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Five for Families: Space films for families to consider
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"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.
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