watching movies with family essay

A Tradition of Watching Movies with Family

This essay about the tradition of watching movies with family explores how this practice serves as a bonding activity that spans generations. Initially a communal event at cinemas, technological advancements have brought this experience into the home through televisions and streaming services. This evolution has made family movie nights a versatile tradition, reflecting familial values and serving as a platform for teaching important life lessons through film narratives. The essay discusses how movie choices often become family traditions, strengthening relationships through shared experiences and inside jokes. Ultimately, the tradition of watching movies together not only entertains but also fortifies the familial bond, adapting to changing technologies and family dynamics while maintaining its core purpose.

How it works

The tradition of viewing motion pictures with kinfolk is a cherished rite that many treasure dearly, often imparting a distinctive amalgamation of amusement and rapport that traverses generations. This uncomplicated yet profound pursuit has undergone significant evolution with technological strides and shifts in familial dynamics, but its fundamental essence endures: partaking in narratives that entertain, enlighten, and stir sentiments.

Historically, the act of cinema attendance was a communal affair, commencing with the silver screen. Early films transcended mere diversion; they constituted grand societal affairs where masses congregated to partake in the enchantment of moving images.

As technology advanced, the advent of television brought this communal experience into the domicile. This transition transformed the living quarters into the family’s private amphitheater, rendering movie-watching more accessible and intimate.

The tradition of family film nights has acclimatized to each epoch of technology, from the inaugural VHS tapes to the latest streaming amenities. Each progression has furnished families with greater command over what, when, and how they view. Despite these alterations, the intent of these gatherings remains predominantly unaltered—to cultivate a sense of unity. Whether it’s a weekly Friday evening screening or a celebratory holiday assembly around a classic, these instances are eagerly awaited and relished.

In the contemporary digital era, the options for family film-viewing have expanded exponentially. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime offer extensive repositories of films and series at the touch of a button. This accessibility occasionally engenders the dilemma of choice, where selecting what to watch can be daunting. However, the sheer plethora also means that there is something tailored to every palate and age demographic, rendering it simpler to accommodate the predilections of all family members.

The films elected for family film nights often mirror the family’s principles, wit, and fascinations, occasionally evolving into traditions in their own accord. For instance, myriad families establish the tradition of viewing specific films like “It’s a Wonderful Life” during festive seasons or “The Wizard of Oz” during summer hiatuses. These traditions furnish continuity and a sense of lineage, bridging contemporary generations with bygone ones, and laying the groundwork for future assemblies.

Beyond amusement, these film nights serve as educational and developmental forums for juveniles. They furnish opportunities to deliberate on intricate themes such as love, conflict resolution, morality, and tenacity. For instance, a family viewing a film that grapples with themes of bravery and perseverance can organically segue into discussions about these virtues in real life, providing instructive moments sans the formality of a structured tutorial.

Furthermore, viewing films together as a family fortifies bonds. It forges a shared familial ethos of inside jests, preferred aphorisms, and collective affective encounters. This tradition can function as an adhesive, cementing the family together over shared reminiscences and experiences that are reminisced about for ages.

In summation, the tradition of viewing films with family is a multifaceted custom that nurtures connections and shapes the family’s cultural milieu. It amalgamates entertainment with enlightenment and camaraderie, rendering it one of the most accessible and enjoyable modes to expend quality time together. As families persevere in evolving, so too will the tradition of film-watching, likely adapting to novel technologies and changing familial structures, yet always offering a priceless space for unity and shared encounters.

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How Watching Family Movies Improves Your Relationships With Children

by Ryan Pell

August 13, 2021

A busy parent can watch and discuss cinema with their children as an effective and easy way of improving their relationship with them. It is amazing how watching a movie together can make a bond between a parent and a child stronger.

Families can empathize with the heroes who experience different life situations, feel proud when the heroes overcome difficulties, and rejoice when the hero finds what they want. 

Why Parents Should Watch Fun Movies With Their Kids

It is difficult for a parent to find a way to communicate with a kid or a teenager, so watching and discussing movies with children is an effective and easy method of improving kid-parent relationships. It also might be helpful if you are wondering how to talk to your teenager, how to restore your relationship after a quarrel, and how to spend the evening in a new way. Let's take a closer look at how fun movies can improve your relationships with children.

You Can Understand Better What Your Kid Likes

Discussion is necessary for emotional contact with your kid ; otherwise, the children might be left alone with their experiences and no one to talk through them. Share opinions, cry together, laugh, and ask questions.

"What question should I ask?" you may wonder. The topics you are interested in! Ask your child questions that are somehow connected to the movie plot. Movies are a form of both entertainment and education, so you can use them to ask serious questions about your children's attitude to life, education, or sex life. Don't be shy—this is the chance to learn more about your loved ones and maybe direct them. Give an opportunity for your kid to speak up about the things that bother them. 

You Can Discuss Delicate Topics

You can discuss delicate topics after watching the movie as well. Try doing that in the form of a game or by forming teams to vote "for" or "against." Find out what impressed or confused the child about the film. 

Remember that it is challenging to create a special atmosphere of communication , especially between a teenager and an adult. Try to achieve intimacy in this difficult relationship by watching a movie.

You Can Learn a Foreign Language Together

Learning a foreign language is more engaging while watching a movie. You can learn simple Spanish grammar rules , for example, watching Money Heist or Crazy About Her in Spanish.

Discussing grammar and language rules can add value to family movie nights; you and your children can boost foreign language skills and tighten your family connection. It is a fact that watching entertaining movies releases the hormone of joy, endorphin, which makes you happier and improves your relationships.

It is helpful to make notes while watching a movie in a foreign language, so you and the kids can refer to them afterward. The most important thing about watching a film to learn a language is to make sure everyone feels comfortable and understands the plot!

It's not always easy to find a balance between fun and education for our kids . But, watching movies with them is one of the best ways you can do both! We've put together some great recommendations that will be sure to please everyone in your family—from preschoolers up to adults. We have also provided tips on how you can use fun films as teaching tools for life skills such as empathy, patience, creativity, and more. Now all you have to do is to grab some popcorn (or cereal or pretzels) and scroll through Netflix to find something engaging to watch this evening!

For a great educational film that teaches children about their emotions and memories, order the Inside Out 4K Blu-ray here.

Create the perfect family movie night experience at home and order this  portable movie projector.

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Surprising Effects Of Watching Movies With Your Family

Having movie nights with your family during weekends is a great way to spend time together. Even if you are in a small family or a large family set-up , nothing beats huddling up to watch your favorite movie. Besides, watching movies is an easy and inexpensive recreational activity that you can do with your family. This activity can be enjoyed even just in your own DMCI Homes condo unit. All you have to do is prepare your snack, probably a tub of popcorn; set up the table and TV; play the film, and you’re ready to go.

Even though this activity is cheaper compared with other family activities such as going to recreational parks or going out of town, it nonetheless offers the same benefits. Study shows that watching a movie with your loved ones is good for you—it strengthens bonds, promotes family togetherness, and builds tradition, among others.

Here, we list 10 benefits of watching movies with your family.

1. Strengthens Family Bonds

Photo courtesy of Din Jimenez via Flickr

Spending time with your family greatly improves the emotional bonding of family members toward one another. And what better way to do so than to watch movies together. Watching movies with your loved ones is not only an enjoyable activity for everyone, it also fosters camaraderie between family members.

Watching movies over the weekend is also a good way to spend time with your spouse and children, bringing the family closer. Make sure though that the film you will be watching is appropriate for the family members’ age to reap the most benefits out of this activity.

2. Promotes Academic Success

Photo courtesy of Carissa Rogers via Flickr

According to Family Facts, doing activities with your family such as watching movies is a wise investment. In fact, children who spend time with their parents do better in school compared with other children.

Studies also show that children who spend time with their parents on weekends score higher on tests and are more likely to graduate than those who do not. On the other hand, children who spend less time with their parents are less able to focus at school.

3. Lessens Behavioral Problems Among Children

Photo courtesy of Philippe Put via Flickr

One of the benefits of watching movies for children is that it lessens behavioral problems among them. Children who do not spend time with their family tend to do destructive things such as stealing and cheating. Thus, watching movies with your children is a good opportunity to instill good values to them.

As parents, you can also explain the social situations your children see in the films. Doing so will instill to your children the proper values they need to become better people.

4. Results In Less Violent Kids

Photo courtesy of Leonid Mamchenkov via Flickr

One of the best things to do on weekends is to watch a film with your loved ones. Watching movies is not only an enjoyable activity, it also promote strong bonds, leading to less violent kids. Studies suggest that children who do not have strong bonds with their parents are more likely to be violent and delinquent.

5. Lowers Risk Of Substance Abuse

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A study revealed that teens who spend more time with their parents have lower risk for substance abuse. Whereas, teens who spend less time with their parents are twice likely to try drugs  in the future such as marijuana, cocaine, or other illegal drugs. 

A good way to avoid this is to spend time with your kids through watching your favorite movies in your own condo unit in the Philippines.

6. Boosts Self-Confidence

Photo courtesy of Ryan Hyde via Flickr

Watching movies over the weekend is a good way to make your family closer. Once your children learn that they have a close-knit family, their confidence and self-image improves. In addition, children with close-knit families are more open with their peers.

Family bonding activities such as watching movies together help children become more productive, thereby increasing their level of confidence.

7. Provides Greater Intimacy Among Parents

Photo courtesy of Emiliano Horcada via Flickr

Watching movies is not only beneficial to children. It also has positive effects to the married couple. Spending time with your spouse results in better intimacy, better communication, and strengthened bond, and in turn strengthening your marriage. In addition, you can provide your children a good example for their future relationships.

A study from the University of Rochester also found that couples who watch romantic movies together help them deal better with marital issues , decreasing the incidence of annulment and divorce.

8. Lessens Sibling Rivalry (Siblings Get Along More)

Photo courtesy of Liz Lawley via Flickr

Children always want attention from their parents. However, sometimes, parents cannot divide their attention to their children equally, resulting in sibling rivalry.

Watching a movie together as a family gives ample opportunity for parents to bond with their kids. In turn, kids will feel loved and will feel that there is no competition between siblings, which lessens sibling rivalry.

9. Increases Trust Among Family Members

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Simple family bonding activities such as watching a movie together provides a sense of protection and warmth among family members. Spending time with your family gives your other family members the idea that they can trust you.

Movie time is a good way to bond with your children and spouse. Bonding time can help eliminate any barrier between family members. Movie time is also a good venue for laughs. You and your family members can talk about the memorable scenes in the movie afterward, building a strong foundation between family members.

10. Improves Social And Communication Skills Of Children

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The social and communication skills of children are first honed at home. That is, home is where children first learn how to establish relationship with others. Therefore, spending time with your children during weekends through watching your favorite film is a good way to foster their communication skills.

Watching movies with your kids also encourages children to cooperate and collaborate with others.

Watching a movie or two with your family during weekends is a good way to spend your time. Movie time is an easy and inexpensive recreational activity that you can do with your family. Although it is cheaper compared with other family activities, it is still a good way to improve the relationship among family members.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning now which movie you and your family are going to watch this weekend and reap all the benefits this activity can offer.

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

How Movies Can Help Children Find Meaning in Life


Most children love stories. Stories are entertaining and fun, but can they be more than just fun? Findings from a new study led by one of us (Rebecca de Leeuw) indicate that stories in movies can also be meaningful for children.

This study interviewed children between 4 and 15 years old after they watched the Disney • Pixar film Inside Out . This film takes place predominantly in the head of an 11-year-old girl, where her emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, personified as different characters—conflict on how to help her best in her new life after her family moves. When making this film, the filmmakers had extensive consultations with psychologists, including GGSC founding director Dacher Keltner , to make the emotion animations consistent with scientific knowledge.

The research team chose this film because the story follows the “hero’s journey”—a classical narrative framework that has been applied in many famous stories from all over the world. The hero’s journey involves a hero who goes on an adventure, overcomes challenges, and returns changed.

This film is also lauded for its meaningful message around emotions and human connectedness, and because it contains portrayals of moral beauty. Research among adults suggests that watching acts of moral beauty—such as compassion, kindness, forgiveness, gratitude, love, bravery, self-sacrifice, or any other strong display of virtue—can be meaningful and lead people to feel “moved by love.” This emotion opens our hearts toward others and inspires us to do good. Could children experience this, as well?

The research team talked to children together with a sibling or friend in an in-depth interview, asking mostly open-ended questions to encourage them to share their thoughts, including the key question: “Was there a part of the movie that you had to think about?” Children looked at stills of important scenes and were invited to explain in their own words what happened. If they liked, they also re-watched scenes of the film.

The findings of the study indicate that film stories can be meaningful for children in the four following ways (warning: spoilers ahead).

1. Stories can fuel social intelligence

While watching, children made sense of the feelings, motives, and behaviors of characters in the film, using their social intelligence skills. They also further developed these skills when they were challenged in making sense of the story.

Their novel insights included awareness about the motives and feelings of others, but also awareness of their own feelings. Children were often excited when gaining a new insight (which often happened during the interview). For many children, it was challenging to understand the scene in which one of the characters—Bing Bong—sacrifices himself by jumping out of his rocket. Children wondered what exactly happened and why he did this. They were often thrilled to find out that he jumped on purpose to help others.

