At The Movies

Rascal Runtime: 106 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: Standalone, N/A Ratings: My Rating: 7.4 The Dove Foundation: Family-Approved IMDb: 6.8 Rotten Tomatoes: 72% Metacritic: 70 Plot Summary: Based on Sterling North’s novel, Rascal tells the story of a young boy, Sterling, and his pet raccoon, Rascal, during the early 20th century in Wisconsin. The boy learns lessons about responsibility, empathy, and the bittersweet nature of growing up as he navigates the challenges of caring for a mischievous but lovable raccoon while dealing with family, friendships, and community. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s heartfelt storytelling, gentle humor, and scenic depiction of small-town life. The emotional depth and moral lessons were highlighted as strengths, though some noted that the pacing felt slow for modern audiences. Christian Perspective: The story emphasizes Christian values such as stewardship, responsibility, compassion, and respect for creation. Sterling’s care...

The Fox and the Hound Runtime: 86 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: Standalone, N/A Ratings: My Rating: 8.0 The Dove Foundation: Family-Approved IMDb: 7.3 Rotten Tomatoes: 74% Metacritic: 71 Plot Summary: A young fox named Tod and a hound puppy named Copper form an unlikely friendship despite their natural instincts and the societal pressures around them. As they grow, circumstances and loyalty to their respective human masters threaten to pull them apart, ultimately testing the bonds of friendship, trust, and forgiveness in the face of inevitable change. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s emotional depth, charming animation, and mature themes of friendship and loss. Some noted the bittersweet ending as a brave choice for a Disney animated feature at the time. Christian Perspective: The story highlights Christian values of friendship, loyalty, forgiveness, and compassion. The characters’ struggles reflect moral lessons about choosing love and kindness over inst...

A Christmas Story 2 Age Rating: PG Runtime: 85 minutes Studio: Warner Home Video Franchise: A Christmas Story Franchise Position: 2 Ralphie Parker returns — now a teenager with a new Christmas wish: his very own 1939 Mercury convertible. Ratings: My Rating: 5.2/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for Ages 12+ IMDb: 3.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 37% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 4.9/10 Plot Summary: Set six years after the events of the original film, A Christmas Story 2 follows sixteen-year-old Ralphie Parker as he dreams of owning a beautiful 1939 Mercury convertible. When he accidentally damages the car at a dealership, Ralphie, Flick, and Schwartz scramble to earn enough money to pay for the repairs before Christmas. Meanwhile, the Parker family continues their quirky holiday traditions, complete with turkey mishaps and chaotic gift-giving. Despite his missteps, Ralphie learns valuable lessons about honesty, responsibility, and the spirit of giving. Critics Review: Released direct-to-video nearly th...

A Christmas Story Age Rating: PG Runtime: 93 minutes Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) Franchise: A Christmas Story Franchise Position: 1 A nostalgic and humorous tale of a young boy’s quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas — and the misadventures that come with it. Ratings: My Rating: 9.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for Ages 12+ IMDb: 7.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 90% Metacritic: 77 TMDb: 7.3/10 Plot Summary: Set in 1940s Indiana, A Christmas Story follows nine-year-old Ralphie Parker, who dreams of owning a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. His Christmas wish is met with resistance from everyone — his mother, his teacher, even Santa — all warning, “You’ll shoot your eye out!” Through a series of comical vignettes involving bullies, a foul-mouthed friend, a leg-lamp prize, and an unforgettable family Christmas, Ralphie’s innocent determination captures the chaotic magic and heartfelt warmth of growing up during the holidays. Critics Review: A Christmas Sto...

What a Girl Wants Runtime: 105 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures, Di Novi Pictures, Gerber Pictures Country of Origin: United States Based on: The Reluctant Debutante (1955 play by William Douglas‑Home) Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A spirited American teenager seeks out the British father she never met, entering his aristocratic world and clashing with its expectations, while learning to stay true to herself. Ratings: My Rating: ~6.4/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 34‑36% Metacritic: 4.1/10 TMDb: ~6.0/10 Plot Summary: Daphne Reynolds (Amanda Bynes), raised in New York by her single mom Libby (Kelly Preston), has always longed to meet her father. After finishing high school, she impulsively travels to London to find him. She discovers her father is Lord Henry Dashwood (Colin Firth), a prominent politician who didn’t know she existed. Although Henry welcomes Daphne into his life, her free‑spirited personality clashes with his aristocratic ci...

