Looking for Catholic family movies that are both meaningful and well-made? As always, we got you covered! So, grab the popcorn, gather the crew, and dive into these inspiring Catholic films!
We’ve got you covered and added in some helpful points about them to help you plan out the perfect Catholic family movie night. Check out our picks:
Family Movies
The Miracle Maker (2000)
- Who It’s For: A great option for younger children and families due to its animation style.
- What It’s About: An animated retelling of the life of Jesus from His birth to His resurrection, focusing on His teachings and miracles.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Perfect for Advent, as it captures the joyful and profound mystery of Jesus’ coming.
- Discussion Questions:
- What are some of the miracles Jesus performed in the film? How do they show His compassion?
- How does the film illustrate the meaning of forgiveness and love?
The Sound of Music (1965)
- Who It’s For: Suitable for all ages, though children may enjoy the whimsical aspects more.
- What It’s About: The beloved musical about a young nun turned governess who brings joy and music into the lives of the von Trapp family, facing political turmoil during the rise of Nazism in Austria.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Perfect for family gatherings, especially around the Christmas season.
- Discussion Questions:
- How does Maria’s character growth mirror the themes of faith and redemption in the film?
- What do you think about the von Trapp family’s decision to flee Austria?
Molokai: The Story of Father Damien (1999)
- Who It’s For: Best for older children, teens, and adults interested in historical biographies and stories of selfless dedication.
- What It’s About: This film tells the true story of Father Damien, a Belgian priest who voluntarily went to the leper colony on Molokai, Hawaii, to minister and ultimately sacrifice his life.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Good for those interested in history and the themes of sacrifice and service.
- Discussion Questions:
- How did Father Damien’s faith influence his actions and decisions on Molokai?
- What can we learn from Father Damien about compassion and commitment?
Lilies of the Field (1963)
- Who It’s For: Suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy uplifting and inspirational stories.
- What It’s About: An itinerant worker who encounters a group of East European nuns believes that he has been called to build a chapel for them in the desert.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Great for a feel-good movie night with a message about faith and unlikely friendships.
- Discussion Questions:
- How does the main character’s relationship with the nuns evolve throughout the film?
- What does the film suggest about the impact of faith and determination?
The Prince of Egypt (1998)
- Who It’s For: Older children and families; great for those who enjoy music and powerful biblical storytelling.
- What It’s About: A stunning animated musical based on the Book of Exodus, focusing on Moses’ journey from Egyptian royalty to liberator of God’s people.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Ideal during Lent or Passover season, or when studying the Old Testament.
- Discussion Questions:
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How does Moses’ transformation reflect the journey of discovering one’s calling?
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What moments in the film highlight the power of God’s intervention and promises?
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The Star (2017)
- Who It’s For: Perfect for younger children and families looking for a fun, faith-based Christmas film.
- What It’s About: A charming animated story of the Nativity told from the perspective of the animals who witnessed Jesus’ birth, especially a brave donkey named Bo.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Excellent for Advent and Christmas; especially useful for introducing little ones to the Nativity story.
- Discussion Questions:
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What role did Bo and his friends play in helping Mary and Joseph?
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How does the film help children understand the true meaning of Christmas?
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Movies for Adults
A Man for All Seasons (1966)
Who It’s For: Best for teens and adults due to its complex themes and historical depth.
What It’s About: The story of Sir Thomas More, who stood up to King Henry VIII when the King rejected the Roman Catholic Church to obtain a divorce and remarry.
Best Time/Reason to Watch: Great for discussions on integrity and standing up for one’s beliefs.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Thomas More exemplify the values of courage and faith?
- What lessons can we learn about moral convictions from his stand against the king?
The Mission (1986)
- Who It’s For: Suitable for older teens and adults due to its deeper themes.
- What It’s About: The story of a Jesuit missionary (played by Robert De Niro) who converts the indigenous people of South America in the 18th century.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Good for a Sunday evening or during social justice-focused church teachings.
- Discussion Questions:
- What sacrifices did Rodrigo make in the film? How does his faith guide his decisions?
- How does the film explore the tension between faith, power, and colonialism?
A Hidden Life (2019)
- Who It’s For: Adults due to its mature themes.
- What It’s About: The story of a conscientious objector, Franz Jägerstätter, during WWII who refuses to fight for the Nazis and is martyred for his faith.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Perfect during the Lenten season to reflect on themes of sacrifice and the struggle to follow one’s conscience.
- Discussion Questions:
- What would you do in Franz’s situation? How does his faith guide his decisions?
- How does the film depict the tension between duty to the state and duty to God?
The Passion of the Christ (2004)
- Who It’s For: Adults and older teens due to its intense subject matter.
- What It’s About: A deeply moving portrayal of the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life, from His arrest to His crucifixion and resurrection.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Ideal for Holy Week, especially on Good Friday.
- Discussion Questions:
- How does the film depict Jesus’ suffering and what does that teach us about His love for humanity?
- What was most impactful for you in this portrayal of Jesus’ passion?
Les Miserables
- Who It’s For: Adults and older teens due to its mature themes.
- What It’s About: This film focuses on the life of Jean Valjean, a former convict who seeks to transform his life amidst the tumultuous backdrop of 19th-century France.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Great one for the Christmas season to reflect on its powerful themes of redemption and mercy.
- Discussion Questions:
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- How do Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert represent the conflict between justice and mercy, and what does this reveal about forgiveness?
- How does Les Misérables illustrate through its characters’ responses to societal inequality?
Bella (2006)
- Who It’s For: Suitable for teens and adults due to its emotional depth and mature themes.
- What It’s About: The film follows the life-changing day between a New York City chef and a troubled waitress, exploring themes of redemption, family, and unexpected love.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Ideal for discussions on life choices and the impact of kindness.
- Discussion Questions:
- How do the characters’ pasts influence their decisions throughout the film?
- What does the film say about the power of personal redemption and second chances?
Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018)
- Who It’s For: Suitable for teens and adults interested in biblical stories and early Christian history.
- What It’s About: The film focuses on the final days of Paul the Apostle in prison as he reflects on his life and writings while awaiting execution under Nero’s rule.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Perfect for Easter season or a study on early Christianity.
- Discussion Questions:
- How does the film portray Paul’s transformation from persecutor to apostle?
- What messages about forgiveness and faith does the film convey through Paul’s character?
For Greater Glory (2012)
- Who It’s For: Best for older teens and adults due to its intense scenes and historical political themes.
- What It’s About: The film is a historical drama about the Cristero War in Mexico, which was a popular uprising against the anti-Catholic Mexican government policies in the 1920s.
- Best Time/Reason to Watch: Excellent for discussions on religious freedom and the cost of standing up for one’s beliefs.
- Discussion Questions:
- How do the characters in the film respond to religious persecution?
- What can this historical conflict teach us about modern struggles for religious and personal freedoms?
Additional Resources
Looking for more ways to spend quality and holy time with your family? Why not start a family bible study? We have tons of guides and resources here on our blog:
- You Can Lead a GREAT Bible Study
- “Be Not Afraid!”: Tips to Lead a Catholic Bible Study
- Salvation History: A Bible Study, Beginning with Adam & Eve
Another great way to encourage spirituality as a family is to create a prayer space in your home. Kids will love being a part of this project!
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