Movie monsters come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s hard to judge how kids will react to horror movies. Based on one’s age, a creepy atmosphere can be too intense for a younger audience; however, terrifying monsters might provide intrigue for kids in the pre-teen and above range. But a big question remains: What movies provide scary monsters that are accessible at the PG-13 range?
For all of the horror classics, from a variety of decades – Night of the Living Dead, Alien, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Predator, Event Horizon, Dawn of the Dead, and 30 Days of Night just to name a few, all of them have those things that go bump in the night. But, they’re all R-rated and not all kids are ready for that level of gore, violence, or whatever other contributing factors that enhance to that age rating.
So, let’s take a look at some films that have monsters (in some form) that might be great jumping-on points for your own pre-teens or teens to dive into, without tripping and falling in the woods trying to escape that R-rating.
10 Cloverfield Lane
Year: 2016
Rating: PG-13
Length: 1 hour, 43 minutes
Having recently watched this for the first time, 10 Cloverfield Lane provides a very intimate look at what monsters can look like, even if they’re dressed in regular clothing. Mary Elizabeth Winstead (The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Ahsoka) plays Michelle who, after a car accident, finds herself in the “care” of a man’s home.
Her caretaker, Howard, played by John Goodman (Atomic Blonde, Fallen) has them isolated in his underground bunker, which he prepared in case of emergency. Although the outside threat is unknown, the air outside is somehow dangerous, but is it necessarily safe within, especially after Michelle wakes up to find herself chained to a wall?
10 Cloverfield Lane is more than just a psychological thriller; there are things that go “bump in the night,” even when those things are both in and out of those enclosed spaces.
Cloverfield
Year: 2008
Rating: PG-13
Length: 1 hour, 25 minutes
The origin story behind 10 Cloverfield Lane is much more of a monster movie than its successor. In this “homemade movie,” Cloverfield follows a group of friends as they try to escape New York after a disastrous attack. Although it’s unclear what caused the initial explosion, the main characters find themselves in the midst of monsters – and the dangers associated with their injuries are horrific.
Cloverfield presents shaky footage and plenty of reasons for “jump” scares as the characters navigate uncertain territory while trying to avoid the invading forces. This film might expand your kid’s interest in aliens – or it might have them wanting to avoid New York in the hopes of never having to see the Statue of Liberty’s head cut off.
A Quiet Place
Year: 2018
Rating: PG-13
Length: 1 hour, 30 minutes
If you thought the still of night was scary as you walk to the bathroom, then A Quiet Place magnifies that feeling – even during the light of daytime. The film follows a family that is living in a dystopian nightmare, where they have to navigate their lives in silence. They utilize sign language to communicate, while the harsh reality of making noise cannot be understated.
The performances from the cast are outstanding as viewers take in their vivid facial expressions, while understanding what’s at stake with every minuscule creak that they make. John Krasinski (Jack Ryan, The Office) not only directs A Quiet Place, he co-stars with Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer, The Devil Wears Prada), Millicent Simmonds (Wonderstruck, A Quiet Place Part II), and Noah Jupe (Ford v Ferrari, A Quiet Place Part II) – and they’re fantastic together.
If you ever worried about walking through the woods, and wondering if you saw or heard something, A Quiet Place will definitely make you second guess a simple stroll outdoors.
Pacific Rim
Year: 2013
Rating: PG-13
Length: 2 hours, 11 minutes
In a dystopian future, skyscraper-tall monsters are the enemy that’s feared. Mankind must depend on equally large machines to defend civilization against these “Kaiju.” This larger-than-life film highlights how all people must come together for the greater good. As I recently rewatched this film, I was struck by how grand Pacific Rim is, even on the small screen.
The scale of the monsters, Jaegers (human-controlled machines), and the equipment around the stations are monumental. Viewers truly get the sense of how much danger the world is in, while understanding what’s necessary to even fight back. Guillermo del Toro’s direction for this film makes every action (or inaction) seem pivotal; plus, adding some odd, humorous moments helps to counterbalance the severity of the circumstances.
If your kids want massive beasts, look no further than Pacific Rim. Plus, they’ll also experience what it means to protect those they love, while also learning that parents sometimes have to let go, trusting their kids’ abilities to stand on their own, contribute, and help to make the world a better place.
Hellboy
Year: 2004
Rating: PG-13
Length: 2 hours, 2 minutes
Regardless of time, it will always be relevant to see good fighting against Nazis. Another Guillermo Del Toro film highlights a variety of monsters, but, sometimes, appearances are not always what they’re meant to be. When a freakishly strong, red “Hellboy” is saved at a young age, he becomes the light in a world full of darkness.
Ron Perlman plays the title character, providing blunt humor even in the face of danger. Hellboy might be considered a menace to some, but he uses his power for good. There’s a solid blend of mysterious elements, weird creatures, and a common enemy that works exceptionally well together. Plus, kids will watch as the hero gets knocked down again and again, but refuses to give up.
What movie monsters do you or your kids love? Are there any TV shows you’d recommend on top of these movies? Share your thoughts with us in the comments or over on social media.
Until next time, friends, happy parenting and happy geeking.
