Social Distancing Movies: Week 10

With summer at hand, we’re finally able to spend more time outdoors. But for those days when you can’t go out, here are our movie recommendations.

Chicken Run: Tired of laying eggs for the benefit of Mrs. Tweedy, Ginger tries to help her fellow chickens escape from the farm. When Mrs. Tweedy decides to shift the farm towards making chicken pies, Ginger’s efforts go into overdrive. Luckily, an American rooster lands in the barnyard, giving them all the hope that they can fly. This is a hilarious tale of ingenuity, courage, and problem-solving. G, Grade: A

The Young Victoria: Crowned Queen of Britain in 1837 at 18 years of age, Queen Victoria has a steep learning curve ahead. She’s burdened by a difficult mother and her mother’s scheming secretary, but her cousin, Albert provides much needed support. A beautifully filmed historical biopic that shows a great example of rising to meet challenges. PG, Grade: A-

Human Nature: With talk of a potentially genetically engineered vaccine for coronavirus, it’s easy to feel confused. Human Nature is a documentary that explains genetic engineering and the CRISPR technology behind it. Unrated, Grade: B+

Akeelah and the Bee: Trying to motivate your kids as they slog through the last few days or weeks of the schoolyear? Akeelah and the Bee tells the story of a young inner-city student with a flair for spelling. Afraid of being labeled a “brainiac” by her peers, Akeelah has hidden her talent. A great film for emphasizing the rewards of study, hard work, and education. PG, Grade: A

Shazam! Billy Batson is a 14 year old foster kid who keeps going AWOL to search for his mom. When he’s entrusted with a wizard’s staff, he transforms into an adult superhero. This is an action-packed superhero movie for teens and their parents that’s stuffed with themes of family, selflessness, and sacrifice. PG-13, Grade: B+

McFarland, USA: Based on a true story, McFarland USA follows teacher and coach Jim White, whose anger management problems have forced him to take a job in poverty-stricken McFarland, California. Noticing that the minority students in his school have incredible athletic skills and stamina, White starts a cross country team. The results change the students’ lives and their community. An inspiring sports movie focusing on teamwork, resilience, grit, and the power of following your dreams. PG, Grade: A-

Prince Caspian: The second in the Narnia movies, this instalmentfollows the Pevensie siblings back to their magical kingdom. They discover their castle in ruins, the talking creatures in hiding, and despotic King Miraz trying to kill the rightful heir, Prince Caspian. With themes of believing in yourself, sacrificing for the good of others, and following your convictions, Prince Caspian is a great choice for family movie night. PG, Grade: A