Family Films Celebrating Self-Sacrifice

Description: Daniel, a teenager, learns karate from Mr. Miyagi, who sacrifices his time to teach him not just martial arts but life lessons, helping Daniel overcome bullying and personal challenges.

Fact: The film's famous "wax on, wax off" training method was improvised by Pat Morita. The movie spawned several sequels and a 2010 remake.

Description: Vada, a young girl dealing with her mother's death, forms a bond with Thomas, who sacrifices his own comfort to help her through her grief, teaching her about life and love.

Fact: Macaulay Culkin, who played Thomas, was already a well-known child star from "Home Alone." The film was a box office success.

Description: Mary Lennox, after losing her parents, discovers a hidden garden and, through her efforts to revive it, sacrifices her own comfort to bring healing and joy to her new family.

Fact: The film was shot in Yorkshire, England, where the original story by Frances Hodgson Burnett is set. It received positive reviews for its faithful adaptation.

Description: Two outcast boys, one with a learning disability and the other with physical limitations, form an unlikely friendship where they both make sacrifices to help each other grow and face the world.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "Freak the Mighty" by Rodman Philbrick. It was one of the last films to feature Harry Dean Stanton in a major role.

Description: Identical twins, separated at birth, meet at summer camp and devise a plan to reunite their divorced parents, sacrificing their own comfort for the sake of family unity.

Fact: Lindsay Lohan played both twins, marking one of her breakout roles. The film is a remake of the 1961 original starring Hayley Mills.

Description: This animated film features a family of superheroes where each member sacrifices their personal desires for the safety and unity of the family, showcasing themes of duty and selflessness.

Fact: The film was the first entirely computer-animated film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It took over six years to make.

Description: Jess and Leslie create an imaginary kingdom where they escape from reality, but their friendship involves sacrifices that teach them about loss, love, and the power of imagination.

Fact: The film was adapted from Katherine Paterson's novel, which was inspired by the death of her son's friend. It was a commercial success, grossing over $137 million worldwide.

Description: Akeelah, a young girl from South Los Angeles, sacrifices her time and effort to compete in the National Spelling Bee, supported by her community and a mentor who sacrifices his own time to help her.

Fact: The film was inspired by the documentary "Spellbound." Keke Palmer, who played Akeelah, was only 12 years old during filming.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, who takes custody of his son while homeless, demonstrating immense personal sacrifice to provide a better life for his child.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in the movie. The film's title misspells "happiness" intentionally, reflecting a sign in the movie.

Description: This film tells the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player with the help of a caring family. It highlights the Tuohy family's sacrifices to support Michael's education and athletic career.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The film was nominated for Best Picture.