Crater Runtime: 105 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Pictures / 21 Laps Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A lunar-mining colony adventure—five kids, one crater, and the last chance to say goodbye. Ratings: My Rating: 6.0 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 5.4 Rotten Tomatoes: 66% audience Metacritic: 65 TMDb: 6.8 Plot Summary: In 2257, Caleb Channing’s father dies in a mining accident on the Moon. Because Caleb is under 18, he is slated to be sent to the planet Omega in his father’s place. Before he leaves, he and three friends—Dylan, Borney, and Marcus—and newcomer Addison hijack a rover to explore a mysterious glowing crater. There, Caleb uncovers emotional remnants of his parents. A meteor storm and a critical heart condition threaten their return. Ultimately, Caleb is relocated, but the friends stay connected through recorded messages that span his 75-year journey. Critics Review: Critics generally found Crater heartfelt but familiar...

Title: Mystic Pizza Age Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 102 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Country of Origin: United States A coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama following three young women working at a pizza parlor in Mystic, Connecticut, as they navigate love, friendship, and personal growth. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 7.2/10 Metacritic: 63/100 TMDb: 7.5/10 Plot Summary: Set in the small town of Mystic, Connecticut, the story follows Kat, Daisy, and Jo, three friends working at Mystic Pizza. Each woman faces her own romantic and personal challenges: Kat deals with a complicated love affair, Daisy navigates societal expectations about wealth and class, and Jo explores her aspirations beyond the small town. Through humor, heartbreak, and life lessons, they grow closer as friends and discover their paths into adulthood. Critics Review: Mystic Pizza received positive reviews for its charming performances, especially by Julia Roberts, An...

Porky’s Revenge Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Porky’s Franchise Position: 3 The high school boys take on new adventures as they continue to get back at Porky, facing comedic mishaps and outrageous situations. Ratings: My Rating: 5.7/10 The Dove Foundation: Not recommended for families IMDb: 5.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 20% Metacritic: 38/100 Plot Summary: In this third installment, the boys are determined to settle scores with Porky once again. The story follows their misadventures in pranks, romance, and chaotic antics, including exaggerated situations that highlight their ingenuity and rebellious spirit. The film blends raunchy humor, slapstick, and coming-of-age mischief. Critics Review: Critics found the sequel formulaic and excessively crude, noting that humor was recycled from previous films. Despite this, fans of the series enjoyed seeing familiar characters and outrageous antics continue. Christian Perspective: The film cont...

Porky’s II: The Next Day Runtime: 95 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Porky’s Franchise Position: 2 The high school boys continue their outrageous antics, seeking revenge on Porky while navigating romantic and comedic situations. Ratings: My Rating: 5.8/10 The Dove Foundation: Not recommended for families IMDb: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 25% Metacritic: 40/100 Plot Summary: The story picks up with the familiar group of high school students returning for another year. They face new challenges, including dealing with the vindictive nightclub owner Porky, school authority figures, and romantic pursuits. The film features slapstick comedy, sexual humor, and mischievous pranks in a continuation of the teen misadventures. Critics Review: Critics largely criticized the sequel for recycling jokes from the original and offering little new humor. While some fans appreciated the familiar characters and outrageous situations, the film was seen as weaker tha...

Porky’s Runtime: 95 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Porky’s Franchise Position: 1 High school students in 1950s Florida hatch schemes to lose their virginity while dealing with pranks, bullies, and the infamous nightclub owner Porky. Ratings: My Rating: 6.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not recommended for families IMDb: 6.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 59% Metacritic: 55/100 Plot Summary: Set in the 1950s, a group of high school boys navigates adolescence, sexual curiosity, and social challenges. They are determined to lose their virginity and get back at Porky, the sleazy nightclub owner, through various pranks and comedic schemes. The film mixes raunchy humor, slapstick, and coming-of-age situations. Critics Review: Critics noted the crude humor and explicit content but acknowledged its influence on the teen sex comedy genre. While polarizing, the film was commercially successful and inspired multiple sequels. Christian Perspective: The film contains st...

Baker's Hawk Age Rating: PG Franchise: standalone Franchise Position: N/A Total Runtime: 105 minutes "A young boy befriends a hawk and learns important life lessons about trust, courage, and growing up in a small town." Ratings My Rating: 7.3/10 Dove Foundation Rating: 5/5 IMDb Rating: 7.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 72% Metacritic: 60% Plot Summary Baker's Hawk tells the story of young Billy Baker, who discovers a wounded hawk and forms a bond with it, learning life lessons about responsibility, empathy, and understanding nature. Set in a small town, the film explores themes of community, honesty, and personal growth. As Billy cares for the hawk, he also navigates his relationships with family and friends, discovering the importance of integrity and compassion. Critics Review Critics praised Baker's Hawk for its heartfelt storytelling, strong performances, and its gentle exploration of moral lessons. The film’s cinematography and connection to nature were highlighted, as...

