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Five for Families: Movies to ring in spring
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"Bambi" - photo by Caresa Alexander Randall
Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.

Spring is a time of new beginnings and adventures. Celebrate the spring season with a bear that loves honey, an immortal family and the "Prince of the Forest" in these five films for families to consider.

Netflix: 'The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh'

"The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" is based on three stories found in A.A. Milne's books. Winnie the Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood experience ups and downs with honey, bees, balloons and singing. Common Sense Media calls the film a "classic animated movie that is both visually and narratively appealing." The website notes the varied personalities that one finds in real life, including long-winded Owl, self-critical Eeyore and the energetic Tigger, and points out that "the movie provides opportunities to discuss different personality types and some iffy decisions that people (or imaginary animals) make." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Video: 'The Secret Garden'

A young British girl who was born and raised in India is sent to live at her uncle's estate after her parents die. Neglected and alone once again, she discovers a locked and abandoned garden, begins to restore it and learns of another secret. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its "Family Approved" seal for all ages, calling the film a "heartwarming story" and a "delightful family film." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.

iTunes: 'Tuck Everlasting'

Set in 1914, a teenage girl falls in love with a young man. The boy and his family are immortal, and the boy's older brother kidnaps the girl to keep the family secret from being exposed. Movieguide.org recognizes the film as a "story about immortality, greed, good and evil, nature, the stages of life and personal destiny. As such, there are many moral, philosophical and theological issues contained within it." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 11 and older.

DVD: 'Bambi'

A young deer grows up in the forest after his mother is shot by hunters. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its "Family-Approved" seal for all ages. Parent Previews mentions dark moments including a fire, pack of dogs and shooting of animals but notes the movie's "simple charm has left an equally indelible impression on the hearts and minds of most fans." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.

Amazon Video: 'Bridge to Terabithia'

A preteen boy befriends a new girl in school, and they imagine a fantasy world to escape reality. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its "Family-Approved" seal for ages 12 and over, and advises viewers to "close your eyes and keep your mind wide open! Travel to Terabithia, where anything is possible." The film is rated PG for thematic elements including bullying, some peril and mild language. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 12 and older.
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