Family Films About Outsiders: A Journey of Acceptance and Belonging

Description: E.T., an alien stranded on Earth, forms an unlikely friendship with a boy named Elliott. Their bond showcases the outsider's journey to find a home away from home.

Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to capture the genuine reactions of the child actors. Also, the iconic bike scene was inspired by a dream Steven Spielberg had.

Description: Mrs. Brisby, a field mouse, must navigate a world of intelligent rats and humans to save her family, showcasing the outsider's struggle for survival and acceptance.

Fact: This was Don Bluth's first film after leaving Disney, and it was a pioneering effort in independent animation. The film's title was changed from "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" due to trademark issues.

Description: A group of misfit kids, known as the Goonies, embark on a treasure hunt to save their homes. Their adventure highlights the strength found in unity among outsiders.

Fact: The film was shot in Astoria, Oregon, and many of the locations used are now tourist attractions. Also, the character of Sloth was inspired by a real-life person.

Description: Ariel, a mermaid princess, feels like an outsider in her own underwater world, yearning for the human world above. Her quest for love and acceptance is a classic tale of an outsider's journey.

Fact: The film was Disney's first animated feature to be released on video while it was still being shown in theaters. Also, the song "Part of Your World" was almost cut from the movie.

Description: A group of young hockey players, considered the underdogs, find camaraderie and success under the guidance of a reluctant coach, highlighting the journey of outsiders in sports.

Fact: The film inspired a real-life hockey team, the Anaheim Ducks, and its success led to two sequels and an animated series.

Description: A new kid in town, Scotty Smalls, joins a group of baseball-loving kids, learning about friendship, courage, and acceptance in this coming-of-age story.

Fact: The film was based on director David Mickey Evans' childhood experiences. Also, the iconic line "You're killing me, Smalls!" has become a popular catchphrase.

Description: Matilda, a young girl with extraordinary powers, feels like an outsider in her own family. Her story is one of overcoming adversity and finding a place where she truly belongs.

Fact: The film was directed by Danny DeVito, who also played Matilda's father. Additionally, Mara Wilson, who played Matilda, was chosen from over 4,000 girls who auditioned.

Description: This animated film tells the story of a giant robot who, despite his intimidating appearance, is an outsider seeking friendship and understanding in a world that fears him.

Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. It was also the last film to be released by Warner Bros. Feature Animation.

Description: This film follows Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary high school student who discovers she's the princess of a small European country. Her journey from outsider to royalty is filled with humor and heart, making it a perfect fit for our theme.

Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays Queen Clarisse, was initially hesitant to take the role but was convinced by her granddaughter. Also, the film's setting, Genovia, is a fictional country inspired by Monaco.

Description: Angus, a young boy in World War II-era Scotland, discovers a mysterious egg that hatches into a water horse, an outsider in the human world, leading to adventures and lessons in acceptance.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Scottish legend of the Loch Ness Monster. Also, the CGI creature was created by the same team that worked on "The Lord of the Rings" films.