53 STEM Movies about Science for Kids and Teens

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Getting kids excited about science and math can be a challenge, especially when a subject starts to feel like homework rather than a chance for discovery. This list of 53 STEM movies about science is organized by age group, from gentle elementary-school picks to more complex films for teens, so you can find the right movie for family movie night, a classroom lesson, or a rainy afternoon.

A free math movie bingo printable is included below to use alongside the list.

A Note to Parents and Educators

This collection includes G, PG, and PG-13 titles, and not every film is appropriate for every age or every family. Several selections deal with mature topics such as war, mental illness, genetic modification, or loss.

Preview a movie yourself before showing it to younger viewers or a class, especially if you plan to use short clip selections or classroom discussion questions afterward. The recommended age groups below are intended as helpful guidelines rather than strict rules.

Age Guidance

Elementary (Ages 5–10)

Look for the G-rated and gentler PG selections in the Elementary section below. These stories focus on imagination, curiosity, simple learning concepts, and creative thinking while introducing young children to design, nature, and basic technology in an age-appropriate way.

Middle School (Ages 11–13)

The Middle School section introduces more advanced ideas through biographical stories, space travel, environmental topics, and historical events. Many of these films feature major space-program achievements, technical breakthroughs, and students who learn to design and build innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Teens and High School (Ages 14+)

The Teen section covers more mature themes alongside advanced ideas, including genetic modification, artificial intelligence, nuclear research, astronomy, and complex theories. These films are better suited for older students who are ready to discuss ethics, discovery, and the future of research and technology.

Elementary (Ages 5-10)

1. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009) — Rated PG

An animated adventure about a young inventor determined to solve his town’s food shortage. When his latest invention unexpectedly succeeds, enormous portions of food begin to fall from the sky, leading to hilarious chaos and encouraging kids to think creatively about experimentation and design.

2. Big Hero 6 (2014) — Rated PG

Young prodigy Hiro Hamada teams up with Baymax and a group of friends to save San Francisco from the sky using intelligence, teamwork, clever design, and tiny microbots. Along the way, the film highlights innovation and compassionate uses of technology.

3. WALL-E (2008) — Rated G

A lonely robot, left behind to clean up Planet Earth, discovers love and purpose on an unforgettable journey through space. Alongside its heartfelt story, the film encourages conversations about environmental science, sustainability, and caring for the world.

4. Meet the Robinsons (2007) — Rated G

A young inventor embarks on a remarkable time-travel adventure to discover his future family, learning that perseverance, curiosity, and even failed experiments can eventually lead to success.

5. Flubber (1998) — Rated PG

An absent-minded professor accidentally creates Flubber, a strange green substance with extraordinary abilities. This lighthearted comedy introduces children to scientific imagination while showing how unexpected discoveries sometimes come from experimentation.

6. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989) — Rated PG

A scientist accidentally shrinks his children and their neighbors to microscopic size, forcing them to survive in an oversized backyard by relying on observation, creativity, and quick thinking until they can return home.

7. The Iron Giant (1999) — Rated PG

After a mysterious giant robot crashes to Earth, a young boy teaches him about kindness, friendship, and making good choices. The story also sparks conversations about technology, responsibility, and humanity.

8. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) — Rated PG

A touching story of friendship between an alien visitor and a group of curious children who rely on observation, creativity, and scientific thinking to help E.T. safely return home.

9. The LEGO Movie (2014) — Rated PG

An ordinary LEGO minifigure discovers that creativity, imagination, and collaborative problem-solving can overcome even the greatest obstacles in this fast-paced animated adventure.

10. Donald in Mathmagic Land (1959) — Not Rated

Donald Duck explores a magical world where mathematics appears in music, architecture, sports, and nature. This classic educational short introduces geometry, ratios, symmetry, and the famous golden ratio in a way that’s still engaging decades later.

11. Apollo 11 (2019) — Rated G

This award-winning film uses beautifully restored archival footage to place viewers alongside the astronauts during humanity’s first lunar landing, offering one of the most immersive looks at the historic mission.

12. A Beautiful Planet (2016) — Rated G

Filmed aboard the International Space Station, this breathtaking IMAX experience follows astronauts as they observe Planet Earth from orbit, showcasing both the beauty of our world and the importance of environmental science.

13. Microcosmos (1996) — Rated G

This visually stunning French film uses incredible close-up photography to reveal the hidden world of insects, allowing viewers to explore fascinating behaviors that are rarely seen with the naked eye.

14. Science Fair (2018) — Rated PG

This engaging film follows talented teenagers from around the world as they compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair, proving that curiosity, dedication, and creativity can encourage future innovators.

15. Dream Big: Engineering Our World (2018) — Not Rated

An uplifting film showcasing remarkable construction achievements and the people who design and build bridges, tunnels, skyscrapers, and other projects that improve everyday life around the world.

16. David Attenborough Documentaries

For families and classrooms looking for nature-focused STEM content, David Attenborough’s documentaries—including Blue Planet and Life on Earth—introduce wildlife, ecosystems, and environmental science through breathtaking storytelling that encourages children to observe the natural world with curiosity.

