An excuse to hold more family movie nights

I love when we have a family movie night. There is the popcorn, the curling up together on the couch and the ability to pause the movie when someone needs a drink refill or has to use the bathroom.

When we watch movies at our house, my husband and I usually pick the movie. This is because if we left this decision up to our son, we would end up watching one of the Kung Fu Panda movies for around the 500th time. Don't get me wrong - they are wonderful movies, but if I can quote most of the lines to something, then we have seen it too often.

So, my husband and I have started to analyze movies from our youth (many of which we have to look up on Common Sense Media to refresh our memories) to see if there are any movies worth passing on. And this has lead to us having some great after-the-movie conversations.

Like: "What did Willow have to do to get better at magic?"

Or: "How was Wesley able to overcome all the obstacles to return to Buttercup?"

And: "Why didn't Sara just give up on solving the labyrinth and return home?"

The conversations that ensue remind me how important it is to point out both the good and bad parts of movies with children. So, yes, talk about the bad parts as a way to learn lessons about drugs and bad choices, but also talk about the good moments to explain the consequences of bravery and determination. And, finally, talk about the human moments where someone didn't do their best and needed to work harder.

As we continue to watch movies, I will try to remember what my son connected with. Because I never know when I will need that movie example to apply to his real life.

What movies do you like watching with your family? Tell me some of your favorites in the comments.