Finding movies that are uplifting, engaging and inspiring doesn’t have to be difficult. Although none of these movies are out at the box office, you can find them through streaming services or on Amazon. Curl up with a bowl of popcorn, your favorite soda and a blanket to watch one of these charming movies that hide Christian themes, like being kind, standing up for what’s right and protecting the less fortunate.
Horton Hears a Who
If you love Dr. Seuss, you may have read this tale. The movie is quite fun. The main theme is “a person’s a person, no matter how small.” Horton can’t see the tiny colony on the speck of clover, but he knows they’re real. Just because you can’t see God, doesn’t mean that He isn’t there. Christianity believes in the sanctity of all people, no matter who they are. “Seussical” is a live theater musical that employs the same themes. If you ever get a chance to see it, take your kids because it’s great entertainment.
Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
The original “Willie Wonka” with Gene Wilder is a classic. The children are guilty of the seven deadly sins. Wonka is kind of like God, the Father, with his power and abilities. Slugworth might be seen as the temptor. It’s a nice flick with the theme of doing what’s right, even if you might lose everything.
Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
The original “Star Wars” trilogy birthed the Jedi religion, which has many Christian references. Luke Skywalker is tempted by the dark side, as was Jesus Christ when he was in the desert. Darth Vader is redeemed when he tries to save his son. The themes of redemption, temptation and salvation are the basis of Christianity. When you watch the original movies through the lens of faith, it can be a much different movie.
Les Misérables
Victor Hugo’s tome might be daunting to get through, but the movie version from 2012 with Hugh Jackman has stunning cinematography, an amazing cast and beautiful songs that demonstrate the themes of grace, kindness, mercy and forgiveness. Not only does the bishop forgive Jean Valjean for stealing from him, he also helps Jean get his life back on track. It is rated PG-13, but it’s one of the most wonderful stories ever. Watching the movie may help you want to tackle the abridged version of the book.
Walk the Line
Johnny Cash got a second life when he found Christ. It wasn’t just redemption of his spiritual life, it gave him a new chance in music. The movie is an award-winning biopic that follows Cash’s tragic downfall due to his music career. He was heavily into drugs and booze. The only bad thing about the movie is that it doesn’t follow his life much after his transformation. Hopefully, you’ll want to do some research and learn more about his career in gospel music. This movie isn’t recommended for younger children. It does get graphic about drug and alcohol dependency.
Amistad
Abolitionists played a huge role in this Stephen Spielberg historical drama from 1997. On a slave ship traveling from Cuba to the United States, one of the slaves leads a mutiny. The ship is taken over. The slaves try to sail the ship back to Africa but are misdirected to the east coast. The slaves are taken prisoner by the U.S. Navy and find themselves in a legal battle that will go all the way to the Supreme Court. The events are based on a true story, although some of the historical accuracy is called into question. But it’s about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s costly. Not recommended for younger children.
