Cartoons with Character: What These Films Teach Us About Leading

At Cosmic Centaurs, we think a lot about leadership…and not just at work! We’re a team full of moms, which means we're just as invested in shaping the next generation of humans as we are in guiding today’s executives.

And here's something we love to share: leadership doesn’t always have to be taught in boardrooms or business books. Sometimes, the best lessons show up in unexpected places, like on the living room couch, during a movie night with your kids.

Here are a few family-friendly films that double as leadership masterclasses:

Emotional Intelligence & Empathy

Understanding others, emotional regulation, and the quiet strength of listening.

Inside Out: This movie has become a go-to reference for psychologists and leadership coaches alike when teaching emotional intelligence. It gently reminds us that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, and that great leaders listen, acknowledge emotions, and create space for others to do the same.

Azur & Asmar: From director Michel Ocelot, this beautiful fable explores cross-cultural understanding through the bond between two childhood friends from very different backgrounds. The film highlights respecting differences, valuing others’ skills and traditions, and the importance of cooperation

Inner Strength & Self-Determination

Staying grounded in your values, even when it’s hard.

Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron: This 2002 film, featuring Matt Damon as the voice of a wild stallion and leader of his herd, captivated us in childhood, and still resonates today. Spirit refuses to give up or compromise his values, no matter the cost. Want to talk about resilience and the will to fight for what matters? This is the movie.

Mulan: At a time when most female characters were cast as damsels in distress, Mulan redefined what a Disney hero could be. She defied the odds and led with quiet strength, courage, and integrity, even when the world underestimated her. A favorite for many millennial moms, and hopefully an inspiration for our kids too.

Bilal: A New Breed of Hero: Inspired by a true story from early Islamic history, this beautifully UAE-produced animated film follows Bilal, a young boy who rises from hardship to become a powerful voice for justice and equality. The movie is a powerful reflection on inner strength, moral conviction, and what it means to lead with values. 

Creativity & Vision

Seeing the world differently and leading with courage.

How to Train Your Dragon: Adapted from a children’s book, the story highlights how innovative thinking and standing out can be difficult at first, but ultimately become strengths that transform the world around you. The magic of the musical score is an added bonus.

Mary and the Witch’s Flower: This movie about a girl who stumbles into a world of magic celebrates curiosity, courage, and independent thinking. It’s a gentle reminder that real leadership isn’t about quick wins, but about making thoughtful choices, standing up for what’s right, and staying true to your values, even when the path is unclear.

Self-Awareness & Personal Growth

Knowing your impact, growing from failure, and uplifting others.

Kung Fu Panda: Aside from the hilarious movie it is, Kung Fu Panda celebrates the power of self-belief and continuous growth. It’s a strong example that by embracing who you are, staying curious, and persistence, you can achieve your goals and be at peace with yourself.

Kiki’s Delivery Service: Who knew a cute witch delivering bread on her broom through a coastal village could teach kids about independence and spark an entrepreneurial spirit? This Ghibli film also offers valuable lessons on finding your purpose, managing your energy, and learning from failure.

At the heart of this list is a simple invitation: design your family values just as thoughtfully as you design your leadership values. Take a moment to define what you stand for together, and enjoy a movie while you’re at it.