We may earn a commission from links on this page. What’s a film-loving parent got to do to inspire in their kid a genuine love of quality cinema? I’m talking arthouse classics, foreign films, movies that don’t come with a franchise attached, etc. Having no kids of my own, I have no idea, but the answer very frequently seems to be “give up.” You’ll never make them love what you want them to love; trying to force it can push them further away. Often, kids need to discover their own taste. Still, my experience in education tells me that if you can’t force kids to appreciate the finer things in life, you can steer them in the right direction, as long as you do it with subtlety, and with the sure and certain knowledge that the seeds you are planting might not bear fruit for years. A good way to start is by showing them “artsy” movies that they might actually like.
Unlock Your Child's Love for Quality Cinema with These Inspiring Films
Playtime (1967)
Jacques Tati directs and stars in this third and arguably most beloved film of his four featuring Monsieur Hulot. Set in a hyper-modern Paris in 1967, it's full of elaborate set pieces that are both deeply silly and pointed satire. The harmless Hulot is hard not to love, and his adventures through a world that's a bit too loud and confusing, yet still relatable to both kids and adults, are a must-see. You can stream Playtime on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video.Kids will find themselves identifying with Hulot as he navigates a world that often doesn't notice him until he breaks a rule he didn't even know about. This film offers a unique perspective on life and humor that is sure to engage and entertain.Dreams (1990)
Baby's first Akira Kurosawa! One of the great Japanese director's final films, Dreams is not a singular narrative but a series of eight vignettes. Each segment features a character like the director himself traveling through different dream worlds, showing a range of emotions from poignant to funny to scary.For example, there are foxes that must be appeased and a Van Gogh painting that comes to life. This film is a visual and emotional feast that will leave kids with a lasting impression. You can rent Dreams from Prime Video.The Cave of the Yellow Dog (2005)
This sweet and gentle fable from Mongolia follows Nansal as she brings a pup she dubs Zochor home from boarding school. Her father is opposed to keeping the dog for practical reasons, but both Nansal and the dog have lessons to learn.It's not just a story about a kid and a dog; it's about understanding and respecting each other's perspectives. You can stream The Cave of the Yellow Dog on Tubi and on Kino Lorber's YouTube channel.The Tales of Hoffmann (1951)
Another anthology film suitable for kids who might struggle with longer narratives. Based on the stories of German author E. T. A. Hoffmann, it uses Hoffman telling stories of his lost loves in a tavern as a framing device.Segments include an automaton, a reflection-stealing courtesan, and a soprano forced to sing against her will. With elements of dance and opera throughout, it's an introduction to classic cinema and multiple worlds of art. You can stream The Tales of Hoffmann on Plex.Good Morning (1959)
Japanese director Yasujirō Ozu's Good Morning is a delightful late-career comedy that satirizes suburban life in 1950s Japan. There are subplots involving young students trying to convince their parents to buy a television set.Who can't relate to this desire for something that parents might not be willing to provide? You can stream Good Morning on Max, The Criterion Channel, and Tubi, or rent it on Prime Video.The Red Balloon (1956)
At just over 30 minutes, Albert Lamorisse's story of a kid chasing the titular balloon is delightful, especially for younger children. The director's son plays Pascal, who makes friends with the balloon like a precocious puppy.The balloon gets Pascal into trouble but also has a beautifully uplifting finale. You can stream The Red Balloon on Max and The Criterion Channel, or rent it from Prime Video.Whale Rider (2002)
Thirteen-year-old Keisha Castle-Hughes became the youngest Best Actress nominee in Oscar history for her role in this movie. It tells the story of Paikea Apirana, a descendent of her people's traditional Whale Rider.Despite facing challenges as a girl, she desires to claim her right and buck tradition. It's an uplifting story that honors her journey. You can stream Whale Rider on Tubi and Kanopy or rent it from Prime Video.Ernest & Celestine (2012)
This cute cartoon is in French but less of a tough sell for kids. It's about a bear and a mouse who become friends after a candy heist gone wrong.Beautifully animated and idiosyncratic, it shows the prejudice between bears and mice. It got a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars. You can stream Ernest & Celestine on Tubi.Wallay (2017)
Thirteen-year-old Ady is sent to spend time with his uncle in Burkina Faso. He thinks it's a vacation but discovers a clash of cultures and the push-and-pull of tradition and modernity.The issue of traditional circumcision becomes a major sticking point. You can rent Wallay from Prime Video.The Young Girls of Rochefort (1967)
Jacques Demy's earlier musical The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is gorgeous but might not resonate with kids. The Young Girls of Rochefort, on the other hand, is a candy-colored confection that's more uplifting.A dance instructor and a music teacher live in a small town and long for big-city life. When the fair comes, they get a taste of movie star glamour. Kids can easily relate. You can stream The Young Girls of Rochefort on Max and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video.Petite Maman (2021)
A bit heavier in theme than some others, Petite Maman is a perfectly crafted childhood fantasia. Using the death of a grandmother as a starting point, it explores grief, family relationships, and the persistence of love.Nelly's trip to clean out her grandma's home leads to an understanding of her mother and a goodbye to her grandma. You can stream Petite Maman on Kanopy or rent it from Prime Video.White Mane (1953)
Short at 47 minutes and with horses, this film is a winning formula for a certain type of kid and adult. Albert Lamorisse directs the story of a boy from the marshes of coastal France who makes a deal to catch a beautiful white stallion.Both the boy and the horse become kindred spirits. You can stream White Mane on The Criterion Channel.Breakfast with Scot (2007)
An American, English-speaking kid can dip their toes into foreign film with Breakfast with Scot. It's a cute, funny family movie about love and acceptance.Sportscaster Eric and his partner Sam take in Sam's brother's stepson Scot, who challenges their traditional views. You can stream Breakfast with Scot on Tubi and Here TV or rent it on Prime Video.READ MORE