Envy, a universal emotion, often serves as a catalyst for growth and change in storytelling. This curated list of family films delves into the theme of envy, providing not just entertainment but also valuable lessons on jealousy, rivalry, and the importance of appreciating what we have. These films are perfect for family movie nights, offering insights into human nature while keeping the narrative light-hearted and engaging.
The Little Mermaid (1989)
Description: Ariel's envy for the human world and her desire to be part of it leads to her making a deal with Ursula, showcasing the dangers of unchecked envy and the importance of contentment.
Fact: The film was the last Disney animated feature to use traditional hand-painted cels.
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The Mighty Ducks (1992)
Description: A lawyer sentenced to community service coaches a peewee hockey team, dealing with envy among the players for his attention and the team's success.
Fact: The film inspired the creation of the Anaheim Ducks NHL team.
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Matilda (1996)
Description: Matilda is a story about a young girl with extraordinary abilities who faces envy from her neglectful parents and a cruel headmistress. The film explores themes of jealousy and the desire for acceptance, making it a perfect fit for this collection.
Fact: The character of Miss Trunchbull was inspired by a real-life teacher Roald Dahl had in his childhood.
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The Parent Trap (1998)
Description: This film follows twin sisters who meet at summer camp and devise a plan to reunite their divorced parents. The theme of envy is subtly woven into the sisters' initial rivalry and their longing for a complete family.
Fact: Lindsay Lohan played both roles of the twins, showcasing her versatility at a young age.
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The Princess Diaries (2001)
Description: Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary teenager, discovers she's a princess, leading to envy from her peers and her own internal struggle with her new identity. The film showcases the complexities of sudden fame and the envy it can provoke.
Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays the queen, was once considered for the role of Mia's grandmother in the original book.
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The Incredibles (2004)
Description: This animated film explores themes of envy through the characters' longing for normalcy and the public's envy of superheroes' abilities. It's a fun look at how envy can drive both heroism and villainy.
Fact: The character of Edna Mode was inspired by real-life fashion designers like Edith Head.
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Freaky Friday (2003)
Description: When a mother and daughter switch bodies, they experience each other's lives, highlighting the envy each feels for the other's perceived easier life. It's a comedic exploration of understanding and empathy.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Mary Rodgers, which was first adapted into a movie in
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The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
Description: This animated film delves into the envy pets feel for each other's owners and lifestyles, providing a humorous take on the theme of envy in the animal kingdom.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a short film for an animated series.
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A Cinderella Story (2004)
Description: This modern take on Cinderella features envy from her step-family and the desire for a better life, illustrating how envy can both motivate and corrupt.
Fact: The film's title song, "I'm Not That Girl," was originally written for the Broadway musical "Wicked."
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The Princess Switch (2018)
Description: Two women, one a duchess and the other a baker, switch places, exploring themes of envy for each other's lives and the grass-is-greener syndrome.
Fact: Vanessa Hudgens plays both lead roles, showcasing her range as an actress.
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