Wingardium Leviosa! Accio, Remote Control! Check Out These Family-Friendly Films Like ‘Harry Potter’—Dress Robes Optional.
by Alex Morgan
Updated: April 30, 2022
Let’s be real for a moment. We’ve all probably watched the Harry Potter films a tad too often, and frankly, we’re not sorry about it! There’s no such thing as too much Hogwarts magic on screen! However, it might be time to explore other enchanting films that capture that same sense of wonder. Here’s a list of movies similar to Harry Potter that will keep the magic alive for your family.
We won’t include the sequels to the Harry Potter series or any of the Fantastic Beasts films. You’ve seen those countless times, and we know you’re a true Potterhead! Instead, we’ve compiled a list of enchanting films outside the Harry Potter universe to keep your watchlist fresh. While no story can truly rival that of The Boy Who Lived, we can still celebrate the creative talents bringing magic to life on-screen. So grab that remote!
Magical Movies to Watch ASAP:
- The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
Why isn’t this film discussed more? This fantasy, based on the books by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, follows Jared and his siblings as they discover a hidden world filled with magical creatures. Just a heads up, your kids will want a pet “brownie” after watching! - The Chronicles of Narnia Trilogy (2005 – 2010)
If you’re familiar with C.S. Lewis’s beloved series, you know this trilogy is a must-watch. The Pevensie siblings stumble into a wardrobe to find a magical land, facing dark forces just like in Harry Potter. - Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)
While the Baudelaire siblings lack traditional magical powers, they have their own unique talents. With shades of Harry’s orphaned story, this tale of their struggles against an evil antagonist is both whimsical and engaging. - The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)
A film that sparks a variety of opinions, we find it delightful! When young Alex discovers Excalibur, he teams up with Merlin to save the world from an evil enchantress, blending history, adventure, and humor. - Percy Jackson & The Olympians Series (2010 – 2013)
Based on Rick Riordan’s popular series, Percy and his friends embark on epic quests that will remind you of Harry, Hermione, and Ron as they battle mythological foes. - Matilda (1996)
A classic tale by Roald Dahl, Matilda is a young girl who discovers her telekinetic powers while navigating a harsh family and school life. Sound familiar? - A Monster Calls (2016)
This touching story follows Conor, a boy coping with serious challenges. When a magical tree monster appears, he learns to confront his emotions. A heartwarming tale that every Potterhead should see. - Vampire Academy (2014)
Imagine a school for vampires! Rose, a half-vampire, navigates teenage life while facing dark forces, making it a fun alternative to Harry Potter’s wizarding world. - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
Join Charlie and a group of children on a fantastical tour of Willy Wonka’s magical candy factory. It’s a journey filled with surprises that rivals the adventures at Hogwarts.
More Magical Flicks to Consider:
- Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
- The NeverEnding Story (1984)
- Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
- The Pagemaster (1994)
- Alice in Wonderland (2010)
- The Twilight series (2008 – 2012)
- The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001 – 2003) and The Hobbit films (2012 – 2014)
- Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
- The Golden Compass (2007)
- The Hunger Games (2012 – 2015)
- Eragon (2006)
- The Divergent series (2014 – 2016)
- Avatar: The Last Airbender (2010)
- A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
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Summary:
If you’re craving magical family movies akin to Harry Potter, this list has you covered! From adventures in fantastical realms to stories featuring young heroes, there are plenty of enchanting films to explore. Discover these delightful options for a magical movie night that the whole family will enjoy.

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