believe there is yet another Minions movie in the works, but there you have it, Minions 3 is hitting cinemas in 2026! 

Universal and Illumination have confirmed that everyone's favourite tiny, mischievous henchmen will return to the big screen in June 2026. And as for the plot, few details have been released, so we're still unsure of what's in store for us in 2026. 

The last time we saw Gru and his devoted Minions, they were just getting started on their journey to world domination in Minions: The Rise of Gru. The mid-credits scene teased a major connection to the original Despicable Me, with Dr Nefario introducing Gru to a high-tech airship that looked suspiciously familiar. Could this mean Minions 3 will bridge the gap between the prequels and the 2010 blockbuster that started it all? There's also the question of Wild Knuckles, Gru's former mentor and legendary villain, who faked his own death in The Rise of Gru. Could he make a return for another action-packed mission? Or will Gru and the Minions take on an entirely new foe as they continue their rise in the villain world?

7. Moana

Release date: 9 July 2026

Did you hear the news? Moana is getting the live-action treatment! Disney's beloved wayfinder is sailing back onto the big screen with a brand-new cast, fresh visuals, and all the heart, humour, and adventurous spirit families fell in love with the first time around.

Expect lush island landscapes, shimmering blue oceans, and epic voyages that feel even more immersive in live action. Moana's fierce determination and infectious bravery shine through as she sets out once again to restore balance to her world, and Maui's larger-than-life antics are set to hit differently when brought to life by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson swaggering across the screen.

Kids will adore seeing Moana's world look so real, they could almost splash into it, while parents can look forward to the same uplifting story about courage, culture, and trusting your inner compass. 

8. The Cat in the Hat

Release date: 3 December 2026

Don your striped hats and embrace the whimsical world of Dr Seuss once more as The Cat in the Hat is making a triumphant return!

Universal Studios is bringing The Cat in the Hat back to the big screen with a brand-new animated adaptation, set for release in March 2026. This fresh take on the classic 1957 tale promises to captivate both new audiences and longtime fans. Leading the voice cast is the versatile Bill Hader as the mischievous Cat. Joining him are Quinta Brunson, Bowen Yang, Xochitl Gomez, and Paula Pell, rounding out a stellar ensemble.

9. Shrek 5

Release date: 26 December 2026

 

After 26 long years, the swamp's most famous ogre is finally making his return to the big screen. Shrek 5 is officially happening, set to hit theatres in 2026, just in time for the 26th anniversary of the original Shrek movie. 

Fans will be thrilled to know that Cameron Diaz, Mike Myers, and Eddie Murphy are all returning to voice their iconic characters, but beyond that, DreamWorks is keeping the plot under wraps. One thing's for sure: for Shrek and Fiona to be pulled away from their peaceful swamp life, something big must be going down.

One possible storyline could focus on their kids, who would now be teenagers, and if raising ogre toddlers was tough, imagine the chaos of dealing with angsty, rebellious ogre teens. There's also the question of what's been happening in Far Far Away since we last left off? Has Prince Charming finally taken a hint? Did Donkey and Dragon's kids turn into full-fledged troublemakers? And what about all the fairytale misfits - are they still living their best storybook lives, or has something gone terribly wrong?

10. The Angry Birds Movie 3

Release date: 26 December 2026

The feathered chaos is back, and things are about to get hilariously explosive all over again. Angry Birds 3 promises bigger battles, sillier gags, and even more reasons for families to fall back in love with Red, Chuck, Bomb and the rest of the wonderfully unhinged flock.

This new chapter launches the birds and pigs into yet another round of mischief, teamwork, and wildly unnecessary problem-solving. Red is still trying to keep his cool, Chuck is still moving faster than anyone can keep up with, and Bomb... well, let's just say he hasn't exactly stopped blowing things up. Expect new characters, new gadgets, and a storyline filled with the kind of slapstick comedy that has kids cackling and parents secretly giggling along.

Taking the kids to the cinema is our saving grace on rainy weekends, during school holidays, or on days when you need them to focus on something other than you! We regularly update this list with new family movies coming to cinemas and kids' movies now available for streaming, so keep checking back to make your next date with your little movie buffs!

More Family-Friendly Shows

Families looking for more screen-time favourites can also explore other popular entertainment guides on ellaslist. You can browse a curated list of popular ABC Kids Shows, check out our round-up of fun Podcasts for Kids, or find top picks in our guide to the Best Kids' Movies on Netflix, which offers plenty of family-friendly titles for cosy nights at home.
 

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