Best Ninja Movies for Kids to Watch
In this post: The ultimate list of ninja movies for kids to watch! The whole family will be sure to love these martial arts movies.
Top Ninja Movies for Kids to Watch
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Do you want to know what movie genre will always be a hit with kids? Ninja movies! They have been captivating young audiences for decades!
There’s just something incredibly fun and exciting about watching stealthy warriors, epic fight scenes, and the triumph of good over evil.
But ninja films for kids are not just about action and adventure; they often carry positive messages about teamwork, courage, and perseverance, which makes for a perfect family movie for movie night.
Below, we’ll go over a complete list of the best ninja movies for kids to make your next family movie night packed with excitement and valuable lessons.
What Makes a Good Ninja Movie for Kids?
When looking for family movies to watch, there are a few things to look out for when finding the perfect ninja flick.
- It is age-appropriate. Choosing an age-appropriate ninja movie is crucial. Movies like “Kung Fu Panda” and “The Lego Ninjago Movie” are perfect for younger kids, while older kids might enjoy more intense martial arts films like “The Karate Kid” or “Ip Man.” Always remember to check movie ratings and reviews to make sure the content is appropriate for your child’s age group.
- There is a positive message involved. Good ninja movies often highlight themes such as teamwork, courage, and perseverance. For instance, in “Kung Fu Panda,” Po learns that self-belief and perseverance can help him achieve greatness, while “The Karate Kid” emphasizes the importance of discipline and respect through Mr. Miyagi’s teachings.
- There is action and adventure. Kid-friendly action scenes are a staple of ninja movies. We’re looking for exciting fight scenes with slapstick comedy without gore and lots of blood.
Top 10 Best Ninja Movies for Kids
In no particular order, here are the top ninja movies out there for you to watch with your kids!
3 Ninjas (1992)
Three young brothers trained by their Japanese grandfather use their ninja skills to fight off bad guys and save their family. The mix of martial arts and humor is perfect for young audiences. This was one of my favorites as a kid. You can’t go wrong with this one!
- Key Characters: Rocky, Colt, Tum Tum.
- Parental Notes: Some scenes of mild violence are good for elementary-aged kids.
There are actually four movies total in this movie saga, and all are great choices! The movies include 3 Ninjas, 3 Ninjas Kick Back, 3 Ninjas Knuckle Up, and 3 Ninjas High Noon at Mega Mountain.
The Lego Ninjago Movie (2017)
A group of teenage ninjas, led by Lloyd, must save their city from the evil warlord Garmadon. The movie combines humor, action, and heartwarming moments with the fun of Lego
- Key Characters: Lloyd (Dave Franco), Master Wu (Jackie Chan), Garmadon (Justin Theroux).
- Parental Notes: Mild action scenes and slapstick comedy make it suitable for younger kids.
The Karate Kid (1984)
- Plot Summary: A young boy learns karate from a martial arts master to defend himself against bullies.
- Key Characters: Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita).
- Why Kids Will Love It: Inspiring story of mentorship and self-discovery.
- Parental Notes: Some intense scenes; best for older kids.
Starting as far back as 1984, there are a total of six Karate Kid movies! There are four originals, a remake that came out in 2010 and another Karate Kid remake set to release in 2025. You can’t go wrong with any of these classics.
The Spy Next Door (2010)
A former CIA spy takes on the challenge of babysitting his neighbor’s kids, who soon discover his secret identity. Fun mix of action and comedy, with Jackie Chan’s signature style.
- Key Characters: Bob Ho (Jackie Chan).
- Parental Notes: Suitable for most ages with some mild action.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)
The Turtles take on a new threat to their city while trying to blend in with society. Exciting fight scenes, great teamwork, and lots of humor.
- Key Characters: Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael.
- Parental Notes: Action-packed but generally suitable for kids 7 and up.
There are multiple other TMNT movies from this franchise that are also great, but the most recent one is a family favorite in our household.
First Strike (1996)
Jackie Chan stars as a cop who gets caught up in an international espionage plot. Amazing stunts and martial arts choreography.
- Key Characters: Jackie Chan.
