Movies That Promote Perseverance

Perseverance is one of the most important character strengths and life skills that a kid can develop -- and it's one of the most popular themes in movies. From Finding Nemo's advice to "just keep swimming" to the true stories and documentaries about people who demonstrate grit, these inspirational movies give examples of heroes who stick with something no matter what challenges they face. With the help of this list, kids can learn the importance of persevering no matter the obstacle and to always keep trying in the face of failure until they reach their goals. Be sure to check out our list of TV shows that promote perseverance too.

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It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Poster Image
MOVIE

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

age 4+

Halloween isn't complete without this classic.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2000)
Finding Nemo Poster Image
MOVIE

Finding Nemo

age 5+

Sweet father-son tale has some very scary moments.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2003)
The Little Mermaid Movie Poster Image: Ariel sits on a rock, looking up, Flounder beside her
MOVIE

The Little Mermaid

age 6+

Superb, entertaining animated musical has some scary stuff.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1989)
Monsters University Poster Image
MOVIE

Monsters University

age 5+

Monsters Inc. prequel is a fun college comedy for all ages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2013)
WALL-E Poster Image
MOVIE

WALL-E

age 5+

Brainy, charming, eco-friendly animated adventure.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2008)
Babe Poster Image
MOVIE

Babe

age 6+

Heartwarming farm story is touching and a bit scary.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1995)
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Poster Image
MOVIE

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

age 6+

A fantastical car story custom-made for kids.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1968)
Fantasia Poster Image
MOVIE

Fantasia

age 6+

Breathtaking animation feat -- with some creepy visuals.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1940)
Finding Dory Poster Image
MOVIE

Finding Dory

age 6+

Delightful sequel promotes teamwork; some sadness, scares.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2016)
Ghost of the Mountains Poster Image
MOVIE

Ghost of the Mountains

age 6+

Absorbing docu about snow leopards has mild peril.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2017)
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey Poster Image
MOVIE

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

age 6+

Adventurous animal tale will have kids riveted.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1993)
The Land Before Time Poster Image
MOVIE

The Land Before Time

age 6+

Original baby-dinosaur buddy tale has scares, sadness.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1988)
Lightyear Movie Poster
MOVIE

Lightyear

age 6+

Buzz origin story is exceptionally animated and inclusive.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2022)
March of the Penguins Poster Image
MOVIE

March of the Penguins

age 6+

Stunning, loving documentary; some intense peril.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2005)
Modern Times Poster Image
MOVIE

Modern Times

age 6+

Families will cherish Chaplin's silent slapstick.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1936)
My Fair Lady Poster Image
MOVIE

My Fair Lady

age 6+

Witty, stylish musical classic will entertain all ages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1964)
Ratatouille Poster Image
MOVIE

Ratatouille

age 6+

Cute rat tale has some peril and potentially scary moments.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2007)
A Reindeer's Journey Poster Image
MOVIE

A Reindeer's Journey

age 6+

Captivating reindeer docu has natural beauty, perils.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)
Storks Poster Image
MOVIE

Storks

age 6+

Family comedy mixes moments of peril, sweet messages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2016)
Superpower Dogs Poster Image
MOVIE

Superpower Dogs

age 6+

Science docu unleashes pup power potential; mild peril.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)