Basements often serve as mysterious or magical places in films, providing a unique setting for family adventures, mysteries, and heartwarming tales. This collection of 10 family-friendly movies showcases the basement as a central element, offering stories that entertain and inspire. Whether it's a secret hideout, a place for discovery, or a setting for family bonding, these films highlight the charm and intrigue of basements, making them perfect for family movie nights.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Description: While primarily an animated film, it includes scenes where the main character, Mrs. Brisby, ventures into the basement of the Fitzgibbon house to save her family.
Fact: This was Don Bluth's first film after leaving Disney, marking a significant moment in animation history. The film's darker themes were quite progressive for its time.
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The Goonies (1985)
Description: A group of kids find a treasure map in their friend's attic, leading them to an adventure in a basement that connects to a series of underground tunnels.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life adventures of Steven Spielberg and his friends. The iconic "truffle shuffle" dance was improvised by actor Jeff Cohen.
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The Monster Squad (1987)
Description: A group of kids form a club to fight classic movie monsters, with much of their planning and preparation taking place in a basement.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a sequel to "The Goonies," but evolved into its own story. It features cameos by horror icons like Tom Noonan as Frankenstein's Monster.
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The Witches (1990)
Description: The film features a scene where the protagonist hides from witches in a basement, adding to the suspense and adventure.
Fact: The film was directed by Nicolas Roeg and based on Roald Dahl's book. Anjelica Huston's performance as the Grand High Witch is particularly memorable.
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The Sandlot (1993)
Description: While not exclusively about a basement, the film features scenes where the kids gather in a basement to share stories and plan their baseball adventures.
Fact: The film was based on director David Mickey Evans' childhood experiences. The iconic line "You're killing me, Smalls!" was improvised.
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The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Description: While not directly about a basement, the film includes scenes where Mia explores the palace, including its lower levels, which could be considered a basement.
Fact: Anne Hathaway performed her own stunts, including the memorable scene where she falls down the stairs.
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The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
Description: Tintin's adventure includes a scene where he discovers clues in a basement, leading to a treasure hunt.
Fact: The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson, combining their love for the Tintin comics. It uses motion capture technology to bring the comic book to life.
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The Great Gilly Hopkins (2015)
Description: Gilly, a foster child, explores her new home, including the basement, where she finds items that help her understand her new family.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Katherine Paterson, known for her insightful portrayal of children's lives.
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The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)
Description: Although not explicitly about a basement, the film involves small people living under the floorboards of a house, which can be considered a basement-like setting.
Fact: This Studio Ghibli film was adapted from Mary Norton's book "The Borrowers." It was the first Studio Ghibli film to be co-produced with an American company, Disney.
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The Burbs (1989)
Description: Although more of a comedy-horror, it features scenes where the neighborhood's mysteries are explored from the protagonist's basement.
Fact: Tom Hanks improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's comedic tone. The film's setting was inspired by director Joe Dante's own neighborhood.
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