Good movies for Catholic families

Modern movies are often unsuitable for younger family members, no matter what the religious affiliation of their parents. The following article lists films which are suitable for any children, but which will be especially meaningful for young Catholics, as well as the more mature members of the family.

The Sound of Music (1965)

After entering the convent, Maria (Julie Andrews), a young nun from Salzburg, discovers she is not suited for the religious life after all. She is assigned to be governess to seven children of a Austrian naval officer (Christopher Plummer), who is a widower. The presence of appealing children and memorable music make this movie a family favorite.

Jesus of Nazareth (1977)

This epic presentation tells the story of the life of Jesus Christ in a reverent and engrossing manner. It boasts an international all-star cast headed by Robert Powell, Ann Bancroft and Olivia Hussey, as well as beautiful music and superb cinematography. Because of the film's length, over 6 hours, it will provide several evenings of outstanding entertainment for families with children.

Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)

Teens will love this film version of the Broadway play, because it speaks their language. It is the musical depiction of the last few weeks of Christ's life. The memorable music score is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and costumes are a mixture of ancient Israeli garb and the hippie style of the 1960s. It's sure to be a hit with the youngsters, and even the dyed-in-the-wool traditionalists may find their toes tapping along to the music.

The Ten Commandments (1956)

This biblical epic film was directed by the masterful Cecil B. DeMille. It has an all-star cast featuring Charlton Heston and Yul Brynner. It follows the life of Moses from the time he was discovered as a baby in a basket in the Nile's rushes. Later, viewers watch as he leads the Israelites out of Egypt, receives the Ten Commandments from God, and finally as he leads his people to the Promised Land. Shot in wide screen Technicolor, this 219-minute film is one of the most impressive family members will ever see.

Ben Hur (1959)

Another epic depicting biblical times, this movie won 11 Oscars, a record number up until that date. With a cast of thousands, it stars Charlton Heston as Judah Ben Hur, a Jewish prince who became a slave when the Romans invaded Israel. Through the story, he struggles against his childhood friend Massala, an ambitious Roman tribune. The story of Jesus is woven into the main plot in a reverent and inspirational manner. The three-and-a-half-hour film features the legendary chariot race between Heston and his adversary.

Pope John Paul II (1984)

The film provides a front row seat to modern history as it follows Karol Wojtyla from his childhood in Poland through his sojourn as the two hundred and sixty-fifth Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Filmed on location in Poland and Rome with close collaboration of Vatican officials, it relates how this Pope helped reshape the world and the Church. Masterful performances by Cary Elwes as the young Wojtyla, and Jon Voight as the adult cleric, make this movie one that will be long remembered.

Despite the difficulty of finding film entertainment suitable for Catholic family viewing, there are many quality movies available. As a beginning, check the listings on this website:

http://www.ncregister.com/info/top_100_pro_catholic_ movies/

Popcorn anyone? Happy viewing!