At The Movies

The Tigger Movie Runtime: 74 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Television Animation Franchise: Winnie the Pooh, 5 Ratings: My Rating: 7.5 The Dove Foundation: Family-Approved IMDb: 6.8 Rotten Tomatoes: 71% Metacritic: 70 Plot Summary: Tigger sets out on a journey to find his family after realizing he doesn’t know where he comes from. Along the way, he discovers the true meaning of family and friendship with the help of Pooh, Piglet, and the rest of the Hundred Acre Wood gang. The story focuses on belonging, self-discovery, and the bonds that hold friends and family together. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s charm, heartwarming story, and the positive messages about friendship and identity. Some noted that it stays true to the spirit of the original Winnie the Pooh stories, though it does not break new ground in animation. Christian Perspective: The film reinforces values such as love, loyalty, compassion, and the importance of family. Tigger’s journey emphasizes themes of acceptanc...

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...

Garfield: The Movie Runtime: 80 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1 (First live-action film adaptation) America’s favorite lazy orange cat makes his big-screen debut — full of lasagna, sarcasm, and mischief — as he tries to save his owner’s new dog from trouble. Ratings: My Rating: 6.2/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 5.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 14% Metacritic: 27 TMDb: 5.6/10 Plot Summary: Garfield (voiced by Bill Murray) lives a pampered life with his owner Jon Arbuckle (Breckin Meyer), ruling the house with snarky charm and a love for lasagna. His routine is disrupted when Jon adopts a sweet but dim-witted dog named Odie, who quickly steals the spotlight — and Jon’s attention. When Odie is kidnapped by a greedy television host seeking fame, Garfield must leave his comfortable home to rescue the pup, discovering courage, friendship, and a little humility along the way. Critics Review: Critics were ...

Garfield: A Tale of Two Kitties Runtime: 86 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 2 (Sequel to Garfield: The Movie) Garfield crosses the pond for a royal misadventure when he’s mistaken for a pampered palace cat in England. Ratings: My Rating: 6.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 5.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 12% Metacritic: 37 TMDb: 5.7/10 Plot Summary: Garfield (Bill Murray) joins Jon Arbuckle (Breckin Meyer) and Liz (Jennifer Love Hewitt) on a trip to England, where he’s mistaken for Prince, a royal cat who has just inherited a castle. With identical appearances, Garfield enjoys the luxury of his new life — endless food, servants, and admiration — until he realizes that Lord Dargis (Billy Connolly), the greedy estate manager, plans to get rid of Prince to seize the property. When the real Prince returns, the two cats must team up to outsmart Dargis, save the estate, and teach him a lesson about greed an...

Devotion Runtime: 139 minutes Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: November 23, 2022 Based on a Book: Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice by Adam Makos Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A "In America's Forgotten War, They Made History." Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 81% (Critics), 85% (Audience) Metacritic: 66 Plot Summary: Devotion tells the true story of Jesse L. Brown, the first African American naval aviator in U.S. history, and his wingman, Tom Hudner, during the Korean War. The film explores their deep friendship, the challenges Brown faced due to racial prejudice, and Hudner's heroic efforts to save his friend during a perilous mission. Their bond exemplifies courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of brotherhood in the face of adversity. Critics Review: The film received generally favorable reviews. Critics praised the performances of Jonathan Majors...

Annie Studio: Walt Disney Pictures Based on a Book: Little Orphan Annie by Harold Gray Franchise: Annie Franchise Position: 3 Release Date: December 19, 2014 Runtime: 107 minutes Tagline: Every little girl deserves a chance to be a star. Ratings: Critics Review: My Rating: 6.8/10 Dove Foundation Rating: 4/5 IMDb Rating: 5.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 58% Metacritic Rating: 65% Plot Summary: In this modern musical adaptation, Annie is a spirited foster girl living in New York City who is determined to find a family while navigating the challenges of life on the streets. Billionaire Will Stacks, running for mayor, reluctantly takes her in, and Annie’s optimism transforms his life. The film incorporates contemporary music, settings, and cultural references, presenting a fresh take while retaining the core story of hope, family, and perseverance. Critics Review: Critics praised Quvenzhané Wallis for her energetic performance as Annie and the updated musical numbers. Some critics felt the m...

Annie Studio: Disney Based on a Book: Little Orphan Annie by Harold Gray Franchise: Annie Franchise Position: 2 Release Date: December 5, 1999 Runtime: 90 minutes Tagline: The timeless story of the lovable orphan and her journey to find a family. Ratings: Critics Review: My Rating: 7.3/10 Dove Foundation Rating: 5/5 IMDb Rating: 6.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87% Metacritic Rating: 67% Plot Summary: This made-for-TV adaptation of Annie follows the beloved orphan as she struggles to survive in the orphanage and dreams of finding her parents. Wealthy businessman Oliver Warbucks takes Annie into his home, where she brings joy, love, and optimism to his household. The story emphasizes Annie’s resilience, her impact on those around her, and her determination to overcome adversity while staying true to herself. Critics Review: Critics noted the charm of the young Annie and the high-quality production for a television adaptation. Performances were generally praised, and the musical numbers we...

