At The Movies

Woodlawn Age Rating: PG Runtime: 124 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A powerful true story about faith, forgiveness, racial reconciliation, and how one spiritual awakening helped transform a football team, a school, and a community during a time of deep division in America. Ratings My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 79% Metacritic: 57/100 TMDb: 6.9/10 (approximate average user rating)  Plot Summary Set in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1973, Woodlawn follows the true story of Tony Nathan, a talented African American football player who joins Woodlawn High School during the turbulent period of school desegregation. Racial tensions are high both on and off the football field, and conflict threatens to divide the team and the community. When a visiting sports chaplain shares the Gospel message with the football team, many players commit their lives to Christ. Their newfound faith begins to change their...

Radio Age Rating: PG Runtime: 109 minutes Studio: Columbia Pictures Country of Origin: United States An unlikely friendship between a high school football coach and a mentally challenged young man transforms an entire community. Ratings: My Rating: 6.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 35% Metacritic: 38/100 TMDb: 7.3/10 Plot Summary: Based on a true story, the film follows James “Radio” Kennedy, a shy young man with an intellectual disability who lives in a small South Carolina town. He is often misunderstood and mistreated until Coach Harold Jones, played by Cuba Gooding Jr., takes him under his wing. Coach Jones invites Radio to assist with the high school football team, gradually integrating him into the school and community. Over time, Radio becomes a beloved figure, and his presence challenges the town to confront its prejudices and learn compassion, patience, and acceptance. Critics Review: “Radio” received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised th...

Major League: Back to the Minors Age Rating: PG Franchise: Major League Franchise Position: 3 Tagline: The Cleveland Indians’ scouts have a new mission: develop the future stars of baseball. Ratings: My Rating: 6/10 Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 4.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 11% Metacritic: 30/100 TMDb: 5.4/10 Plot Summary: Minor league manager Gus Cantrell takes a struggling farm team under his wing. With help from familiar faces, Gus trains a ragtag group of young players to overcome personal quirks and failures, aiming for the major leagues. Comedy and challenges ensue, but lessons of dedication and teamwork shine through. Critics Review: Widely considered the weakest of the franchise; predictable plot and forced humor. Lighthearted tone occasionally entertains casual fans. Christian Perspective: Themes of perseverance, mentoring, and personal growth. Shows responsibility, patience, teamwork, and developing God-given talents. Family Friendliness: Mild language, crude humor, minor romantic inn...

Major League II Age Rating: PG Runtime: 113 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Major League Franchise Position: 2 The Cleveland Indians try to defend their championship while personal rivalries and new challenges test their team spirit. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 40% Metacritic: 43/100 TMDb: 6.3/10 Plot Summary: Following their unexpected World Series win, the Cleveland Indians face new pressures from management, opponents, and each other. Pitcher Ricky “Wild Thing” Vaughn struggles with personal issues and a slump in performance, while veteran catcher Jake Taylor tries to keep the team cohesive. Rookie players and returning stars must overcome rivalries, injuries, and sabotage attempts from other teams. Ultimately, their resilience, teamwork, and humor carry them through the season, culminating in a climactic playoff showdown. Critics Review: Major League II received mixed reviews. While ...

Major League Age Rating: PG Runtime: 108 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Major League Franchise Position: 1 A ragtag baseball team defies the odds to turn their losing streak into a season of unexpected triumph. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% Metacritic: 57/100 TMDb: 7.2/10 Plot Summary: The Cleveland Indians are a struggling baseball team on the verge of being moved or disbanded. New owner Rachel Phelps recruits a team of misfits and washed-up players, hoping they’ll fail so she can relocate the franchise. Against all odds, the players—led by pitcher Ricky “Wild Thing” Vaughn, veteran catcher Jake Taylor, and rookie slugger Pedro Cerrano—come together, overcoming personal challenges and internal conflicts. As the season progresses, their chemistry and determination transform them into genuine contenders, culminating in a dramatic showdown that tests their skill and teamwork. Critics Re...

Slam Dunk Ernest Runtime: 93 minutes Studio: Emshell Producers Group, Cabin Fever Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Ernest Franchise Position: 6 Ernest gains magical basketball shoes that give him superstar skills, but he must learn the real meaning of teamwork and friendship. Ratings: My Rating: 5.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 4.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: Audience 31% Metacritic: 35/100 TMDb: 4.1/10 Plot Summary: Ernest P. Worrell, a hapless janitor, longs to be part of the local basketball team but lacks the talent. Everything changes when he receives a pair of magical sneakers from an angel, played by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Suddenly, Ernest becomes the team’s star player, but he must eventually confront the truth that winning isn’t just about personal glory—it’s about teamwork, humility, and friendship. Critics Review: Slam Dunk Ernest* was poorly received by critics, who found the concept silly and the humor worn thin. Despite its flaws, Jim Varney’s de...

