Movies have a way of teaching us essential life lessons, sometimes without us even realizing it. Interestingly enough, some of the best lessons come from films made for children that the whole family can enjoy together.
As we embark on a new year, this is a great time to remember that a positive attitude can make all the difference. Here are four great movies that prove that a great attitude can change the way we see the world.
Space Jam
“I Believe I Can Fly”
If you were asleep for the late ’90s, you might not have seen this Looney Toons basketball mash-up. Bugs Bunny and his pals team up with the legendary Michael Jordan to defeat a team of evil aliens on the court.
“Space Jam” is full of laughs and plenty of famous NBA players, but it also includes a great message for any audience. Beginning with a young Jordan, the movie follows the career of one of the greatest athletes of all time. But before he was an NBA champion, Jordan was just a kid shooting hoops in the driveway. “Space Jam” shows that any dream can come true if we believe we can fly.
“Space Jam” is 100 percent worth your time and OK for ages 6 and up.
The Lion King
“Hakuna Matata”
In “The Lion King,” Simba learns some pretty important life lessons from his dad, Mufasa. He learns all about the circle of life, what it means to be a good king, and don’t forget the pouncing lesson. But one of the most important lessons Simba learns comes from his friends Timon and Pumbaa. With the help of a catchy song and colorful animation, Simba learns that “Hakuna Matata” means no worries. This piece of advice just might come in handy during those stressful situations that are sure to pop up every now and then.
“The Lion King” is 97 percent worth your time and OK for ages 4 and up.
Toy Story
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me”
Woody the cowboy has always been Andy’s favorite toy; that is, until Buzz Lightyear crash lands at Andy’s birthday party and changes everything. At first, the two toys seem destined to be enemies, but quickly discover it’s harder to hate each other than to just get along. In fact, Woody and Buzz discover a pretty great friendship.
Just like these mismatched pals, we often find friends in the strangest circumstances and it all begins with a positive attitude. Once we see the good in others, it’s easier to see the good all around.
“Toy Story” is 94 percent worth your time and OK for ages 3 and up.
We Bought a Zoo
“Why Not?”
Life can be quite the adventure. Benjamin Mee, a journalist looking for a fresh start, and his family experience this firsthand when they decide to fix up a run-down animal park and build a home together. At first, he seems crazy, but his reply to all the questions is always, “Why not?”
This optimistic outlook opens the way for all sorts of exciting experiences. Instead of looking at all the reasons why it’s not worth trying, a simple “why not?” could lead to something unexpectedly wonderful.
“We Bought a Zoo” is 93 percent worth your time and OK for ages 9 and up.
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