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.
In theaters: "The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water"
Movieguide.org states that beneath the movie's simplistic plot and barrage of random jokes and unrelated tangents that provide a few good laughs is a story that teaches strong moral elements promoting honesty and doing the right thing. The website cautions that the film contains plenty of cartoon-branded slapstick violence and juvenile jokes, including some scatological humor, but that the content is relatively child-friendly. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
Redbox: "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"
The Dove Foundation emphasized the films theme of persevering through hard days, stating the film teaches that doing so will make the really good days even better. The website highlights a few content concerns, however, including language, rude humor and brief references to genitalia. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
Netflix: "Ever After"
Common Sense Media says that although this take on the Cinderella story is darker than Disneys ... its also far more inspiring and empowering as the female lead is the one to stand up for herself and others. The website warns that it contains some rude behavior, fighting and language. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 11 and older.
Amazon: "Singin' in the Rain"
Common Sense Media says that the films magic makes it hard to dispute the claim that it is one of the best Hollywood musicals, and says that while some of the characters are a bit on the rowdy and/or naughty side here and there, they are good-hearted and good-natured at the core. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.
Netflix: "17 Miracles"
Doug Wright wrote that while the film doesnt downplay the deprivations of those portrayed, its emphasis on the courage and the miracles that lead to the survival of so many is refreshing and inspiring. The film is rated PG for thematic material involving hardships and suffering. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 8 and older.
In theaters: "The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water"
Movieguide.org states that beneath the movie's simplistic plot and barrage of random jokes and unrelated tangents that provide a few good laughs is a story that teaches strong moral elements promoting honesty and doing the right thing. The website cautions that the film contains plenty of cartoon-branded slapstick violence and juvenile jokes, including some scatological humor, but that the content is relatively child-friendly. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
Redbox: "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"
The Dove Foundation emphasized the films theme of persevering through hard days, stating the film teaches that doing so will make the really good days even better. The website highlights a few content concerns, however, including language, rude humor and brief references to genitalia. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
Netflix: "Ever After"
Common Sense Media says that although this take on the Cinderella story is darker than Disneys ... its also far more inspiring and empowering as the female lead is the one to stand up for herself and others. The website warns that it contains some rude behavior, fighting and language. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 11 and older.
Amazon: "Singin' in the Rain"
Common Sense Media says that the films magic makes it hard to dispute the claim that it is one of the best Hollywood musicals, and says that while some of the characters are a bit on the rowdy and/or naughty side here and there, they are good-hearted and good-natured at the core. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.
Netflix: "17 Miracles"
Doug Wright wrote that while the film doesnt downplay the deprivations of those portrayed, its emphasis on the courage and the miracles that lead to the survival of so many is refreshing and inspiring. The film is rated PG for thematic material involving hardships and suffering. OK.com recommends the film for viewers ages 8 and older.