20+ Historical Movies for Preteen Boys
It can be a challenge to find historical movies that are not only clean and wholesome, but are also engaging for preteen boys! That’s why I’ve gathered together this list of films: each one chosen with care to inspire, entertain, and encourage young hearts and minds.
Each historical film listed below has been carefully vetted by me, so you can relax knowing every movie on this list is clean, family-friendly, and chosen with conservative values in mind. These movies highlight adventure, memorable characters, and valuable life lessons - all through the lens of young boys growing up in various historical eras.
Additionally, these films can also serve as fun supplements for your homeschool curriculum, helping you to bring history and literature to life for your children.
It is important to note that every family has their own standards, so I always recommend previewing, or reading content reviews for anything unfamiliar to you. For your convenience, a content guide is linked in the review with each movie below. And if you’re ever unsure about a film on this list, I’m just a message away - I’d love to help!
I hope this list brings new favorites into your home and gives you many good movie nights together. Don’t forget to check out my 20+ Historical Movies for Preteen Girls and 50+ Historical Movies and TV Shows for Teen Girls while you’re here - you’ll discover even more wonderful (and clean!) period dramas for your family to enjoy!
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Captains Courageous 1996 | PG | Available to watch on Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and DVD
Based on Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel, Captains Courageous (1996) tells the story of spoiled young Harvey Cheyne, who is rescued by fishermen after falling overboard off a transatlantic steamship. Through hard work and the friendship of the fishermen, Harvey transforms from a selfish boy into a courageous and compassionate young man. While not a very faithful adaptation of Kipling’s novel, Captains Courageous (1996) is still an inspiring story about a boy who learns courage, humility, and friendship aboard a fishing schooner. Set in the 1930s. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for ages 12+)
The Apple Dumpling Gang 1975 | G | Available to watch on Disney+ and DVD
One of my favorite childhood movies, The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975) captures a perfect mix of Old West charm and laugh-out-loud humor. When three orphans discover gold, they attract all sorts of unwanted attention - including a pair of loveable but hopeless outlaws (brilliantly portrayed by Don Knotts and Tim Conway). It’s a classic Disney family film full of warmth and silliness. Set in 1879, during the Gold Rush. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for all ages)
Swallows and Amazons 1974 | Not Rated | Available to watch on Internet Archive and Region 2 DVD
Swallows and Amazons (1974) is an excellent adaptation of Arthur Ransome’s classic novel about the Walker siblings (John, Susan, Titty, and Roger) who embark on an sailing and camping adventure in England’s Lake District. It’s a gentle, old-fashioned story full of outdoor exploration, imagination, friendship, and wholesome fun. Set in 1929. *Please note that the Amazon link below is for a Region 2 DVD - you will need a region-free DVD player in order to play it. CONTENT GUIDE: Read my review here! (You’ll have to scroll down the page a little to find it).
Swallows and Amazons 2016 | Not Rated | Available to watch on Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, DVD, and more
In Swallows and Amazons (2016), the Walker children’s peaceful summer turns thrilling when they become entangled with spies in pre-World War II England. Though it departs from the 1974 adaptation’s gentle tone, it’s an exciting adventure full of beautiful scenery and family-friendly fun. Set in the summer of 1935, and loosely based on Arthur Ransome’s children’s book. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for ages 12+) and Parent Previews
I Am David 2003 | PG | Available to watch on Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, BYU TV, DVD, and YouTube
I Am David (2003) is a moving story set in the early 1950s, following a young boy who escapes a Communist labor camp in Eastern Europe. Armed only with a compass, a loaf of bread, and a sealed letter, David journeys across Europe in search of freedom. It’s a thoughtful, beautifully filmed story about hope, trust, and courage. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy - I never fail to shed a tear or two when watching this film (it has such a happy ending!!). Based on the children’s book by Anne Holm. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind
The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep 2007 | PG | Available to watch on DVD
Set in 1940s Scotland during World War II, The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (2007) offers a magical retelling of a Scottish myth through the eyes of a lonely boy. When Angus finds a strange egg by the loch, he forms a deep bond with the creature that soon outgrows his home. The film is a charming blend of history, folklore, humor, and imagination. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind and Parent Previews
Lassie 2005 | PG | Available to watch on DVD and YouTube
In Lassie (2005), young Joe Carraclough is heartbroken when his beloved collie, Lassie, is sold due to his family’s poverty in 1930s England. Lassie's unwavering determination to return to Joe leads her on a courageous journey filled with love, loyalty, and adventure. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind
Swiss Family Robinson 1960 | G | Available to watch on Disney+ and DVD
In Swiss Family Robinson (1960), a Swiss family is stranded on an uninhabited island and uses their wits to turn it into a home. Their thrilling adventures, from building a treehouse to fighting pirates, make this a timeless classic for most ages. Set in the early 1800s. CONTENT GUIDE: Parent Previews
Little Lord Fauntleroy 1995 | G | Available to watch on DVD
Little Lord Fauntleroy (1995) tells the story of young Cedric, a poor American boy who unexpectedly becomes the heir to a British title. His kindness and innocence help heal the strained relationship between his stern grandfather and his estranged family. Set in the mid-1880s, and based upon Francis Hodgson Burnett’s children’s novel. CONTENT GUIDE: Read my Review (you’ll need to scroll down the page a little to find it).