Many children recognized the animated emotions in themselves, which helped them to understand their own inner life. For instance, children expressed that when they are mad they feel like the top of their head bursts into flames, just like Anger.

2. Stories are an opportunity to experience (moral) beauty

Another way in which Inside Out proved to be meaningful was the opportunity for experiencing moral beauty. Children mentioned that they appreciated seeing acts of compassion, kindness, love, and bravery in the film.

Moreover, children experienced Bing Bong’s self-sacrifice as beautiful, but only if they understood why Bing Bong did this and when they were able to experience mixed emotions. Just like adults, children can have tears or moist eyes or goosebumps upon experiencing moral beauty.

The findings of the study indicated that feelings of moral beauty start to emerge around the age of eight years old.

3. Stories help children gain insights about life

The findings also indicated that, while watching, children were encouraged to follow in the footsteps of the protagonist and gained the same insights as her. During the story, Joy discovers the importance of Sadness and at the end she collaborates with Sadness and the other emotions. When children followed Joy on her adventure, they also came to discover that sadness is important and that collaboration between all emotions is needed to live a full and happy life.

When children said they learned something from the film, it was often related to what Joy learned. If this is true of all stories with the hero’s journey framework, that means children could learn many important lessons from many different movies.

4. Stories can inspire children to never give up

Children admired the protagonist’s perseverance, as well. One of the children in the study even spontaneously expressed that Joy inspired her to never give up in her own life.

The more insights children gained while watching, the more meaningful the story became for them. Talking about the film or watching it again supported them in gaining more insights. (This is one of the reasons why children often watch films repeatedly.)

Altogether, the findings of the study indicate that stories can be an accelerated way for children to gain life experience and wisdom.

How to help children learn from films

Parents or other adults can support children in gaining new insights from a movie, TV show, or book by asking open-ended questions.

• To encourage children to understand the emotions and behaviors of the characters, ask: “What do you think […] feels?” or “What do you think changed his/her/their mind?”
• To discover what in the story was challenging for them, ask children what made them think: “Was there a part of the story that you had to think about?” or “Who did you have to think of the most?”
• When the film contains acts of moral beauty, ask: “Which part of the film do you think was the most beautiful?” or more specifically: “What do you think of […] doing this?” and “Would you also have done that?”

It is important to always respect children’s answers and to remember that sometimes they’re too young to understand everything.

Inside Out is a great film to watch together, as well as other films with critical acclaim . You can also look out for movies that children watch repeatedly and that make them think. By watching such films and talking about them together, you can transform screen time into an opportunity for growth and provide children with rich experiences outside the realm of their daily lives.

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About the Authors

Rebecca de Leeuw

Rebecca de Leeuw, Ph.D. , is an assistant professor of communication science at the Radboud University. She devotes her research to how media can inspire us and help us to create meaning in life.

Sophie H. Janicke

Sophie H. Janicke, Ph.D. , is a positive media psychologist working as an associate professor at Chapman University, who investigates the role that new and traditional media play in promoting and affecting character development, self-transcendent emotions (such as elevation, gratitude, and awe), prosocial behavior, and happiness.

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Why Watching TV and Movies Is Better Together

Research shows that watching TV and movies with your kids, also called "co-viewing," has a range of positive effects. It can support early literacy skills, boost empathy, and even help manage aggression after exposure to violent media.

So how do you actually co-view and reap those benefits? Try these tips with young kids:

Focus their attention.

Help kids pick up story details by verbally pointing out specific parts of what you're watching, whether it's a strange new word, a confusing part, or just an interesting detail. Say: "Look at his shiny new shoes!"

Encourage them to think about the order of events.

This helps kids think about sequence and cause and effect. After watching the show, or before watching something they've seen before, say: "Can you remember what happened after the dog got loose?" You can also pause the show and ask: "Tell me what's happening now."

Strengthen their understanding.

Ask who, what, when, why, where, and how questions to get your kids to use new words and think through what they've seen. Say: "Who is that? Where do they live? Why are they doing what they're doing?"

Make it relatable.

Have children link what they see to their own lives. For example, "Wow, they're angry. What did you do the last time you were angry?" This helps kids learn to express themselves, cope with feelings, and understand others better.

Expand on what kids say.

Rephrase information from the show or things your kids have said back to them, relate details to your own life, or add new information. These are all ways to improve conversation skills, teach kids about the world, and bolster your connection. Say: "Loud noises scared Daniel Tiger. I don't like loud noises either. How do you feel when you hear loud noises?"

Of course, you don't have to co-view every single show. It's not possible to always co-view with them when you need to do something else. But you can use their favorite shows as a way of making conversation with them later.

Here's a badly kept secret: Kids like to talk about the shows they watch and the games they play -- a lot. Take advantage of this, as it will open up all kinds of opportunities to find out about what your kids are interested in, the things that are important to them, and even what's happening in their lives. You may be surprised at where your conversations lead.

Michael Robb is the former head of research at Common Sense. In his time at the organization, helped oversee the development and execution of a mission-aligned research program and multiple research projects on the roles of media and technology in children and families' lives. He has published research on the roles of media and technology in children's lives in a variety of academic journals, and his work has been featured in press outlets such as the New York Times , the Washington Post , and NPR . Michael also has supervised community educational outreach efforts, helping parents and teachers make the most of quality children's programming. Michael received his B.A. from Tufts University, and M.A. and Ph.D. in psychology from UC Riverside.

Michael lives in Connecticut with his wife, two sons, and dog, Charlie. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, racquetball, escape rooms, video games, and binge watching great TV shows. Since having kids, he's now perfecting the art of picking up toys, building obstacle courses with pillows, and napping. He and his wife force their children to listen to show tunes in the car.

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Why We Watch Movies

The ritual of cinema adds to its appeal..

Posted June 21, 2021 | Reviewed by Davia Sills

It is illuminating to consider how religion and belief have been transformed into seemingly secular activities in the modern world. One way to approach this is to identify our rituals, to think about what people do at night, in the darkness beyond the demands of labor and domestic life. We are thus led to the spaces we set aside for communal behaviors that are unique from prosaic life. These sacred spaces are separate from the everyday, the profane. As Émile Durkheim wrote over a hundred years ago, sacred spaces are those in which powerful, transformative events take place for individuals as part of a collective.

Rituals, like a sacrifice, occur in the enclosed space of the ritual arena. In these spaces, different rules apply. They bring about different ways of relating to the community, to ancestors, time, and fundamental notions of meaning and significance. In this essay, I claim cinema is such a sacred space and discuss how and why it works so effectively.

Movies and the power of ritual

Myth and ritual are central to how every society collates, creates, and perpetuates the core of its significances, values, aspirations, origins, goals , and ethical lineaments. Over the last 80 years, cinema has become a reliable, effective medium for telling stories. In other words, cinema is a preeminent mode for the generation of participation in the myths of our times. The emotional intensity of the ritual, of contact with mythology, is what draws belief, salience, and importance into the encounter.

In movies , the scale of human action takes on mythic proportions. Not only in size but also in terms of the importance of gesture, storyline, character, emotions, settings, and scenes. Archetypal characters bring to life finely-wrought scripts wherein storylines illustrate moral reflections, aspirational narratives, and the dramatization of historical events. The finely selected dialogue in movies is so crucial that it resembles the manifest content of dialogue in dreams . Freud of course claimed that every word uttered in a dream is of utmost importance since the medium of dreams is visual, and thus any words that sneak through the censor must be vital.

The art of filmmaking is extremely difficult; one look at the credits tells you hundreds of people and hundreds of thousands of dollars have gone into any given movie. The layers of censors from investors to editors to distribution companies (and so many more) make every scene highly improbable. Relative to the stories of all the people in the theater and the people who made the film, the production necessary to make a film demonstrates that it functions at a higher level of proportionality. Granted, not all movies are effective and worthy of the treatment I describe here, but many are—those are the movies to which I apply these reflections.

It is also the atmosphere of cinema that creates a form of ritual space. The movie theater, a room with no windows suffused with darkness but for the light burning through translucent celluloid. We sit among strangers with whom we share emotional reactions to shared events. By sharing reactions, we share and reinforce a cultural lens.

The communal setting of the ritual arena of theater itself elevates the event. It confirms us as a community and builds our shared history and interpretation of reality out further and further. Light flickers on the screen, which is 45 to 65 feet wide and as tall as 30 feet. Cinema is larger than life; that is how it can represent life to us in a mimetic ritual of drama . We understand something about ourselves by becoming other, by being taken in by the story and coming out the other end in a slightly different form.

Then there is the narrative, the aesthetic charm poured into the dramatic form. That distillation of life into moments, sieved into distinct tales of definite memorability. The overwhelmingly melodramatic format of the journey, the love triangle, the conflict, etc., pushes us to identify with the characters. We are brought into an empathetic mood. Some movies bring us into the community of the characters such that plot development resembles nothing so much as gossip.

Time is transformed in the cinematic state; for us, it is an escape , a vacation, a portal out of the world and the uncontrollable nature of time. The liminality of being out of time in a dark room doing nothing allows for separation from so much that binds us. We are freed from speaking, from the dense maze of active interactions that make up public life. Here we are voyeurs who participate emotionally even when nothing is asked of us. The filmmaker does it all: through montage, a story comes together; through casting, we are directed to recognize characters; through lighting and sound, we are immersed in environments. All we have to do is keep our eyes and ears open. If we give our attention , the screen creates the illusion of four dimensions. It offers them to us; it takes them all up and drags us in its wake.

After the liminal space of the ritual of cinema, we walk out of the room discombobulated, sensitive to light and motion. We reaggregate ourselves after having become part of a different reality. We reflect upon what we saw and heard, in groups or in internal dialogue. The movie becomes part of our memory ; sometimes we get confused about whether the stories we remember come from cinema or stories we’ve heard about people. We take the movie in through the sacred space of the theater and leave with its messages.

When the ritual is over, when the crow and the raven are silent, we return to each other with stories and characters, memories of events that never happened. We want to share them further; we recommend movies, talk about their virtues and failures, and interleave them into our memories of all the other movies and stories we have lived through. The myth has been received, the experience has become a part of us.

Durkheim, Émile, 1915. The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life, a Study in Religious Sociology. London : New York :G. Allen & Unwin; Macmillan.

Turner, V. W. 1969. The ritual process: Structure and anti-structure. Chicago: Aldine Publishing Company.

Rami Gabriel, Ph.D. , is Associate Professor of Psychology at Columbia College Chicago, where he is a founding Fellow of the Research Group in Mind, Science and Culture.

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Essays About Movies: 7 Examples and 5 Writing Prompts

Check out our guide with essays about movies for budding videographers and artistic students. Learn from our helpful list of examples and prompts.

Watching movies is a part of almost everyone’s life. They entertain us, teach us lessons, and even help us socialize by giving us topics to talk about with others. As long as movies have been produced, everyone has patronized them.  Essays about movies  are a great way to learn all about the meaning behind the picture.

Cinema is an art form in itself. The lighting, camera work, and acting in the most widely acclaimed movies are worthy of praise. Furthermore, a movie can be used to send a message, often discussing issues in contemporary society. Movies are entertaining, but more importantly, they are works of art. If you’re interested in this topic, check out our round-up of screenwriters on Instagram .

5 Helpful Essay Examples 

1. the positive effects of movies on human behaviour by ajay rathod, 2. horror movies by emanuel briggs, 3. casablanca – the greatest hollywood movie ever (author unknown).

• 4.  Dune Review: An Old Story Reshaped For The New 2021 Audience by Oren Cohen

5. Blockbuster movies create booms for tourism — and headaches for locals by Shubhangi Goel

• 6. Moonage Daydream: “Who Is He? What Is He?” by Jonathan Romney
• 7. La Bamba: American Dreaming, Chicano Style by Yolanda Machado

1. My Favorite Movie

2. movies genres, 3. special effects in movies, 4. what do you look for in a movie, 5. the evolution of movies.

“​​Films encourage us to take action. Our favourite characters, superheroes, teach us life lessons. They give us ideas and inspiration to do everything for the better instead of just sitting around, waiting for things to go their way. Films about famous personalities are the perfect way to affect social behaviour positively. Films are a source of knowledge. They can help learn what’s in the trend, find out more about ancient times, or fill out some knowledge gaps.”

In this movie essay, Rathod gives readers three ways watching movies can positively affect us. Movie writers, producers, and directors use their platform to teach viewers life skills, the importance of education, and the contrast between good and evil. Watching movies can also help us improve critical thinking, according to Briggs. Not only do movies entertain us, but they also have many educational benefits. You might also be interested in these  essays about consumerism .

“Many people involving children and adults can effect with their sleeping disturbance and anxiety. Myths, non-realistic, fairy tales could respond differently with being in the real world. Horror movies bring a lot of excitement and entertainment among you and your family. Horror movies can cause physical behavior changes in a person by watching the films. The results of watching horror movies shows that is has really effect people whether you’re an adult, teens, and most likely happens during your childhood.”

