10 Greatest Kids Movies That Deal With Grief

Up

Few films capture love and loss as beautifully as Up. In just its opening minutes, the movie tells the heartbreaking story of Carl and Ellie, whose lifelong dreams are cut short by tragedy. After Ellie's death, Carl sets off on the adventure they always dreamed of taking, discovering that healing doesn't mean leaving the past behind...it means finding new reasons to keep living.

Charlotte's Web (2006)

Based on E.B. White's beloved novel, Charlotte's Web tells the touching story of an unlikely friendship between Wilbur, a pig, and Charlotte, a wise spider. When Wilbur's future is suddenly put in danger, Charlotte does everything she can to save her friend. Through its heartfelt story, the film gently teaches children about love, friendship, sacrifice, and the pain of saying goodbye.

Coco

Beautifully inspired by Mexico's Día de los Muertos traditions, Coco explores grief through the celebration of family and remembrance. Young Miguel's journey into the Land of the Dead introduces him to his ancestors while uncovering long-buried family secrets. Along the way, the film delivers a moving message about loss, memory, and how the people we love never truly leave us.

Big Hero 6 (2014)

After losing his older brother, Hiro struggles to cope with overwhelming grief. Everything begins to change when he meets Baymax, a lovable healthcare robot who helps him heal emotionally while encouraging him to embrace life again. Rather than avoiding the subject of death, Big Hero 6 shows young viewers that grief is a natural part of life and that healing takes time.

Bridge to Terabithia (2007)

Bridge to Terabithia is a beautiful coming-of-age story about friendship, imagination, and coping with unimaginable loss. Jess and Leslie create a magical world where they can escape everyday life, but a heartbreaking tragedy changes everything. The film gently explores grief through a child's eyes, showing that while loss is painful, the love and memories we share with those we've lost stay with us forever.

Onward (2020)

Onward explores the lasting impact of losing a parent through the story of two elf brothers who embark on a magical quest for one last chance to spend time with their late father. Filled with humor, heart, and adventure, the film beautifully captures the longing that comes with loss while celebrating the enduring bond between family members.

The Lion King (1994)

A timeless Disney classic loved by both kids and adults, The Lion King remains one of the best stories about loss ever told. After the tragic death of his father, Mufasa, Simba is consumed by guilt and runs away from his responsibilities. His journey back home teaches valuable lessons about grief, courage, acceptance, and finding the strength to face the past.

My Girl

My Girl is a heartfelt coming-of-age film that explores childhood, friendship, and the pain of losing someone you love. Vada, an imaginative young girl, experiences a life-changing tragedy that forces her to confront grief for the very first time. Honest, emotional, and deeply moving, the film reminds young viewers that healing doesn't happen overnight, but the people we love always remain a part of us.

Bambi (1942)

A pioneering animated film, Bambi captures childhood loss quite powerfully. The story follows a young deer growing up in the forest, experiencing both the beauty of nature and one of Disney's most heartbreaking moments. As Bambi learns to move forward after an unimaginable loss, the film reminds children that grief never truly defines us, it helps shape our strength.

Finding Nemo (2003)

Although best known as an adventure, Finding Nemo begins with a devastating tragedy that shapes Marlin's entire life. After losing his mate and nearly all of their eggs, Marlin becomes an overprotective father, terrified of losing Nemo as well. His journey across the ocean is as much about overcoming fear and grief as it is about finding his son.