From talking pigs to escaped chickens, farm movies captivate children’s imaginations while teaching valuable life lessons about friendship, courage, and perseverance.
Did you know that three of the highest-rated farm-themed children’s films (“Babe,” “Shaun the Sheep Movie,” and “Chicken Run”) all boast Rotten Tomatoes scores above 80%?
These cinematic barnyard adventures transport young viewers to rural settings where animals often display remarkably human characteristics, problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and moral reasoning.
Suppose it’s Babe’s polite sheep-herding techniques, Shaun’s silent but expressive adventures, or the daring escape plans of the Chicken Run flock.
In that case, these stories showcase farm animals overcoming obstacles through teamwork and determination.
The humble farm setting provides the perfect backdrop for tales that entertain while subtly reinforcing values parents appreciate, making these films perfect for family movie nights.
Top Farm Movies for Kids
These barnyard adventures bring the magic of rural life to your living room, complete with talking animals, heartwarming lessons, and all the wholesome country charm kids love!
1. Babe (1995)
A heartwarming tale about Babe, an orphaned piglet who finds himself on Hoggett Farm after winning a prize at a county fair.
Under the guidance of Fly, a border collie, Babe finds his natural talent for herding sheep. Despite facing skepticism from other farm animals and Farmer Hoggett himself, Babe perseveres with his gentle approach of “please” and “thank you” instead of intimidation.
His trip culminates in a sheep-herding competition where he proves that kindness and determination can overcome traditional boundaries, earning the respect of both animals and humans alike.
- Genre: Family/Comedy/Drama
- Duration: 91 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 7.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 97%)
2. Chicken Run (2000)
In this clay-animated adventure, Ginger and her fellow chickens plot their escape from Tweedy’s Farm when they find they’re being fattened for pie production. Their numerous failed attempts gain new hope with the arrival of Rocky, an American rooster who claims he can teach them to fly.
As Mrs. Tweedy installs a pie-making machine, the stakes rise dramatically.
Through perseverance, teamwork, and ingenuity, the chickens race against time to build a flying contraption before becoming the main ingredient in chicken pies, delivering a tale of courage and freedom.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 84 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 7.0/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 97%)
3. Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (2023)
The long-awaited sequel finds Ginger living peacefully with Rocky and their daughter Molly on a bird sanctuary island.
Their idyllic life is disrupted when they find a new threat to chicken-kind: a high-tech nugget factory. When rebellious teenager Molly ventures to the mainland, Ginger and Rocky must infiltrate the factory to rescue her.
The mission reunites them with old friends and introduces new allies as they face advanced security systems and the ruthless Mrs. Tweedy’s daughter. Their daring adventure demonstrates that family bonds and determination can overcome even the most formidable threats.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 98 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 6.7/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 81%)
4. Home on the Range (2004)
Three mismatched dairy cows—Maggie, Mrs. Calloway, and Grace—become unlikely heroes when they learn their farm faces foreclosure.
Determined to save their home, they begin on a mission to capture notorious cattle rustler Alameda Slim and claim the bounty on his head. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a bounty-hunting horse named Buck and a helpful rabbit called Lucky Jack.
Despite their differences, the trio works together, combining Maggie’s brashness, Mrs. Calloway’s leadership, and Grace’s optimism to outsmart Slim and secure their farm’s future.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 76 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 5.4/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 16%)
5. Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015)
Tired of the monotonous farm routine, mischievous Shaun the Sheep orchestrates a day off that goes hilariously wrong. When the Farmer accidentally ends up in the Big City with amnesia, Shaun and the flock must venture into the unknown urban landscape to bring him home.
Pursued by a zealous animal containment officer, the sheep disguise themselves as humans to guide city life.
Without a single word of dialogue, the film brilliantly conveys its story through visual comedy and expressive animation, culminating in a touching reunion that reminds everyone of the importance of home.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 85 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 7.3/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 99%)
6. A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon (2019)
When a mischievous alien named Lu-La crash-lands near Mossy Bottom Farm, Shaun the Sheep befriends the colorful visitor whose powers create mayhem around the farm.
As government agents and the intimidating Ministry of Alien Detection chase after Lu-La, Shaun helps her find a way back home.
Meanwhile, the Farmer attempts to capitalize on UFO hysteria by building an alien-themed amusement park. The film blends sci-fi references with stop-motion charm as Shaun’s adventure teaches him about friendship, responsibility, and the universal desire to find one’s way home.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 87 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 7.0/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 96%)
7. Charlotte’s Web (1973 animated)
This animated classic tells the story of Wilbur, a runt piglet saved from slaughter by farmer’s daughter Fern and later befriended by Charlotte, a wise grey spider.
