Best PG-13 Movies You Can’t Miss: Action, Drama, and Comedy

Looking for the perfect PG-13 movie to watch? Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping drama, a lighthearted comedy, or a thrilling adventure, there’s something here for everyone. From heartfelt stories to edge-of-your-seat excitement, here’s a guide to the best PG-13 movies, complete with a one-liner synopsis and key details. Check them out and find your next favorite film!

Drama

A Separation (2011)

• Synopsis: A married couple struggles with the decision to leave Iran for their child’s future or stay to care for an aging parent with Alzheimer’s.
• Good For: Its powerful depiction of family dilemmas and societal pressures.
• Year: 2011
• Age Rating: PG
• IMDb Rating: 8.3

The Secret Life of Bees (2008)

• Synopsis: In 1964 South Carolina, a teenage girl runs away to uncover her mother’s past and finds solace with a group of independent women.
• Good For: Its heartfelt exploration of family and personal growth.
• Year: 2008
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.2

Freedom Writers (2007)

• Synopsis: A young teacher inspires her at-risk students in a racially divided school to strive for a better future.
• Good For: Its inspirational story of education and personal transformation.
• Year: 2007
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.6

The Cider House Rules (1999)

• Synopsis: An orphan grows up in a doctor’s orphanage during WWII, longing for freedom and a life of his own.
• Good For: Its rich storytelling and exploration of personal freedom and growth.
• Year: 1999
• Age Rating: 12
• IMDb Rating: 7.4

The Post (2017)

• Synopsis: The first female newspaper publisher and her editor challenge the government’s cover-up in a high-stakes battle for the truth.
• Good For: Its gripping portrayal of journalism and integrity.
• Year: 2017
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.2

The Dig (2021)

• Synopsis: An archaeologist undertakes the important excavation of Sutton Hoo, uncovering historical treasures.
• Good For: Its engaging depiction of historical discovery and passion for archaeology.
• Year: 2021
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

The Swimmers (2022)

• Synopsis: Two sisters flee war-torn Syria and make their way to the Rio Olympics, showcasing their strength and determination.
• Good For: Its inspiring story of courage and perseverance.
• Year: 2022
• Age Rating: 15
• IMDb Rating: 7.4

Action/Adventure

Star Trek: First Contact (1996)

• Synopsis: The Borg attempt to prevent Earth’s first contact with an alien species, and Captain Picard and his crew must stop them.
• Good For: Its thrilling sci-fi adventure and classic Star Trek excitement.
• Year: 1996
• Age Rating: 12
• IMDb Rating: 7.6

Kon-Tiki (2012)

• Synopsis: Explorer Thor Heyerdahl sails across the Pacific on a balsa wood raft to prove his theories about ancient navigation.
• Good For: Its epic adventure and historical significance.
• Year: 2012
• Age Rating: 15
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Creed II (2018)

• Synopsis: Adonis Creed faces Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago, with Rocky Balboa in his corner.
• Good For: Its intense boxing drama and continuation of the iconic Rocky saga.
• Year: 2018
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Comedy

Tommy Boy (1995)

• Synopsis: An underachieving son and a snide accountant team up to save the family business after the father’s death.
• Good For: Its hilarious antics and heartfelt moments.
• Year: 1995
• Age Rating: PG-13
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

The Simpsons Movie (2007)

• Synopsis: Homer Simpson’s mistake leads to Springfield being encased in a dome, turning the town into fugitives.
• Good For: Its humor and charm from the beloved TV show.
• Year: 2007
• Age Rating: PG
• IMDb Rating: 7.3

Best in Show (2000)

• Synopsis: A comedic look at the competitive world of dog shows through the eyes of obsessive dog owners.
• Good For: Its sharp wit and satire of dog show culture.
• Year: 2000
• Age Rating: 12
• IMDb Rating: 7.5

Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

• Synopsis: A young man forms an unconventional relationship with a doll, changing his life and those around him.
• Good For: Its unique blend of comedy and heartfelt drama.
• Year: 2007
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.3

Inspirational

On the Basis of Sex (2018)

• Synopsis: The true story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s early legal battles for gender equality leading to her historic Supreme Court appointment.
• Good For: Its inspiring portrayal of a legal pioneer.
• Year: 2018
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Sing Street (2016)

• Synopsis: A young boy forms a band to impress a girl, finding solace and purpose through music.
• Good For: Its feel-good music-driven storyline and coming-of-age themes.
• Year: 2016
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.9

The Hate U Give (2018)

• Synopsis: After witnessing a police shooting, Starr must navigate her community’s tensions and find her voice.
• Good For: Its powerful social commentary and moving narrative.
• Year: 2018
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.5

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)

• Synopsis: A teenager dealing with depression gets a fresh start after checking himself into a psychiatric ward.
• Good For: Its blend of comedy and serious issues in a relatable manner.
• Year: 2010
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Searching (2018)

• Synopsis: A father uses his daughter’s laptop to search for clues after she goes missing, unraveling a gripping mystery.
• Good For: Its innovative storytelling and suspenseful plot.
• Year: 2018
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.6

tick, tick… BOOM! (2021)

• Synopsis: A theater composer struggles with his looming 30th birthday while facing the pressures of creating something monumental.
• Good For: Its energetic depiction of a creative’s journey and Broadway life.
• Year: 2021
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.5

Jesus Revolution (2023)

• Synopsis: The film captures the spiritual awakening of the 1970s within a community of Southern California hippies.
• Good For: Its inspiring story of faith and transformation.
• Year: 2023
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Rex (2017)

• Synopsis: The true story of a Marine corporal and her combat dog, whose bond saves many lives during their deployment in Iraq.
• Good For: Its powerful portrayal of military and canine companionship.
• Year: 2017
• Age Rating: 12
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Science Fiction/Fantasy

Wings of Desire (1987)

• Synopsis: An angel longing for human experience falls in love with a mortal, leading to a transformative journey.
• Good For: Its poetic and philosophical take on human existence and desire.
• Year: 1987
• Age Rating: PG
• IMDb Rating: 7.9

Frequency (2000)

• Synopsis: A cross-time radio link connects a father and son, leading to attempts to change past events and face the consequences.
• Good For: Its intriguing mix of time-travel and family drama.
• Year: 2000
• Age Rating: 15
• IMDb Rating: 7.4

Jujutsu Kaisen 0: The Movie (2021)

• Synopsis: A high schooler gains control of a powerful cursed spirit and joins a school of Jujutsu Sorcerers to combat dark forces.
• **Good For

:** Its captivating blend of action and supernatural elements.

• Year: 2021
• Age Rating: 12
• IMDb Rating: 8.1

Mystery/Thriller

State of Play (2009)

• Synopsis: A journalist investigates the murder of a congressional aide, uncovering a web of political intrigue.
• Good For: Its gripping narrative and complex political drama.
• Year: 2009
• Age Rating: 12A
• IMDb Rating: 7.1

The Words (2012)

• Synopsis: A writer discovers the price of success when he steals another man’s manuscript and faces the consequences.
• Good For: Its exploration of literary integrity and personal guilt.
• Year: 2012
• Age Rating: 15
• IMDb Rating: 7.0

Conclusion

From heartwarming dramas to thrilling adventures and insightful comedies, this list of PG-13 movies offers something for every mood. Whether you’re looking to be inspired, entertained, or moved, these films provide a range of experiences perfect for your next movie night. Enjoy exploring these stories and find your new favorite!

Feel free to dive into these films and discover what makes them stand out. Happy watching!