Barbara's Picks

Grown-Up Movies
Seven Samurai Kurosawa's 1954 masterpiece - on which The Magnificent Seven was based - is a must-see for any family. A real study in human character and our response to adversity. Our family has watched this again and again.
 
Henry V Shakespeare’s portrait of a youthful leader coming into his own, and Kenneth Branagh’s interpretation are equally stunning. In this incomparable film, we are privileged to see every trial that could beset a leader -- factionalism, treachery, doubts, and loneliness -- and the flawless response of a man destined for victory. And in counterpoint we see the weak and confused responses of leaders destined for defeat. In the end there is little doubt why Henry was able to defeat his French foes at Agincourt though outnumbered ten to one.
 
Soapdish You've heard of a play within a play. How about a soap opera within a soap opera? Pay no attention to Amazon's summary, but read the customer reviews. This absolutely hilarious comedy with Sallie Fields, Kevin Kline, and Whoopie Goldberg will keep you laughing even after the final credits. 1991 - PG-13
 
24 Yes, I confess. I LOVE 24! If you want to give it a try, start with Season One and curl up with your husband after the little ones are in bed. He will love it! Teens will too. Yes, there is torture and violence, but it's a fantasy where the good guys have to make hard choices to win.
 
Brother Sun, Sister Moon One of my personal favorites! I first saw this movie in San Francisco when a bus of Jesus freaks wandered into town and showed it a local church. Though it would be another ten years before I became a believer, this movie planted a vision of what a relationship with God might look like.
Directed by Franco Zeferelli with music by Donovan, the story of St. Francis of Assisi’s story: his renunciation of a life of wealth and luxury, and his decision to live as Christ, helping “the least of these.” Vividly contrasts outer religious forms and true spiritual relationship. 6+
 
Seven Samurai In this Japanese epic (1954) the granddaddy of many American films, a village threatened by marauders hires seven professional soldiers to protect them. Detailed, fascinating, and perceptive look at human nature and relationships. 8+