Family-Friendly Movies for Summer 2012

A movie is an easy, entertaining, and indoor way to fill a few hours of a long summer day. You can make a day of it and spend some time out of the house at the theater, or pop some popcorn and rent a DVD to watch at home for a relaxing, low-key treat. Either way, it’s a fun activity for your kids with little effort required on your part. There are a few movies in the theater and coming to DVD this summer that were made with families in mind. If you’re in the market for a movie day, you’ll want to check these out.

• In the theater: Brave. You’ve probably heard of this one. This new Pixar movie, released into theaters on June 22nd, looks to be a big hit. It’s set in Scotland, and features an archer named Merida who defies family and tradition to escape entering into an arranged marriage. She then turns to a witch for some ill-conceived help. By the end of the movie, she must discover her own bravery and mend the rift in her family.
• In the theater: Ice Age: Continental Drift. Released into theaters on July 13th, you may recognize this as Ice Age 4. Fans of the previous films will be thrilled to reunite with Manny, Sid, and Diego as they sail the world on an iceberg. Along the way, they encounter pirates, sea creatures, and long-lost loved ones.
• On DVD: The Lorax. Coming to DVD August 7th, this is a must-see for anyone who loves Dr. Seuss. The movie differs slightly from the book; the movie version of The Lorax is the story of a boy who discovers the importance of nature in his quest to find a real tree to impress his crush, and of the Lorax, the somewhat grouchy protector of his environment and hope for the future.
• On DVD: The Pirates! Band of Misfits. Coming to DVD on August 28th, just in time for an end of summer treat, this movie looks like a lot of fun. The somewhat bumbling Pirate Captain and his crew are determined to beat out their rivals for the Pirate of the Year Award. On the way to achieving that goal, they have adventures in exotic locations, battle an evil queen, and join forces with a young scientist. This is a screwball comedy that should entertain parents as well as kids.

These are just a few of the movies you should be able to choose from this summer. Either in the theater or on DVD, your family has plenty of options for your cinematic satisfaction. Take a break from the beach, the pool and the heat and relax with a family-friendly flick!
What are your favorite summertime movies?