- Parental Notes: Some scenes of intense action; best for older kids.
Kung Fu Panda (2008)
- Plot Summary: Po, an unlikely hero, trains to become a kung fu master and save the Valley of Peace from a villainous snow leopard.
- Key Characters: Po (Jack Black), Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman), Tai Lung.
- Why Kids Will Love It: Hilarious moments, vibrant animation, and inspiring messages.
- Parental Notes: Family-friendly with mild cartoon violence.
This is another great franchise that includes four total movies. I recommend doing a marathon with your kiddos on a rainy day and watching all four movies.
Sidekicks (1992)
A bullied teenager finds confidence and friendship through martial arts training. Inspiring and heartwarming story with action-packed scenes.
- Key Characters: Barry Gabrewski (Jonathan Brandis), Chuck Norris.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for older kids due to some intense themes.
Ip Man (2008)
The life story of Ip Man, the grandmaster of Wing Chun and mentor to Bruce Lee. Historical context and incredible martial arts sequences.
- Key Characters: Ip Man (Donnie Yen).
- Parental Notes: Suitable for older kids due to violence and historical themes.
Surf Ninjas (1993)
Two brothers discover they are princes of a small island nation and must save their homeland using their newfound ninja skills. Combines surfing, comedy, and ninja action.
- Key Characters: Johnny, Adam, Iggy.
- Parental Notes: Lighthearted and fun, suitable for most age groups.
Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank (2022)
A lovable dog dreams of becoming a samurai and sets out on an adventure to save his town. Combines humor and action in a kid-friendly package.
- Key Characters: Hank, Sumo, Shogun.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for all ages with some mild action scenes.
The Last Airbender (2010)
A young boy discovers he is the last of the Airbenders and must master all four elements to save the world. Epic adventure with a rich fantasy setting.
- Key Characters: Aang, Katara, Sokka.
- Parental Notes: Some intense scenes; best for older kids.
Shaolin Soccer (2001)
A young martial artist reunites his former Shaolin brothers to form a soccer team and enter a prestigious tournament. Combines martial arts with slapstick comedy.
- Key Characters: Sing, Fung.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for all ages with some mild action and humor.
The Karate Dog (2004)
A crime-fighting dog with kung fu skills partners with a detective to solve a murder mystery. Fun and entertaining with plenty of laughs.
- Key Characters: Cho-Cho (voiced by Chevy Chase), Peter Fowler.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for most ages with some mild action scenes.
Kung Fu Hustle (2005)
A hapless thug aspires to join the most notorious gang in town, only to discover his own hidden kung fu talents. Hilarious and action-packed.
- Key Characters: Sing, Brother Sum.
- Parental Notes: Some intense scenes; best for older kids and teens.
Mulan (2020)
A young woman disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army and defend China from invaders. Inspiring story of bravery and self-discovery.
- Key Characters: Mulan (Liu Yifei), Commander Tung.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for all ages with some mild action and war scenes.
There is, of course, the original cartoon for Mulan, as well, which is also a great family movie.
Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior (2006)
A typical American teenager discovers she is the reincarnation of a powerful warrior destined to save the world. Fun mix of high school drama and martial arts action.
- Key Characters: Wendy Wu (Brenda Song), Shen.
- Parental Notes: Suitable for all ages with some mild action scenes.
Power Rangers (2017)
Five ordinary teens must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. With teamwork and martial arts, they become the Power Rangers and save the day.
- Key Characters: Jason (Dacre Montgomery), Kimberly (Naomi Scott), Billy (RJ Cyler).
- Parental Notes: Suitable for most ages with some intense action scenes and mild language.
Additional Ninja-Themed Content for Kids
There are also lots of great ninja shows your kids can watch, too. Here are some of the best options:
- Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu
- Power Rangers
- Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness
- Hello Ninja
- House of Ninjas
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Final Thoughts
There you have it — a complete list of really great choices for a family movie night. These ninja films will be a hit with the entire family!
Did you add any of the movies to your watchlist? Do you have any favorites from the list? Would you add any? I would love to hear from you in the comments!
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