In his essay, Briggs acknowledges why people enjoy horror movies so much but warns of their adverse effects on viewers. Most commonly, they cause viewers nightmares, which may cause anxiety and sleep disorders. He focuses on the films’ effects on children, whose more sensitive, less developed brains may respond with worse symptoms, including major trauma. The films can affect all people negatively, but children are the most affected.

“This was the message of Casablanca in late 1942. It was the ideal opportunity for America to utilize its muscles and enter the battle. America was to end up the hesitant gatekeeper of the entire world. The characters of Casablanca, similar to the youthful Americans of the 1960s who stick headed the challenge development, are ‘genuine Americans’ lost in a hostile region, battling to open up another reality.”

In this essay, the author discusses the 1942 film  Casablanca , which is said to be the greatest movie ever made, and explains why it has gotten this reputation. To an extent, the film’s storyline, acting, and even relatability (it was set during World War II) allowed it to shine from its release until the present. It invokes feelings of bravery, passion, and nostalgia, which is why many love the movie. You can also check out these  books about adaption . 

4.   Dune Review: An Old Story Reshaped For The New 2021 Audience by Oren Cohen

“Lady Jessica is a powerful woman in the original book, yet her interactions with Paul diminish her as he thinks of her as slow of thought. Something we don’t like to see in 2021 — and for a good reason. Every book is a product of its time, and every great storyteller knows how to adapt an old story to a new audience. I believe Villeneuve received a lot of hate from diehard Dune fans for making these changes, but I fully support him.”

Like the previous essay, Cohen reviews a film, in this case, Denis Villeneuve’s  Dune , released in 2021. He praises the film, writing about its accurate portrayal of the epic’s vast, dramatic scale, music, and, interestingly, its ability to portray the characters in a way more palatable to contemporary audiences while staying somewhat faithful to the author’s original vision. Cohen enjoyed the movie thoroughly, saying that the movie did the book justice. 

“Those travelers added around 630 million New Zealand dollars ($437 million) to the country’s economy in 2019 alone, the tourism authority told CNBC. A survey by the tourism board, however, showed that almost one in five Kiwis are worried that the country attracts too many tourists. Overcrowding at tourist spots, lack of infrastructure, road congestion and environmental damage are creating tension between locals and visitors, according to a 2019 report by Tourism New Zealand.”

The locations where successful movies are filmed often become tourist destinations for fans of those movies. Goel writes about how “film tourism” affects the residents of popular filming locations. The environment is sometimes damaged, and the locals are caught off guard. Though this is not always the case, film tourism is detrimental to the residents and ecosystem of these locations. You can also check out these  essays about The Great Gatsby .

6. Moonage Daydream:  “Who Is He? What Is He?” by Jonathan Romney

“Right from the start, Brett Morgen’s  Moonage Daydream  (2022) catches us off guard. It begins with an epigraph musing on Friedrich Nietzsche’s proclamation that “God is dead,” then takes us into deep space and onto the surface of the moon. It then unleashes an image storm of rockets, robots, and star-gazers, and rapid-fire fragments of early silent cinema, 1920s science fiction, fifties cartoons, and sixties and seventies newsreel footage, before lingering on a close-up of glittery varnish on fingernails.” 

Moonage Daydream  is a feature film containing never-before-seen footage of David Bowie. In this essay, Romney delves into the process behind creating the movie and how the footage was captured. It also looks at the director’s approach to creating a structured and cohesive film, which took over two years to plan. This essay looks at how Bowie’s essence was captured and preserved in this movie while displaying the intricacies of his mind.

7. La Bamba:  American Dreaming, Chicano Style by Yolanda Machado

“A traumatic memory, awash in hazy neutral tones, arising as a nightmare. Santo & Johnny’s mournful “Sleep Walk” playing. A sudden death, foreshadowing the passing of a star far too young. The opening sequence of Luis Valdez’s  La Bamba  (1987) feels like it could be from another film—what follows is largely a celebration of life and music.”

La Bamba  is a well-known movie about a teenage Mexican migrant who became a rock ‘n’ roll star. His rise to fame is filled with difficult social dynamics, and the star tragically dies in a plane crash at a young age. In this essay, Machado looks at how the tragic death of the star is presented to the viewer, foreshadowing the passing of the young star before flashing back to the beginning of the star’s career. Machado analyses the storyline and directing style, commenting on the detailed depiction of the young star’s life. It’s an in-depth essay that covers everything from plot to writing style to direction.

5 Prompts for Essays About Movies

Simple and straightforward, write about your favorite movie. Explain its premise, characters, and plot, and elaborate on some of the driving messages and themes behind the film. You should also explain why you enjoy the movie so much: what impact does it have on you? Finally, answer this question in your own words for an engaging piece of writing.

From horror to romance, movies can fall into many categories. Choose one of the main genres in cinema and discuss the characteristics of movies under that category. Explain prevalent themes, symbols, and motifs, and give examples of movies belonging to your chosen genre. For example, horror movies often have underlying themes such as mental health issues, trauma, and relationships falling apart. 

Without a doubt, special effects in movies have improved drastically. Both practical and computer-generated effects produce outstanding, detailed effects to depict situations most would consider unfathomable, such as the vast space battles of the  Star Wars  movies. Write about the development of special effects over the years, citing evidence to support your writing. Be sure to detail key highlights in the history of special effects. 

Movies are always made to be appreciated by viewers, but whether or not they enjoy them varies, depending on their preferences. In your essay, write about what you look for in a “good” movie in terms of plot, characters, dialogue, or anything else. You need not go too in-depth but explain your answers adequately. In your opinion, you can use your favorite movie as an example by writing about the key characteristics that make it a great movie.

From the silent black-and-white movies of the early 1900s to the vivid, high-definition movies of today, times have changed concerning movies. Write about how the film industry has improved over time. If this topic seems too broad, feel free to focus on one aspect, such as cinematography, themes, or acting.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the  best essay checkers .

If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our  essays about music topic guide !

Meet Rachael, the editor at Become a Writer Today. With years of experience in the field, she is passionate about language and dedicated to producing high-quality content that engages and informs readers. When she's not editing or writing, you can find her exploring the great outdoors, finding inspiration for her next project.

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The Best Movies and Shows to Watch When You’re Sitting Around With Your Family

By Samantha Vincenty

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This article is part of SELF’s Rest Week , an editorial package dedicated to doing less. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that taking care of yourself, physically and emotionally, is impossible without genuine downtime . With that in mind, we’ll be publishing articles up until the new year to help you make a habit of taking breaks, chilling out, and slowing down. (And we’re taking our own advice: The SELF staff will be OOO during this time!) We hope to inspire you to take it easy and get some rest, whatever that looks like for you.

Quality  family time can take many forms, and cozying up on the couch together can be just as meaningful as a game night or group dinner. Spending an evening (or afternoon) watching movies or TV shows gives us an opportunity to switch off all phones, tablets, and game consoles and get completely absorbed in a story together. Beyond the entertainment factor, certain themes and plotlines can provide a jumping-off point for  bigger conversations .

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up 22 of the best family movies and TV shows to stream or download on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and more. We’re hooking you up with  comfort watches , stunning documentaries, and a certain beloved cartoon about an Australian dog clan ( Bluey  forever). Throughout, we focused on parent-vetted options that people of all ages will actually enjoy, as well as a handful of picks better suited for family members who can’t count their age on their fingers.

When it comes to what’s “age-appropriate,” that’s a call we’ll leave up to you: Some parents prefer to stick to ultralight fare and avoid tough topics altogether, while others among us were introduced to horror movies by the third grade. (Not to worry; this list is 100% free of major frights—and onscreen makeout sessions that can be awkward to watch with people you’re related to.) No matter your taste, we’re confident you’ll find a new favorite on this list of the best TV shows and movies to watch with your family. 

1.   Anne with an E

This three-season Netflix series reintroduces Anne, the iconic Green Gables redhead (Amybeth McNulty) who’s adopted by brother and sister Matthew and Marilla on postcard-perfect Prince Edward Island. An adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved novels, the historical drama distinguishes itself with a grittier look at 19th-century life: It meticulously addresses topics like gender and  racial discrimination and doesn’t shy away from Anne’s experiences as a foster child. The show is as wholesome as it is thought-provoking: McNulty captivates as Anne, and it has the most soul-soothing  opening credits this side of  Gilmore Girls.  (And for big Anne fans: Yes, Gilbert shows up, and yes, we love him.) 

Rating: PG Where to watch: Netflix

2.   Gravity Falls

The tagline for this cartoon about a fictional Oregon town is “just West of weird,” and grown-up  Rick and Morty  fans will find plenty of quirky (and waaay more kid-friendly) humor to appreciate. When siblings Dipper and Mabel Pines (Jason Ritter and Kristen Schaal) spend a summer with their great-uncle Stan (Alex Hirsch, who is also the show’s creator), they meet a parade of odd Gravity Falls residents, like gnomes, zombies, and aliens. A bit of extra fun for older kids: Codes, cryptograms, and  other clues are embedded throughout the show, revealing secret messages. 

Rating: TV-Y7 Where to watch: Disney+

3.   Fighting with My Family  

By Jenna Ryu

By Amy Rose Spiegel

By Julia Ries

You’ll barely recognize  Game of Thrones ’ Lena Headey and Midsommar ’s Florence Pugh as the mother and daughter in a British family of small-time wrestlers in this movie based on the true story of English wrestler Saraya. This is another teens-and-adults-only pick that’s alternately very funny and genuinely sweet, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is a delight playing himself as a mentor to Pugh’s Paige. You may wish you had Paige and her brother’s body-slamming skills the next time your own family drives you nuts. Rating: PG-13 Where to watch: Amazon Prime

4.   Wallace & Gromit

This British series about an inventor, Wallace, and his dog best friend/reluctant partner in adventure, Gromit, offers visually imaginative slapstick adventures from the mind of animator Nick Park, who also made  Chicken Run  and  Shaun the Sheep.  Whether the duo’s careening toward the moon in a homemade rocket or chasing a villainous penguin atop a toy train set, you’ll marvel at the stop-motion action between giggles. If you fall in love and want more, I highly recommend their movie  Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.  

Rating: G Where to watch: Amazon Prime

The Australian cartoon about a family of blue heeler dogs has earned a passionate parent fandom for a reason. Its episodes offer a master class in storytelling (you’ll go from a belly laugh to a sob so fast your head will spin), and it’s genuinely funny to kids and adults alike. It’s also overflowing with great playtime ideas for families, from “Dance Mode” to climbing Mount MumandDad. Each episode is under 10 minutes long, so we don’t blame you if you start saying things like, “Dinner will be ready in two  Bluey s.”

Rating: TV-Y Where to watch: Disney+

6.   Akeelah and the Bee

Long before she was hosting  SNL  and starring in Jordan Peele movies,  Keke Palmer was the star—and heart and soul—of this 2006 movie about Akeelah, a smart 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles aiming to make it to the National Spelling Bee. The feel-good movie, which also stars Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne, has lots to say about overcoming adversity to meet your goals, pointing out the not-so-obvious roadblocks that can pop up along the way.

Rating: PG Where to watch: Amazon , YouTube

7.   The Great British Baking Show

Twelve amateur bakers enter a tent in the middle of a flower-dotted field in the English countryside to find out who bakes best—all while being ultrakind toward each other in the heat of the moment. It’s a deliciously educational experience for stateside audiences of any age: A “biscuit” is a cookie! “Pudding” doesn’t always mean what you think it does! Battenberg cakes are a thing! You’ll become fiercely protective of at least one contestant’s gentle spirit within three episodes. Start with seasons six or nine, if you ask me. 

8.   Hail, Caesar!  

Best for a grown-ups-only family movie night, this dry-humored Coen Brothers comedy stars Josh Brolin as a 1950s Hollywood “fixer” who keeps studio actors out of trouble—including a pregnant unwed starlet (Scarlett Johanssen) and a lead (George Clooney) who’s been kidnapped. The film packs its own star-wattage with a massive cast featuring Jonah Hill, Ralph Fiennes, and Channing Tatum (you’ll be pointing and saying, “Hey, it’s that guy!” in every scene). But the biggest pleasure of Hail, Caesar is how it transports viewers into the visually opulent world of Old Hollywood: Highlights include a synchronized swimming scene in which Johanssen is swallowed by a whale and Tatum’s kickass tap dance number. 

Rating: PG-13 Where to watch: Netflix

9.   My Octopus Teacher

This Oscar-winning documentary immerses viewers in an undersea South African kelp forest teeming with delicate jellyfish and squid scuttling into anemones. When filmmaker Craig Foster starts freediving in the Atlantic Ocean—as in, without a wetsuit or scuba gear—he develops a bond with an octopus (from Foster’s point of view, anyway, though the creature does seek him out to cuddle). Older viewers will love the emphasis on our connection to nature and the beauty of all living beings’ impermanence, while director Pippa Ehrlich’s incredible footage of the octopus, in all its gorgeous strangeness, will fascinate any kid who loves going to the aquarium. 

