By Dick Rolfe, CEO

Family movies have been missing from the scene since December. Not one theatrical release during the entire month of January was awarded the Dove Family Approved seal.  Finally, beginning on February 11th we see a delightful resurgence of films for various members of the family; from animated children’s features to educational documentaries, and from exciting action adventures to inspiring dramas. If Hollywood fails to serve the family audience, we have no one to blame but ourselves. Hollywood is not about “Show Art” it’s about “Show Business.” To borrow from the famous quote from Field of Dreams, “If they build it, we will come, and likewise, if we come, they will build more. At the box office, it’s okay to vote early and vote often. So, enjoy these family films!

FEBRUARY 11th

Gnomeo and Juliet is an animated version of Shakespeare’s play, set in the world of warring indoor and outdoor gnomes. The couple looks to find lasting happiness and avoid tragedy as they are caught in the middle of a feud between blue and red-hatted garden gnomes. Music by Elton John.                      

Justin Bieber, Never Say Never 3D is the true story and rare inside look at the rise of Justin from street performer in the small town of Stratford, Ontario to internet phenomenon to global super star culminating with a dream sold out show at the famed Madison Square Garden in 3D.

FEBRUARY 18th

The Frontier Boys is the story of four high school boys whose undefeated basketball season and friendship are threatened after a drive-by shooting leaves one of them in a coma and one of them with a secret. (Limited release – check local listings) If you want this inspirational action drama to come to your local theater, contact movies@www.dove.org

The Genesis Code Christian college student Kerry Wells strikes up a friendship with nonbeliever Blake Truman, the school’s hockey star.  He’s dubious of her faith, claiming he won’t even consider the truth of the Bible unless she can prove to him that science does not contradict Genesis.  She accepts the challenge, and surprises herself by developing a theory she calls the Genesis Code. (Check theater listings and ticket discount coupons)

FEBRUARY 25th

The Grace Card is an action-packed story about a father who tries to deal with the painful loss of his son with bitterness which ultimately infects his love for his family and leaves him angry at God … and everyone else. This powerful story of redemption and forgiveness will inspire audiences everywhere.   (Check local listings)

MARCH (These three MARCH movies seem okay, but have not yet been reviewed by Dove. Check back later at www.dove.org to make sure they are family approved. )

Rango (animated) – March 4
Mars Needs Moms (3D) (animated) – March 11
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules (comedy) Dove approved the original movie, so we expect the sequel will be Family-Approved as well – March 25

APRIL 8th

Soul Surfer is a thrilling and inspiring story based on the life of champion surfer, Bethany Hamilton who tragically lost her arm from a shark bite in 2003. An all-star cast includes Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood and AnnaSophia Robb as Bethany. This movie delivers a compelling message about how faith in God helped a teenage girl overcome tremendous adversity and return to the top of her game. (Dove-approved – review pending)

Born to Be Wild (IMAX 3D) is a touching and highly entertaining documentary about two orphanages in Africa; one that specializes in raising orphan elephant babies and the other orangutans. Guaranteed to entertain adults and children alike, the story includes some very humorous and moving scenes as two women dedicate their lives to raise these helpless animals and re-introduce them to the wild. (Dove-approved – review pending)