Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider. Note: Since not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.
Amazon Instant: 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'
Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone is the first of eight film adaptations based on J.K. Rowlings fantasy novels that captivated young readers around the world. While later films in the series are rated PG-13, this installment received a PG rating. Common Sense Media notes, however, that the film has some intense and scary moments. Harry Potter and friends who are only 11 years old here are in peril and get hurt, but not seriously, and most of the scares come from fantasy creatures. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 7 and older.
Netflix: 'Honey, I Shrunk the Kids'
Parent Previews states that the film contains themes of overcoming personal weaknesses, appreciating individual worth and strengthening family relationships, and that the only potential content concerns are a kiss between teens and some tense moments with giant insects. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 7 and older.
Amazon Prime: 'FernGully: The Last Rainforest'
Former Washington Post movie critic Desson Howe wrote that although he expected the film to contain a heavy environmental message, It sings its message unobtrusively through and for the trees. And most importantly, it never forgets to be delightful, for children and their moviegoing guardians. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 6 and older.
Redbox: 'Selma'
PluggedIn refers to Selma as a beautifully acted, emotionally stirring picture that gives viewers a glimpse into history. Parents should note that this film is not suitable for younger children as it contains uses of the N-word and the F-word, instances of violence and some sexual content. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 14 and older.
Amazon Instant: 'Bolt'
The Dove Foundation awarded Bolt its Family-Approved seal, stating that the film is likely to appeal to children and adults: Follow Bolt on his journey and you will laugh all the way to the credits. The website warns that the film contains a few intense scenes. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 6 and older.
Amazon Instant: 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'
Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone is the first of eight film adaptations based on J.K. Rowlings fantasy novels that captivated young readers around the world. While later films in the series are rated PG-13, this installment received a PG rating. Common Sense Media notes, however, that the film has some intense and scary moments. Harry Potter and friends who are only 11 years old here are in peril and get hurt, but not seriously, and most of the scares come from fantasy creatures. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 7 and older.
Netflix: 'Honey, I Shrunk the Kids'
Parent Previews states that the film contains themes of overcoming personal weaknesses, appreciating individual worth and strengthening family relationships, and that the only potential content concerns are a kiss between teens and some tense moments with giant insects. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 7 and older.
Amazon Prime: 'FernGully: The Last Rainforest'
Former Washington Post movie critic Desson Howe wrote that although he expected the film to contain a heavy environmental message, It sings its message unobtrusively through and for the trees. And most importantly, it never forgets to be delightful, for children and their moviegoing guardians. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 6 and older.
Redbox: 'Selma'
PluggedIn refers to Selma as a beautifully acted, emotionally stirring picture that gives viewers a glimpse into history. Parents should note that this film is not suitable for younger children as it contains uses of the N-word and the F-word, instances of violence and some sexual content. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 14 and older.
Amazon Instant: 'Bolt'
The Dove Foundation awarded Bolt its Family-Approved seal, stating that the film is likely to appeal to children and adults: Follow Bolt on his journey and you will laugh all the way to the credits. The website warns that the film contains a few intense scenes. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers 6 and older.