Rating: G Where to watch: Netflix

10.   Paddington 2

Why does a bear from Peru have a British accent? will be the furthest question from your mind while you watch this near-perfect live-action sequel—your family will be too wrapped up in the CGI bear’s whimsical, Wes Anderson–esque misadventures to care. You don’t have to have seen the first film to keep up with Paddington (Ben Whishaw) as he finds himself framed for a crime. The movie also features heavyweights like Sally Hawkins, Brendan Gleeson, and Hugh Grant (who plays a villain in, no joke, one of the best roles of his career). Pure, heart-bursting greatness.

Rating: PG Where to watch: HBO Max

11.   Enola Holmes and   Enola Holmes 2

Boisterous Enola Holmes ( Stranger Things ’ Millie Bobby Brown) is a 16-year-old detective and the younger sister of Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill). A few moments of onscreen violence—specifically, the choreographed fight sequences and several minimal-blood deaths—earn both films their PG-13 rating and may give some parents of children under 10 pause. Otherwise, the mysteries’ high-flying action will enthrall kids and adults alike, and with a curious investigator’s mind and mad hand-to-hand combat skills, the brilliant Enola is an inspiration. The sequel features a  pro-labor theme based on real events, and anyone who’s either been or parented a daughter may find themselves watching the last few minutes through happy tears.

12.   Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?   

In the mid 1990s, a Pepsi ad claimed that 7 million “Pepsi Points” would earn you a jet. But after 21-year-old John Leonard finagled a roundabout way to find enough points, Pepsi claimed they’d been joking. This fizzy four-part docuseries tells the fascinating story of the  Leonard v. Pepsico case, looking back at Pepsi’s vice grip on culture at the time through interviews with everyone involved (including Leonard and then spokeswoman Cindy Crawford). Weaving seemingly disparate threads together—convicted attorney Michael Avenetti shows up, and we learn of a Pepsi-related riot in the Philippines that frankly deserves its own documentary—the tale and its cast of characters is fun to watch with family members who remember this era well. 

Rating: N/A Where to watch: Netflix

13.   Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

The Brooklyn teen Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is the hero of this acclaimed animated movie. Because hurling into the multiverse is part of the movies’ fun, you’ll also meet several variant Spider-Men and Spider-Women (plus one pig, Spider-Ham, a.k.a. Peter Porker, voiced by John Mulaney). It features the amount of stylized violence you’d expect from a superhero film, and one character dies in a non-grisly way in the beginning. But, as the movie’s many fans can attest, it’s a feast for the eyes—it took artists  a full week to complete each  second  of the style-blending animation—with a fantastic, funny script.

Rating: PG Where to watch: Amazon , Apple , YouTube

14.   The InBESTigators

Australia’s modern-day answer to  Scooby-Doo  and  Harriet the Spy follows four fifth-graders who form a detective agency to solve neighborhood mysteries. The cast nails the mockumentary series’ humor, which is dry enough to entertain adults without sailing over kids’ heads. The curious little would-be sleuth in your life will enjoy trying to crack the cases.

Rating: TV-Y Where to watch: Netflix

15.   Fantastic Mr. Fox

George Clooney and Meryl Streep voice the foxy main couple in this cute and cozy tale based on a Roald Dahl story. Mr. Fox (Clooney) is a chicken thief turned family man who gets a little restless and decides to stage one last heist targeting three local veggie farmers. This understated stop-motion gem won’t be for every kid—its deadpan humor may not land with some, and the visuals are a far cry from Pixar—but those who fall in love with its look and vibe will be full-on obsessed.

Rating: PG Where to watch: Amazon Prime

16.   Is It Cake?

Gotta love a show with a concept so simple that it’s all right there in the title. Hosted by  Saturday Night Live ’s Mikey Day and featuring a rotating panel of comedian judges, this competition asks bakers to fashion cakes that can pass for objects like a sewing machine or a bag of cash. At-home participants have the most fun when it’s time to guess: Is it, or is it not, cake? 

17.   Better Nate Than Ever

Nate is a nerdy 13-year-old with big Broadway dreams that spur a trek from Pittsburgh to New York City to audition for a  Lilo and Stitch  musical. Based on a book by its director, Tim Federle,  Better Nate Than Ever has exactly what fans of Disney movies love most: jubilant musical numbers and an irrepressible hero (played by newcomer Rueby Wood). As an added bonus? Lisa Kudrow plays Nate’s aunt. 

Rating: PG Where to watch: Disney+

18.   Spirited Away

Hayao Miyazaki’s English-dubbed adventure is a magical journey for both viewers and Chihiro, the film’s 10-year-old heroine. Gods, mischievous dust bunnies, and a ginormous baby are just a few of the stunning creatures Chihiro encounters at a fantastical bathhouse as she searches for her mom and dad. It’s probably best for kids eight or older, as littler kids may be spooked by the opening scenes, when Chihiro’s parents are temporarily turned into pigs.

19.   The Muppets Take Manhattan

Revisit this Muppets classic, full of hilarious cameos from stars like Joan Rivers and Liza Minnelli, and you’ll find a profound message about following unlikely journeys, dreaming big, and the enduring  power of friendship . Some adults may also find Kermit and Miss Piggy’s dynamic… fascinating now, which is a fun side debate to consider while watching. 

Rating: G Where to watch: Hulu

20.   Remember the Titans

Friday Night Lights fans will love this comedy-drama based on a 1971 true story. Denzel Washington plays a Black coach hired to lead the first integrated team in a Virginia town where high school football is everything. Boone (Washington) receives an icy “welcome” from white residents, and his players (who include baby-faced Ryan Gosling and Donald Faizon) all but refuse to play alongside each other. Through Boone’s stern leadership and many Temptations singalongs, the team transforms—but their community hasn’t. The deftly performed racial tension and fragile interracial friendships keep the heartwarming film from feeling too glib, while the energizing on-the-field action keeps it from getting too heavy. Whether or not you’re a sports fan, it’s a satisfying watch.

21.   Dear Santa

This sweet documentary about the US Postal Service’s Operation Santa project follows volunteer “elves” across the country from New York City to Michigan to Chico, California, as they work day and night to read kids’ letters to Santa. You also get to watch them make those wishes come true. Santa is spoken of as very much real throughout (to preserve young viewers’ innocence), and, given the range of people from  all  walks of life you meet in the doc, it’s a  gratitude-sparking , extremely heartwarming watch for people of any age (bring tissues). 

Rating: N/A Where to watch: Hulu

22.   The Willoughbys

Fans of  Coraline, A Series of Unfortunate Events,  and other kids’ tales with dark comic streaks will love this animated film based on Lois Lowry’s book. The four Willoughby kids are neglected by their cartoonishly self-absorbed parents (Martin Short and Jane Krakowski), but everything changes when their plan to “orphan themselves” brings a gold-hearted nanny (Maya Rudolph) into their lives. 

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SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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78 of the best family movies to watch all together

Family movie night should be for the whole family, not just the kids. It can be hard to pick a movie that mom won't fall asleep on, that dad won't leave early to go do work and that teenagers won't roll their eyes through the entire time. That's where family-friendly movies come in.

The family-friendly movie scene is at a peak right now. From "The Little Mermaid" to "Elemental," TODAY's picks for family movies are ones that kids and adults will enjoy equally, and they're available in theatres and on streaming platforms. Plus, TODAY includes some classics, contemporary favorites, musicals and comedies that are sure to keep the sing-alongs fresh and the laughs rolling in.

Here's to the new memories the best family movies of all time

Movies for families with teenagers

'mean girls' (2004).

The Plastics of Regina George, Gretchen Wieners and Karen Smith recruit newby Cady Heron into their click at school. On the surface, they're friends. But underneath, they secretly plot against each other.

Rating: PG-13

Miss Juneteenth (2020)

In this drama, a former beauty pageant winner and single mom prepares her rebellious daughter for her first pageant. “Miss Juneteenth” shows the joys and sorrows of Black motherhood and girlhood in a new and refreshing way.

Rating: TV-MA

‘Fighting With My Family’ (2019)

Perfect for watching with teenagers, “Fighting With My Family” is the story of an English family who lives and breathes wrestling, and what happens when two of the children are invited to try out to be part of WWE.

‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ (2022)

Thor is one of the few remaining original Avengers and in the last ensemble movie, “Avengers: Endgame,” Thor struggles with maintaining his mental health and aimlessly joins the Guardians of the Galaxy due to lack of other options. “Thor: Love and Thunder” picks up here, and apparently Thor has turned things around and is working on something big.

'The Fabelmans' (2022)

It only takes one inspirational experience to completely change the direction of a kid’s life. Director Steven Spielberg had that moment in “The Fabelmans,” an award-winning film that shows how he first fell in love with movies and how, step-by-step, he became the beloved director he is today. The Oscar nominated movie may inspire the young people in your life to follow their dreams.

‘Good Will Hunting’ (1997)

“Good Will Hunting” is a classic starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Robin Williams. Will (Damon) and Chuckie (Affleck) are bootstrapping their way through life in a run down Boston neighborhood, often fighting their way through troubles. Will works as a janitor at MIT and a professor discovers Will is a young prodigy who should be in college, not on the streets. The movie follows Will as he tries to reach his potential while also figuring out what he wants to do, not what the professor is forcing on him.

'Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania' (2023)

“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” finally answers the questions that previous Marvel movies have teased regarding what’s actually in the quantum realm and how did Ant-Man’s mother-in-law survive down there for 30 years. In the movie, the superhero’s teenage daughter gets them, Hope (her dad’s wife) and her grandparents all sucked into the quantum realm, which leads to a lot of arguments. But throughout the movie, they find common ground and she ends up saving the day.

‘Elf’ (2003)

“Elf” is a classic starring Will Ferrell (Buddy), who plays a human raised by Santa’s elves before journeying to New York City to meet his biological father. Leaving the North Pole is hard, but so is bringing its culture to the big apple, so Buddy has to decide who he is in this new city.

'Jerry Maguire' (1996)

The title character in “Jerry Maguire” is a knuckle-busting sports agent who suddenly has a change of heart and wants to do things the right way. He’s fired over it, and only one person at the company, a single mother, leaves with him and they start a new company together. They somehow manage to fall in love despite losing clients, money and Jerry’s less than warm words at times.

'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' (2023)

Multiverses is the name of the game in Marvel's world these days. In "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," Miles Morales, who is Spider-Man in the comic book, is thrown to the multiverse. Shameik Moore stars as Miles; Daniel Kaluuya and Issa Rae also star.

'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' (2022)

"Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" is a eulogy to King T'Challa and his original actor, Chadwick Boseman, who died in 2020. It's also a celebration of Wakandans coming together and finding their new leader as they thwart off new attacks.

'Flamin' Hot' (2023)

Is "Flamin' Hot" based on a true story ? The movie supposedly tells the tale of how a janitor created the Flamin' Hot Cheetos flavor, which is disputed by Frito-Lay. But the movie still has lessons to share .

Rating: PG-3

'Draft Day' (2014)

Kevin Costner and the last Chadwick Boseman star in "Draft Day," the story of how Costner's character, Sonny Weaver Jr., landed the No. 1 draft pick for the NFL's Cleveland Browns in a true uphill battle. Boseman plays Vontae Mack, who Sonny wants to draft, but he has no support from his team to do it since they think there are better players available.

'Freaky Friday' (2003)

"Freaky Friday" is a classic starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis as mother and daughter who just are not seeing eye-to-eye. They literally have to walk in each other's shoes to have empathy and more respect for each other.

‘Coach Carter’ (2005)

Samuel L. Jackson plays the title character in “Coach Carter,” a classic film that shows what a high school basketball team can do when their coach believes in them and is a great teacher. Their city, Richmond, California, needs something to believe in and some good news to share. The high school’s potential boy’s basketball championship would be perfect.

‘Honk for Jesus’ (2022)

Sterling K. Brown and Regina Hall shine in “Honk For Jesus,” a parody that points out double standards related to the institution of the church and the pros and cons of being a part of mega churches or smaller, local churches.

‘Unchartered’ (2020)

“Uncharted” is a modern day treasure hunt. Two orphaned brothers (Tom Holland and Mark Walhberg) join forces to stop a corrupt billionaire from finding the treasure before they do. But the treasure is hidden and most people don’t think it exist at all, so the friends have their work cut out for them.

Movies for families with middle grade kids

‘sky high’ (2005).

Every student in “Sky High” has super powers. Their high school trains them to use their skills — an investment that proves useful when their school comes under attack.

‘Akeelah And The Bee’ (2006)

Keke Palmer, Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishbourne star in this classic about students from different socioeconomic backgrounds and high schools competing in spelling bees. It’s a lighthearted story with some heavier moments sprinkled in (not to mention oodles of star talent).

‘High School Musical’ (2006)

The original “High School Musical” set the foundation for all the spinoffs that have since happened (and are available on Disney+). Troy (Zac Efron) and Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) fall in love as he reconciles being a basketball player who wants to perform theatre and she prepares for a big science competition.

Rating: TV-G

‘The Greatest Showman’ (2017)

Ideal for families with older kids, “The Greatest Showman” is an irresistible musical starring Hugh Jackman, consummate showman himself, as circus maestro P.T. Barnum. The musical takes its liberties with Barnum’s life story, but — featuring music by duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul — is likely more entertaining for the editorializing.

