Families need to investigate the age-appropriateness of summer movies. As of the week of June 22, there are several good choices for summer family films among the top-ranked movies in theaters this week. However, these insights, especially about age-appropriateness, will help you pick which current popular movies are right for your family.
Inside Out offers a family-friendly fun time; Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures
Inside Out (#2 at the box office) and Home (#15, although it has been in theaters for many weeks) are two of the best picks for families with children of all ages. (Parents need to be aware that many other popular summer movies are not appropriate for children under 7 or 8, especially due to violence and fearful fantasy.)
Avengers: Age of Ultron (currently #5 at the box office despite being in the theaters for many weeks) is another possible worthwhile pick. Parents and guardians should note, however, that it is rated PG-13 due to action violence and some foul language. On the positive side, Age of Ultron has moral and redemptive themes and content. As in most superhero movies, characters fight to defend humanity and even sacrifice themselves for others. This movie emphasizes the values of teamwork, goodness, and family. Captain America is an admirable hero and leader.
Max is another fun adventure movie, but be aware it contains images of war and violence; Photo Courtesy of Metro-Goldwn-Mayer.
Max comes out this week as another good family PG movie. However, it may not be appropriate for young children due to violence and military scenes. This movie is a heart-felt story about a boy who cares for his deceased brother’s army dog, who has suffered trauma.
Jurassic World (#1 at the box office) and Tomorrowland (#9 in the box office) are not appropriate for children under 7 or 8 due to fantasy violence.
Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (which is #16 at the box office after many week in theaters) is a PG movie for families that is silly but fun and entertaining.
Tomorrowland is a thrilling adventure, but not appropriate for children under 8; Photo Courtesy of Disney Studios.
More than ever, movie reviews that include user-friendly detail are valuable because many popular family movies have elements that are not appropriate for children. Children under 7 or 8 have not yet developed their own consciences in most cases and have difficulty discerning fantasy from reality. These children are at risk as they are exposed to inappropriate content via cellphones, video games, computers, television, and movie theaters. Parents and guardians need to be especially vigilant and knowledgeable today as they guide their children through their development, careful that they are exposed to only what is age-appropriate.
Written by Diane Howard, Ph.D. (Performance Studies) – dianehoward.com
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