2022 movie releases: 7 family movies to watch out for

On the search for movies that will keep the entire family happy in 2022? Scroll down for our essential list of 2022 family films.

1. Sing 2

Release date 28th January 2022

The movie This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination’s smash animated franchise arrives with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as the ever-optimistic koala, Buster Moon, and his all-star cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by global music icon Bono, in his animated film debut—to join them.

2. Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Release date 1st April 2022

The movie Back in 2020, the first Sonic movie ran rings around the box office competition. The sequel promises to pay off that tantalising end credits teaser in which we glimpsed Jim Carrey in the official Doctor Robotnik garb. We're also preparing to welcome Idris Elba's Knuckles – and Sonic's best friend Miles 'Tails' Prower will also be making an appearance.

3. The Bad Guys

Release date 1st April 2022

The movie The creative minds behind Despicable Me, Minions and The Secret Life of Pets return with another irresistible, family-friendly conceit. Set in a world where humans and anthropomorphic animals co-exist, The Bad Guys features an excellent cast of A-list voice actors including Sam Rockwell and Awkwafina.

4. Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore

Release date 8th April 2022

The movie The dark wizard Grindelwald continues to draw true bloods to his cause in this continuation of the Harry Potter spin-off saga. Mads Mikkelsen replaces Johnny Depp as the fiendish Grindelwald, while the ongoing relationship between Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) and young Dumbledore (Jude Law) promises to unearth fresh surprises.

5. Lightyear

Release date 17th June 2022

The movie No, Tim Allen is not getting replaced, to paraphrase Tom Hanks' Woody. Instead, Captain America himself, Chris Evans, is set to voice the square-jawed astronaut who inspired the creation of the Buzz Lightyear, Allen-voiced toy. Prepare to go to infinity and beyond in this sure-to-be-thrilling Disney-Pixar origin story.

6. Minions: The Rise of Gru

Release date 1st July 2022

The movie Gru's chaotic and amusing pill-shaped companions have already powered their way through three Despicable Me blockbusters and an equally successful Minions solo project. They're now back to create more hilarious havoc in a story that takes us back to the origins of Steve Carell's vowell-mangling supervillain.

7. DC League of Super-Pets

Release date 20th May 2022

The movie Forget Superman – DC League of Super-Pets showcases his adorably loyal canine pal, Krypto. When the Man of Steel and the rest of the Justice League is kidnapped by the nefarious Lex Luthor, there's only one hero who can save the day – and he has four legs and a tail. Dwayne Johnson voices Krypto and Kevin Hart voices his sidekick Ace.