If you loved the middle school misadventures, sibling rivalry and laugh out loud moments of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, you’re in the right place. These movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid deliver that same spirit of childhood awkwardness, school life chaos and family fun.
Get ready for a lineup of films that mix coming of age humour, tween friendships and lighthearted lessons. Whether it’s a kid navigating school halls or a family dealing with everyday ridiculousness, these picks fit the vibe perfectly.
From live action to animated gems, this list features the best movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid for tweens, teens and families seeking fun with heart. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the ride.
Why People Love Diary of a Wimpy Kid
The appeal of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid lies in their relatability the middle school setting, the cringe worthy moments, the sibling fights and finding your place. These films speak to both kids and parents because they are funny and real.
Moreover, they offer a safe, family friendly space to reflect on identity, friendship and growth. With school based settings, everyday obstacles and witty humour, they resonate deeply with viewers who experienced (or are experiencing) those years.
What Makes a Movie Similar to Diary of a Wimpy Kid
When a film features a tween or early teen protagonist, school or home as a central setting, light comedic tone and themes of friendship, misfit identity, and growth, it qualifies among movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
Add to that the family friendly humour, the sense of belonging (or mis belonging), and you’ve got the kind of film that gives similar emotional pay off. These stories emphasise fun, heart and character rather than heavy drama.
The Top 25 Movies Like Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Family Friendly Comedy Films
These family friendly comedy films deliver the same humor and charm that make movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid so memorable.
1. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (2014)
- Release Date: October 10, 2014 (USA) imdb.com+1
- IMDb Rating: 6.2/10 imdb.com+1
This film captures the chaotic spirit of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, showing an 11 year old whose day spirals out of control and his family pays the price. It blends school based embarrassment with sibling rivalry and a warm family resolution. With vivid characters, slapstick humour and a message about perspective and togetherness, it’s a strong pick for tween and family viewing in the coming of age genre.
2. Cheaper by the Dozen (2003)
- Release Date: December 25, 2003
- IMDb Rating: 5.9/10
With twelve children under one roof and the comedic chaos that ensues, this film fits right in the territory of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid lots of sibling shenanigans, parental struggle and heartfelt family moments. The high energy pacing, ensemble kids cast and middle class family dynamics make for a sweet, laugh filled experience that families can easily enjoy together.
3. Daddy Day Care (2003)
- Release Date: May 9, 2003
- IMDb Rating: 5.6/10
When two dads open a daycare and the children run the show instead, it becomes a hilarious ride and definitely in the catalog of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid: school style chaos, kids taking charge and comedic parent kid dynamics. The film balances mischief with warmth and offers a look at friendship, responsibility and unconventional families; perfect for fans of tween friendly, light humour.
4. The Parent Trap (1998)
- Release Date: July 20, 1998
- IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
Twin sisters swap places at summer camp and chaos ensues this one fits movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid mould with sibling rivalry, identity confusion and lots of fun in a teen friendly package. The cosmopolitan setting, pranks and emotional reunion hit the right note for kids and parents alike ideal for a family night or a tween’s first big laugh out loud moment.
5. Yours, Mine & Ours (2005)
- Release Date: December 9, 2005
- IMDb Rating: 5.5/10
A newly blended family with ten kids becomes a recipe for mischief, chaos and bonding giving you the kind of sibling and school life humour found in movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The film emphasises teamwork, blending personalities and finding fun in everyday mayhem, making it a comfortable fit for family groups looking for light hearted, relatable entertainment.
School and Friendship Adventures
These school and friendship adventure films capture the ups and downs of student life, making them perfect for fans of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid who love humor mixed with heartwarming lessons about growing up.
6. Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life (2016)
- Release Date: August 19, 2016
- IMDb Rating: 5.6/10
In this film, a rule bending kid takes matters into his own hands at his school and tries to shake up the system a textbook entry for movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, packed with school trouble, laughter and teen empowerment. With imaginative rebellion, graphic novel style visuals and a hero who’s a little awkward but brave, it connects with the middle school set and anyone who remembers those years.
7. The Duff (2015)
- Release Date: February 20, 2015
- IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
When a high schooler realises she has been labelled the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend,” she embarks on a mission to change everything this teen comedy aligns with movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid thanks to its school setting, friendship dynamics and self image themes. It offers a cocktail of humour, drama and real teen concerns, while staying accessible and fun, making it a strong pick for the coming of age comedy category.
8. Max Keebles Big Move (2001)
- Release Date: October 5, 2001
- IMDb Rating: 5.6/10
A middle school misfit who thinks he’s moving soon decides to get revenge on his bullies instantly relatable to the tone of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, with school shenanigans and growth through adversity. Its blend of slapstick, imagination and a kid hero narrative makes it a nostalgic pick for adults and a fresh comedic experience for younger viewers
9. Neds Declassified School Survival Guide (TV Series, 2004–2007)
- Release Date: February 20, 2015
- IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
While not a movie, this series shares the same spirit as movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid: a middle school setting, survival tips, humour, camaraderie and misadventures perfect for fans looking for more. Though episodic, its structure and tone fit the category: kids navigating school, friends and family with wit, heart and mischief.
10. School of Rock (2003)
- Release Date: October 3, 2003
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
A substitute teacher forms a rock band out of his class of misfits and turns the school upside down capturing the playful, rebellious, coming of age vibe that many movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid embody. The underdog story, musical flair and youth centric perspective all contribute to its enduring appeal in the family comedy genre.
Coming of Age Teen Comedies
These coming of age teen comedies capture the awkward, hilarious, and inspiring experiences that define adolescence.
