By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Five for Families: Space films for families to consider
2aeee453afb3310233ebed39b095f8900498b968edc50fedc56248af0d701e88
"2001: A Space Odyssey" - photo by Deseret Connect
Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.

Many eyes have looked up to the sky with the recent news of water on Mars and the occurance of last month's supermoon eclipse. The film industry has long exhibited a fascination with all things intergalactic, releasing films about aliens, space travel and tales from "a galaxy far, far away." Here are five space-related films for your family to consider:

Netflix: "2001: A Space Odyssey"

2001: A Space Odyssey tells of a space expedition that leads to the discovery of a mysterious object beneath the moons surface. Parent Previews states that the film, which was made in 1968, will always stand in film history as the first real space movie made, adding that the film is an elegant masterpiece that has aged very well. Although there are a few tense moments that may frighten young children, the website states that there is little content to concern parents. The film is rated G, and Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.

iTunes: "Wall-E"

A lonely robot left to clean up Earth embarks on a journey through space after he learns hes not alone. The Dove Foundation gave the film its Dove Family Approved for all ages designation, referring to the Pixar film as a cute story with several humorous moments. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Instant: "Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back"

The Star Wars story continues as Luke Skywalker learns the ways of a Jedi from Yoda while his friends pursue Darth Vader. Common Sense Media says the fifth film in the popular series is a rousing adventure told superbly but cautions that the film contains multiple dark and intense moments. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.

Netflix: "Treasure Planet"

This film takes Robert Louis Stevensons classic tale Treasure Island and puts it in an outer space, creatively melding antiquated, seafaring ships with a futuristic setting, according to Parent Previews. The website calls it a coming-of-age adventure that will likely appeal to a range of viewers. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.

Amazon Instant: "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial"

A young boy befriends an alien and helps it find its way home. PluggedIn calls the film an enduring, out-of-this-world fantasy thats still fun, adding that the film contains themes of home, friendship and love. The website cautions, however, that the film contains some profanity and a few crude expressions. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 8 and older.
Sign up for our E-Newsletters
Have You Seen This? Street musician slays with clarinet
638421_Screenshot_1.png
Better than almost every face-melting guitar or drum solo. - photo by Facebook video screenshot

THE BIG EASY — Yeah, yeah, we all know that New Orleans is stuffed to the gills will incredible musicians.

But knowing that fact and then hearing that fact are two different things. You can step into any number of jazz clubs on any given night on Bourbon Street, and you’ll probably be impressed with virtually every act. Or you can sit at home on your comfy couch and watch this featured video.

In the video, you’ll see a woman who is in the groove. She is swinging hard, and wailing on her clarinet with a practiced expertise that makes it sounds so easy.

From note one you’ll be drawn in; your appreciation will grow with every second, and then your face will melt off when you realize how incredible she really is.

If you’ve never played a woodwind or a brass, you may not know everything that comes with a performance like this. Lung capacity and breath control are huge factors in keeping your notes clear and loud, and hitting those high notes is especially difficult.

So when this woman hits that high note and holds it for several seconds, you know you’re dealing with an exceptional musician. It means she has worked hard for years to develop skill on top of her natural talent, and we get to benefit.

It kinda makes you wonder how we let people get away with mumble rap and autotune when talent like this exists in the world.

I wish this video were longer, and I wish I had more information about this woman, but as it is, we’ll just have to appreciate the little flavor of New Orleans jazz posted by the Facebook group Clarinet Life.

Martha Ostergar is a writer who delights in the ridiculous that internet serves up, which means she's more than grateful that she gets to cruise the web for amazing videos to highlight for your viewing pleasure.
Latest Obituaries