Family Movies–The feel-good, and the funny

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Rounding out our family’s lists of favorites are these offerings that seem to appeal to just about everyone. Some are funny, some are sweet, some are just goofy. All are winners here, and all were library finds–so they might be on-the-cheap options for you, too. Pop a batch of ‘corn, turn down the lights, and have fun!

Spurred on by some recent requests for recommendations, our family has compiled a list of our all-time faves. The grand total of films we’ll feature is 31. We’ve broken them up into general content areas, and will post them in a series over the next month. Before we begin, though, a disclaimer: obviously, what our family finds o.k. (like frank discussions about child abuse or the consequences of certain behaviors, for example) might not fit within your family’s culture. And that doesn’t mean that we’re right and you’re wrong, or vice versa. It just means that your family isn’t ours, and ours isn’t yours. If we can all agree to live within that concept as Christians, I think ours would be a much more grace-filled community, don’t you? Please keep that in mind as you look over our list, and let your own family’s compass be your guide.

**Previous lists in this series include the ones that make you laugh–and cry, the battles and beyond edition, and the animal lover’s list.**

Around the World in 80 Days (1956)– While the newer version is fun, too, you’ll not be shocked to learn that we prefer the classic rendition. The book is a favorite of our older kids, and even the younger have enjoyed the audio version. There’s so much action here, so many twists and turns and hilarious things to ponder. Fun stuff!

The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes (1969)–Another zany, older Disney flick, this one centering on a college student who accidentally inherits a brain capable of all kinds of fantastic leaps. There’s some intrigue here (of course) and a little romance. Just enough to this plot to keep everyone tuned in.

Swiss Family Robinson (1960)–Seriously, if you have not watched this as a family, you are missing out. We’ve worn through a VHS copy, took to borrowing the library’s every few weeks, and finally got one of our own. Animal antics, a family living in a treehouse, a girl disguised as a boy, and pirates! Pirates! Yes, even your preschooler will get a kick out of this one. To this day, some of my best memories are of watching my kids play Swiss Family Robinson.

Seven Days in Utopia (2011)–A great, story-centered movie for the older family members. Explores faith, the idea of chance, the burden of expectations, and the joy of surrender. A fabulous, sweet film.

The Trouble with Harry (1955)– This one is also for the older family members. If you like fairly clean, dark humor, this one’s for you. A dead body invites all kinds of mishaps in this Alfred Hitchcock joint.

Victory (1998)–Set against the background of a World War II POW camp, this movie follows imprisoned Allies who are given the task of participating (and hopefully losing) to a team of Nazi greats in the world’s game– soccer. A bit of language in this one, and the constant presence of Nazi oppression, but so, so worth the time. The ending will give you chills. I’ve seen it a half dozen times, and it still gets to me.

The Game of Their Lives (aka The Miracle Match) (2011)–Christopher picked this one up primarily because he hails from St. Louis (where the story is set), and and his father was actually coached by one of the men portrayed in the film. This is a true story that all little soccer fans should see, as it gives a peek into what the US was like before soccer was the sport of choice for the vast majority of elementary-aged kiddos. A rousing underdog story, this one will make you smile.

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