The 40+ Best Movies For 8-Year-Old Boys

Ranker Film
Updated April 15, 2024 43 items
Ranked By
463 votes
57 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the best G and PG-Rated movies for eight year old boys to watch.

Kids today have a lot of different ways to entertain themselves. This list of good movies for 8 year old boys should be added to any young ones entertainment agenda. The next time it rains or snows or your kid says he’s bored; check out the best films for 8 year olds. If you've ever asked yourself, "what movies can eight year old boys watch?" Then this list is for you.

These are all appropriate movies for eight year olds and have are sure to entertain them. Some are animated classics like Cars and Toy Story. However, live action films like Planet of the Apes and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory also made the cut because their tales are truly timeless.

There is nothing more magical for a young child like a well-made movie. Which do you think are the top films for 8 year old boys? Make your voice heard. Vote up or down on the list below. If we missed any kids movies that you love, go ahead and add them.  

Latest additions: Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken, Wonka
Over 50 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 40+ Best Movies For 8-Year-Old Boys
  • Monsters, Inc.
    1

    Monsters, Inc.

    John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Mary Gibbs
    11 votes
    In the enchanting world of Monsters, Inc., James P. Sullivan (John Goodman) and Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal) are top scarers at Monsters, Incorporated. Their job? Harness children's screams as an energy source for their city, Monstropolis. However, chaos ensues when a little girl named Boo (Mary Gibbs) accidentally enters their realm. This animated comedy from Pixar won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. It's a unique tale that explores themes of friendship and fear, while delivering laughs and thrilling moments in equal measure. With memorable characters and a compelling storyline, Monsters, Inc. is a movie that transcends the animation genre.
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  • Big Hero 6
    2

    Big Hero 6

    Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, T.J. Miller
    15 votes
    In the animated blockbuster Big Hero 6, Hiro Hamada (voiced by Ryan Potter), a tech-savvy teenager, uncovers a criminal plot. His brother Tadashi's (Daniel Henney) creation, Baymax (Scott Adsit), an inflatable healthcare robot, becomes an unlikely companion. Together they assemble a team: adrenaline junkie GoGo Tomago (Jamie Chung), neatnik Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), and fanboy Fred (T.J. Miller). Set in the hybrid city of San Fransokyo, this action-packed adventure won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2015. The film is a unique fusion of robotics, friendship, and superhero genre elements that makes for a fun ride.
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  • Home Alone
    3

    Home Alone

    Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
    27 votes
    Home Alone, a comedic family film, spins the tale of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), an 8-year-old boy accidentally left behind when his family flies to Paris for Christmas. In their absence, he must defend his suburban Chicago home from two bumbling burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern). Using wit and daring traps, Kevin turns the tables on the intruders. Directed by Chris Columbus, this movie won a British Comedy Award and received two Academy Award nominations, cementing its place in holiday movie history. It's a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and the indomitable spirit of a child.
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  • Finding Nemo
    4

    Finding Nemo

    Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould
    13 votes
    Dive into the vibrant, underwater world of Finding Nemo, a Pixar-animated adventure brimming with humor and heart. Marlin (Albert Brooks), an overprotective clownfish, embarks on a daring rescue mission across the ocean when his son, Nemo (Alexander Gould), is captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank in a dentist's office. Alongside Dory (Ellen DeGeneres), a forgetful but friendly blue tang, Marlin faces dangerous waters, meeting eccentric sea creatures along the way. This film, awarded the Best Animated Feature at the 76th Academy Awards, masterfully combines compelling storytelling with stunning visual artistry.
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  • Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope
    5

    Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope

    Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
    16 votes
    In Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, a young farm boy, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), finds himself thrust into the heart of an intergalactic conflict. Guided by the wise Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), he embarks on a daring mission to rescue Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) from the clutches of the sinister Darth Vader (David Prowse). As space operas go, this one's a classic, brimming with enthralling battles, iconic characters, and a groundbreaking mix of practical effects and CGI. Winner of six Academy Awards, it's a pivotal entry in George Lucas's legendary Star Wars saga.
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  • The Goonies
    6

    The Goonies

    Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen
    19 votes
    In the heart of Astoria, Oregon, a band of misfit kids known as The Goonies embark on a wild adventure after finding an old pirate map in Mikey's (Sean Astin) attic. Together with his brother Brand (Josh Brolin), and friends Chunk (Jeff Cohen), Mouth (Corey Feldman), Data (Ke Huy Quan), Andy (Kerri Green) and Stef (Martha Plimpton), they set out to unearth the long-lost fortune of infamous pirate One-Eyed Willy. Chased by the nefarious Fratelli family, their journey is packed with booby traps, puzzles and swashbuckling danger. Directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies is a timeless adventure-comedy that celebrates friendship and courage.
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  • Treasure Planet
    7

