How to pick family movies: reset the algorithm, vote, rotate

What’s the hardest part about watching family movies? Picking something to watch.

Research shows that Americans spend up to 110 hours a year trying to decide what family movies to watch. With endless choices—and different preferences among family members—agreeing on what to watch can feel impossible. That said, some families have figured out how to choose faster and keep everyone engaged. Below, find some proven strategies and tips that can help make the decision a little easier.

Use the algorithm—don’t let it use you.

Streaming platforms push recommendations all day. While some people find these recommendations limiting, a study by media research firm Magid shows that teens actually like them. The research, commissioned by Verizon, showed that 83% of teens want video services to show them content based on their viewing history. To make the most of the algorithm that recommends those family movies, you need to interact with the streaming service with intent. So give shows a thumbs up or thumbs down. If you like a show, watch it all the way through. If you don’t, skip it ASAP.

Reset the algorithm and make a new playlist.

If you don’t like the family movies your streaming platform recommends, reset its algorithm. How? Some families will simply start a new profile and start saving a list of current favorites so that the new profile’s algorithm will focus on what they really like.

You can strengthen that recommendation algorithm by watching a few of those family movies together. From there, follow the advice above and give a thumbs up or a thumbs down to get more of what you want.

Create a shared list so everybody’s in the mix.

Create a shared list of favorite family movies that everyone can contribute to. When anyone comes across an interesting movie preview or trailer somewhere, they can add it to the family list so it can be pulled up on movie night. Where to keep the list? Try:

• A shared note or Google Doc
• A dedicated watchlist app like Taste or Likewise
• Sticky notes on the fridge

Let kids have a say—and explain your own choices for family movies, too.

It’s not just about what family movies you watch, but also about why you picked them. So go ahead: Explain why a movie like “Goonies” is at the top of your list, and ask your kids why they’re choosing their selections. Rotate who gets to choose—or create a short list and vote as a family. Try turning decision time into part of the fun with a movie night jar (fill it with slips of paper) or hold a mini debate where everyone pitches their pick.

So, what are you watching tonight?

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