Annapolis Studio: Touchstone Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A Release Date: January 27, 2006 Runtime: 103 minutes Tagline: Some opportunities in life are worth fighting for. Ratings: Critics Review: My Rating: 5.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: 3/5 IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 10% Metacritic Rating: 37% Plot Summary: Jake Huard, a working-class young man, earns a place at the U.S. Naval Academy despite his father’s reservations. Facing intense physical and academic challenges, as well as hazing from upperclassmen, Jake learns perseverance, honor, and responsibility. With support from fellow midshipman Ali, he navigates the rigors of academy life, culminating in the Brigade boxing tournament that tests his personal growth and resilience. Critics Review: Critics largely found Annapolis predictable, following familiar underdog tropes. James Franco’s performance was praised for sincerity, though the storyline was seen as formulaic. Training and personal con...

Sandlot: Heading Home Runtime: 87 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: April 3, 2007 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: The Sandlot Franchise Position: 3rd movie Runtime: 87 minutes Tagline: Back to the sandlot, back to the past. Ratings My rating: 6.5/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 42% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary A young baseball player travels back in time to the 1970s where he learns valuable life lessons and rediscovers his love for the game. Critics Review Received mixed to negative reviews; some appreciated the nostalgia while others found the time-travel plot forced. Christian Perspective Contains positive messages about humility, second chances, and friendship in line with Christian values. Family Friendliness Safe for families with mild language and thematic elements.

The Sandlot 2 Runtime: 94 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: August 2, 2005 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: The Sandlot Franchise Position: 2nd movie Runtime: 94 minutes Tagline: New kids, same sandlot, same great summer. Ratings My rating: 7.2/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 51% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 29% Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary A new group of kids inherits the sandlot and faces their own adventures, including a legendary dog guarding the baseballs. Critics Review Mixed reviews, praised for capturing some of the spirit of the original but criticized for a weaker storyline. Christian Perspective Continues to promote teamwork, friendship, and positive life lessons. Family Friendliness Family friendly with some mild cartoonish humor.

The Sandlot Runtime: 101 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: April 7, 1993 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: The Sandlot Franchise Position: 1st movie Runtime: 101 minutes Tagline: For the love of the game and the summer of a lifetime. Ratings My rating: 8.1/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 76% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 81% Metacritic rating: 60% Plot Summary A group of young boys in the early 1960s bond over their love of baseball during the summer. They face challenges, adventures, and life lessons while playing at the local sandlot. Critics Review Highly praised for its nostalgic charm, humor, and heartfelt storytelling. Considered a classic family sports movie. Christian Perspective Promotes friendship, teamwork, respect, and coming-of-age lessons aligned with Christian family values. Family Friendliness Safe and enjoyable for all ages with positive messages.

Title: 7th Heaven Runtime: 10,665 min (1 wk, 9 hr, 45 min) Age Rating: TV-PG Studio: Spelling Television Franchise Name: None Franchise Position: N/A Tagline: Faith, family, and the trials of growing up in a modern world. Trailer :  Intro Cast List :  Ratings My Rating: 8/10 The Dove Foundation: 4/5   IMDb : 7.5/10  Rotten Tomatoes: No aggregated rating available Metacritic: No aggregated rating available Plot Summary 7th Heaven follows the Camden family, led by minister Eric Camden and his wife Annie, as they navigate the challenges of raising seven children in a small town. The show explores issues of faith, morality, relationships, and family dynamics with a focus on Christian values and everyday struggles. Critics Review Critics gave mixed reviews over the years, often noting the show’s wholesome tone and moral messages. While some found it preachy or melodramatic, many appreciated its focus on positive family values and tackling relevant social issues. Chr...

