Family Startup Films: Inspire and Entertain

Description: While not directly about startups, this film features Walter Mitty, a daydreamer who embarks on a real-life adventure to find a missing negative, showcasing the spirit of taking risks and living life to the fullest, themes resonant with entrepreneurship.

Fact: Ben Stiller, who directed and starred in the film, chose to use real locations for the adventure scenes, including Iceland and Greenland. The film's ending was shot in a real-life skate park in Iceland.

Description: This film is about Chris Gardner's struggle to provide for his son while pursuing a career in stockbroking. It's a powerful story of determination, family, and the pursuit of the American Dream, making it a motivational watch for families.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, adding a real-life touch to their on-screen relationship. The film's title misspells "Happiness" intentionally, reflecting a typo on a mural in the movie.

Description: Based on the true story of Robert Kearns, who invented the intermittent windshield wiper, this film explores themes of innovation, perseverance, and the struggle against corporate giants, offering a lesson in determination for families.

Fact: Greg Kinnear, who plays Kearns, spent time with the real inventor to understand his mannerisms and motivations. The film's title refers to the moment of inspiration Kearns experienced when he invented the wiper.

Description: Although more suited for older viewers, this film tells the story of the founding of Facebook, exploring themes of innovation, friendship, and the ethical dilemmas of startup culture, which can spark discussions in a family setting.

Fact: The film was shot in just 67 days. Aaron Sorkin wrote the screenplay in just six weeks, adapting the book "The Accidental Billionaires."

Description: This film delves into the world of finance and the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on a few investors who bet against the housing market. It's an educational look at economic principles and the risks of entrepreneurship, suitable for mature family audiences.

Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos to explain complex financial terms, making it more accessible. It also won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This film follows Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who becomes an intern at an online fashion site run by the young and ambitious Jules Ostin. It's a heartwarming tale of mentorship, generational differences, and the entrepreneurial spirit.

Fact: Robert De Niro learned to use an iPad for this role, showcasing his character's adaptation to modern technology. The film was also inspired by real-life stories of older interns.

Description: "Joy" is based on the true story of Joy Mangano, who invented the Miracle Mop and became a successful entrepreneur. It's a story of perseverance, family dynamics, and the entrepreneurial journey, making it an inspiring watch for families.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Joy, did not use a stunt double for the scenes where she was supposed to be exhausted, showcasing her commitment to the role. The film was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Description: While not strictly a family film, "The Founder" tells the story of Ray Kroc, who turned a small burger joint into the global McDonald's empire. It's an educational look at business ethics, ambition, and the American Dream, suitable for older children and adults.

Fact: Michael Keaton gained weight for the role to better portray Kroc's physical transformation over the years. The film was shot in various McDonald's locations, including the original restaurant in San Bernardino, California.

Description: This documentary follows the rise and fall of the internet startup GovWorks.com, offering a real-life look at the startup world, including the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, making it educational for families interested in business.

Fact: The film was one of the first documentaries to capture the dot-com bubble in real-time. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Two salesmen, played by Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson, lose their jobs and decide to intern at Google, showcasing the tech startup culture and the importance of adapting to new environments and learning from younger generations.

Fact: Google allowed the film to be shot on their campus, providing an authentic look at the company's work environment. The film also features real-life Google employees as extras.