Five Children and It 1991 | Not Rated | Available to watch on Amazon Prime Video, Region 2 DVD, and YouTube
Five Children and It (1991) is a delightful miniseries about five siblings who stumble upon a magical sand fairy who grants them one wish a day - with humorous and chaotic results. Set in the early 20th century, this lighthearted story is adapted from E. Nesbit’s beloved children’s classic. CONTENT GUIDE: I was unable to find any content guides to share with you, but I recently watched this and it was very clean and fun! The children bicker a little, and there is some slight peril.
Black Beauty 1994 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Tubi
In Black Beauty (1994), a beautiful black horse experiences both kindness and cruelty as he passes from one owner to another in Victorian England (late 19th-century). His journey highlights themes of compassion, perseverance, and the special and enduring bond between humans and animals. Based on Anna Sewell’s children’s novel. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind
Seven Alone 1974 | G | Available to watch on DVD, Tubi, and YouTube
In Seven Alone (1974), after the death of their parents, the Sager children continue their perilous journey west under the leadership of their oldest brother, John. His transformation from a reckless boy into a mature, courageous young man anchors this inspiring true story. Set in the early 1840s. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for ages 12+)
A Bear Named Winnie 2004 | PG | Available to watch on DVD, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, and YouTube
A Bear Named Winnie (2004) tells the heartwarming true story of a Canadian soldier, Harry Coleburn, who adopts an orphaned bear cub during World War I. Their bond would later inspire the beloved character Winnie-the-Pooh. Set against the backdrop of war in 1914, this true story offers a tender reminder of innocence and joy amid hardship. CONTENT GUIDE: Charity’s Place
Justin Morgan Had a Horse 1972 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Disney+
Based on Marguerite Henry’s children’s book of the same name, this film produced by Disney tells the true story of a schoolteacher and a small but spirited colt who would go on to found the famous Morgan horse breed. Set in post-Revolutionary War America. CONTENT GUIDE: Common Sense Media
Johnny Tremain 1957 | PG | Available to watch on DVD
Johnny Tremain (1957) follows a young apprentice in Revolutionary War-era Boston who finds himself swept up in the fight for American independence. This Disney adaptation of Esther Forbes' novel offers an exciting, family-friendly look at key events leading up to the Revolution. CONTENT GUIDE: Movieguide
Little Men 1998 | PG | Available to watch on DVD and Amazon Prime Video
In Little Men (1998), Jo and Professor Bhaer open their home to a lively group of boys, each with their own struggles and dreams. Filled with humor, warmth, and touching life lessons, this adaptation is based on Louisa May Alcott’s sequel to Little Women. Set in 1871. CONTENT GUIDE: IMDb
The Prince and the Pauper 2000 | PG | Available to watch on DVD, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, and YouTube
In The Prince and the Pauper (2000), a young prince and a beggar boy exchange lives, each discovering the realities of the other’s world. This adaptation stays true to the heart of Mark Twain’s story while offering light-hearted entertainment for boys (and girls!). Set in 16th-century England. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for ages 12+)
Iron Will 1994 | PG | Available to watch on DVD, Disney+, and YouTube
Iron Will (1994) tells the inspiring true story of a young man, Will Stoneman, who enters a dangerous dog-sled race to save his family’s farm. With determination and grit, Will faces overwhelming odds in this thrilling adventure about perseverance and courage. Set in 1917. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind
By Way of the Stars 1992 | PG | Available to watch on DVD and Gazebo TV
By Way of the Stars (1992) tells the story of Lukas Bienmann, a boy who witnesses a crime and escapes to America to find his estranged grandfather. Set in 1865 and produced by Sullivan Entertainment, this miniseries adapts the German children's novel “The Long Journey of Lukas B.”. Set in 1865. *Please be advised that the Amazon link below is for a multi-feature DVD, containing By Way of the Stars and a movie called The Pathfinder. I have not seen The Pathfinder, so I do not know if it is safe for the family. CONTENT GUIDE: IMDb (read the Storyline for a good overview).
Pit Pony: A Diamond in the Rough 1997 | Not Rated | Available to watch on DVD
Pit Pony (1997) tells the story of a young boy named Willie who begins working in the dangerous coal mines of Nova Scotia to support his family. His bond with a small, courageous pit pony becomes a source of hope and strength amid the hardships of early 1900s mining life. CONTENT GUIDE: Dove (approved for ages 12+)
Where the Red Fern Grows 1974 | G | Available to watch on DVD, Tubi, and YouTube
Set in 1930s rural Oklahoma, Where the Red Fern Grows (1974) follows Billy and his beloved dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, as they hunt, compete, and grow together. This timeless tale of boyhood and bravery is filled with both joy and sorrow. Based on Wilson Rawls’ classic children’s novel. CONTENT GUIDE: Movieguide and Dove (approved for ages 12+)
I hope this list helps you discover some great historical movies for your preteen boys! Each film brings something meaningful to the table - whether it’s courage, character-building lessons, or an exciting window into the past. If you found this list helpful, be sure to check out my 20+ Historical Movies for Preteen Girls, 50+ Historical Movies and TV Shows for Teen Girls, or Charlotte Mason Books-to Movies, where you'll find even more films that reflect biblical values, support Charlotte Mason principles, and offer wholesome entertainment for the whole family.
Did I miss any of your favorites? Let me know what you think in the comments below—I’d love to hear your suggestions!