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), PG-13, 2 hr 13 min Franchise: MCU Spider-Man trilogy Franchise Position: #1 in the MCU Spider-Man trilogy (6th overall MCU appearance for Peter Parker) Studio: Marvel Studios / Sony Pictures Tagline: Homework can wait. The city can’t --- Trailer --- Cast Tom Holland – Peter Parker / Spider-Man Michael Keaton – Adrian Toomes / Vulture Robert Downey Jr. – Tony Stark / Iron Man Marisa Tomei – Aunt May Jon Favreau – Happy Hogan Zendaya – Michelle “MJ” Jones Jacob Batalon – Ned Leeds Laura Harrier – Liz Tony Revolori – Flash Thompson Bokeem Woodbine – Herman Schultz / Shocker Logan Marshall-Green – Jackson Brice / Shocker #1 Michael Chernus – Phineas Mason / Tinkerer Garry Weeks – Agent Foster Martin Starr – Mr. Harrington Kenneth Choi – Principal Morita Tyne Daly – Anne Marie Hoag Chris Evans – Steve Rogers / Captain America (PSA videos) Gwyneth Paltrow – Pepper Potts (cameo) Jennifer Connelly – Karen (voice of Spider-Man’s suit AI) Donald Glover – Aaron Davi...

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014), PG-13, 2 hr 22 min Franchise: The Amazing Spider-Man Series Franchise Position: #2 Studio: Sony Pictures / Columbia Pictures Tagline: His greatest battle begins. --- Trailer --- Main Cast Andrew Garfield – Peter Parker / Spider-Man Emma Stone – Gwen Stacy Jamie Foxx – Max Dillon / Electro Dane DeHaan – Harry Osborn / Green Goblin Colm Feore – Donald Menken Felicity Jones – Felicia Hardy Paul Giamatti – Aleksei Sytsevich / Rhino Campbell Scott – Richard Parker Embeth Davidtz – Mary Parker Sally Field – Aunt May Marton Csokas – Dr. Kafka Chris Cooper – Norman Osborn B.J. Novak – Alistair Smythe Stan Lee – Himself (Graduation Guest Cameo) --- Reviews My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Family Approved IMDb : 6.6/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 51%  Metacritic : 53/100  --- Plot Summary Peter Parker continues to embrace his dual life as Spider-Man while trying to balance his love for Gwen Stacy and honor the promise he made to her father. When a ...

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), PG-13, 2 hr 16 min Franchise: The Amazing Spider-Man Series Franchise Position: #1 Studio: Sony Pictures / Columbia Pictures Tagline: The untold story begins. --- Trailer --- Main Cast Andrew Garfield – Peter Parker / Spider-Man Emma Stone – Gwen Stacy Rhys Ifans – Dr. Curt Connors / The Lizard Denis Leary – Captain George Stacy Martin Sheen – Uncle Ben Sally Field – Aunt May Irrfan Khan – Dr. Rajit Ratha Chris Zylka – Flash Thompson Campbell Scott – Richard Parker Embeth Davidtz – Mary Parker C. Thomas Howell – Jack’s Father (crane operator) Jake Keiffer – Jack (the boy Peter saves on the bridge) Max Charles – Young Peter Parker Michael Barra – Store Clerk Leif Gantvoort – Carjacker / Robber Stan Lee – Himself (School Librarian Cameo) --- Reviews My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Family Approved IMDb : 6.9/10  Rotten Tomatoes: 71% –  Metacritic : 66/100 –  --- Plot Summary After being abandoned by his parents as a young boy, Peter...

Spider-Man 3 (2007), PG-13, 2 hr 19 min Franchise: Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man Trilogy Franchise Position: #3 Studio: Sony Pictures / Columbia Pictures Tagline: The battle within. --- Trailer --- Main Cast Tobey Maguire – Peter Parker / Spider-Man Kirsten Dunst – Mary Jane Watson James Franco – Harry Osborn / New Goblin Thomas Haden Church – Flint Marko / Sandman Topher Grace – Eddie Brock / Venom Bryce Dallas Howard – Gwen Stacy Rosemary Harris – Aunt May J.K. Simmons – J. Jonah Jameson James Cromwell – Captain George Stacy Elizabeth Banks – Betty Brant Bill Nunn – Joseph "Robbie" Robertson Theresa Russell – Emma Marko (Flint Marko’s wife) Perla Haney-Jardine – Penny Marko (Flint Marko’s daughter) Dylan Baker – Dr. Curt Connors Elya Baskin – Mr. Ditkovich Mageina Tovah – Ursula Ditkovich Cliff Robertson – Uncle Ben (flashback and vision) Bruce Campbell – Maître d' (at the French restaurant) Joe Manganiello – Flash Thompson (cameo at Harry’s funeral) Lucy Gordon – Jennifer Dug...