Karate Kid: Legends Runtime: 94 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 7 Plot Summary: Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy from Beijing, moves to New York City to attend a prestigious school. There, he befriends a classmate and her father. However, his peace is disrupted when he attracts the attention of a local karate champion. Seeking guidance, Li turns to his former master Mr. Han and karate sensei Daniel LaRusso, who help him navigate the challenges ahead. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5 IMDb: 6.3 Rotten Tomatoes: 3/5 Box Office Mojo: $115.8 million worldwide Critics Review: Critics have offered mixed reviews. Some appreciate the film's nostalgic appeal and the performances of Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. Others feel the story lacks depth and innovation, labeling it as derivative and predictable. Christian Perspective: The film emphasizes themes of mentorship, integrity, and personal growth, aligning with values often highlighted in Christian teachings. The gu...

Cobra Kai Runtime: 1,950 min Studio: Sony Pictures Television Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 6 Former rivalries reignite as Johnny Lawrence reopens the Cobra Kai dojo, reigniting old conflicts and mentoring a new generation of students. Ratings: My Rating: 8.7 The Dove Foundation: TV-14 IMDb: 8.7 Rotten Tomatoes: 94 Metacritic: 74 Plot Summary: Decades after the original tournaments, Johnny Lawrence seeks redemption by reopening Cobra Kai. He trains a new generation of students while struggling with his own past. Daniel LaRusso faces challenges as his old rival returns to mentor young fighters. Themes of mentorship, rivalry, forgiveness, and moral choices dominate as both generations learn lessons in courage, integrity, and discipline. Critics Review: Critics praised Cobra Kai for blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling, strong character development, and engaging martial arts sequences. Its balance of humor, drama, and moral lessons has made it popular with both original ...

The Karate Kid Runtime: 140 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 5 A young boy learns martial arts, discipline, and inner strength under the guidance of a wise mentor in a foreign city. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2 Rotten Tomatoes: 66 Metacritic: 64 Plot Summary: Dre Parker, a young boy from Detroit, moves to Beijing with his mother and struggles to adapt to the culture and environment. He becomes the target of local bullies trained in kung fu. Mr. Han, a maintenance worker and kung fu master, mentors Dre, teaching him martial arts, discipline, and moral integrity. Dre must confront challenges and face his fears in a martial arts tournament, applying the lessons of courage, respect, and honor. Critics Review: Critics gave generally positive reviews for the film’s performances, action choreography, and heartfelt moral lessons. While some compared it unfavorably to the original, the film was praised for its updated setting, ...

The Next Karate Kid Runtime: 111 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 4 Mr. Miyagi mentors a troubled teenage girl, teaching her discipline, courage, and the true meaning of honor through karate. Ratings: My Rating: 7.4 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 5.8 Rotten Tomatoes: 35 Metacritic: 48 Plot Summary: After losing his longtime friend and mentor figure, Mr. Miyagi meets Julie, a rebellious and angry teenager struggling with personal loss and social challenges. He trains her in martial arts, teaching not only self-defense but also the importance of discipline, patience, and inner peace. Together, they confront bullies and a rival dojo, ultimately learning lessons in courage, perseverance, and moral integrity. Critics Review: Critics were mixed, praising Pat Morita’s performance and the continuation of moral themes, but some felt the film lacked the energy and charm of the original series. While it introduces a female protagonist, many found the storylin...

The Karate Kid Part III Runtime: 115 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 3 Daniel LaRusso faces a new threat as a vengeful rival plots against him, testing his discipline, courage, and loyalty under the guidance of Mr. Miyagi. Ratings: My Rating: 7.7 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 5.1 Rotten Tomatoes: 36 Metacritic: 49 Plot Summary: After defeating the Cobra Kai dojo, Daniel enjoys a brief period of peace, but a wealthy dojo owner manipulates his old rival Johnny and a new sensei to challenge Daniel. Through this conflict, Daniel must remain true to Mr. Miyagi’s teachings, confronting deception, temptation, and anger while reinforcing his moral and martial discipline. The film culminates in another high-stakes tournament where courage, honor, and perseverance are key. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews. Critics praised the action choreography and the return of familiar characters but felt the plot was formulaic and relied too heavily on r...