Annie Studio: Columbia Pictures Based on a Book: Little Orphan Annie by Harold Gray Franchise: Annie Franchise Position: 1 Release Date: May 21, 1982 Runtime: 128 minutes Tagline: The lovable little orphan with a heart full of sunshine. Ratings: Critics Review: My Rating: 7.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: 5/5 IMDb Rating: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 85% Metacritic Rating: 69% Plot Summary: Set during the Great Depression, Annie, a spirited orphan, is determined to find her parents. She is eventually taken in by wealthy industrialist Oliver Warbucks, who forms a bond with the young girl and brings hope to her life. The story follows Annie as she navigates life in the mansion, faces the schemes of Miss Hannigan, and inspires those around her with her optimism and courage. Critics Review: Critics praised the performances, especially Aileen Quinn as Annie and Carol Burnett as Miss Hannigan. The film’s production values, sets, and choreography were lauded, though some reviews noted the adap...

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.

Garfield and Friends Runtime: 3267 minutes Rating: TV-G Release Dates: September 17, 1988 – December 10, 1994 Studio: Film Roman / Paws, Inc. Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1st animated TV series Total Runtime of series: 54 hours 27 minutes Tagline: Double the fun—Garfield meets U.S. Acres in one show. Ratings My rating: 7.3/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 73% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary This series combines adventures of Garfield with characters from Jim Davis’s "U.S. Acres." It features slapstick humor, parodies, and a variety of comedic sketches appealing to all ages. Critics Review Although reception was mixed at first, it is now fondly remembered for sharp writing and entertaining animation. Christian Perspective Themes include friendship, responsibility, and kindness, consistent with wholesome family values. Family Friendliness Safe and enjoyable for children and nostalgic adults.

Gilligan’s Island Studio: CBS Television Studios Franchise: Gilligan’s Island Franchise Position: Original TV series Runtime (total minutes): 1,470 minutes Tagline: Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale… Trailer link: N/A IMDb cast list:  Ratings My rating: 6.6 / 10 Dove Foundation rating: N/A IMDb rating: 7.0 / 10  Rotten Tomatoes rating : 65% Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Gilligan’s Island is a classic comedy series about seven strangers stranded on a deserted island after a storm wrecks their boat, the S.S. Minnow. The group includes the bumbling first mate Gilligan, the Skipper, millionaire couple Mr. and Mrs. Howell, movie star Ginger Grant, Professor Roy Hinkley, and farm girl Mary Ann Summers. Together, they face the challenges of island life while trying various humorous schemes to escape, all of which comically fail. The show is known for its slapstick humor and timeless charm. Critics Reviews  While critics often saw Gilligan’s Island as light and fo...

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip Runtime minutes: 92 minutes Age rating: PG Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Alvin and the Chipmunks Franchise Position: 4th live-action/CGI hybrid film Tagline: On the road to adventure! Trailer link:   Cast list:  Ratings My rating: — Dove Foundation rating: Approved for Ages 8+ IMDb rating: 5.1/10  Rotten Tomatoes rating: 22% critics approval  Metacritic rating: 36 (Generally unfavorable reviews)  Plot Summary The Chipmunks and Chipettes take a road trip to stop Dave from proposing to his new girlfriend, fearing they will lose their family. Along the way, they learn lessons about trust, family, and growing up. Critics Review The film received mixed to negative reviews but was noted for its humor and appeal to younger audiences. Christian Perspective Focuses on family values, forgiveness, and unity, reflecting Christian teachings about love and reconciliation. Family Friendliness Rated PG for some rude humor and them...

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel Runtime minutes: 87 minutes Age rating: PG Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Alvin and the Chipmunks Franchise Position: 2nd live-action/CGI hybrid film Tagline: New Chipettes. New Fun. New Trouble. Trailer link: Cast list: Ratings My rating: 5/10 Dove Foundation rating: Approved for Ages 8+ IMDb rating: 4.7/10  Rotten Tomatoes rating: 21% critics approval  Metacritic rating: 30 (Generally unfavorable reviews)  Plot Summary The Chipmunks return to help Dave after he loses his job, but this time the Chipettes join the fun. Together, they compete in a music competition, learning teamwork and the importance of family. Critics Review Mixed to negative reviews noted, though the film appealed to kids and fans of the original. Critics felt it lacked freshness compared to the first movie. Christian Perspective The movie encourages teamwork, family support, and forgiveness—values consistent with Christian teachings. Family Friendliness ...