Middle School (Ages 11–13)

17. Apollo 13 (1995) — Rated PG

Based on the real-life Apollo 13 mission, this gripping drama follows three astronauts and the ground crew as they race against time to bring the damaged spacecraft safely home. It’s an outstanding example of problem-solving, teamwork, and how mission specialists overcame one obstacle after another under incredible pressure.

18. Jurassic Park (1993) — Rated PG-13

Researchers use genetic techniques to bring dinosaurs back to life for a revolutionary theme park. When the creatures escape, visitors must fight for survival while the film raises fascinating questions about genetics, ethics, and whether experimentation should always push the limits of what’s possible.

Content note: Several dinosaur attacks and suspenseful sequences may be intense for younger viewers.

19. Hidden Figures (2017) — Rated PG

Based on remarkable real-life events, Hidden Figures follows three brilliant Black women working in the American space program, including mathematician Katherine Johnson, whose calculations helped launch the country’s first astronauts into orbit. It’s one of the best films celebrating Women in STEM while showcasing mathematics, technical skill, and perseverance.

20. October Sky (1999) — Rated PG

Inspired by Sputnik, Homer Hickam becomes fascinated with rocketry and begins building model rockets with his friends despite numerous setbacks. As they experiment, test designs, and celebrate each successful rocket launch, they discover how determination and science can open unexpected opportunities.

21. Spare Parts (2015) — Rated PG

Based on real events, four underestimated high school students enter a national technology competition against elite schools. Using recycled materials, creativity, and perseverance, they prove that great design isn’t about expensive equipment—it’s about innovative thinking.

22. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019) — Rated PG-13

Determined to help his drought-stricken village, William Kamkwamba teaches himself the principles of engineering and builds a wind turbine from salvaged materials. His uplifting journey demonstrates how practical knowledge and problem-solving can change lives.

23. First Man (2018) — Rated PG-13

This emotional biographical drama follows Neil Armstrong’s journey through NASA’s early space program, revealing the sacrifices, dangers, and determination that eventually led to humanity’s first steps on the Moon.

24. Sully (2016) — Rated PG-13

When both engines fail shortly after takeoff, pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger relies on experience, physics, and quick decision-making to safely land his aircraft on the Hudson River, saving everyone onboard.

25. Ford v Ferrari (2019) — Rated PG-13

Race car designers and technical specialists work tirelessly to build a vehicle capable of defeating Ferrari at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The film showcases automotive design, testing, innovation, and relentless teamwork.

26. Twister (1996) — Rated PG-13

A team of storm researchers travels across Tornado Alley collecting valuable weather data during dangerous storms. Along the way, viewers learn about meteorology, forecasting, and the science behind severe weather.

27. Journey to Space (2015) — Not Rated

This documentary explores life aboard the International Space Station while examining the engineering advances and NASA missions preparing humanity for future journeys deeper into space.

28. The Wonders (2014) — Not Rated

Four children living in the Italian countryside become fascinated by a local beekeeper, gradually learning about bees, ecosystems, agriculture, and the scientific importance of pollinators through careful observation.

29. Fed Up (2014) — Rated PG

This thought-provoking documentary investigates sugar consumption, nutrition, and public health while encouraging viewers to think critically about food science and everyday choices.

30. The Dig (2021) — Rated PG-13

Based on real events, this historical drama follows the excavation of an important Anglo-Saxon burial site. It highlights archaeology as a scientific discipline, demonstrating careful research, evidence gathering, and preservation.

31. The Biggest Little Farm (2018) — Rated PG

A couple transforms neglected farmland into a thriving ecosystem by working with nature instead of against it. The film examines ecology, biodiversity, and sustainability, as well as how different species depend on one another.

32. A Plastic Ocean (2016) — Not Rated

This eye-opening documentary investigates how plastic pollution affects marine ecosystems and introduces practical environmental solutions to help protect oceans and wildlife.

33. Back to the Future (1985) — Rated PG

After accidentally activating Doc Brown’s DeLorean, Marty McFly travels through time to 1955, where he must repair history before returning home. The story introduces imaginative scientific ideas while remaining one of cinema’s most beloved adventures.

34. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) — Rated PG

Miles Morales joins multiple versions of Spider-Man from alternate dimensions in this visually groundbreaking animated adventure. While firmly fictional, it playfully introduces ideas connected to parallel universes, dimensional physics, and creative scientific imagination.

35. The Odyssey (2016) — Rated PG

This coming-of-age drama follows a young man’s journey of discovery as he learns resilience, resourcefulness, and perseverance while overcoming difficult challenges, offering thoughtful opportunities for classroom discussion.

Teens and High School (Ages 14+)

36. The Martian (2015) — Rated PG-13

After being stranded alone on Mars, astronaut Mark Watney must rely on botany, chemistry, engineering, and practical science to survive inside a temporary habitat while waiting for rescue. Widely praised for its scientific accuracy, The Martian demonstrates how persistence, creativity, and careful experimentation can overcome extraordinary challenges.