When Wilbur learns he’s destined for the dinner table, Charlotte weaves messages in her web praising him, creating a sensation that may save his life. Through Charlotte’s selfless acts and wisdom, Wilbur learns about friendship, sacrifice, and the cycles of life.
The film’s tender portrayal of barnyard camaraderie, coupled with memorable songs, has made it a beloved adaptation that captures E.B. White’s timeless tale.
- Genre: Animation/Family/Musical
- Duration: 94 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 7.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 76%)
8. Charlotte’s Web (2006 live-action)
The live-action adaptation brings E.B. White’s cherished story to life with real animals and CGI. Wilbur, the spring pig destined for Christmas dinner, finds hope through Charlotte, an intelligent spider who weaves words into her web to convince the humans of Wilbur’s worth.
Dakota Fanning stars as Fern, the girl who initially saves Wilbur, while Julia Roberts voices the eloquent Charlotte.
The film strikes a balance between humor from barnyard characters like the selfish rat Templeton and poignant moments that address mortality, creating a faithful adaptation that honors the novel’s themes of friendship and sacrifice.
- Genre: Family/Fantasy
- Duration: 97 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 6.3/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 79%)
9. Charlotte’s Web 2: Wilbur’s Great Adventure (2003)
Set after the events of the original story, this direct-to-video sequel follows Wilbur as he takes on a mentor role to Cardigan, a lamb who arrives at the barn.
When Cardigan is sold to another farm, Wilbur escapes with Templeton’s offspring to rescue his friend.
Their adventure is complicated by a fox named Farley who threatens Cardigan. Though Charlotte has passed away, her three daughters assist Wilbur in his quest.
While lacking the emotional depth of its predecessor, the film continues themes of friendship and courage in a simpler format for younger audiences.
- Genre: Animation/Family
- Duration: 79 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 4.3/10, Rotten Tomatoes: No consensus)
10. Ferdinand (2017)
Based on the classic children’s book, Ferdinand tells the story of a gentle giant bull who is mistaken for a dangerous beast and captured from his home.
Determined to return to his family, Ferdinand rallies a misfit team of animals for an ultimate adventure. Despite his imposing size, Ferdinand refuses to participate in bullfighting, staying true to his pacifist nature.
The film explores themes of non-conformity and authenticity, as Ferdinand demonstrates that appearance doesn’t determine character and that compassion can be a form of strength.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 108 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 6.7/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 72%)
11. Barnyard (2006)
By day, the animals on Farmer Brown’s farm behave like typical farm animals. But when humans aren’t looking, they walk upright, talk, and party.
Otis, a carefree cow (anatomically incorrect as a male with udders), prefers fun over responsibility, disappointing his father Ben, who protects the barnyard.
When coyotes kill, tragedy strikes, and Ben, Otis must decide whether to step up as leaders. Through facing predators and his fears, Otis learns about leadership, responsibility, and honoring his father’s legacy while still maintaining his playful spirit.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 5.6/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 22%)
12. Go West, Go Wild (Curious George farm adventure)
In this animated feature, Curious George and The Man with the Yellow Hat visit Renkins’ Farm for the summer. George’s insatiable curiosity leads to adventures and mishaps around the farm as he learns about animal care, crop growing, and rural life.
He befriends farm animals, accidentally releases livestock, and ultimately helps save the farm during a storm.
The educational storyline gently introduces young viewers to farming concepts while maintaining the playful spirit of the beloved monkey character. Through George’s experiences, children learn about responsibility and the rewards of helping others.
- Genre: Animation/Family
- Duration: 85 minutes
- Rating: G (IMDb: 6.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: Not rated)
13. Field of Dreams (1989)
Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella hears a mysterious voice whispering, “If you build it, he will come,” prompting him to plow under his corn to build a baseball diamond. Despite financial pressures and community ridicule, Ray follows his intuition, guided by visions only he sees.
His faith is rewarded when the ghosts of baseball legends emerge from the cornfields to play.
The film surpasses sports in conveying themes of redemption, reconciliation with the past, and the power of believing in the impossible. Kevin Costner’s portrayal of Ray captures the poignant father-son relationship at the story’s heart.
- Genre: Drama/Fantasy/Sport
- Duration: 107 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 7.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 87%)
14. The Secret Life of Pets 2 (2019)
This animated sequel follows Max the terrier as he adjusts to his owner’s new marriage and baby while dealing with anxiety. A family trip to a farm introduces Max to the confident sheepdog Rooster, who helps him find his inner courage.
Meanwhile, Snowball the rabbit adopts a superhero persona to rescue a white tiger from a circus, and Gidget the Pomeranian infiltrates a cat-filled apartment to recover Max’s favorite toy.
