Family oriented movies seem to be making a comeback over the last several years.  The trend seems to coincide with a poor economy and the need to cut back on expenses and spending more time at home.  More family time creates a need for more family style entertainment which appeals to all ages.

            Many family oriented movies contain several myths.  One of the more prevalent myths is good prevails over evil.  The character or characters in the movie are basically good and come up against evil and ultimately defeat evil through goodness. The main character may also be good at heart but give in to temptation, then come back to the side of good by the end of the movie and be projected as a “winner”.   Some movies are based in the premise of achieving a dream.  The message is clear through the plot of the movie, if you just believe and work hard enough, you will be successful.  The dreamer/worker may have to suffer ridicule or trials and tribulations, but ultimately comes out the victor.  Some characters may become icons, such as Lightning McQueen in the movie Cars.

            Icons can become a means for a message to be associated with a character in the movies.  When the icon is presented to the audience, he/she may be associated with good or evil behavior, or be a symbol of what someone may achieve if the follow the icon’s behavior.  Lightning McQueen, for instance, represents what can happen if you take the time to listen and learn.  Dreams can come true if you have patience and take the time to work for them.  Respecting those around you is important to character building and becoming successful, as is portrayed by this icon.  Lightning shows friends are what matters the most and only enhance becoming successful.

            Keys to success, achieving dreams, being respected and giving respect, having faith and working hard to achieve your dream seem to be prevailing messages in family oriented movies.  There is a definite pattern of a belief of good over evil, the importance of good morals, and the realization of dreams through faith and hard work.  The ending most generally is a “happily ever after”.