‘Holes’ (2003)

“Holes” has a dark premise — but kids will enjoy the movie’s twists nevertheless. The movie is set at a brutal boot camp where teens in need of “straightening out” are sent. There, they dig holes. All day. eventually, they find out what their days of toil are for, but it takes some ... digging.

‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ (1993)

In one of his most enduring roles, the late Robin Williams plays Daniel Hillard, a dad who, amid a divorce, goes to great lengths to get more time with his kids. He dresses up as a nanny, Mrs. Doubtfire, in the hopes that he can remain a caregiver — and his ex-wife hires him, not knowing who’s really behind that prosthetic nose. As Mrs. Doubtfire, he learns what’s really going on with his family, and how to fix it. The movie’s legacy is continued in a Broadway show .

‘Inside Out’ (2015)

Feel every feeling through this Pixar movie, which alternates between showing a teenage girl’s perspective and the viewpoints of the five main emotions in her brain. “Inside Out” shows how to balance the voices of joy, sadness, anger, fear and disgust — for we all have them inside us.

‘Spy Kids’ (2001)

Carmen (Alexa PenaVega) and Juni (Daryl Sabara) are roped into their parents’ gadget-filled life as spies. All four “Spy Kids” movies are a blend of “James Bond” and kid-friendly hijinks.

‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)

As you wish. With its blend of adventure, comedy and romance, “The Princess Bride” is likely to appeal to everyone in the family. Based on the novel by William Goldman, “The Princess Bride” is about a couple wrenched apart by a king — but the side characters, from Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin) to Vizzini (Wallace Shawn), are largely what render the spoof film a cult classic.

'Elemental' (2023)

People are fire, water, earth or air in "Elemental" and have to figure out how to live together even though they are complete opposites. The experimental movie is a great followup to "Inside Out," prompting questions as it elicits laughs.

'The Little Mermaid' (2023)

The live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid" is spectacular in its emotion, visual effects and storyline. The plot is the same as the original: Ariel the mermaid wants to live on land and trades her voice to the sea witch Ursula for legs. While on land, Ariel falls in love, but has to figure out a way to get her voice back and keep her new legs. But the vivid visuals are more dramatic (and scary!) in live-action form, making it appeal to older kids as well as younger.

‘Queen of Katwe’ (2016)

A 10-year-old chess prodigy (played by the late Nikita Pearl Waligwa) from the slums of Kampala, Uganda becomes a widely recognized chess player and uses the opportunity to escape her impoverished lifestyle. Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo star in this family drama, based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi.

‘Turning Red’ (2022)

“Turning Red” sparked conversation between parents when it premiered on Disney+ in 2022. For all its use of fantasy plot lines — our protagonist is from a line of women who turn into red panda bears — the animated movie takes a real look at what it’s like to be a preteen girl, marked by unabashed enthusiasm, intense feelings and forever friendship.

‘National Treasure’ (2004)

“National Treasure” is the first in a three movie series in which Benjamin Gates (Nicolas Cage) uses U.S. history facts to uncover clues that lead to a treasure. Along the way, he falls in love and grows even closer to his aging father.

‘The Game Plan’ (2007)

Football star Joe Kingman (Dwyane Johnson) is enjoying his bachelor years after previously getting a divorce only to find out he actually has a young daughter with his ex-wife. Joe ends up taking in his daughter to live with him. His life is shaken up for the worst before he realizes it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to him.

Movies for families with elementary schoolers

‘yes day’ (2001).

Parents (played by Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramirez) say yes to anything their kids want in “Yes Day” for 24 hours and the three Torres kids do not hold back.

‘Daddy Day Care’ (2003)

Forced into being a stay-at-home dad, Charlie (Eddie Murphy) ends up starting a day care that becomes quite popular. As attendance surges, Charlie has to find a way to bring the center up to code and stay open for the rambunctious kids who love his day care.

‘Wish’ (2023)

It’s time to believe in “Wish” when teenager Asha asks for help and gets a response from a ball of energy called Star. They team up to help save Asha’s kingdom from its corrupt ruler who intentionally keeps the townspeople under his powerful thumb.

‘Dr. Dolittle’ (1998)

Eddie Murphy can talk to animals in “Dr. Dolittle” and his kids don’t know what to think. He tries to bond with them while also helping as many animals as he can.

‘Over The Hedge’ (2006)

Scrappy woodland friends uncharacteristically wake up in the middle of their hibernation season and have to band together to withstand the bounty that humans in their neighborhood put on their heads.

‘Stuart Little’ (1999)

"Stuart Little," an adaptation of E.B. White's novel of the same name, is a spin on pet adoption. The Little family adopts an anthropomorphic mouse, Stuart, and expects their son, George, to treat him like his real brother. It takes time, as you might expect.

‘Brave’ (2012)

This Scotland-set animated film tells the story of Merida, a teenager set on defying a patriarchal tradition her village follows, and Queen Elinor, her mother who tries at all cost to prevent Merida from achieving her goal. Even though it’s a kid’s movie, the mother and daughter’s rocky relationship is likely to resonate with adults, too.

‘Vivo’ (2021)

Young Andres and his cute pet kinkajou, straight out of the local Cuban rainforest, off to find Andres’ best friend in an eventful road trip adventure. The musical.

‘Horton Hears A Who’ (2008)

Jim Carrey played the Grinch in one Dr. Seuss adaptation; here, he plays an animated elephant named Horton who, oddly enough, hears sounds coming from a tiny speck of dust. Turns out these the speck of dust is home to Whos of Whoville (where “The Grinch” takes place). Horton mounts a campaign to convince others what he hears is real.

‘Despicable Me’ (2010)

Gru (Steve Carrell) is a proud supervillain, and with good reason — he’s good at it. When he ends up getting custody of three orphaned sisters, though, he has to get a whole new skill set. “Despicable Me” will open up a universe of movies, including sequels and movies based on the minion side characters.

‘The Princess and the Frog’ (2009)

“The Princess and the Frog” uses Disney’s classic style of animation for a new story. In this New Orleans-set story, Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) kisses a frog and becomes one herself. There go her dreams of starting a restaurant — or so she thinks.

‘The Sandlot’ (1993)

“The Sandlot” captures the feeling of childhood, especially for those ‘90s kids who grew up watching it over and over. Set in the ‘60s, the movie follows a group of baseball-loving kids over the course of one pivotal summer.

‘Finding Dory’ (2016)

In the "Finding Nemo" sequel, all the questions surrounding Dory’s parents and short attentions pan are finally answered, and she’s reunited with her family, at last.

'Shark Tale' (2004)

The ocean is literally full of loan sharks and indebted fish in "Shark Tale." Lenny the shark decides he doesn't want to be a part of his family's shady business — but how does he get out? He meets Oscar the fish, who owes Lenny's family a lot of money. The two hatch a plan that's supposed to solve both their problems. But, of course, it just creates more. These two are in deep .

'Jumanji' (1995)

A family game night goes completely wrong in "Jumanji" when the kids find an old, sketchy looking board game in the attic. Turns out, the game is magical and as they play, random people emerge from the board and the family has to figure out how to help them, if they can. Robin Williams stars. The 2017 and 2019 remakes star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Kevin Hart and Jack Black.

'Wizard of Oz' (1939)

Follow the yellow brick road through a spirited journey in "Wizard of Oz." This classic musical's favorite characters are Dorothy, the Lion, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man, who each lack something and travel to the Wizard of Oz hoping he can fulfill their requests. Unfortunately, the wizard turns out to be a complete sham and the quartet realizes they already had what they were seeking.

'How to Train Your Dragon' (2010)

It's already hard being the chief's son, but it's doubly difficult when Hiccup disagrees with some of the clan's ways of life, such as hunting and killing dragons. Forced into dragon-fighting school, Hiccup actually befriends a dragon and creates a new possibility for his clan: How to train dragons and co-exist.

'Aliens in the Attic' (2009)

"Aliens in the Attic" is exactly what the title suggests. So much for a peaceful family vacation! When a few kids find aliens in their attic, they concoct a plan to drive them out. Piecing clues together, they learn that the aliens can only control adults. So, for the plan to work, the kids must ban together and keep the adults completely in the dark.

Ella Enchanted (2004)

Parents who have wished their kids always did as they were told may rethink that after watching "Ella Enchanted." In the movie, Ella (Anne Hathaway) has a spell cast on her that makes her obey every command. People later use it against her and she internally struggles to find a way to break the spell.

'Lightyear' (2022)

"Toy Story" fans already know Buzz Lightyear. Or, do they? In "Lightyear," fans finally get the back story how how Buzz ended up on Earth and what he wanted to do before becoming one of Andy's toys.

'Me Time' (2022)

Finally! One dad managed to stumble into some free time when his wife and kids are away with her family. So he meets up with an old childhood friend for a hilarious adventure while his wife and kids have one of their own. The movie stars Mark Wahlberg, Regina Hall and Kevin Hart.

'E.T. the Extra Terrestrial' (1982)

"E.T." is all about letting possibility into your universe. Oh, and it's also about aliens. This Steven Spielberg classic follows what happens when a boy (Henry Thomas) discovers a friendly alien and tries to help him find his way home.

'Paddington' (2014)

Paddington the Bear, the classic character from children's literature, was revived for a new generation through these charming movies featuring just about every famous English actor. You might even like the sequel more than the first one.

'The Goonies' (1985)

"The Goonies" was a classic children's movie for one generation, and still holds up. An old pirate map found in an attic leads to real-life treasure. This movie will have kids looking for avenues for magic in their own lives.

'Luca' (2021)

Travel to the coast of Italy in this Pixar movie about a pre-teen sea monster who explores the land, and finds there's a lot to love (including gelato).

'Sing' (2016)

This animated movie takes place in a world where anthropomorphic animals live side-by-side, and follows a particularly talented bunch. Matthew McConaughey is a koala bear theater owner who launches a singing contest to save his theater. Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson and Taron Egerton are among the animals shooting for stardom. "Sing 2," out in 2022, is just as song-filled (and might even be your favorite of the two).

‘Are We There Yet’ (2005)

Suzanne Kingston's (Nia Long) two kids are determined to keep her from finding a romantic connection. And while Nick Persons (Ice Cube) has a crush on Suzanne, he's not interested in raising anyone's kids. Nick offers Suzanne and her kids a ride to the airport — but ends up driving them all the way from Oregon to Canada. The road trip is long, not only in miles, but teaches everyone a few lessons along the way. This family comedy has a sequel, "Are We Done Yet" (2007), that's worth watching next.

'Encanto' (2021)

The Madrigal family, the family at the center of this Pixar move, captivated viewers with their array of powers, their enchanted magic house, and their original songs written by Lin-Manuel. One family member, Mirabel, doesn't have any powers but ends up being the key to solving a family dilemma. We all ended up talking about Bruno , thanks to this movie.

'Cheaper By The Dozen' (2003)

"Cheaper By The Dozen" features Steve Martin and Kate Baker as parents who've put their career and dreams on the back burner to raise 12 rambunctious kids. The 2022 remake starring Gabrielle Union and Zach Braff puts a new age spin on the classic movie.

'Ice Age' (2002)

For parents who can handle talking animals (and we know that some simply cannot), "Ice Age" is for you. In the movie, animals across species band together to survive in a changing environment. Ray Ramano and Queen Latifah lead this four-movie series that, despite its name, is nothing if not warm.

'The Parent Trap' (1998)

Imagine Hallie and Annie's surprise when they learn they are each other's twin while at summer camp. Their parents, they realize, split them up as kids. At the end of the summer, the twins go home with the unknown parent to get their questions answered and reunite their family. This classic stars Lindsey Lohan as both the twins.

'Finding Nemo' (2003)

"Finding Nemo" might cause tears before laughter, and that's thanks to the sad opening scene. In this classic Pixar movie, a clownfish named Marlin tragically loses his wife in an accident that destroyed all their unhatched babies — except one, Nemo. When Nemo goes missing, Marlin has to face his agoraphobic tendencies and venture out into the ocean.

'Matilda' (1996)

Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson) is a genius — but hardly anyone seems to acknowledge this. The only bright spots in her life are her beloved books and her teacher, Mrs. Honey (Embeth Davidtz), who's sympathetic to her situation. Matilda's unused brainpower leads her to develop powers that surprise her family and delight the rest of us. The musical adaptation on Netflix is equally memorable.

'Honey I Shrunk The Kids' (1989)

This classic family comedy is a whirlwind of adventure. A scientist (Rick Moranis) accidentally shrinks his four kids with a shrink ray he thought didn't work. When he throws it out, his quarter-of-an-inch-sized kids have to get from the garbage can in the yard back to the house while combatting now-dangerous sprinkler systems and stampedes of ants.

'Lion King' (1994)

Sing along in this coming-of-age classic as Simba rediscovers who he is after tragically losing his dad, Mufasa, and learns to inherit his birthright.

'Home Alone' (1990)

As his family prepares for a Christmas vacation to Paris, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) gets accidentally left behind. While home alone, hence the title, Kevin tries to outsmart the two criminals trying to ransack his family's house. Kevin is initially criticized for his mischievousness — but that quality ultimately saves the day.

