From classic musicals to modern-day comedies, there is no shortage of Easter movies for families to watch together. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming story about the power of family or an adventure tale with magical creatures, these 11 must-see Easter movies are sure to entertain and delight viewers of all ages.
1. The Dog Who Saved Easter, 2014, 1 h 27 min
The Dog Who Saved Easter is a family comedy about the Bannisters, who are going on an Easter holiday cruise. However, their beloved pet dog, Zeus, is unable to join them. Belinda makes the difficult decision to put him in Alice’s animal care facility where he quickly becomes friends with the other animals.
2. Hop, 2011, 1 h 35 min
Hop is a 2011 animated comedy directed by Tim Hill and starring Russell Brand as the voice of E.B., the Easter Bunny. After being told he will one day take over for his father, the current Easter Bunny, E.B. decides to pursue his dream of becoming a rock star drummer instead.
On his journey towards rock stardom, E.B. teams up with Fred (James Marsden), an out-of-work slacker who, after losing his job, finds himself in a dilemma: he needs to come up with money for rent or else he will be evicted. E.B. and Fred decide to work together to raise the money, along with some hilarious hijinks and hilarious misadventures.
3.The Resurrection of Gavin Stone, 1h 31m
The Resurrection of Gavin Stone is a faith-based comedy drama starring Brett Dalton as Gavin Stone, a former child actor and current Hollywood bad boy who finds himself serving court-ordered community service at a megachurch. With the help of the church staff, including Pastor Dave (D.B. Sweeney), Gavin begins to learn the meaning of faith, humility, and forgiveness as he works to prove that he is capable of a second chance.
4. Pieces of Easter, 2013, 1 h 37 min
Pieces of Easter is a 2013 film that tells the story of two worlds colliding during a three-day road trip. The movie is based on the biblical tale of the Prodigal Son, and follows a young man as he makes a journey to reconnect with his lost faith. Along the way, he encounters unexpected allies and enemies, and learns the importance of perseverance and redemption.
The film stars newcomer Luke Grimes as Caleb, a college-aged student who is struggling to find his place in the world. He meets an unlikely companion in Miriam (Zoe Saldana), a tough-talking waitress with a mysterious past. Together, they embark on an adventure that takes them across the country, encountering some of life’s unexpected lessons.
5. I Can Only Imagine, 2018, 1 h 50 min
I Can Only Imagine is a 2018 film based on the true story behind MercyMe’s hit song of the same name. It follows lead character Bart Millard, who must confront his troubled upbringing and broken relationship with his father in order to find peace and forgiveness for himself. With help from those close to him, he comes to understand that true healing and reconciliation are within reach, no matter what his past may have held.
The film follows Bart’s journey as he navigates a turbulent family life and struggles to find healing after being abandoned by his father at an early age. Along the way, he learns lessons about forgiveness, redemption, and grace. As he starts to work through his own issues, he finds the inspiration to create a song that will ultimately become an anthem of hope for millions around the world.
6. Steel Magnolias, 1989, 1 h 58 min
Steel Magnolias is a 1989 comedy-drama film starring Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis and Julia Roberts. The movie centers around the story of Shelby Eatenton (Julia Roberts), a newly married woman who is joyfully pregnant despite her doctor’s warning that it could be risky due to her having diabetes.
Throughout the film, we are treated to a rich tapestry of Southern hospitality and true friendship in this charming story that touches on love, hope, loss, courage and the strength of women in times of adversity.
7. Rise of the Guardians, 2012, 1 h 37 min
Rise of the Guardians is a 2012 animated fantasy adventure film based on the William Joyce book series The Guardians of Childhood. Directed by Peter Ramsey, the film follows an immortal group of legendary figures who team up to protect children all around the world from an evil spirit known as Pitch.
8. Chocolat, 2001, 2 h 1 min
Chocolat is a 2001 drama with a sweet tooth and a heart of gold. The story follows Vianne Rocher, a single mother who moves to rural France with her six-year-old daughter, Anouk. Determined to make a living for themselves, the pair open up a chocolate shop across from the local church.
At first, the residents of the small town are wary of Vianne and her confections. But soon enough, they come to appreciate the joy that she brings with her sweet treats. Even as they struggle to accept change, the people of Lansquenet slowly begin to embrace Vianne and Anouk’s newfound sense of community and belonging.
At the same time, Vianne finds herself embarking on a romantic journey with Roux, an intriguing gypsy who has recently arrived in town. As their relationship develops, Vianne struggles to maintain her balance between her duties as a single mother and her new romance.
9. Noah, 2014, 2 h 18 min
Noah is a 2014 film starring Academy Award-winning actor Russell Crowe as the titular character. It is based on the Bible story of Noah, a man chosen by God to build an ark and save two of every species from the impending flood.
10. Easter Parade, 1948, 1 h 43 min
Easter Parade is a classic 1948 musical starring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland. Astaire stars as a rising Broadway star looking to make it big on his own and break away from his former dance partner Ann Miller.
11. Easter Sunday, 2022, 1 h 36 min
Easter Sunday is a love letter to the Filipino-American community, starring stand-up comedy sensation Jo Koy. The movie follows Koy’s character as he returns home for an unforgettable celebration with his large and lively family. Set in 2022, the story highlights traditional cultural values and relationships, while emphasizing the importance of family, connection, and acceptance.
