Family Films Celebrating Progress

Description: This classic sci-fi film explores themes of peace, progress, and the potential for humanity to evolve beyond war. An alien visitor comes to Earth with a message of peace, but humanity's fear of the unknown challenges his mission.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use the theme of an alien visitation to comment on Cold War tensions. It was remade in 2008 with Keanu Reeves.

Description: A quirky scientist accidentally shrinks his children and their neighbors to the size of insects. The film showcases the progress of the kids as they navigate their backyard turned jungle, highlighting ingenuity and teamwork.

Fact: The film's special effects were groundbreaking at the time, using a mix of practical effects and early CGI. It spawned two sequels and a TV show.

Description: Set in the Cold War era, this film explores themes of friendship, identity, and the potential for personal growth. A young boy befriends a giant robot, teaching it about humanity, ultimately leading to the robot's self-discovery and choice to protect rather than destroy.

Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since become a cult classic. Brad Bird, the director, also voiced the character of the Iron Giant.

Description: Inspired by true events, this film tells the story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner's son who dreams of building rockets. It's a story of progress from humble beginnings to reaching for the stars, both literally and metaphorically.

Fact: The film's title is an anagram of "Rocket Boys," the name of the memoir it's based on. The real-life Homer Hickam served as a consultant on the film.

Description: This animated film about a family of superheroes in hiding showcases the progress of each family member as they rediscover their powers and work together to save the world, highlighting personal growth and family dynamics.

Fact: The film was the first entirely animated film to win the Academy Award for Best Sound Editing. It also features a sequel, "Incredibles 2," released in

Description: Walter Mitty, a daydreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure to find a missing negative, leading to personal growth and the realization of his potential. It's a journey of self-discovery and progress.

Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by James Thurber. Ben Stiller, who directed and starred in the film, also contributed to the screenplay.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, as he pursues a better life for himself and his son. It's a powerful narrative of personal progress against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film. The title misspelling is intentional, based on a sign Gardner's son made.

Description: Set in the futuristic city of San Fransokyo, this film follows a young robotics prodigy who, with the help of his inflatable robot Baymax, forms a superhero team to combat a masked villain. It's a story of technological progress and the power of friendship.

Fact: The film is loosely based on a Marvel comic of the same name. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: Based on the novel by Andy Weir, this film follows astronaut Mark Watney, who must use his ingenuity and scientific knowledge to survive alone on Mars. It's a testament to human progress in space exploration and the will to survive.

Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy, with NASA providing technical advice. Matt Damon lost 30 pounds for the role to portray Watney's physical deterioration.

Description: This animated gem from Pixar tells the story of a lonely robot left to clean up an abandoned Earth, who finds love and purpose in his quest to save humanity. It's a tale of environmental progress and the importance of taking care of our planet.

Fact: WALL-E has no dialogue for the first 39 minutes of the film, relying on visual storytelling. The film's title is an acronym for Waste Allocation Load Lifter - Earth Class.