11. The Sandlot (1993)
- Release Date: April 7, 1993
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
A group of young baseball loving kids spend a summer together, forming friendships, facing fears and telling tales classic movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, highlighting childhood freedom, camaraderie and humour. Its nostalgic setting, larger than life summer adventures and emotional core place it firmly in the middle school friendly category.
12. Good Boys (2019)
- Release Date: August 16, 2019
- IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Three sixth graders go on a wild, boundary pushing adventure; though slightly more mature, it still draws on the school life chaos and friendship focus seen in movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. This film ups the stakes with bigger comedic set pieces but retains the essential theme: kids trying to navigate their world, get it together and laugh about it.
13. The Goonies (1985)
- Release Date: June 7, 1985
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
A band of adventurous kids go on a treasure hunt and face unexpected challenges this film fits into the extended family of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, emphasising friendship, daring escapades and laughter. Its blend of childhood heroics, group camaraderie and misfit central characters makes it timeless and ideal for family movie nights.
14. Holes (2003)
- Release Date: April 11, 2003
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Sent to a juvenile detention camp for a crime he didn’t commit, a young boy uncovers secrets, builds friendships and grows more layered, but still squarely within the realm of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid due to its youth led story and humour. It combines mystery, a school camp setting and character development in a way that engages both kids and older viewers alike.
15. Matilda (1996)
- Release Date: August 2, 1996
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
A gifted little girl with telekinetic powers stands up to bullies and grownups while more magical, it still aligns with movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, thanks to its focus on a child’s viewpoint, humour, growth and family dynamics. It delivers charm, mischief and a hero’s journey geared for younger audiences, making it a perfect pick for families and tweens.
Based on Children’s Books
These films combine imagination, life lessons, and the playful storytelling spirit found in movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
16. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010)
- Release Date: February 12, 2010
- IMDb Rating: 5.9/10
A teenager discovers he is the son of a Greek god and is thrust into a mythic quest this big adventure film still qualifies among movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, thanks to its juvenile protagonist, school style tension and humour. Though more fantasy driven, the kid perspective and growth through adventure themes make it a good fit for fans of coming of age and tween friendly films.
17. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe (2005)
- Release Date: December 9, 2005
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Four kids enter a magical world and face trials together although fantasy heavy, it shares the child led journey, friendship and discovery found in movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It blends imaginative world building with family dynamics, appealing to younger audiences and families seeking more than just laughs.
18. Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
- Release Date: February 16, 2007
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Two imaginative kids create a fantasy world to cope with real life blending humour, emotion and the growing up process, this film fits into the set of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid by balancing fun with heart. Its strength lies in adventure and emotional truths of friendship and imagination, making it suitable for older kids and families.
19. Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)
- Release Date: December 17, 2004
- IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Three siblings face absurd challenges and a villainous guardian this quirky offering aligns with movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid via its young protagonists, misadventures and offbeat humour. It weaves dark comedy, child centric storytelling and spectacle in a way that pushes boundaries but remains accessible to tween audiences.
20. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
- Release Date: November 25, 2009
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
A stop motion film narrated for both kids and adults about a clever fox and his family while not school centric, it still carries the mischief, family themes and clever humour that make it a worthy entry among movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The unique visual style, witty script and themes of identity and loyalty offer a more elevated yet kid friendly viewing experience.
Animated and Fun Alternatives
These animated and fun alternatives offer the same humor, warmth, and heart as the best live action comedies for kids and families.
21. The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)
- Release Date: April 30, 2021
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
A quirky family road trip turns into a tech apocalypse, but underneath it all is a heartfelt sibling story and tween perspective humour making it one of the movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid that works for families and kids alike. Its modern animation style, inclusive themes and smart jokes elevate it while keeping it in the realm of school life and family comedy.
22. Turning Red (2022)
- Release Date: March 11, 2022
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
A tween girl who spontaneously transforms into a giant red panda when she gets too excited is the premise full of school, friends, embarrassment and growing up, just like movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It combines humour with very real tween emotions, identity and family expectations a perfect transition for slightly older audiences exploring this genre.
23. Inside Out (2015)
- Release Date: June 19, 2015
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Inside the mind of a tween girl, her emotions battle for control humorous, insightful and family friendly, this film belongs among movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid for its focus on growth, identity and relatable chaos. Although more abstract, its themes of change and fitting in align with the humour and heart of school life adventures
24. Luca (2021)
- Release Date: June 18, 2021
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Two sea monster kids spend a summer pretending to be human playful, gentle and resonant with the middle school tone of movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It wraps friendship, identity and acceptance with seaside laughs and joy, making it ideal for younger tweens or families wanting a mellow story.
25. Despicable Me (2010)
- Release Date: July 9, 2010
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
A super villain adopts three orphan girls and through their influence redefines himself. While more outlandish, it shares the humour, mischief and kid friendly antics that define movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It’s a story of unexpected family, growth and playful childhood perspectives that can appeal across all ages.
Honorable Mentions
- The Wonder Years (TV series) nostalgic coming of age laughter.
- Good Luck Charlie (TV series) family and tween friendly humour.
- Malcolm in the Middle (TV series) sibling chaos and school life through a clever lens.
While these aren’t movies, they carry the same vibe of growing up, fitting in and laughing at the awkward moments.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this list spans classic middle school comedies, imaginative adaptations and modern animated delights all created with kids, teens and families in mind. The recurring themes? Humour rooted in everyday life, relatable characters, school and family settings and a sense of lighthearted growth.
So pick a title, invite some friends or family, pop some popcorn and dive into the world of awkward school dances, sibling pranks and laugh out loud moments. Because when it comes to movies like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, the real fun lies in the familiar chaos and the fact that we’ve all been there too.