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked Release Year: 2011 Runtime: 86 minutes Age Rating: PG Studio: 20th Century Fox / Regency Enterprises Franchise: Alvin and the Chipmunks Franchise Position: 3 Tagline: Time to shake things up! Trailer link :  Cast Ratings My Rating: 5.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Family Approved — suitable for all ages with some mild cartoon violence (dove.org) IMDb Rating : 4.1/10 —  Rotten Tomatoes : 13% —  Metacritic : 28/100 —  Plot Summary Alvin, Simon, Theodore, and the Chipettes embark on a cruise vacation, but their trip takes a wild turn when they are shipwrecked on a tropical island. Forced to survive together, the chipmunks and chipettes encounter hilarious obstacles and learn valuable lessons about teamwork, friendship, and family. The film combines live-action and CGI animation with catchy musical numbers and comedic antics, delivering lighthearted family entertainment. Critics Review The movie received mostly negative reviews, critici...

Alvin and the Chipmunks Release Year: 2007 Runtime: 92 minutes Age Rating: PG Studio: Fox 2000 Pictures / Regency Enterprises Franchise: Alvin and the Chipmunks Franchise Position: 1 Tagline: They’re tiny. They’re trouble. And they’re ready to rock! Trailer link :  Cast link:   Ratings My Rating: 6/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Family Approved — suitable for all ages, with mild cartoonish humor (dove.org) IMDb Rating: 5.1/10  Rotten Tomatoes: 28%  Metacritic : 30/100  Plot Summary A struggling songwriter discovers three singing chipmunks—Alvin, Simon, and Theodore—who have incredible talent but cause chaos everywhere they go. With the help of their new manager, Dave Seville, the chipmunks aim to become music stars while navigating the challenges of fame, friendship, and family. The movie blends live-action and CGI animation to bring the beloved characters to life in a contemporary setting, filled with humor, music, and heartwarming moments. Critics Review Critics ...

The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again Release Year: 1979 Runtime: 88 minutes Age Rating: G Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: The Apple Dumpling Gang Franchise Position: 2 (sequel) Tagline: More mischief. More mayhem. Same lovable bunglers! Trailer link:   Cast link:  Ratings My Rating: 6.5/10 Dove Foundation Rating: Approved for All Ages — family-friendly comedy with mild slapstick and a humorous cross-dressing scene IMDb Rating: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes : 53% Metacritic: No score available Plot Summary Amos and Theodore, hoping to reform, arrive in Junction City only to be mistaken for bank robbers and pursued by Marshal Woolly Bill Hitchcock. After fleeing to Fort Concho, they accidentally burn down the fort and are jailed. They become involved in a train robbery plot but inadvertently foil the criminals, earning a pardon and a chance at a fresh start. Critics Review Critics had mixed reactions. Some praised the comedic talents of Tim Conway and Don Knotts, while other...

Title: The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin Runtime: 95 minutes Age Rating: G Studio: Walt Disney Productions Franchise: N/A Franchise Position #: N/A Tagline: “Wicked Fun in the Wild West!” Trailer Cast List Ratings: My Rating: 7/10 Dove Foundation : 5/5 IMDb : 6.7/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 78%  Metacritic : No score available  Plot Summary: Set during the California Gold Rush, this family-friendly Western comedy follows the misadventures of two Englishmen, Bullwhip Griffin and his valet Sweeney, as they travel to California in search of fortune. Along the way, they get caught up with a gang of outlaws, face treacherous terrain, and encounter colorful characters, all while learning about friendship and bravery. The film blends humor, action, and a light-hearted take on classic Western tropes. Critics Review: Critics generally found the movie charming and entertaining, praising its humor and family appeal. While not a groundbreaking Western, it succeeds as a fun, lighthearted a...

The Muppet Movie MPAA: PG Release Date: November 22, 1979 Runtime: 95 minutes Franchise: The Muppets Franchise Position #: 1 Tagline: "The muppets hit the road in their first big screen adventure!" Trailer :  Ratings My Rating: 8/10 Dove Foundation : Approved  IMDb : 7.7/10  Rotten Tomatoes : 90%  Metacritic : 64  Full Cast List Jim Henson – Kermit the Frog (voice) Frank Oz – Miss Piggy / Fozzie Bear / Animal (voices) Jerry Nelson – Floyd Pepper / Robin the Frog (voices) Richard Hunt – Scooter (voice) Dave Goelz – Gonzo the Great / Dr. Bunsen Honeydew (voices) Special Cameos  Caroll Spinney - Big Bird Edgar Bergen / Charlie McCarthy - Themselves  Steve Martin – Insolent Waiter Mel Brooks – Mad German Professor Richard Pryor – Balloon Vendor Dom DeLuise – Hollywood Agent Bob Hope – Ice Cream Vendor Orson Welles – Lew Lord Cloris Leachman – Lew Lord’s Secretary Elliott Gould – Beauty Contestant MC James Coburn – El Sleezo Café Owner Madelyn Kahn – El Sle...