'The Incredibles' (2004)

When they're not suiting up and saving the world, the family in "The Incredibles" are doing laundry and homework. They're almost normal — but not quite, and that's why they've been tasked with taking down villains. This classic movie and its sequel feature America's favorite superhero family.

'Johnson Family Vacation' (2004)

This road trip movie stars Cedric the Entertainer, Vanessa Williams, Bow Wow, Solange Knowles and Steve Harvey as estranged family members heading on a road trip from California to Missouri for a reunion.

Rating: PG-13

'Moana' (2016)

Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) is a princess of a Pacific island that no one ever leaves — but she wants to. The daring teenager hopes to save her community by sailing away and embarking on an ancestral quest. Music by Lin-Manuel Miranda punctuates her journey. After seeing this movie, which co-stars Dwyane Johnson as a demigod, you'll say, "You're welcome ."

'Shrek' (2001)

Journey into Shrek's swamp — actually, on second thought, best not to. This Scottish ogre, voiced by Mike Meyers, hates visitors on his land. Follow, instead, as Shrek falls in love with the princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz).

'Ramona and Beezus' (2010)

Joey King and Selena Gomez star as sisters (and total opposites) trying to save their family home. Ramona (King) is a rambunctious grade schooler who uses her imagination to make sense of her changing reality. Beezus (Gomez) is an older sister just trying to keep up with all Ramona's shenanigans, all the while trying to secure their family home. The movies is based on a children's book series by Beverly Cleary .

'Bridge to Terabithia' (2007)

In this classic book adaptation, two teenagers (AnnaSophia Robb and Josh Hutcherson) create an imaginary world that magical creatures inhabit. The young adults find freedom and empowerment in this world, a stark contrast to the their home lives. "Bridge to Terabithia" has a notoriously tear-jerking ending — you've been warned.

'The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl' (2005)

What's a lonely boy to do? Create an imaginary world filled with superheroes, of course. In this film, a kid with an overactive imagination is drawn into the world that might be more real than he originally thought.

'Because of Winn-Dixie' (2005)

Families with pets will appreciate "Because of Winn-Dixie," the story of Opal Buloni (AnnaSophia Robb), a 10-year-old girl who finds companionship in a stray dog she encounters outside of a Winn-Dixie supermarket. Through the relationship she has with Winn-Dixie and new friends in the community, Opal helps come to terms with the mom who abandoned her, and connect with the preacher father who she's suddenly living with.

'Up' (2009)

Since "Up" celebrates intergenerational friendships, it's a great pick for grandparents to watch with their grandkids. In "Up," 78-year-old widower Carl Fredricksen (Edward Asner) is about to fulfill his and his wife's lifelong dream of flying, via balloon, to a vista in South America. To his surprise, a kid named Russell (Jordan Nagai) and his dog are in the house when he takes off, disrupting his plans of a solitary, contemplative journey.

'The Lorax' (2012)

12-year-old Ted (Zac Efron) is on a mission: He wants to win over his crush, Audrey (Taylor Swift), and she loves Truffula trees. Unfortunately, that simple gift is impossible to get in their town, which completely lacks vegetation. His efforts to find a tree lead him closer to an explanation of why all the plants disappeared.

Randi Richardson is a reporter for NBC News' TODAY.com based in Brooklyn.

Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place Essay

Introduction, it saves money, it guarantees comfort, opposing opinion, works cited.

For a long time now, going to the cinema has always been an exciting adventure. When most people think of a nice place to relax and enjoy time with friends and family, they mostly think of going to a movie theater. In general, a movie can be an impeccable way of spending leisure time, which is particularly true if there is not much action to take part in where people live. In regards to watching films, not many people seem to agree that cinema is the ideal place. Some people believe that sitting in the comfort of their home while watching movies is a better choice than visiting film houses. In this essay, one will be enlightened why watching movies at home is better than going to the movie theater

By watching movie at home, one will save a fair amount of money. In today’s society, money is everything, and people improvise different ways of acquiring, or saving it. Going to the movies might sound like a simple act of fun, but in reality, one ends up spending a lot of money. The cost of paying for tickets tends to grow annually as people visit cinemas. For someone to take his or her family and loved ones to pass time in theaters might be quite expensive. It is because, apart from entrance fees, other expenses which may be incurred are car fuel, parking charges, buying of snacks, plus other hidden additional costs (Meyer 46). When comparing it to watching a movie at home on one’s television, or doing video streaming on iTunes and Netflix, the video streaming option is by far way much cheaper.

Nevertheless, there are some minor drawbacks about watching movies at home. The first one is that the latest and highest-ranked movie releases get to the film and theaters first. It usually takes a long time before they extent to people’s homes. Second, at the cinemas, the quality of the film is of a higher quality and it is supplemented by the surrounding effects. Despite that, streaming at home remains the best option because one will save money, which can be utilized in catering to other family affairs and development.

Streaming movies at the comfort of one’s home gives the kind of comfort which cannot be found anywhere else, not even in a movie house. Almost everyone hates the front rows in cinemas, where they have to stretch their necks for a better view. Continuous straining can damage one’s neck after three or so hours of watching the favorite show. None of these issues will ever occur when people stay at the luxury of their own homes to watch movies. In the house, someone sits comfortably in their couch, wraps himself up in blankets, and watches all day long. It also means one has the freedom to choose the type of film they would like to watch and when to watch it (Gil and Gutierrez-Navratil 740). At home, the movie lover is at liberty to pause, eat anything the way they like or move around to attend to other matters without worrying about annoying or distracting anyone.

The safest place one can watch a movie is their home. Whenever people are in public, they have to share practically everything with everyone else. There are those individuals who might be annoying, particularly in the film houses, where rather than maintaining silence, there are those who cannot stop talking or speaking on their phones. Such actions can keep one’s attention away if he or she is the person who finds it difficult to focus on presence. Nevertheless, not everyone who goes to movies has good intentions. It means that one has to be careful and aware of his or her surroundings at all times. It is because issues such as people losing their personal belongings, for example, phones are widespread in movie halls (Peterson 452). A more recent risk which has made going to movies a personal risk is the Covid-19 pandemic. People are advised to keep social distance due to the rapid spread of the disease. To avoid the risk of exposing themselves to the virus, a significant number of movie lovers have resorted to watching at home. Clearly, staying at home and watching one’s favorite movie will keep you safe from undesired incidents.

Some opposing opinions claim that going to the cinema helps one to watch the movie with more clarity on a large screen. It also offers surround-sound which enhances one’s overall experience. However, home technology has undergone much development, and people now have high definition (HD) televisions. They also have excellent sound equipment, as well as remote monitoring gadgets. With all of these, it does not make a logical difference to seek theatrical experience in a public theatre.

All these explanations are a clear proof of how one might well be better off relaxed in the comfort of their home to enjoy the movie experience with more flexibility. Instead of going to the cinema, one should buy their favorite classic films and spend time with their families in the luxury of their homes. Watching movies is considered to be one of the best forms of entertainment. It only makes it better if one has the power over what, how and when to watch it. Furthermore, with advanced technology having reached people’s homes, many prefer to watch movies in their houses.

Gil, Ricard, and Fernanda Gutierrez-Navratil. “Does Television Entry Decrease the Number of Movie Theaters?” Economic Inquiry , vol. 55, no. 2, 2016, pp. 736-756. Wiley . Web.

Meyer, Birgit. “Watching Movies in Ghana”. Anthropology News , vol. 58, no. 2, 2017, pp. e44-e50. Wiley . Web.

Peterson, Elizabeth. “Hometown Show: Early Movie Theaters in Eugene and Springfield”. Oregon Historical Quarterly , vol. 117, no. 3, 2016, p. 452. Oregon Historical Society . Web.

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IvyPanda. (2023, October 30). Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place. https://ivypanda.com/essays/watching-movie-at-home-or-theater/

"Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place." IvyPanda , 30 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/watching-movie-at-home-or-theater/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place'. 30 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/watching-movie-at-home-or-theater/.

1. IvyPanda . "Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/watching-movie-at-home-or-theater/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Watching a Movie at Home or Theater: An Exciting Adventure or the Ideal Place." October 30, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/watching-movie-at-home-or-theater/.

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Essay on Movies: Advantages and Disadvantages 

• Updated on  
• Dec 19, 2023

Essay on Movies:   Movies create a huge impact on human life. It can be positive as well as negative. People learn and implement new and innovative things from movies in real life. For example, learning new languages, getting inspiration, self-motivation, and gaining more insight and understanding are examples of the brighter side of movies. 

On the contrary, movies with a provoking message that disturbs peace and harmony, inappropriate content, and gender discrimination contribute to desensitization and normalizing harmful behaviors. 

Essay on Movies: Impact of Movies on Society

The motive for watching movies can differ from person to person. For some, it can just be a pastime, but for others, it can present a real-life context for learning. Therefore, it plays a vital role in shaping societal norms and influencing the culture.

Also, movies have the power to evoke emotions in the audience. Besides, it has the potential to raise awareness and promote social change by addressing important issues. Further, movies also serve as a form of entertainment and cultivate a sense of shared experience among the audience. 

Now, let us analyze the advantages and disadvantages of movies to evaluate their impact on society:

Advantages of Movies :

1. Source of Entertainment: Movies are the best mode of enjoyable and immersive entertainment. When one gets bored with the same routine work and needs relaxation, the cinematic experience, with its special effects, music, and storytelling techniques, helps provide a unique way of escaping reality. 

2. Form of Storytelling: Stories take us to a world where we can explore different stories, characters, and themes. Film directors, with the help of visuals and narrative methods, help convey a message and evoke emotions in the audience while developing a connection with the story being told.

3. Means of Social Bonding: Sitting in front of the television and watching a movie with family is fun on another level. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a night out at the cinema or a movie night at home; the experience of bonding among friends and family cannot be explained in words.

Also Read: Film Direction, Drama, and Theatre Archives 

Disadvantages of Movies:

Now, let us understand what adverse effects movies can have on the audience: 

• Negative Influence: Movies with harmful content such as misogyny, celebration of communal violence, racism, and glorification of patriarchy create an adverse impact on the impressionable audience. Therefore, as viewers, it is important to understand the message conveyed very carefully and its potential consequences. 
• Time-Consuming: Also, watching movies for long hours can interfere with work, studies, and other activities. It is, therefore, required to create a balance between leisure and responsibilities. However, this does not apply to present-day and future generations of filmmakers, actors, scriptwriters, cinematographers, camera operators, etc. 
• Expensive: Watching movies is a costly undertaking. Whether tickets, streaming subscriptions, or home entertainment comes with a heavy expense. If one is a regular moviegoer, watching movies can lead to a potential drawback. 

Thus, it is essential to carefully analyze the messaging of movies. It is our responsibility to watch movies as a source of entertainment and not indulge in wrongdoings. Also, cinema is a beautiful art form and a great source of learning for technicians, writers, and filmmakers.

Also Read: Film Making Courses

Ans. Time consumption, social isolation, and distorted realities are the negative impacts of movies on society. 

Ans. Career opportunities, technological advancements, and emotional impacts are some of the positive impacts of movies on society. 

Ans. The movies aim to serve content suitability, so movies are served with different ratings. 

Ans. Movies serve as a source of entertainment, a means of relaxation, and a platform for imparting moral values.

Ans. Lumiere brothers, Auguste and Louis Lumiere are credited for inventing movies. 

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Deepika Joshi

Deepika Joshi is an experienced content writer with expertise in creating educational and informative content. She has a year of experience writing content for speeches, essays, NCERT, study abroad and EdTech SaaS. Her strengths lie in conducting thorough research and ananlysis to provide accurate and up-to-date information to readers. She enjoys staying updated on new skills and knowledge, particulary in education domain. In her free time, she loves to read articles, and blogs with related to her field to further expand her expertise. In personal life, she loves creative writing and aspire to connect with innovative people who have fresh ideas to offer.

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Home — Essay Samples — Arts & Culture — Theatre — Watching Movies: At Home vs. In a Theater

Watching Movies: at Home Vs. in a Theater

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Published: Feb 12, 2024

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Introduction, differences between watching movie in theater and at home, similarities between watching movie at home vs cinema, comparison between watching a movie at home and in theatres, works cited.

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Importance of watching movies

Watching a movie will relieve stress.

Nowadays lots of ways are there to watch films without dragging yourself to the movie theater. Moreover, many of them are even legal. We know that curling up on the couch with your Netflix subscription, let’s be realistic—some experiences are there that you can only get within the walls of your local cinema. A thing which many of us need to think about is a proper way to relieve our stress. The reason for this is that stress is something which can have a negatively impact on your health . It has been revealed that stress is caused by a continuous build-up of tension within the person and unless we release our stress we may end up with serious problems later on. Also, for those people who are feeling stressed, you should do something fun such as watching a movie?

Below we have provided you with some reasons as to the importance of watching movies and the reasons as to why we spend our hard-earned money to watch a new movie in the plush seats of a dark and chilly theater.