    Treasure Planet

    Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Brian Murray, David Hyde Pierce
    10 votes
    In Disney's animated sci-fi adventure, Treasure Planet, Jim Hawkins (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) embarks on a daring intergalactic quest. A map leads him to the fabled Treasure Planet, chasing riches beyond imagination. Accompanied by quirky cyborg cook John Silver (Brian Murray), the duo navigates through black holes and supernovas. This film, nominated for an Academy Award, reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson's classic tale 'Treasure Island' in a futuristic setting. It is a journey of self-discovery as much as it is about treasure hunting, fraught with danger and unexpected friendships.
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  • Mr. Bean's Holiday
    8

    Mr. Bean's Holiday

    Rowan Atkinson, Emma de Caunes, Willem Dafoe
    10 votes
    When London's wet weather becomes too much to bear, pratfall-prone Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson) heads to the French Riviera for some fun in the sun. As usual, his plans do not go smoothly, and he is mistaken for both a kidnapper and an award-winning filmmaker when he arrives with a Romanian director's son and an aspiring actress in tow.
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  • The Iron Giant
    9

    The Iron Giant

    Jennifer Aniston, Eli Marienthal, Harry Connick
    17 votes
    In the animated feature The Iron Giant, young Hogarth Hughes (Eli Marienthal) stumbles upon a colossal, alien robot (Vin Diesel) in his small 1950s Maine town. The film, expertly crafted by director Brad Bird, is a tale of friendship and fear, as paranoia about the Cold War escalates. Filled with suspense and humor, it's a race against time as Hogarth tries to protect his gigantic friend from government agent Kent Mansley (Christopher McDonald). This film won nine Annie Awards, including Best Animated Feature. It's a captivating journey that explores the bonds of friendship amidst societal tension.
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  • The Jungle Book
    10

    The Jungle Book

    Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, Louis Prima
    16 votes
    Mowgli (Bruce Reitherman) is an orphaned boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. As the threat of the fierce tiger, Shere Khan (George Sanders), approaches, Mowgli is forced to leave his wolf family and embark on a journey to the human village. Along the way, he meets memorable friends and foes like Baloo the bear (Phil Harris) and the hypnotic snake Kaa (Sterling Holloway).
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  • The Fox and the Hound
    11

    The Fox and the Hound

    Mickey Rooney, Kurt Russell, Pearl Bailey
    9 votes
    In the heart of Disney's animated feature, The Fox and the Hound, we follow Tod (Mickey Rooney), a red fox kit, and Copper (Kurt Russell), a hound dog puppy. The two forge an unlikely friendship that defies their natural instincts. As they grow, societal expectations force them onto diverging paths, testing their bond. This family-friendly drama, with its narrative rooted in loyalty and friendship, won acclaim for its storytelling. It is a compelling exploration of nature versus nurture, where characters are pitched against the world's harsh realities.
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  • Hercules
    12

    Hercules

    Tate Donovan, Josh Keaton, Roger Bart
    9 votes
    Hercules (Tate Donovan), the son of Zeus (Rip Torn) and Hera (Samantha Eggar), is stripped of his godhood as an infant. Raised on Earth, he must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his place on Mount Olympus. With the help of his trainer, Philoctetes (Danny DeVito), and Megara (Susan Egan), a cunning woman with her own agenda, Hercules faces off against the vindictive Hades (James Woods).
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  • Aladdin
    13

    Aladdin

    Scott Weinger, Robin Williams, Linda Larkin
    15 votes
    Aladdin, a 1992 animated feature film, is a magical adventure packed with wit and warmth. Aladdin (voiced by Scott Weinger), a street-smart commoner, dreams of a life beyond the confines of his desert town. Enter Princess Jasmine (Linda Larkin), who yearns for freedom from her royal obligations. The narrative escalates when Aladdin stumbles upon a magic lamp housing an all-powerful Genie (Robin Williams). As Aladdin navigates palace intrigue, love, and his own self-doubt, he must use this newfound power wisely. This Disney classic won two Academy Awards for its memorable music.
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  • The Muppets Take Manhattan
    14

    The Muppets Take Manhattan

    Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Dave Goelz
    15 votes
    In The Muppets Take Manhattan, Kermit (Jim Henson), Miss Piggy (Frank Oz), and the rest of the Muppet gang embark on a quest to take Broadway by storm. Armed with their college musical, Manhattan Melodies, they hit the big city with dreams of stardom. However, when their plans fall apart, it's up to Kermit to bring back his friends and put on the show of a lifetime. A delightful mix of comedy and musical, this film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score, adding another feather in the cap of this lovable troupe.
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  • Benji
    15

