So you’ve decided to gather the family and watch a movie, how wonderful! The only problem now is deciding on a film, which can take up to the length of a feature film. Maybe Dad wants action, Mom wants a Rom-Com, and the kids want cartoons; it’s difficult to find a film that meets everyone’s needs while also being kid-friendly. That is where Disney/Pixar enters the picture! There are some films that can truly be enjoyed by the entire family by producing films that children enjoy and having enough perspective and philosophical content to provide a heart-warming film for anyone of any age! Continue reading the article to learn more…
Luca is a relatively new film, having been released in 2021. The film is an exciting Pixar/Disney collaboration that centers on a boy with a special ability in rural Italy. The film depicts Italian culture admirably, with numerous references and the use of comedy throughout. On the surface, the film revolves around children and a bike race. However, the film addresses many philosophical and social issues, such as body image, friendship, and the consequences of poor decision-making. Though you may be thinking to yourself, “Cartoons, animations?” are for children. There are many existing Disney and Pixar movies that cater to all audiences, but the recent collaborations between the two go above and beyond to create stellar “fun for the whole family movies.
Moana, a recent (2016) Disney hit, is a family-friendly film. The film is inspired by the heritage of Polynesian islands such as Hawaii and Samoa, and it has a fantastic soundtrack that kids will enjoy. This should be a film that the entire family can enjoy, thanks to a great storyline and a great speaking role from fan favorite Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Moana is a role model for children, displaying courage and selflessness, two values that every parent hopes to instill in their children.
Okay, so this isn’t exactly a new film; and it’s likely that you (the parents) have heard of and watched it. However, with all of the new films released by Disney and Pixar in the last ten years, it’s possible that your children haven’t even seen The Lion King! A timeless classic about a lion who flees his pride as a result of his nefarious, daring uncle; Simba overcomes his guilt through pure courage and friendship to return to his pride and save the flock from certain doom. If your children haven’t already seen it, they should, and if you have, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind seeing it again.
Soul, another Disney/Pixar collaboration, is a stunning film. A man who doesn’t appreciate life struggles with his own issues by assisting a child with theirs. He finds himself in the ‘great before’ as a result of a failed “big break.” The film also has an excellent soundtrack. The central theme of the film is the main character’s search for his soul, which he accomplishes in a variety of ways and means. It’s a fantastic movie in and of itself, and it’s definitely one for the whole family.
Inside Out, a fan favorite, explains why you feel the way you do—a team of different emotions (characters) working together inside your head, alternating responsibility! The concept appeals to people of all ages, but it is especially appealing to children. Following Riley’s story and her struggles to relocate across the country, the emotions wrestle with the move and the upheaval it causes Riley. On a wonderful emotional journey, the characters try everything they can to help Riley. The film itself conveys the sentimental message that emotions are important and must be validated and understood as part of a child’s development. Parents will undoubtedly gain a better understanding of their children and will be able to form deeper bonds with them.
Sure, these films may not be as enjoyable for you as the typical R-rated films with adult jokes and themes that you are more familiar with. However, for a change of pace, these films are ideal for the entire family to enjoy.