The Karate Kid Part II Runtime: 130 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 2 Daniel LaRusso travels with Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, where he reconnects with his mentor’s past and faces new challenges from a rival who threatens both his and Mr. Miyagi’s honor. Ratings: My Rating: 8.3 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.8 Rotten Tomatoes: 77 Metacritic: 72 Plot Summary: Following his victory in the All-Valley Karate Tournament, Daniel accompanies Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa to visit his ailing father figure. There, Daniel becomes embroiled in a long-standing feud with a local dojo rival, faces personal and moral challenges, and learns deeper lessons about honor, forgiveness, and courage. The climax brings both personal growth and redemption through the principles of martial arts and integrity. Critics Review: Critics appreciated the film’s scenic Okinawa setting and exploration of Mr. Miyagi’s backstory, though some felt the sequel lacked the charm and novelty of the o...

The Karate Kid Runtime: 126 min Studio: Columbia Pictures Franchise: Karate Kid Franchise Position: 1 A young boy learns discipline, courage, and honor through martial arts under the guidance of a wise mentor. Ratings: My Rating: 8.5 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.2 Rotten Tomatoes: 89 Metacritic: 76 Plot Summary: Daniel LaRusso moves to a new town and becomes the target of bullies trained in karate by the Cobra Kai dojo. Under the guidance of Mr. Miyagi, Daniel learns martial arts, balance, and life lessons about honor, discipline, and perseverance. The story culminates in a martial arts tournament where Daniel must confront his fears and uphold his integrity. Critics Review: Critics praised the film for its heartfelt story, strong performances by Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, and the mentor-student dynamic that balances action with meaningful life lessons. While some considered the plot formulaic, the movie’s cultural impact and memorable training sequences have made it a beloved cl...

The Blind Side Runtime: 129 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A The inspiring true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teen who overcomes adversity with the help of a caring family and his own determination. Ratings: My Rating: 7.3/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 66% (Audience) Metacritic: 65/100 TMDb: 7.2/10 Based on a Book: The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game, by Michael Lewis Plot Summary: Michael Oher, a young African-American teenager from a troubled background, is taken in by the Tuohy family. With their support, he navigates the challenges of high school, football, and personal growth, eventually earning a football scholarship and achieving success despite his difficult upbringing. Critics Review: Critics praised Sandra Bullock’s performance and the film’s uplifting message, though some noted it simplifies complex social issues. Overall, it was celebrated for its inspirational storyt...

Run the Race Runtime: 114 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Two brothers face personal and family challenges while pursuing their dream of playing college football, relying on faith, perseverance, and each other. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 68% Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: Brothers Zach and Devin Baker deal with loss, family struggles, and temptation. With guidance from their coach and Pastor Dave Hill (David A.R. White), they navigate personal obstacles while pursuing college football and maintaining faith. Critics Review: Critics noted predictability but praised the heartfelt performances and moral message. Audiences appreciated the inspirational sports narrative. Christian Perspective: Highlights perseverance, brotherhood, faith, and integrity. Teaches resilience, reliance on God, and making ethical choices. Family Friendliness: Recommended for families; PG-rated, suitable for teens and a...

Run the Race Runtime: 114 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Two brothers face personal and family challenges while pursuing their dream of playing college football, relying on faith, perseverance, and each other. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 68% Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: Brothers Zach and Devin Baker struggle with the loss of their mother and their father’s emotional absence. Through football, mentorship, and their Christian faith, they navigate grief, temptation, and personal obstacles. The film highlights resilience, brotherhood, and reliance on God while illustrating the importance of community, hard work, and ethical decision-making. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s heartfelt performances and positive message, though some noted the story is predictable and formulaic. Faith-based audiences appreciated the emotional depth and inspirational focus. The sports sequences and family...

Cool Runnings Runtime: 97 minutes Age Rating: PG Release Date: October 1, 1993 Based on a True Story: Loosely based on the Jamaican bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympics Studio: Walt Disney Pictures Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A Four Jamaican athletes form a bobsled team to compete in the Winter Olympics, despite never having seen snow. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 76% (Critics), 81% (Audience) Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: In 1987, Jamaican sprinter Derice Bannock (Leon) fails to qualify for the Summer Olympics after a fellow runner's mishap. Determined to compete, he forms a bobsled team with his friend Sanka Coffie (Doug E. Doug) and two other athletes. They recruit disgraced former Olympic coach Irving Blitzer (John Candy) to train them. Despite ridicule, limited experience, and numerous obstacles, the team perseveres, aiming to represent Jamaica in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The film blends hu...

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.