Here are ten fun and interesting movies that can help kids see the world in new ways.
This movie is set in the 1950s and tells the story of a friendship between a boy and a giant robot. It explores themes of technology versus nature and encourages viewers to think about how these forces interact in our world.
“Coco” is a beautiful film that celebrates Mexican traditions. It helps kids understand the importance of remembering and honoring family members who have passed away, through a colorful and musical journey.
This Disney-Pixar movie is about a cute robot named Wall-E. It shows a future where humans have left Earth because of pollution. The film encourages kids to think about how our actions affect the environment and the importance of taking care of our planet.
Based on a true story, this movie is about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League in the 1940s. It highlights the achievements of female athletes and shows how they made history in sports.
This inspiring film is based on a true story about a high school football team in the 1970s. It deals with themes of teamwork and overcoming racial barriers, showing how people can come together despite their differences.
In this movie, an insurance salesman discovers that his entire life is actually a TV show. It makes viewers think about the impact of media and how it shapes our reality.
This science fiction film features a strong female lead and focuses on communication with aliens. Instead of action scenes, it offers a thoughtful look at how humans communicate and understand each other.
Set during the civil rights era, this movie explores themes of racism and social change. It encourages kids to think about what it takes to challenge and change unfair systems.
This feel-good movie is about a young girl who loves soccer. It explores themes of cultural identity and following your dreams, especially for second-generation immigrant families.
While not based on a historical event, this light-hearted film offers a glimpse into the emotional journey of a young man coming out. It highlights the importance of being true to oneself.
For more ideas on how to use these films in educational settings, visit Common Sense Education.
Watch “The Iron Giant” and create a Venn diagram comparing technology and nature. Reflect on how these elements interact in the movie and in real life. Discuss with your classmates how technology can both help and harm the environment.
After watching “Coco,” research a cultural tradition from your own family or community. Create a presentation or a short video to share with the class, highlighting the significance of this tradition and how it is celebrated.
Inspired by “Wall-E,” design a poster or digital infographic that raises awareness about pollution and its effects on our planet. Include tips on how individuals can contribute to a cleaner environment. Present your work to the class.
Watch “Remember the Titans” and participate in a group activity that requires teamwork and collaboration. Reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusion in teams. Share your thoughts on how differences can be strengths.
After viewing “The Truman Show,” engage in a class discussion about the role of media in shaping our perceptions of reality. Consider how media influences your daily life and discuss ways to critically evaluate the information you consume.
Here is the sanitized version of the YouTube transcript:
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NARRATOR: Here are ten entertaining films that are great for helping kids expand their worldview.
Number one— “The Iron Giant.”
NARRATOR: With references to its 1950s setting, there’s a lot to unpack about technology versus nature in this tale of robot-kid friendship.
Number two— “Coco.”
NARRATOR: This moving tribute to Mexican traditions can help kids contemplate the ways we remember and honor our departed family members.
Number three— “Wall-E.”
NARRATOR: As a story about human excess and environmental decay, this Disney-Pixar flick still manages to be relatable to kids. An adorable robot and his quest to connect serve as the backdrop for a reflection on the impacts of our actions.
Number four— “A League of Their Own.”
NARRATOR: Based on the real-life 1940s All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, this baseball classic reminds us of the contributions of female athletes throughout history.
Number five— “Remember the Titans.”
NARRATOR: This inspirational true story focuses on the struggles and victories of a newly integrated high school football team in the 1970s.
Number six— “The Truman Show.”
NARRATOR: This satirical film follows an insurance salesman who discovers that his entire life has been part of an elaborate show. Kids who watch will begin to question the consequences of our media-driven world.
Number seven— “Arrival.”
NARRATOR: With a strong female lead, this sci-fi alien tale leaves out the action scenes in favor of a reflective look on how we communicate as a species.
Number eight— “The Help.”
NARRATOR: Despite some controversy surrounding a central character in a civil rights-era film, this movie can still get kids thinking about what it takes to break the legacy of racism.
Number nine— “Bend It Like Beckham.”
NARRATOR: This feel-good story grounds the popular “follow your heart” theme in relevant discussions about second-generation immigrant families and cultural identity.
And number ten— “Love, Simon.”
NARRATOR: While this light-hearted tale isn’t based on a historical event and doesn’t delve into intellectual themes, it does offer insight into the emotional turmoil of a young man attempting to come out.
NARRATOR: For tips on how to use these films in your classroom, visit us at Common Sense Education.
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This version maintains the original content while removing any potentially sensitive or inappropriate language.
Movies – A form of entertainment that tells a story through moving images and sound, often reflecting cultural and social themes. – Watching movies can help us understand different cultures and historical events.
Themes – Central topics or ideas explored in a story, film, or piece of art. – The themes of friendship and courage are prominent in many adventure movies.
Culture – The beliefs, customs, arts, and social institutions of a particular group or society. – Movies often depict the culture of a society, showing its traditions and values.
Identity – The qualities, beliefs, and expressions that make a person or group unique. – Films about identity often explore how characters discover who they are.
Environment – The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. – Documentaries about the environment can raise awareness about climate change.
Teamwork – The combined effort of a group to achieve a common goal. – In many movies, teamwork is essential for the characters to overcome challenges.
Racism – Prejudice or discrimination against someone based on their race. – Films addressing racism can help educate audiences about its harmful effects.
Communication – The exchange of information or ideas between individuals or groups. – Effective communication is a key theme in movies about relationships.
Technology – The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. – Science fiction movies often explore the impact of technology on society.
Change – The process of becoming different, often leading to growth or transformation. – Many films focus on characters who undergo significant change throughout the story.
