7 Family Movies Sure to Inspire You This November
Movie Features
Audio By Carbonatix
By Michael Foust, Crosswalk.com
For most Americans, November is all about Thanksgiving – the roasted turkey, the delicious side dishes, and, most importantly, fellowship with family and friends.
But for many Americans, November is also about movies. It marks the start of the holiday film season, with blockbuster after blockbuster rolling into theaters.
It’s also a major month for streaming fans, as the biggest platforms release some of their top titles to cater to the at-home crowd, and as studios debut home video releases ahead of the Christmas shopping season.
The major streaming platforms have plenty to offer this month.
Here are 7 of the best ones for families:
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Deagreez
1. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Home Video)
A busy mom volunteers to direct her church’s Christmas pageant, only to have it turned upside down when a group of rowdy siblings – the Herdmans – join the cast. The film is based on a popular book of the same name and was directed by Dallas Jenkins, best-known as the creator and director of The Chosen. It’s one of the best faith-based films in years and includes powerful lessons on kindness, compassion, and outreach. Rated PG for thematic material and brief underage smoking.
2. Wonka (Netflix)
An eccentric young chocolatier named Willy Wonka battles a corrupt chocolate cartel determined to shut him down as he spreads kindness and generosity throughout the city. This foot-stomping musical is the prequel to the classic Roald Dahl franchise that included the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and 2005’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Unfortunately, Wonka’s Netflix run will last just one month. (Its last day is Nov. 30.) Rated PG for some violence, mild language and thematic elements. Clearplay offers a filter.
Photo Credit: ©Allen Fraser/Lionsgate
3. Paddington 2 (Netflix)
The world’s most beloved Peruvian bear is framed for theft and lands in prison, sparking a heartwarming adventure where he relies on the Browns – and his own unshakable kindness – to uncover the real culprit and clear his name. It is the second film in a three-part series that just might be the best family-friendly franchise of the modern era. Paddington 2 is the best of the bunch. Rated PG for some action and mild rude humor. Clearplay offers a filter. (VidAngel offers one for the Prime Video version.)
4. Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyagers
Charlie Brown and his friends teach viewers the real meaning of Thanksgiving as they tag along on the Pilgrims’ journey to America. We learn why the Pilgrims are crossing the sea – to seek “religious freedom in the New World” – and when the journey grows difficult, Charlie Brown encourages Linus to have faith. During the closing feast, the group offers a prayer of gratitude, thanking “the Lord for our bountiful harvest.” Note: This special shouldn’t be confused with A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, where Snoopy cooks an eclectic meal for his friends.
Photo Credit: ©Sony
5. Redemption (Wonder Project)
It's the story of the 2024 Ohio State football team, which marched to the national championship that year with a powerful offense, a dominating defense, and – behind the scenes – a faith in God that gave them strength. That faith was so central, in fact, that the team’s championship ring included a cross. Tim Tebow serves as executive producer of this series, which includes interviews with players, including TreVeyon Henderson, Emeka Egbuka, and Will Howard.
6. For KING+COUNTRY: No Turning Back (Wonder Project)
It’s the inspiring true story of Joel and Luke Smallbone, the Christian music duo and four-time Grammy winners, who give viewers a behind-the-scenes peek of their family’s journey from Australia to the United States. In this documentary, the brothers reflect on years marked by setbacks in the music industry, family health hurdles, and the unpredictability of pursuing a career in the ever-changing musical landscape. Nov. 23.
7. Soul on Fire (Home Video)
A 9-year-old boy nearly dies after suffering burns on his entire body, but recovers thanks to strong faith and support from his friends and community. The film is based on a book and on the true story of John O’Leary, who defied the odds after a devastating fire accident and went on to inspire millions through his message of hope and resilience. Today, O’Leary is a well-known speaker. It stars Joel Courtney, John Corbett, William H. Macy, and Masey McLain. Rated PG for thematic content including burn injuries, some peril, and suggestive material.
Photo Credit: ©For King and Country
