Reviews & What-to-Watch November 23, 2023

10 Family Movies That Instill An Attitude Of Gratitude

M Movieguide®

10 Family Movies That Instill An Attitude Of Gratitude

By Movieguide® Contributor

Parents hoping to instill a sense of gratitude in their children will love this Movieguide® list. From classic films to modern animated features, the message of gratefulness stands the test of time. Whether it’s about a Grinch who discovers the joy of Christmas or a family who saves humanity from evil robots, these movies teach children to be thankful year-round.

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ANNE OF GREEN GABLES (1934)

Family Drama · TV-G

The 1934 version of ANNE OF GREEN GABLES is an old-fashioned movie about a farmer and his sister who hope to adopt a boy. After the orphanage sends an imaginative girl named Anne Shirley, she wins over their hearts with her spunk and zest for life. The film contains a strong Christian moral worldview with themes of love and forgiveness. Best of all, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES features an orphan who overcomes her fate with a heart of appreciation. It’s a sweet story that’s safe for the entire family.

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BETHANY HAMILTON: UNSTOPPABLE

Family Documentary · PG

BETHANY HAMILTON: UNSTOPPABLE is an inspiring documentary about Bethany Hamilton, a female surfer who lost an arm after a shark attack. The story follows her experience with fame and how God gave her the strength to relearn how to surf with one arm. It contains a strong Christian moral view and focuses on the power of faith and gratitude. Parents should know there is a detailed description of the shark attack, which might frighten younger children. Otherwise, UNSTOPPABLE is an uplifting movie for people of all ages.

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LILO & STITCH

Family Animation/Comedy/Science Fiction · PG

LILO & STITCH is a Disney animated comedy about a little girl named Lilo who is being raised by her older sister Nani after their parents die in a car accident. Their lives change when an illegal life form crash lands near their home. Lilo snatches him up when she disguises himself as a puppy. Hijinx unfolds as Nani and Lilo attempt to make him fit in. LILO & STITCH has a strong moral worldview stressing the importance of being thankful for family. Parents should know there are comic references to evolution and voodoo.

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CINDERELLA (2021)

Extreme Caution Fantasy · PG

CINDERELLA is the live-action reboot of the beloved fairy tale. It tells the story of Ella, whose father unexpectedly passes away, leaving her at the mercy of her unkind stepmother and two stepsisters. Ella’s luck turns when she meets her fairy godmother. The movie features a very strong moral worldview and touches on redemptive themes of hope, loyalty and gratitude. It contains light violence, so Movieguide® suggests parents use caution for kids under 6. CINDERELLA is a magical movie about overcoming adversity with grace.

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THE GRINCH (2018)

Family Animated/Comedy/Fantasy · PG

THE GRINCH is a delightful rendition of Dr. Suess’s Christmas story. The plot centers around the formidable Grinch, who lives in a mountain fortress above the cheery world of Whoville. After visiting the town and witnessing everyone filled with the Christmas spirit, he decides to steal Christmas. Will he have a change of heart? The film contains a very strong Christian worldview celebrating kindness and gratefulness. THE GRINCH is a delightful movie with light cartoon violence.

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TOY STORY

Family G

TOY STORY is the classic Pixar film about Woody, a cowboy doll who feels threatened when a new toy named Buzz Lightyear appears in his owner’s room. When their fighting leaves them stranded at a gas station, they must learn to work together. Will they find their back to Andy’s room? The movie contains a strong Christian worldview extolling the importance of appreciating friendship. Parents should be aware that there is some cartoon violence and light language. TOY STORY is a wholesome movie for children 5+.

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CARS

Family Family · G

CARS is an action-packed Disney/Pixar movie about the hot shot race car Lightning McQueen, who finds himself stranded in the small town of Radiator Springs. Forced to rebuild the road he wrecks, he becomes friends with the cars in the town and learns to be thankful for more than just winning. The film has a strong moral worldview and celebrates American values. There is light language and some cartoon violence, but it’s mostly slapstick comedy. CARS is a high-octane thrill ride that’s not too intense for the 5+ crowd.

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THE MITCHELLS VS. THE MACHINES

Caution Animated/Comedy/Science Fiction · PG

THE MITCHELLS VS. THE MACHINES is an action-packed movie about a dysfunctional family who work together to save humanity from a robot apocalypse. It’s a quirky film focusing on choosing family over technology. While it contains a moral worldview about treasuring time spent with loved ones, there is jeopardy and peril that may scare young children. Parents should know there are rainbow themes and an illusion of a same-sex couple during the ending credits. Movieguide® advises caution for older children.

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FINDING DORY

Family Animated/Comedy/Fantasy · PG

FINDING DORI is the follow-up film to the beloved animated movie FINDING NEMO. This time, the plot centers around the absent-minded fish Dory, who embarks on a journey to find her long-lost parents. Marlin and Nemo join her in the search and learn lessons about the true meaning of family. It’s a delightful movie with a very strong moral worldview and only a few scenes with light cartoon violence. Best of all, FINDING DORY gives kids a glimpse of ocean life, making it a fantastic watch for curious 6+ kids.

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MARY POPPINS RETURNS

Caution Musical Comedy · PG

MARY POPPINS RETURNS is the follow-up to the beloved musical MARY POPPINS. The Banks siblings are all grown up, and Michael and his children need a nanny. Mary Poppins, the magical nanny, returns to help them through a challenging time. The movie features a strong pro-family worldview, encouraging kindness and gratitude. There is light jeopardy that may be frightening to young children. MARY POPPINS RETURNS is a light-hearted romp with a nostalgic feel for kids 6+.

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10 Family Movies That Instill An Attitude Of Gratitude

10 Family Movies That Instill An Attitude Of Gratitude

ANNE OF GREEN GABLES (1934)

BETHANY HAMILTON: UNSTOPPABLE

LILO & STITCH

CINDERELLA (2021)

THE GRINCH (2018)

TOY STORY

CARS

THE MITCHELLS VS. THE MACHINES

FINDING DORY

MARY POPPINS RETURNS

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