It helps to release stress: When we watch movies, it is a highly recommended way of releasing stress. The reason for this is that viewing a film transports the person into a different world where they will be able to forget their problems even for a few hours. It can also be said that viewing a film will not immediately erase the problems that you have in real life, you will at least be able to stop thinking of about those problems for some time meaning that your mind will be able to unclench itself. You should take into consideration that the mind is clenched like a ball whenever it is stressed. If you are in such a situation then the best antidote is to find a way to relax your mind before it clamps itself any further. A lot of emotions are aroused when we watch a movie: When we watch movies they arouse a lot of emotions. On watching a movie, we laugh, cry and are also filled with other emotions such us adventurousness or fear. Watching a movie provides us with an opportunity to express our emotions. Here are some more reasons as to why we should watch a movie:

• If you are aware of the fact that fiancée or your spouse loves watching a movie on the big screen, you will not have to hesitate. You can move forward without any hesitation.
• The movies are filled with emotions and feelings but also with ideas and assumptions. A movie is able to provide familiar story plots so that we are able to make meaning of our own lives.  They also provide order to the chaos of our world.  A movie is able to suggest to us what and who we should value and also as to what and who we should neglect.  In a nutshell, a movie teaches us as to how we should be and act.  However, we tend to watch movies instead of thinking about them, what they are telling us to do.  Asides from this many of us don’t want to think about watching a movie. This is why the movies are made in a way which teaches us to forget as to how we can think so that we are able to suck up the experience!
• There is no harm in watching the movies on the big screen: When you watch movies on the big screens it will in no way harm you.
• When you watch movies, a personal interaction is an important issue as there are many people who recommend going to the theater rather than watching a movie together. While watching a movie you may have to remain completely silent. There is also less scope for interaction. If this is the case then after the movie both of you may sit somewhere at the restaurant for a dinner. You will then have lots of opportunities to discuss a lot.
• You have always wanted to share your sorrows and joys. However, you have not felt the environment suitable enough: On having watched a movie together, you may want to have a conversation.
• You will be able to control your PC or laptop by using remote computer access.
• After watching a movie we discuss it: The storyline of the movie will make us tart talking. This is why both of you may find yourselves in deep conversation about reality and life. This will certainly lead you to a happier relationship. All in all, you are now familiar with regards to the importance of watching movies.

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32 Best Movies to Watch with Teenagers

F inding a good movie to watch with your teenage kids can sometimes be a daunting task. With a wide variety of movies available out there with different genres and classifications, parents may find it difficult to choose age-appropriate but still entertaining options for their teenagers. Worry no more as we have put together a list of the best movies to watch with teenagers. Not only are these films family-friendly, but they also explore important themes relevant to the challenges that teens face in the modern world.

Best Movies to Watch with Teenagers

Whether you are on vacation and it’s a rainy day so you are staying inside and watching a movie or if it’s just a regular day at home, all of the movies are good picks.  If you are looking for educational movies for teens these aren’t it. These are just for fun!

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club is a John Hughes classic film that tells the story of five high school students from different groups who spend a Saturday together in detention. Throughout the day, they learn about each other’s lives and explore issues of identity, family, and societal expectations. This film resonates with teenagers and provides a great opportunity for parents to engage in discussions with their children after watching it.  Watch on Amazon . 

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before

This Netflix original movie is a fantastic romantic comedy that will have you giggling and “aww-ing” throughout the film. The movie follows the story of a teenage girl named Lara Jean, whose love letters to her crushes are accidentally sent out to them, sparking unexpected events and relationships. The film explores the themes of teenage crushes, first loves, and self-discovery. This is one of the movies that helped propel Noah Centineo to fame. 

Crazy Rich Asians

Crazy Rich Asians is a dazzling romantic comedy that follows the story of Rachel Chu, an American-born Chinese economics professor, who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend Nick Young for his best friend’s wedding. Rachel is thrust into the spotlight when she meets Nick’s family, who are richer than she could ever imagine. The film explores themes of social status, cultural expectations, and the importance of family.  Watch on Amazon . 

The Hate U Give

The Hate U Give is a powerful drama that delves deep into contemporary societal issues of racial profiling and police brutality. The movie follows the story of Starr Carter, a teenage girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend by a police officer. She grapples with the aftermath and stands up against racial injustice and systemic inequality. This film provides a much-needed perspective for conversations about race and privilege in today’s society.  Watch on Amazon .

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an animated movie that follows the story of teenager Miles Morales (not Peter Parker) as he becomes Spider-Man. The film offers a fresh and exhilarating take on the superhero’s story, with a diverse cast of characters and stunning visuals. It also explores themes of identity, courage, and responsibility. This film is an excellent choice for families seeking an engaging, action-packed superhero movie with modern sensibilities.  Watch on Amazon Prime .

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a 2012 drama about an introverted freshman who struggles to fit in at his new high school. Through his relationships with friends and family, he learns valuable lessons about self-discovery and acceptance. This touching film offers an insightful look into the lives of teenagers today.  Watch on Amazon Prime.

Superbad is a 2007 comedy about two teenage friends who embark on an epic quest to purchase alcohol for their senior prom party. Along the way, they encounter numerous obstacles that test their friendship and cause them to question what it means to grow up. This hilarious movie is sure to have you laughing out loud! My kids have watched this one multiple times.  Watch on Amazon .

Mean Girls is a 2004 comedy about a teenage girl (Lindsay Lohan) who moves to a new school and finds herself caught in the middle of an ongoing rivalry between two cliques of popular girls. The film follows her journey as she navigates the social hierarchy of high school and learns important lessons about friendship, loyalty, and standing up for yourself.  Watch on Amazon .

Lady Bird is a 2017 coming-of-age drama about Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, an outspoken teenager navigating her senior year of high school in Sacramento, California during 2002/2003 while struggling with her relationship with her mother and trying to find herself amidst all the chaos that comes with growing up. This heartfelt film offers an honest look at teenage life that will resonate with viewers both young and old alike.  Watch on Amazon .

Eighth Grade

Eighth Grade is a 2018 comedy/drama following Kayla Day as she navigates through her last week of eighth grade before entering high school – which proves much harder than she expected it would be! As Kayla confronts various challenges such as making friends, finding confidence within herself, understanding social media etiquette, etc., she slowly begins to realize that everything isn’t always as it seems on the outside looking in – something every teenager can relate to!  Watch on Amazon.  

Clueless is a 1995 romcom starring Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz – an affluent teenager living in Beverly Hills whose mission it becomes to give makeovers (both physical & emotional) to those around her while also learning some valuable lessons along the way! With its witty dialogue & endearing characters, Clueless has become one of the most beloved films for generations past & present alike!  Watch on Amazon Prime .

Sky High is a 2005 Disney Channel original movie following Will Stronghold (Michael Angarano) – son of two famous superheroes – as he embarks on his first year at Sky High School – where all students possess superhuman abilities – the only problem? He doesn’t have any yet! With its mix of action & humor, Sky High will keep viewers entertained throughout its entirety!  Watch on Amazon .

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a 1986 classic starring Matthew Broderick as Ferris Bueller – A rebellious teen determined not to let anything stand between him & having “the best day ever” despite all odds being against him – including his principal (Jeffrey Jones) & sister (Jennifer Grey)! With its mix of wit & charm, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has become one timeless cult classic for generations past & present alike! Watch on Amazon .

The Kissing Booth

This Netflix original movie is a great choice for teenagers, as it follows the story of Elle Evans and her complicated love life. It’s a fun and lighthearted movie that teens can relate to, as it tackles themes like first loves, friendship drama, and family relationships.

Guardians of the Galaxy Trilogy

The Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is an action-packed series that follows the adventures of Peter Quill and his ragtag team of intergalactic misfits. It’s full of humor, heartwarming moments, and plenty of action sequences that will keep teens entertained.  Watch on Amazon .

This Christopher Nolan classic is sure to be a hit with teens. It follows Dom Cobb as he attempts to plant an idea in someone’s mind using a technique known as “inception”. The movie is packed with thrilling action sequences and thought-provoking themes that will make for an exciting viewing experience for teens.  Watch on Amazon.

Forrest Gump

This classic film follows Forrest Gump as he embarks on a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. It’s a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and never giving up on your dreams no matter what life throws at you—a perfect message for teenagers!  Watch on Amazon .

Pirates of the Caribbean

This swashbuckling adventure series stars Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow and follows him on his quest to find the legendary Fountain of Youth. Teens will love the thrilling action sequences and special effects, as well as Jack Sparrow’s witty one-liners throughout the movie!  Watch on Amazon .

Harry Potter Series

The Harry Potter movies are perfect for viewers who want to escape into a magical world full of adventure and excitement! Teens will be captivated by Harry’s journey from being an ordinary boy to becoming one of the most powerful wizards in history!  Watch on Amazon .

This hilarious comedy stars Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy, an egocentric news anchor who must learn to work with his female co-anchor Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate). Teens will love this comedic take on gender roles in society!  Watch on Amazon .

Zootopia is an animated adventure set in a world where humans never existed—and animals have evolved into intelligent creatures capable of creating their own society! Teens will enjoy this funny yet thought-provoking tale about prejudice, acceptance, and finding your place in the world.  Watch on Amazon .

The Hunger Games 

This movie is a great way to introduce teens to the world of dystopian fiction and action-packed adventure. The story follows Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Hunger Games, a televised fight-to-the-death competition between 24 teenagers from 12 different districts. It’s an exciting and suspenseful movie that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats.  Watch on Amazon .

Dead Poets Society

This classic coming-of-age drama centers around a group of boys at an all-boys prep school who are inspired by their English teacher, Mr. Keating (Robin Williams), to think for themselves and live life to the fullest. It’s an inspiring and emotional story about friendship, courage, and standing up for what you believe in.  Watch on Amazon .

10 Things I Hate About You

This modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew is sure to be a hit with teens! It follows two sisters who are very different from each other – one is popular and outgoing while the other is shy and bookish (Julia Stiles) – as they navigate high school life together. It’s funny, sweet, and has plenty of teenage angst that teens can relate to!  Watch on Amazon .

If your teen loves horror movies, then this classic slasher flick is sure to be a hit! It follows a group of teens as they become targets of a mysterious killer known as Ghostface who seems to know all their secrets. It’s full of suspense, mystery, and plenty of jump scares that will keep everyone on the edge of their seat!  Watch on Amazon.

Pitch Perfect

This musical comedy follows an all-female acapella group as they compete against rival groups in order to win Nationals competition. It features catchy songs, snappy dialogue, and plenty of humor that teens will love! Plus it sends a positive message about friendship and working together towards a common goal that teens can relate to!  Watch on Amazon .

Fast Times at Ridgemont High 

This classic teen comedy follows four friends as they navigate high school life with hilarious results! From dealing with teachers to dating woes, this movie covers it all with plenty of laughs along the way!  Watch on Amazon .

Napoleon Dynamite

This quirky cult classic follows Napoleon Dynamite as he navigates his awkward teenage years in small-town Idaho with his best friend Pedro by his side (and his pet llama). It’s full of offbeat humor that many teenagers can relate too which makes it perfect for watching with your teen!  Watch on Amazon .

13 Going on 30

This romantic comedy follows Jenna Rink (Jennifer Garner) as she magically wakes up 30 years old after making a wish on her 13th birthday party gone wrong! She must now learn how to navigate adulthood while still trying to recapture her childhood dreams along the way – something many teenagers can relate to!  Watch on Amazon .

The Fault in Our Stars

Based on John Green’s best-selling novel, this romantic drama tells the story of two cancer-stricken teens who fall in love despite facing mortality head-on every day – something many teenagers can relate to even if they haven’t experienced it first-hand yet themselves. It’s both heartbreakingly sad yet also hopeful at times which makes it perfect for watching with your teen!  Watch on Amazon .

This hilarious comedy stars Ben Stiller as Derek Zoolander, a clueless male model whose career takes an unexpected turn when he gets recruited by evil fashion designer Mugatu played by Will Ferrall. It’s full of ridiculous antics, over-the-top characters, and plenty of laughs throughout which makes it perfect for watching with your teen!  Watch on Amazon.

Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants

Based on Ann Brashares’ best-selling novel, this heartwarming drama tells the story of four best friends who share an unbreakable bond despite living far apart from each other. It’s full of uplifting messages about friendship, family, and finding yourself which makes it perfect for watching with your teen!  Watch on Amazon .

Conclusion:

Movies have the power to start meaningful conversations and connect us with one another, especially between parents and their teenagers. The list of movies we’ve provided above are just a few examples of films that tackle themes that teens can relate to. Watching these movies with your teen can be more than just about having a good time; it’s about opening up a healthy dialogue and creating lasting memories. So the next time you’re looking for a movie to watch with your teenager, choose one from our list, and have a great time together!

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• Cast & crew

Not Another Church Movie

Taylor Pherry is commanded by God to write a movie inspired by his crazy, dysfunctional family, but the Devil has his own devious plans in this hilarious spoof comedy. Taylor Pherry is commanded by God to write a movie inspired by his crazy, dysfunctional family, but the Devil has his own devious plans in this hilarious spoof comedy. Taylor Pherry is commanded by God to write a movie inspired by his crazy, dysfunctional family, but the Devil has his own devious plans in this hilarious spoof comedy.