37. Contact (1997) — Rated PG

Jodie Foster stars as a SETI scientist who discovers convincing evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence in this thoughtful science fiction film based on Carl Sagan’s novel. As scientists investigate the mysterious signal, the story examines astronomy, communication, and humanity’s search for life beyond Earth.

38. Radioactive (2019) — Rated PG-13

This biographical drama follows Marie Curie and her groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity, showing how her work forever changed medicine, chemistry, and modern science while leaving a lasting scientific legacy.

39. The Manhattan Project (1986) — Rated PG-13

Inspired by historical events surrounding the development of nuclear weapons, this drama examines the responsibilities that accompany powerful discoveries and encourages discussion of ethics, research, and global consequences.

40. Something the Lord Made (2004) — Rated TV-PG

Based on a remarkable true story, this inspiring film follows surgeon Alfred Blalock and self-taught laboratory technician Vivien Thomas as they pioneer life-saving heart surgery through perseverance, innovation, and collaboration despite significant social barriers.

41. The Current War (2019) — Rated PG-13

Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse compete to determine which electrical system will power the nation. This historical drama highlights invention, business, engineering, and how new technology can reshape everyday life.

42. The Theory of Everything (2014) — Rated PG-13

The Theory of Everything tells the inspiring story of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking as he makes groundbreaking discoveries about black holes, cosmology, and space and time while facing the challenges of ALS.

43. Gravity (2013) — Rated PG-13

When disaster strikes during a space mission, an astronaut must survive alone while orbiting Earth. The film incorporates realistic orbital mechanics and was praised by NASA for many aspects of its portrayal of spaceflight.

44. Interstellar (2014) — Rated PG-13

As Earth’s future becomes uncertain, a team of astronauts embarks on an ambitious expedition to find another world capable of supporting human life. Interstellar examines relativity, gravity, orbital mechanics, black holes, and the fascinating relationship between time and space in one of modern cinema’s most celebrated science fiction films.

45. Arrival (2016) — Rated PG-13

A linguist is recruited to communicate with mysterious visitors who arrive on Earth in enormous spacecraft. This thoughtful sci-fi drama examines language, communication, logic, and how international collaboration can prevent conflict.

46. Gattaca (1997) — Rated PG-13

In a future shaped by genetic engineering, DNA determines nearly every opportunity in life. As one determined young man challenges the system, the film raises compelling questions about identity, ethics, and scientific advancement.

47. Inception (2010) — Rated PG-13

A skilled thief enters people’s dreams using advanced AI-assisted technology in pursuit of an impossible mission. Although fictional, the story encourages discussion about memory, perception, neuroscience, and the boundaries between imagination and reality.

48. The Andromeda Strain (1971) — Rated G

After a deadly extraterrestrial microorganism arrives on Earth, a team of scientists follows the scientific method step by step to identify the threat and prevent a global catastrophe. It’s an excellent example of careful observation, hypothesis testing, and laboratory research.

49. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) — Rated G

Stanley Kubrick’s landmark science fiction classic traces humanity’s evolution from prehistoric beginnings to deep-space travel aboard the spaceship Discovery One. Its unforgettable portrayal of a highly intelligent computer and the mysterious monolith continues to influence filmmakers decades later.

50. Bicentennial Man (1999) — Rated PG

Robin Williams stars as an intelligent android who gradually develops emotions, creativity, and individuality over two centuries. The film explores AI, robotics, humanity, and what it truly means to be alive.

51. Joy (2015) — Rated PG-13

Based on the inspiring real-life story of inventor Joy Mangano, this film follows her journey from struggling single mother to successful entrepreneur, showing how determination and a single great idea can change a life.

52. The Aeronauts (2019) — Rated PG-13

Two explorers undertake a dangerous scientific expedition by balloon, climbing higher than anyone before in order to gather atmospheric data that could transform weather forecasting and deepen our understanding of Earth’s atmosphere.

53. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) — Rated PG

Ordinary people find themselves at the center of humanity’s first encounter with alien visitors in Steven Spielberg’s influential science fiction classic. Blending mystery, wonder, and discovery, the film remains one of the defining stories about first contact.

More Math and STEM Movie Lists

• Math Movies on Disney Plus – Discover Disney+ movies that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and an appreciation for math through engaging stories.
• STEM Movies for Kids – Explore even more family-friendly films that introduce science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and memorable ways.
• Top Math Movies on Netflix – Find math-inspired movies currently streaming on Netflix, making it easy to plan your next educational movie night.
• Movies About Math for Kids – Enjoy kid-friendly movies that introduce math concepts through imaginative adventures, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Middle school and high school science can be genuinely fun with the right movie in hand. These films teach real STEM concepts across physics, astronomy, biology, and engineering, while sparking the kind of curiosity that no textbook alone can. Grab some popcorn and get started.

For more STEM resources, check out our Best Math Movies for Teens and Kids and our free Movie Review Template Printable.

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