Here are five movies from various platforms that families may want to consider, as recommended by the Deseret News arts and entertainment department. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.
"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2," returns with the adventures of the motley crew of outlaws, all set to the score of Peter's Quill's "Awesome Mix Vol. 2." Explore space and rock out to the classics with these five films for families to consider.
In theaters: 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2'
In “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,” Peter Quill/Star Lord (Chris Pratt) and his ragtag crew of reformed outlaws return and fight to keep their group together as they battle new foes and uncover Peter’s origin story. Common Sense Media recognized the movie with the "Common Sense Seal" as "Great for Families." The website noted that unlike some superhero movies, "the Guardians always fight together and exemplify the spirit of teamwork, friendship and unconditional chosen-family bonds." The website called the film "a bit less edgy than many other superhero movies," but said it is most appropriate for tweens and up. The soundtrack features the music of the '60s and '70s with songs from Fleetwood Mac, Cheap Trick, Cat Stevens and Jay and the Americans. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 11 and older.
Netflix: 'Lilo & Stitch'
A young girl adopts the galaxy’s most wanted alien and teaches him about family. The Dove Foundation says that this film is one that appeals to “both young girls and boys” as it teaches the importance of family. “‘Lilo and Stitch’ is a clever fantasy with some strong messages about the importance of love for everyone,” the website says. The soundtrack contains a song by the Lumineers. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 6 and older.
Netflix: 'Home'
An alien race on the run discovers Earth and relocates the humans, except for one teen who forms an unlikely friendship with a fugitive alien. PluggedIn.com says that "in the midst of fast-paced antics and pratfalls, tykes will find some solid encouragement to look beneath the surface and seek out the heart and unique qualities of the ‘misfits’ around them." Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez each contributed to the soundtrack. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 4 and older.
Amazon Video: 'Treasure Planet'
This film takes Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale “Treasure Island” and puts it in an outer space, “creatively melding antiquated, seafaring ships with a futuristic setting,” according to Parent Previews. The website calls it a “coming-of-age adventure” that will likely appeal to a range of viewers. John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls wrote two of the songs that appear on the soundtrack. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 9 and older.
Amazon Video: 'Space Jam'
Common Sense Media says although “Space Jam” isn’t likely to “hold the attention of many people over the age of 12," the film's overall message is “fairly positive” as members of the Looney Tunes and basketball star Michael Jordan form a team to defeat a group of aliens. Featured is R. Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly," which won a Grammy for best song. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.