Here are five movies from various platforms that families may want to consider. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.
The recent release of "The Jungle Book" continues the line of live-action Disney films, adapted from classic tales. The lavish scenery makes for a realistic adventure. Here are five live-action Disney films for families to consider.
In Theaters: 'The Jungle Book' (2016)
The "man-cub" Mowgli is raised by a kind wolves but leaves his home after a menacing tiger threatens the pack. According to Catholic News Service, "Forest, fauna and beast never looked as good as they do in 'The Jungle Book' (Disney), a lavish retelling of the 1894 collection of stories by British author Rudyard Kipling." The Dove Foundation award the film its "Family-Approved" seal for ages 12 and older, and says "The movie features terrific jungle scenes, action and funny moments, not to mention a couple of songs." The website warns of "a few scary moments from the predator animals (although not gratuitous), not to mention a few jump scenes." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
iTunes: '101 Dalmatians'
This live-action film follows the story of the 1960s animated feature about a group of puppies kidnapped by the fashionista Cruella De Vil. Although the film is rated G, Parent Previews notes parents may want to be cautious when showing it to children due to pervasive slapstick violence, the "antics of the dognapping crooks" and the visual stunts and gags. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
Redbox: 'Cinderella' (2015)
This recent version of the well-loved fairy tale tells its familiar story with particular emphasis on the title characters courage and kindness despite her unfavorable circumstances. In addition to its positive theme statement, Parents Television Council praised the film for its lack of objectionable content, adding, Filled with luscious visuals, action, comedy and above all romance, Cinderella deserves to be seen by every family who wants to introduce their children to classic (and classy) fairy tales. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
DVD: 'Maleficent'
Clearplay.com calls Maleficent a wonderful retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale, stating the emotional and physical drama of Maleficent keep things interesting throughout. Add to this a wonderful spin on true loves kiss, and you have a winner. The review also praised the films cinematography and Angelina Jolie for her performance as the title character. The website warns that the film contains a handful of violent and disturbing images that would be scary for very young viewers. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.
Amazaon Video: 'Alice in Wonderland' (2010)
This 2010 live-action film version features Alice as a young adult who returns to Wonderland and learns her destiny: to end the reign of the Red Queen. Common Sense Media calls the film a "trippy adaption" with "dazzling landscapes" and a "colorful world." with Johnny Depp who "is a master at portraying loopy men you just can't help but love." The website cautions that although the film is rated PG it is "pretty intense and scary at times for younger kids." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
The recent release of "The Jungle Book" continues the line of live-action Disney films, adapted from classic tales. The lavish scenery makes for a realistic adventure. Here are five live-action Disney films for families to consider.
In Theaters: 'The Jungle Book' (2016)
The "man-cub" Mowgli is raised by a kind wolves but leaves his home after a menacing tiger threatens the pack. According to Catholic News Service, "Forest, fauna and beast never looked as good as they do in 'The Jungle Book' (Disney), a lavish retelling of the 1894 collection of stories by British author Rudyard Kipling." The Dove Foundation award the film its "Family-Approved" seal for ages 12 and older, and says "The movie features terrific jungle scenes, action and funny moments, not to mention a couple of songs." The website warns of "a few scary moments from the predator animals (although not gratuitous), not to mention a few jump scenes." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
iTunes: '101 Dalmatians'
This live-action film follows the story of the 1960s animated feature about a group of puppies kidnapped by the fashionista Cruella De Vil. Although the film is rated G, Parent Previews notes parents may want to be cautious when showing it to children due to pervasive slapstick violence, the "antics of the dognapping crooks" and the visual stunts and gags. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
Redbox: 'Cinderella' (2015)
This recent version of the well-loved fairy tale tells its familiar story with particular emphasis on the title characters courage and kindness despite her unfavorable circumstances. In addition to its positive theme statement, Parents Television Council praised the film for its lack of objectionable content, adding, Filled with luscious visuals, action, comedy and above all romance, Cinderella deserves to be seen by every family who wants to introduce their children to classic (and classy) fairy tales. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.
DVD: 'Maleficent'
Clearplay.com calls Maleficent a wonderful retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale, stating the emotional and physical drama of Maleficent keep things interesting throughout. Add to this a wonderful spin on true loves kiss, and you have a winner. The review also praised the films cinematography and Angelina Jolie for her performance as the title character. The website warns that the film contains a handful of violent and disturbing images that would be scary for very young viewers. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.
Amazaon Video: 'Alice in Wonderland' (2010)
This 2010 live-action film version features Alice as a young adult who returns to Wonderland and learns her destiny: to end the reign of the Red Queen. Common Sense Media calls the film a "trippy adaption" with "dazzling landscapes" and a "colorful world." with Johnny Depp who "is a master at portraying loopy men you just can't help but love." The website cautions that although the film is rated PG it is "pretty intense and scary at times for younger kids." Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.
