This curated collection of family films focuses on the theme of abandoned houses, which serve as more than just a backdrop; they are central to the plot, offering intrigue, adventure, and often a touch of the supernatural. These films are perfect for family viewing, providing a blend of mystery, exploration, and heartwarming stories that captivate audiences of all ages. Whether it's a haunted mansion or a forgotten estate, these houses hold secrets waiting to be discovered.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Description: While primarily an animated film about mice, the setting includes an abandoned house where much of the action takes place, providing a backdrop for the story's tension and adventure.
Fact: This was Don Bluth's first feature film after leaving Disney, aiming to bring back the traditional animation style.
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The Goonies (1985)
Description: Although not entirely about an abandoned house, the film includes a treasure hunt that leads the kids through an old, abandoned restaurant and into a series of underground tunnels.
Fact: The film was shot in Astoria, Oregon, where the house used for the exterior shots of the Goonies' home is now a popular tourist attraction.
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The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Description: The film features a toy shop that serves as a hideout, but the villain's lair is in an abandoned, spooky house, adding to the film's atmosphere.
Fact: This was one of the last Disney films to use traditional cel animation before transitioning to digital ink and paint.
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The Monster Squad (1987)
Description: While not solely about an abandoned house, the film features a secret room in an old house where the kids plan their strategy against classic movie monsters.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a more adult-oriented horror-comedy but was toned down for a younger audience.
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The Witches (1990)
Description: The hotel where the witches' convention takes place has an abandoned, eerie feel, making it a perfect setting for the film's magical and sinister events.
Fact: Roald Dahl, the author of the original book, was not happy with the film adaptation, particularly with the ending.
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The Addams Family (1991)
Description: The Addams Family's mansion is as quirky and mysterious as its inhabitants. This film showcases the family's adventures in their gothic home, which is filled with secret passages and oddities.
Fact: The mansion's exterior was shot at the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, California.
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Casper (1995)
Description: The story revolves around a haunted mansion where Casper, a friendly ghost, lives. The house is central to the plot, offering both humor and heart.
Fact: The film was the first feature-length movie to feature a fully CGI character in a leading role.
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The Haunting (1999)
Description: This film follows a group of people investigating a supposedly haunted mansion. The eerie atmosphere and the house's mysterious past make it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House." The mansion used for filming was actually a set built on a soundstage.
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The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
Description: A young boy discovers a magical world in his uncle's old, spooky house, which hides a clock that could end the world. The house itself becomes a character in this enchanting tale.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by John Bellairs, and the house was designed to look like a living, breathing entity.
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The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1966)
Description: A timid typesetter spends a night in a supposedly haunted house to prove his bravery, leading to comedic and spooky adventures.
Fact: The film was one of Don Knotts' most successful comedies, showcasing his comedic timing in a haunted house setting.
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