Movie Night Suggestions for Tweens and Teens
By Tracey Dowdy
There are few ventures more perilous than sitting down to watch a TV show or movie with your kids. Nothing like out-of-the-blue swearing, nudity, violence or age-inappropriate themes you have to explain to turn movie night into “whose idea was it to watch this in the first place?” Good times. Good times. Finding a balance between your family values and engaging content onscreen can be tricky, but the following movies and TV shows are great options for movie night.
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark – Likewise, Raiders is the first in the Indiana Jones movies, and no, this is not the one with the beating heart ripped out of a man’s chest. Even though it was made in the 80’s, it holds its charm with its 1930’s setting. (Age 11+)
The Princess Bride – If you knew me, you’d know Princess Bride was going to make this list. Before she was Claire Underwood, we all fell in love with Robin Wright as Princess Buttercup and her beloved Wesley, played by Carey Elwes. As the grandfather says, “Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles…” as well as romance and genuine humor, this movie has everything. (Age 8+)
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – As long as you’re introducing your kids to 80’s movies, you may as well throw in Ferris. Be aware there is some language, but your kids will relate to his determination to take that day off and put one over on his parents and principal. (age 12+)
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – The first in the series, the movie introduces kids to the characters and magic. Keep in mind, the further into the series of films you get, the darker the movie, so be careful going forward in the series. (Ages 7+)
Black Panther – Marvel outdid itself with this one. Diversity, strong female characters, family, wrapped in non- stop action and adventure – no wonder it broke box office records. (Age 12+)
Guardians of the Galaxy – Besides having one of the greatest soundtracks to come out of Hollywood in years, Guardians is fun, funny, and cool. You can’t help but be charmed by Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill and his crew of misfits as they fight bad guys across the galaxy. (Age 12+)
Tracey Dowdy is a freelance writer based just outside Washington DC. After years working for non-profits and charities, she now freelances, edits and researches on subjects ranging from family and education to history and trends in technology. Follow Tracey on Twitter.