The farm sequences offer fish-out-of-water humor while teaching valuable lessons about overcoming fears and finding a balance between protection and independence.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Comedy
- Duration: 86 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 6.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 60%)
15. Fly Away Home (1996)
After her mother’s death, 13-year-old Amy moves from New Zealand to Ontario to live with her estranged father, an eccentric inventor. When Amy finds abandoned goose eggs and raises the goslings, she faces a dilemma when they imprint on her as their mother.
With winter approaching and the geese unable to migrate naturally, Amy and her father devise an ambitious plan to lead them south using ultralight aircraft.
Based on a true story, this visually stunning film combines coming-of-age drama with environmental themes as Amy’s connection with the geese helps heal her grief.
- Genre: Adventure/Drama/Family
- Duration: 107 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 7.3/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 87%)
16. Flicka (2006)
Sixteen-year-old Katy McLaughlin dreams of running her family’s Wyoming horse ranch despite her father’s insistence that she attend college. When Katy encounters a wild mustang she names Flicka, she sees herself in the untamable horse and becomes determined to train her.
Against her father’s wishes, Katy secretly works with Flicka, forming a powerful bond. The film explores generational conflicts, the evolving nature of ranching life, and the quest for one’s place within family traditions. Through her relationship with Flicka, Katy proves her capabilities while her father learns to respect her passion for their land.
- Genre: Adventure/Drama/Family
- Duration: 95 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 6.2/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 55%)
17. Spirit Untamed (2021)
Lucky Prescott, a spirited city girl, relocates to the small frontier town of Miradero to live with her father after her aunt deems her too rebellious.
There she encounters Spirit, a wild mustang who shares her independent streak. When Spirit and his herd are capture by wranglers led by the ruthless Hendricks, Lucky rallies her new friends Abigail and Pru to rescue them.
Their travels across dangerous terrain test Lucky’s courage and help her connect with her late mother’s legacy as a fearless horse rider, while also rebuilding her relationship with her overprotective father.
- Genre: Animation/Adventure/Family
- Duration: 87 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 5.6/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 48%)
18. Peter Rabbit (2018)
This modern adaptation blends live-action with CGI to bring Beatrix Potter’s beloved character to life.
Peter Rabbit leads his sisters and cousin in raiding Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden until the old man’s unexpected demise brings his fastidious great-nephew Thomas to the countryside.
The battle for garden territory intensifies as Thomas falls for animal-loving neighbor Bea, forcing Peter to reckon with jealousy and his reckless behavior.
Despite controversies over its departure from Potter’s gentler approach, the film strikes a balance between slapstick humor and messages about family, responsibility, and the consequences of mischief-making.
- Genre: Adventure/Comedy/Family
- Duration: 95 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 6.6/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 63%)
19. Minari (2020)
In the 1980s, Korean immigrant Jacob Yi relocated his family from California to rural Arkansas to establish a farm specializing in the cultivation of Korean vegetables.
While Jacob pursues his American dream with determination, his wife Monica struggles with their isolated life and worries about their son David’s heart condition.
The arrival of Monica’s mother, Soon-ja, brings both chaos and healing to the family. Director Lee Isaac Chung’s semi-autobiographical film sensitively portrays the immigrant experience, family dynamics, and the resilience required to put down roots in new soil, both literally and metaphorically.
- Genre: Drama
- Duration: 115 minutes
- Rating: PG-13 (IMDb: 7.5/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 98%)
20. The Biggest Little Farm (2018)
This beautiful documentary chronicles eight years in the lives of John and Molly Chester as they abandon urban living to develop Apricot Lane Farms, a sustainable farm outside Los Angeles.
With no agricultural experience, they face drought, pests, and economic challenges while striving to create a biodiverse ecosystem where all elements work in balance.
Through stunning cinematography and honest storytelling, the film captures both heartbreaking setbacks and inspiring breakthroughs as the couple learns that working with nature rather than against it offers unexpected solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems, ultimately revealing the profound complexity of regenerative farming.
- Genre: Documentary
- Duration: 91 minutes
- Rating: PG (IMDb: 8.1/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 91%)
Final Credits
Farm-themed movies offer children much more than just entertainment—they provide gateways to understanding different perspectives, appreciating rural life, and recognizing the intelligence and emotional depth of animals.
From animated classics like “Charlotte’s Web” to modern masterpieces like “Shaun the Sheep,” these films blend humor with heartfelt moments that resonate with viewers of all ages.
The diverse collection spans various formats, stop-motion animation, traditional animation, live-action, and even documentary, ensuring there’s something for every child’s preference and age group.
What unites these twenty films is their ability to use the farm setting as a canvas for exploring universal themes: the importance of being true to yourself, the power of friendship, the value of perseverance, and the beauty of finding your place in the world lessons that grow alongside the children who treasure these stories.
