The Power of Film
During our trip to Kartchner Caverns we watched a 15-minute video about how and why the cave became a State park. The founders talked about their reasons for wanting to protect it. They talked about their sense of responsibility to protect their beautiful Xanadu from the unfortunate fate of other caves, like this one:
- Trou de la Louve cave, stripped of every formation except for a stalagmite that was too big to carry (but not too big to destroy).
It was an inspiring film. My 10-year-old was particularly touched by it. It was an unexpected opportunity to reinforce the values of individual responsibility toward ourselves, others and our world.
I’ve recently come to appreciate the fact that film is a powerful way to reach children. In an upcoming post, I’ll share which recently-released movie became the basis for a Family Home Evening lesson.
Meanwhile, because this is what I do, here’s a scouting requirement that capitalizes on the power of movies (and would make a great FHE as well):
Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge requirement 5: “With the approval of your counselor and a parent, watch a movie that shows how the actions of one individual or group of individuals can have a positive effect on a community. Discuss with your counselor what you learned from the movie about what it means to be a valuable and concerned member of the community. Some suggestions:
Follow Me, Boys (G)
It’s a Wonderful Life (G)
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (G)
Remember the Titans (PG)
October Sky (PG)
Mr. Holland’s Opus (PG)
Hoosiers (PG)
Pay It Forward (PG13)
Braveheart (R)
The Patriot (R)”
As an LDS mom, I’m thankful BSA made things easy on me by including the ratings right there in the text.
Anyone know of any other movies that would be good for this requirement?
It is an older movie–kinda slower–like Hoosier, but 12 Angry Men–about a 12 person jury. Really suggest watching that one!