At The Movies

First Kid Age Rating: PG Runtime: 101 minutes Studio: Walt Disney Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A family comedy about responsibility, friendship, and growing up under pressure—set inside the White House. Ratings: My Rating: 5.4/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved (Family-Friendly) IMDb: 5.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 8% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 5.7/10 Plot Summary: First Kid stars Sinbad as Sam Simms, a Secret Service agent assigned to protect the President’s rebellious teenage son, Luke Davenport. Initially dismissed as inexperienced and unqualified, Sam struggles to connect with Luke, who feels isolated and resentful of the restrictions placed on him as the First Son. Over time, Sam gains Luke’s trust by offering guidance, discipline, and friendship. When Luke becomes entangled in trouble with a manipulative classmate and a false accusation involving stolen exam answers, Sam stands by him, helping him face consequences and grow in characte...

Fat Albert Age Rating: PG Runtime: 93 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids Franchise Position: Live-action adaptation A heartfelt comedy that brings a beloved animated character into the real world to help a lonely teen rediscover friendship and confidence. Ratings: My Rating: 5.3/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved (Family-Friendly) IMDb: 4.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 23% Metacritic: 40/100 TMDb: 5.0/10 Plot Summary: Fat Albert follows Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids as they magically leave their animated world and enter live-action reality to help a shy teenager named Doris regain her confidence and social life. Led by the kind-hearted and wise Fat Albert (voiced and portrayed by Kenan Thompson), the group navigates the challenges of the real world, including school pressures, popularity struggles, and teenage relationships. As Albert spends more time outside the cartoon world, he begins to develop real emotions and faces a d...

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...

Sydney White Runtime: 108 minutes Studio: Morgan Creek Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Based on: Snow White (Brothers Grimm fairy tale) Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A modern college-era reimagining of Snow White set in a university sorority world. Ratings: My Rating: 5.7/10 The Dove Foundation: 10 (“Negative Rating”) IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 36% Metacritic: 4.5/10 TMDb: ~6.0/10 Plot Summary: Sydney White (Amanda Bynes) starts college at Southern Atlantic University, eager to join her late mother’s sorority, Kappa Phi Nu. Once there, she discovers that the current sorority president, Rachel Witchburn (Sara Paxton), has turned it into a shallow, elitist clique. After Sydney is humiliated and expelled from the sorority, she moves into “The Vortex,” a rundown house occupied by seven socially awkward but kind male students. Together they challenge the social hierarchy on campus, aiming to make student government and campus life more inclusive. Along the ...

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...

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...

Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love Runtime: 95 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Revenge of the Nerds Franchise Position: 4 The nerds prepare for a wedding while dealing with old rivals and new comedic obstacles, blending romance and humor. Ratings: My Rating: 5.7/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 5.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 25% Metacritic: 38/100 Plot Summary: The film centers on the upcoming wedding of one of the original nerds, as the group navigates unexpected mishaps, humorous misunderstandings, and interference from rival fraternities. Through teamwork, loyalty, and clever problem-solving, the nerds overcome obstacles while celebrating friendship, love, and their unique personalities. Critics Review: Critics generally panned the film for weak humor and a predictable plot, though fans appreciated seeing familiar characters and the continuation of the series. The film relies on comedic gags and slapstick, with a focus on romantic and frie...

Revenge of the Nerds III: The Next Generation Runtime: 96 minutes Studio: Paramount Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Revenge of the Nerds Franchise Position: 3 The nerds return to college to mentor a new generation of socially awkward students while confronting a familiar rival fraternity. Ratings: My Rating: 5.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 5.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 27% Metacritic: 40/100 Plot Summary: Decades after their initial adventures, the original nerds return to their alma mater to guide a new group of misfit students. They help the next generation navigate college life while facing off against their old rivals, combining clever strategies, humor, and teamwork to protect their new charges and preserve the nerds’ legacy. Critics Review: Critics considered this sequel a weaker entry in the series, citing a recycled plot and less effective humor. However, fans appreciated seeing familiar characters and the continuation of the nerds’ comedic exploits. Christi...

Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise Runtime: 96 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Revenge of the Nerds Franchise Position: 2 The nerds travel to a college reunion in Florida, where they must face off against a wealthy, rival fraternity while using their cleverness and teamwork to prevail. Ratings: My Rating: 6.1/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 30% Metacritic: 42/100 Plot Summary: The nerds attend a college reunion in Florida, expecting a fun getaway, but soon find themselves targeted by a rich and powerful fraternity intent on humiliating them. Using ingenuity, teamwork, and humor, the nerds devise clever schemes to turn the tables on their opponents, showcasing creativity and camaraderie while delivering comedic chaos. Critics Review: Critics generally viewed the sequel as formulaic and less fresh than the original, though fans enjoyed the continuation of beloved characters and their humorous antics. The physic...

Revenge of the Nerds Runtime: 95 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Revenge of the Nerds Franchise Position: 1 A group of socially awkward college students forms a fraternity to fight back against the popular jock fraternity, using wit, creativity, and humor to turn the tables. Ratings: My Rating: 6.6/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 63% Metacritic: 55/100 Plot Summary: The story follows a group of “nerds” at a college who are constantly bullied by the dominant jock fraternity. To stand up for themselves, they create their own fraternity, engage in comedic pranks, and challenge the social hierarchy. The film blends humor, clever schemes, and the underdog triumphing over adversity, while highlighting friendship and ingenuity. Critics Review: Critics gave mixed reviews, praising the comedic performances and underdog story, but noting that some jokes were dated or offensive by modern standards. The film became a cult classi...

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...

Grease (1978), PG, 1 hr 50 min Franchise #: N/A (standalone classic musical) Tagline: "Grease is the word." Trailer  --- Main Cast John Travolta as Danny Zuko Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Olsson Stockard Channing as Rizzo Jeff Conaway as Kenickie Barry Pearl as Doody Didi Conn as Frenchy Jamie Donnelly as Jan Dinah Manoff as Marty Maraschino Michael Tucci as Sonny Kelly Ward as Putzie Eve Arden as Principal McGee Sid Caesar as Coach Calhoun --- Reviews My Rating 10/10 Dove Foundation Approved (mild language, some suggestive content)  IMDb 7.2/10  Rotten Tomatoes 75%  Metacritic 55/100  --- Plot Summary Summer romance sparks between Sandy and Danny, two high school students from different social groups. When Sandy unexpectedly transfers to Danny’s school, the pair navigate peer pressure, cliques, and self-identity struggles while their friends experience the highs and lows of teenage life. The film culminates in a fun and nostalgic musical celebration of frien...