• Johnny Mack
• Mickey Rourke
• Vivica A. Fox

• Flora Black

• Monte Carlo

• Taylor Pharry

• Ms. Flora Richardson

• Officer White …

• Bus Driver Tyrone

• (as Xaveria Baird)

• Earth Angel
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• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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• Trivia Filmed in 2022, released in 2024.
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• When was Not Another Church Movie released? Powered by Alexa
• May 10, 2024 (United States)
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• Savannah, Georgia, USA
• Monty the Dog Productions
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Five International Movies to Stream Now

This month’s picks include a Mexican family drama, a Palestinian coming-of-age tale, a high-school movie from Ukraine and more.

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By Devika Girish

Stream it on Netflix.

There is a beautifully elastic quality to Rodrigo García’s “Familia,” which follows the myriad members of a Mexican family across a day spent together at their house in the countryside. The story is nothing new. The patriarch, Leo (Daniel Giménez Cacho), wants to sell the estate and retire from the job he has held for most of his life. The proposition unleashes currents of raw emotion at the dinner table, as his children (three daughters and one son) and grandchildren, not to mention their various partners and spouses, reckon with their family home and with each other.

Leo’s children embody familiar types: the successful, uptight doctor; the lost, black sheep writer whose marriage is falling apart; the lesbian wild child who loves to provoke. There are jokes and jabs, screaming matches and quiet tears. But everything moves so fluidly in the film — the camera weaves in and around characters like a dancer, and the actors turn in wonderfully unvarnished performances — that not for a second does it feel trite. The unpredictable shifts from rancor to resentment to tenderness feel natural, and in lieu of any pat resolutions, “Familia” leaves us with the bittersweet fact that love and loss go hand in hand.

‘Laapataa Ladies’

In Kiran Rao’s charming small-town comedy, a man disembarks a train with someone else’s bride by accident, prompting great chaos. The premise of “Laapataa Ladies” may sound ridiculous on paper, but each detail, as it unfolds, is entirely plausible and reveals a lot about the violence — and absurdity — of patriarchal customs in rural India. As it happens, Deepak (Sparsh Srivastav) and Phool (Nitanshi Goel) are married on a day considered auspicious for weddings, so when they board the train, there are three other newlywed couples in their coach. Plus, all three brides are wearing identical red wedding veils that completely cover their faces, per tradition.

So when Deepak drowsily grabs one of the women’s hands to leave in the middle of the night, it’s not until much later that he realizes that Phool is still asleep on the train, and he has brought home a stranger, Pushpa Rani (Pratibha Ranta). Then an elaborate game begins: Deepak enlists the local (and corrupt) police to find Phool and send back Pushpa Rani; his wife, having landed up in some other town, tries to find her way back to a man and a marital home she knows nothing about; and Pushpa Rani sets in motion a curious plot of her own, whose contours slowly emerge over the course of the movie. In the guise of a funny, suspenseful and crowd-pleasing caper, Rao delivers a scathing critique of misogynistic traditions.

Stream it on Film Movement Plus ; rent it on Amazon .

Timely and incredibly gutting, “Alam,” set in a Palestinian village under Israeli occupation, offers a beautifully etched portrait of what it’s like to grow up amid the debris of your ancestor’s dreams. In large part, Firas Khoury’s film plays out like any other high school drama. Tamer (Mahmood Bakri) and his gang of friends go around smoking joints, flirting with girls and trying to skip class. But their disaffection is not just born of your typical adolescent angst. Israeli flags fly over their school buildings, soldiers and settlers menacingly patrol their village, portraits of displaced and martyred family members cover walls and their textbooks offer versions of their lived history they know to be untrue.

The hopelessness and frustration roiling around them comes to a head as May 14, the anniversary of the Nakba, draws closer, and the boys hatch a plan to hoist the Palestinian flag over their school. It’s an act of teenage mischief but also one of resistance, and it becomes, for Tamer, a stark confrontation with the reality of his bereaved community; and for Khoury, an opportunity to explore the life-or-death stakes often underlying the everyday experiences of Palestinians.

‘Stop-Zemlia’

Stream it on Ovid.

Following a group of high-schoolers on the cusp of graduation in Ukraine, “Stop-Zemlia” is one those rare films that understands its teenage characters, neither infantilizing nor sensationalizing their lives and concerns. The film revolves around the quiet and thoughtful Masha (Maria Fedorchenko) and her two best friends, Senia (Arsenii Markov) and Yana (Yana Isaienko), as they go to class, attend parties and have sleepovers. There is no real conflict in the film per se: There are small skirmishes among classmates, discreet crushes and plenty of confused sexual exploration, but it’s all portrayed with an empathetic gentleness — emphasized by the film’s bright, pastel colors — that makes the darker undertones of depression feel more realistic.

Though the film was completed before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it is impossible not to watch it through the lens of recent events. Scenes showing the kids participating in military training feel foreboding, but the more quotidian parts of the film — including the staged interviews that the director Kateryna Gornostai weaves throughout the film, in which the characters talk about love and loneliness — hit even harder, given how drastically the lives of Ukrainian youngsters have since changed.

‘Self-Portrait’

Stream it on Mubi.

The title of the Canadian filmmaker Joële Walinga’s essay documentary is cheekily deceptive. Self-portraits, or selfies, the defining media fixture of our time, evoke intimacy, candor and performance. But this movie is about a different, though equally pervasive, contemporary media phenomenon: surveillance, which evokes estrangement, anonymity and a lack of agency.

Walinga’s mesmerizing film, comprising scenes from closed-circuit television footage from around the world, is poised somewhere between these two poles. There isn’t much to say about “Self-Portrait” in the way of description. Each shot is static and frames a space or landscape, be it the mountains, the ocean, a field, the inside of a church, a cage at a zoo; the lo-fi quality flattens each scene into a kind of pixelated beauty, where waves or snowflakes or even animal limbs become jagged flashes of black and white. The images are strange and distant, the figures within them barely discernible; yet as we watch them one after the other, their fixed frames and mechanical gaze generate an odd feeling of subjectivity, as if we’re privy to a collective self-portrait of the human condition. The camera stays put, but the wind, water, shadows and people move, gesturing at something eternal.

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My grandfather sowed so that others may reap

Throughout his 99 years, he had never been honored for the lives he changed, the careers he quietly made, or, most of all, the love he modeled. and he wouldn’t have dreamed of it..

In his last few days on earth, my grandfather had a single request: plant my tomatoes.

Jiddoo, the Lebanese Arabic word for “grandfather,” had famously kept a large garden for decades at his Milton home. I once walked with wonder under the towering trellises of green beans and through the colorful stalks of Swiss chard. Any of Jiddoo’s grandchildren has spent many hours learning about the best way to stake a tomato and gotten their hands dirty harvesting thyme or parsley for Sittee’s — grandma’s — summer salads.

Even into his late 90s, my spry grandfather, who died May 2 , cultivated his garden. If you’ve driven through Milton, odds are you saw him outside tending to his yard or the garden in his tidy blue button-up and khaki pants. Summer visits were punctuated by parting gifts of peppers and cucumbers; not just a nourishing sign of his love but an effort to stave off any waste from the sometimes too-fertile plot.

That very aversion to waste made his final request for tomatoes initially strike me as odd. A child of the Great Depression, Jiddoo didn’t waste even his coffee grounds — he used them as fertilizer. He cringed at the sight of a Dunkin’ cup. And now he was requesting tomatoes he must have known he would never taste?

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But the truth is that Jiddoo’s life was defined by sowing without the thought of reaping.

His aversion to waste led to prosperity but never opulence. Jiddoo was a model of moderation, from the words he used to the resources he consumed. He listened before giving an opinion. He mended his clothes instead of buying new ones. He ate all his leftovers before visiting a restaurant. And he saved when blessed with excess.

Then he gave splendidly. He quietly donated much of his wealth to cancer research, to our church, to his favorite charities, to family members starting new lives. And to lovingly spoiling his late wife. He sowed so that others may reap.

And throughout his 99 years, he had never been honored for the lives he changed, the careers he quietly made, or, most of all, the love he modeled. No plaques, no signs, no articles (minus those I have penned despite his bashful resistance). And he wouldn’t have dreamed of it.

Even at the annual Veteran’s Day parade in Milton, he declined to wear any hats or pins or his old uniform, which still fit the ever-slim nonagenarian. Nor would he stand when veterans were called to for recognition. He did this in honor of his friends from his hometown of Quincy who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Pacific while he used his engineering degree to honorably serve as a Naval engineer.

But in a couple months, if the rain is good and the rabbits are merciful, Jiddoo will get the only recognition he’s ever wanted as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gather on the sunny deck overlooking his garden for a final taste of Jiddoo’s tomatoes.

Carine Hajjar is a Globe Opinion writer. She can be reached at [email protected] .

Globe Opinion

From Hilde, with Love opens the German Film Festival, with a heroic story of resistance

When German filmmaker Andreas Dresen was looking to cast the lead in his compelling WWII biopic From Hilde, with Love, one person stood out: Babylon Berlin star Liv Lisa Fries.

"I have always had the feeling, when I saw her acting, that you could look straight into her soul through her eyes. And this is very interesting for a character like Hilde, who is, in the beginning, very naive and then gets stronger and stronger," he says.

Based on the story of real-life medical assistant Hilde Coppi, the film shows how she met her future husband Hans while running interference with a group of young Berliners appalled by the rise of the Nazi regime. Their resistance cell was dubbed the Red Orchestra, after their communist connections.

They would risk life and limb to paste stickers over anti-Soviet propaganda posters and relay messages from German prisoners of war communicating with family members via the Voice of Russia aka Radio Moscow.

When the Gestapo closed in on their ranks, a pregnant Hilde held her head high and refused to forsake her beliefs as she was sent to Plötzensee prison.

This is a tragic but inspiring tale of love, hope and resistance against the odds — the perfect subject for the opening night movie of this year's German Film Festival , following its global premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in February. (It was nominated for the highest award at the festival, the Golden Bear.)

Originally, Hilde's story was to be part of a TV series highlighting various German women who became resistance fighters in the Red Orchestra.

"There were quite a lot of brave women resisting the Nazis, and they weren't only making coffee for their male partners," Dresen says, acknowledging history writers often leave women's achievements out or push them to the margins.

Screenwriter Laila Stieler focused on Hilde's story as a proof-of-concept episode. It soon became apparent there were legs for a feature.

"Hilde's destiny hit me very hard, because she is a kind of shy hero who wouldn't necessarily call herself a resistance fighter. But she was so brave," Dresen says.

A divided Germany

Dresen was born in Gera, East Germany, three hours' drive south of Berlin, in 1963. It was the same year US President John F Kennedy gave his historic speech in Berlin on the West German side of the wall.

During the Cold War years, the Red Orchestra were mythologised on either side of the divide — portrayed as either titanic warriors or villainous traitors to the cause.

"The reason was to protect or to fight against the East German system," Dresen says.

"We heard a lot of cliches about the so-called resistance fighters who were always superheroes who were so big and so strong, and I felt always so small in comparison."

From Hilde, with Love reveals a more realistic side of Hilde and her idealistic friends. "For me, it was very interesting to show them as human beings; as young people falling in love with each other, who wanted to have families," Dresen says.

Dresen says Stieler was interested more in this angle than historical cliches: "We also wanted to show characters who are part of the Nazi system in a more human way. They were not always dangerous animals."

This includes a steely warden at Plötzensee (Lisa Wagner), who gradually softens towards Hilde after she gives birth, and Dresen regular Alexander Scheer as real-life pastor Harald Poelchau.

The prison chaplain helped people escape as the Nazis seized power, comforted those sentenced to be executed by the regime, and later wrote a book about his experiences.

"In a way, even if he was a part of the system, he brought a lot of humanity to these situations and helped a lot of people, including Hilde," Dresen says.

Lest we forget

Dresen wanted the film to feel current, with production designer Susanne Hopf paring back the period details, Birgitt Kilian's costume design drawing heavily on the city's op shops and Uta Spikermann's hairstyling not entirely dissimilar to young Berliners today.

"We tried to create an atmosphere for the movie which brings it a little bit closer to our present," Dresen says.

In this way, From Hilde, with Love feels like a clarion call and a warning all in one.

"In my opinion, it's better to make characters comparable to our time instead of a historical dimension where you can say, 'This happened a long time ago and has nothing to do with my world,'" Dresen says.

"That is dangerous. It's hard to understand that we are all human beings and, if you take the wrong exit, then we can create these horrible systems and it happens again."

Hilde's actual son, Hans, was one of the film's first viewers during a private screening in Berlin.

"It was very moving, because he could deal with a time in his life that he was a part of, but cannot remember, because he was only eight months old when he left his mother," Dresen says of the screening.

"He was touched very deeply."

Now aged 81, Hans was a great help to the production.

"He became a historian researching the Red Orchestra… and he helped us so much in making the movie," Dresen says.

Hans also attended the Berlinale premiere.

"He went on stage and raised his fist like a resistance fighter and had a standing ovation," Dresen says.

"This was kind of like closing a circle of his life, which began so horrifying because he lost his parents and, after 81 years, they came back to him."

The German Film Festival runs from May 7–29 in Canberra; before opening in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Byron Bay and Perth.

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