Top Family-Friendly Action Movies of the Last Decade to Watch This New Year’s Eve

Over the last decade, a variety of action movies have been released that offer excitement, heart, and adventure suitable for all ages. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 30 family-friendly action films, complete with IMDb ratings and detailed descriptions of each movie’s plot and appeal.

1. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) – IMDb: 8.4
   Director: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman
   This groundbreaking animated film follows Miles Morales, a Brooklyn teenager who becomes a new version of Spider-Man. When a dimensional rift brings multiple Spider-Men from alternate realities together, Miles must learn to embrace his powers and lead them in a mission to save the multiverse. With its vibrant animation style, clever storytelling, and themes of bravery and self-discovery, this film is perfect for both kids and adults.
   Why Watch It?: It’s visually stunning, packed with action, and resonates with themes of family, identity, and embracing one’s potential.
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019) – IMDb: 8.4
   Director: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
   The epic conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Infinity Saga brings together all the Avengers as they attempt to undo the catastrophic damage caused by Thanos. Packed with thrilling action scenes, emotional moments, and superhero team-ups, it marks the end of an era for some of the most beloved characters.
   Why Watch It?: It’s the culmination of over a decade of superhero storytelling, filled with incredible action sequences and heartfelt moments that resonate with all generations.
3. The Incredibles 2 (2018) – IMDb: 7.6
   Director: Brad Bird
   The Parr family returns in this much-anticipated sequel, with Elastigirl taking the lead as the world’s most famous superhero while Mr. Incredible stays home to take care of the kids. As the family battles new villains and uncovers hidden truths, the action and humor make it a fantastic family movie.
   Why Watch It?: It blends family dynamics, superpowered action, and clever humor, making it an ideal choice for both kids and parents.
4. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) – IMDb: 6.9
   Director: Jake Kasdan
   Four high school students are sucked into a mysterious video game and must navigate its dangerous jungle world to escape. They assume the roles of their avatars, including the likes of Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Karen Gillan. This film is filled with physical comedy, heart-pounding action, and a great cast.
   Why Watch It?: It’s a fun and action-packed adventure with humor that appeals to both younger and older audiences, making it perfect for a family movie night.
5. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017) – IMDb: 7.6
   Director: James Gunn
   The Guardians continue their cosmic adventures, but this time, they are faced with personal struggles and a complex family dynamic, especially with the introduction of Star-Lord’s long-lost father, Ego the Living Planet.
   Why Watch It?: The movie is a visually vibrant space adventure with a strong emotional core and plenty of humor. It explores themes of family and belonging.
6. Aquaman (2018) – IMDb: 6.9
   Director: James Wan
   Arthur Curry, also known as Aquaman, must embrace his destiny as the king of Atlantis and stop his half-brother Orm from launching a war against the surface world. With stunning underwater battles, ancient secrets, and colorful action scenes, this movie delivers a great cinematic adventure.
   Why Watch It?: The stunning underwater visuals, action sequences, and themes of family and heroism make it a great fit for families looking for an action-packed escape.
7. The LEGO Movie (2014) – IMDb: 7.7
   Director: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
   Emmet, a regular construction worker LEGO figure, is mistaken for the prophesied “Special” and must save the LEGO universe from the evil tyrant, President Business. A fun mix of action, humor, and heart, this animated movie is ideal for families.
   Why Watch It?: It’s a creative and humorous adventure with a heartwarming message about individuality and teamwork.
8. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019) – IMDb: 6.5
   Director: J.J. Abrams
   The final installment of the Skywalker saga sees Rey continuing her training as a Jedi while confronting the returned Emperor Palpatine. This action-packed film concludes the long-running space epic with explosive battles and emotional moments.
   Why Watch It?: It’s the conclusion of the legendary saga, filled with thrilling space battles and heartfelt goodbyes.
9. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) – IMDb: 8.3
   Director: Jon Watts
   After revealing his identity as Spider-Man, Peter Parker seeks help from Doctor Strange to erase everyone’s memories. However, things go wrong, and villains from other universes begin to appear. With the return of familiar Spider-Man faces and plenty of action, this film is an unforgettable superhero adventure.
   Why Watch It?: It blends nostalgia with exciting action and is a treat for fans of all ages who love superhero films.
10. How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019) – IMDb: 7.5
    Director: Dean DeBlois
    In the final chapter of the “How to Train Your Dragon” series, Hiccup and Toothless embark on an epic journey to find the mythical Hidden World. With breathtaking visuals, heart-stopping dragon battles, and emotional goodbyes, this film is a thrilling ride from start to finish.
    Why Watch It?: The dragon-filled adventure is full of action, while exploring themes of friendship, responsibility, and growing up.
11. Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016) – IMDb: 7.1
    Director: Jennifer Yuh Nelson, Alessandro Carloni
    Po, the Dragon Warrior, must embrace his heritage when he reunites with his biological father and learns the true meaning of kung fu.
    Why Watch It?: The film is packed with martial arts action, vibrant animation, and uplifting messages of self-belief and family.
12. Zootopia (2016) – IMDb: 8.0
    Director: Byron Howard, Rich Moore
    In a world of anthropomorphic animals, Judy Hopps, a rookie bunny cop, teams up with a streetwise fox, Nick Wilde, to solve a mystery. Full of thrilling action and clever humor, Zootopia also touches on themes of prejudice and unity.
    Why Watch It?: It offers a delightful mix of adventure, witty dialogue, and important social messages, making it perfect for kids and adults.
13. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) – IMDb: 7.4
    Director: Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada
    Raya, a skilled warrior, embarks on a quest to find the last dragon and save her fractured kingdom from an evil force known as the Druun. This action-packed film is filled with stunning animation, intense battle sequences, and a heartfelt story about trust and unity.
    Why Watch It?: It’s a visually stunning fantasy adventure with rich world-building, and its positive messages of teamwork and courage make it a great family film.
14. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018) – IMDb: 7.7
    Director: Christopher McQuarrie
    Ethan Hunt finds himself on a high-stakes mission to retrieve stolen plutonium. As usual, the film is filled with jaw-dropping action sequences, from skydiving to car chases, as well as intricate spy work.
    Why Watch It?: This is a great pick for families with older teens, offering adrenaline-pumping action and intense drama with a touch of humor.
15. Shazam! (2019) – IMDb: 7.0
    Director: David F. Sandberg
    A teenage boy magically transforms into an adult superhero with the power of the word “Shazam.” It’s a fun, lighthearted superhero film full of humor and heart, offering lots of action and adventure.
    Why Watch It?: The combination of superhero action and teen humor makes it a fantastic choice for families with kids and teens.
16. The Secret Life of Pets 2 (2019) – IMDb: 6.5
    Director: Chris Renaud, Jonathan del Val
    Max the dog struggles with his owner’s growing family, while his fellow pets face their own hilarious and action-packed adventures.
    Why Watch It?: It’s a light and fun action movie that both kids and parents will enjoy, filled with adorable animals and comedic moments.

Conclusion

This list of the top 30 family-friendly action films from the last decade offers a diverse array of adventures, from superhero epics to animated masterpieces and thrilling heists. These films are not only filled with heart-pounding action but also rich storytelling and positive messages, making them ideal for family movie nights this New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re in the mood for space battles, dragon adventures, or classic superhero action, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your popcorn, snuggle up, and get ready to ring in the New Year with some unforgettable cinematic moments!