This curated list of family films featuring giant spiders offers a unique blend of adventure, humor, and mild horror, making it perfect for family movie nights. These films not only entertain but also provide a light-hearted way to explore themes of courage, teamwork, and overcoming fears, all wrapped up in the fun and sometimes silly premise of oversized arachnids.

The Giant Spider Invasion (1975)
Description: Although not originally intended for children, this campy classic has become a cult favorite for its over-the-top effects and unintentional humor, making it suitable for older kids and adults.
Fact: The film uses a Volkswagen Beetle as the body of the giant spider, which has become an iconic image in B-movie history.


Eight Legged Freaks (2002)
Description: A classic in the giant spider genre, this film combines comedy and horror as a small town battles an invasion of genetically altered spiders. It's perfect for families looking for a mix of laughs and thrills.
Fact: The film pays homage to 1950s creature features, and the spiders were created using a combination of animatronics and CGI.


Big Ass Spider! (2013)
Description: A low-budget comedy-horror film where a giant spider terrorizes Los Angeles. Its humorous tone and exaggerated effects make it a fun watch for families looking for laughs.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Mega Spider" but was renamed for a more humorous and memorable title.


Arachnia (2003)
Description: This film follows a group of explorers who accidentally unleash a horde of giant spiders in a remote cave system. It's a family-friendly adventure with plenty of action and light-hearted moments.
Fact: The film was shot in the real-life cave systems of Kentucky, adding authenticity to the setting.


Tarantula (1955)
Description: A science fiction horror film where a scientist's experiment goes awry, leading to a giant tarantula terrorizing a small town. Its black-and-white cinematography adds to the nostalgic charm for family viewing.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use a real tarantula for close-up shots, enhancing the realism of the creature.


Earth vs. the Spider (1958)
Description: This film features a giant spider discovered in a cave, which escapes and wreaks havoc. Its blend of science fiction and mild horror makes it an engaging watch for families.
Fact: The spider was created using a combination of a real tarantula and a large prop, with innovative special effects for its time.


The Spider (1958)
Description: A lesser-known film where a giant spider is unleashed on a small town. Its simplicity and focus on human characters make it accessible for family viewing.
Fact: The film was part of a double feature with "The Fly," another classic creature feature.


Kingdom of the Spiders (1977)
Description: This film features a town overrun by tarantulas, offering a mix of suspense and ecological message, suitable for families interested in nature-themed horror.
Fact: Over 5,000 real tarantulas were used in the filming, making it one of the most authentic spider movies.


Spiders 3D (2013)
Description: A modern take on the giant spider theme, this film involves a space shuttle crash that releases genetically altered spiders. It's more action-oriented, suitable for older children and teens.
Fact: The film was released in 3D, enhancing the visual impact of the spiders' attacks.


Spiders (2000)
Description: A TV movie where a space shuttle crash releases giant spiders in New York City. Its blend of action and mild horror makes it appropriate for family viewing.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the idea of spiders in an urban setting, setting a trend for future movies.