    Benji

    Peter Breck, Chris Connelly, Patsy Garrett
    11 votes
    Stray dog Benji doesn't need an owner, preferring to roam freely all over his friendly Texas town. He delights in hectoring the cat of a local widow (Frances Bavier), and can always rely on a kindly shopkeeper (Edgar Buchanan) for a handout. But, when two children Benji loves are kidnapped and held for ransom, the dog springs into action, taking it upon himself to foil the crooks and save the day. Along the way, he also falls in love with a beautiful Maltese named Tiffany.
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  • Toy Story 3
    16

    Toy Story 3

    Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
    11 votes
    In Toy Story 3, Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the rest of their toy companions face an uncertain future as their owner, Andy, prepares to leave for college. Unintentionally donated to a chaotic daycare center, they find themselves in a thrilling escapade to return home. Amidst the adventure, they encounter deceptively cuddly bear Lotso (Ned Beatty), who rules the daycare with an iron fist. The film, a delightful blend of comedy and drama, won two Academy Awards - Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
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  • The Karate Kid
    17

    The Karate Kid

    Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
    18 votes
    In the heart of the 1984 martial arts drama The Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), a high school student, finds himself in the crosshairs of bullies at his new school. To defend himself, he seeks guidance from a wise and enigmatic karate master Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita). Through rigorous training, Daniel learns not just about physical combat but also life's profound lessons. Directed by John G. Avildsen, this film gained an Academy Award nomination for Morita and remains one of the most enduring classics in its genre.
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  • The Land Before Time
    18

    The Land Before Time

    Gabriel Damon, Candace Hutson, Judith Barsi
    15 votes
    In the animated adventure The Land Before Time, Littlefoot (Gabriel Damon) embarks on a journey of epic proportions. Separated from his family due to an unforeseen natural disaster, this young Brontosaurus is compelled to traverse harsh terrains. Alongside him are four other dinosaur companions - Cera (Candace Hutson), Petrie (Will Ryan), Ducky (Judith Barsi), and Spike (Frank Welker). Their quest? To seek out the fabled Great Valley, a supposed sanctuary from predation and calamity. Directed by Don Bluth, this prehistoric tale weaves friendship, bravery, and survival into a captivating narrative that transcends time. To this day, it's an enduring classic in the realm of children's cinema.
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  • Up
    19

    Up

    Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai
    7 votes
    Up, an animation adventure film, spins a story of unexpected friendships and unforeseen journeys. Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner), a retired balloon salesman, embarks on a whimsical journey after he ties thousands of balloons to his house. Russell (Jordan Nagai), a young wilderness explorer, accidentally joins him in this airborne odyssey. The two navigate diverse landscapes and meet colorful characters, including the exotic bird Kevin and the talking dog Dug (Bob Peterson). This Pixar creation, directed by Pete Docter, won the 2010 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, a testament to its imaginative storytelling.
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  • Tron
    20

    Tron

    Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner
    10 votes
    In the groundbreaking 1982 film Tron, Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a computer programmer, finds himself digitized and thrust into a neon-lit cyber universe. This digital realm is ruled by the villainous Master Control Program and its henchman Sark (David Warner). Accompanied by security program Tron (Bruce Boxleitner) and Yori (Cindy Morgan), Flynn embarks on a high-stakes quest to dismantle the oppressive regime. A unique blend of science fiction and action, Tron is celebrated for its pioneering use of computer graphics, setting new standards in visual effects.
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  • The Muppets
    21

    The Muppets

    Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper
    12 votes
    In The Muppets, a musical comedy, iconic puppet characters unite to save their old theater from a ruthless oil tycoon. Gary (Jason Segel), his girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams), and his brother Walter (a Muppet fan) rally Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang for one big performance. Despite their individual pursuits and challenges, they come together once more for this grand endeavor. This 2011 film, directed by James Bobin, combines humor, music, and friendship in a heartwarming tale about preserving a cherished legacy.
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  • The Sandlot
    22

    The Sandlot

    Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
    12 votes
    In the heart of summer 1962, a group of boys gather at The Sandlot, a local baseball diamond. The movie follows Scotty Smalls (Tom Guiry), who recently moved to the neighborhood and struggles to fit in. Benny Rodriguez (Mike Vitar), the team's star player, takes him under his wing. Together they embark on a series of adventures involving a monstrous dog nicknamed The Beast, and a coveted Babe Ruth baseball. This coming-of-age film, directed by David Mickey Evans, blends comedy with drama as it explores friendship, courage, and the joyous days of youth.
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  • Cars
    23

