Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider, as recommended by the Deseret News features department and Ok.com. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.
In honor of the recent release of Aardman Animations' "Shaun the Sheep Movie," here are five other family-friendly films that utilize stop-motion animation to tell engaging stories.
Amazon Instant: 'Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit'
Also from Aardman Animations, “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” tells of a cheese-loving man and his intelligent dog, Gromit, as they seek to save the gardens in their town from ruin. PluggedIn.com praised Gromit’s loyalty as he “willingly overlooks Wallace’s many … eccentricities and keeps his master out of trouble.” While the film is rated G, the website states that there are elements that “push” the rating, including mild sexual content and slapstick violence. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.
Netflix: 'Chicken Run'
A new rooster unexpectedly joins a chicken farm and the rest of the birds see him as their chance to escape. Parent Previews writes that except for mild “slapstick antics” and “a tiny moment of sexual innuendo,” the “hilarious clay animation movie … contains little that would concern parents.” Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 6 and older.
Amazon Instant: 'The Pirates! Band of Misfits'
The Dove Foundation refers to this movie as “a hilarious film with great animation” that “will leave your family in stitches.” Although the website says the film is “a pretty harmless way to spend 88 minutes,” it cautions that there are a few intense scenes and some violence included. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.
Redbox: 'The Boxtrolls'
MovieGuide.org states that the film is “funny, clever, exciting and sometimes even profound” as it teaches to “do the right thing” and to not judge others based on appearances. The website issues “light caution” for younger children who may have a harder time understanding some of the plot points. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.
Vudu: 'Paranorman'
Common Sense Media labeled the film “a great pick for brave older tweens and middle-schoolers,” citing its themes of tolerance and teamwork as positive elements. The website warns parents, however, that the film “is, above all else, a monster movie, and it will scare little kids.” Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 10 and older.