    Cars

    Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt
    11 votes
    In the animated film Cars, Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson), a brash racecar finds himself in a forgotten town, Radiator Springs. There, he meets an array of unique characters like Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) and Doc Hudson (Paul Newman). Through these interactions, McQueen learns the value of friendship and humility. Directed by John Lasseter, this film won the first Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film. A blend of comedy, adventure, and drama, Cars is a heartwarming tale about slowing down to appreciate life's simpler pleasures.
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  • Explorers
    24

    Explorers

    Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson
    8 votes
    In Explorers, a sci-fi adventure movie, three young boys - Ben Crandall (Ethan Hawke), Wolfgang Müller (River Phoenix), and Darren Woods (Jason Presson) - stumble upon the blueprints of a spaceship. Intrigued by the discovery, they construct an operational spacecraft from scratch. Their unorthodox invention takes them on an unexpected journey into the cosmos, leading to encounters with alien life forms and astonishing interstellar experiences. The film is helmed by director Joe Dante, known for his distinct blend of humor and science fiction. It's a tale of youthful curiosity, friendship, and the uncharted territories of outer space.
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  • The Kid Who Would Be King
    25

    The Kid Who Would Be King

    Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Rebecca Ferguson, Patrick Stewart
    8 votes
    In the family-friendly adventure movie The Kid Who Would Be King, young Alex Elliot (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) stumbles upon the legendary Excalibur, setting him on an unexpected journey of heroism. Aided by his friends and mentored by a disguised Merlin (Sir Patrick Stewart), he must thwart the wicked enchantress Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson) who threatens to plunge Britain into darkness. This modern spin on Arthurian legends seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy and action, bringing age-old myths to life in contemporary times. It's not just about being a king; it's about courage, friendship, and standing up against evil - no matter your size or age.
  • The Black Stallion
    26

    The Black Stallion

    Kelly Reno, Mickey Rooney, Teri Garr
    8 votes
    Alec (Kelly Reno) encounters a magnificent black Arabian horse while traveling aboard a steamship around the coast of North Africa with his father (Hoyt Axton). When a disaster destroys the ship, Alec frees the horse and escapes with it to a nearby island, where they form a close bond. When Alec is rescued, he insists the horse be rescued too, and both return to America. There, Alec and former jockey Henry (Mickey Rooney) work to train the horse, which Alec names "The Black," for a race.
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  • The Last Starfighter
    27

    The Last Starfighter

    Lance Guest, Robert Preston, Dan O'Herlihy
    10 votes
    In The Last Starfighter, Alex Rogan (Lance Guest) is a teenager with dreams bigger than his small town life. After achieving the highest score on a video game, he's whisked away by an alien named Centauri (Robert Preston), revealing that the game was a test for real-life starfighters. Plunged into an interstellar conflict as Earth's sole representative, Alex must rise to the occasion and become the hero he always longed to be. This 1984 sci-fi adventure combines elements of coming-of-age stories with thrilling space opera, demonstrating innovative use of computer-generated imagery in its time.
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  • Free Willy
    28

    Free Willy

    Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson
    10 votes
    In the 1993 family drama Free Willy, Jesse (Jason James Richter) is a rebellious young boy placed into foster care. He finds an unexpected connection with Willy, a captive orca in a local amusement park. The movie weaves a heartwarming tale of friendship as Jesse fights to free his aquatic friend from captivity. Directed by Simon Wincer, the film also stars Lori Petty and Michael Madsen as Jesse's supportive foster parents. Until now, Free Willy remains a beloved classic in the realm of children's cinema.
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  • The Polar Express
    29

    The Polar Express

    Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Nona Gaye
    12 votes
    In the enchanting animation, The Polar Express, a young boy (Daryl Sabara) embarks on an extraordinary journey to the North Pole aboard a magical train. Tom Hanks lends his voice to multiple roles, including the charismatic Conductor and the mysterious Hobo. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this film is a captivating mix of adventure and fantasy that won three Oscar nominations. With its groundbreaking motion capture technology, The Polar Express offers viewers a visually stunning trip into the heart of Christmas wonderment without revealing Santa's biggest secret.
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  • Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
    30

    Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

    Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum
    14 votes
    In the musical fantasy film, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Charlie Bucket (Peter Ostrum), a poor boy, stumbles upon a golden ticket. This ticket grants him access to the enigmatic chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder), an eccentric candy maker. Inside this whimsical world, Charlie and four other children embark on a surreal adventure filled with Oompa-Loompas, edible landscapes, and remarkable inventions. However, as they journey deeper into the factory, their character flaws surface in unexpected ways. Directed by Mel Stuart, this 1971 movie is a celebrated adaptation of Roald Dahl's book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.