Family Films About Scientists

Description: An alien arrives on Earth with a warning about humanity's destructive behavior. This classic sci-fi film explores themes of science, peace, and the potential for global change.

Fact: The film was remade in 2008, but the original is often considered superior for its message and subtlety.

Description: A classic Disney film about a professor who invents a substance called "Flubber," which has anti-gravity properties. It's a light-hearted look at the potential and pitfalls of scientific discovery.

Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Special Effects, and was one of Disney's most successful films of the 1960s.

Description: A college student accidentally gains the knowledge of a computer after an electrical mishap. This Disney comedy explores the humorous side of technology and intelligence.

Fact: This film was part of Disney's "Dexter Riley" series, which also included "Now You See Him, Now You Don't" and "The Strongest Man in the World."

Description: This animated film involves a group of intelligent rats who were part of a scientific experiment. It's a touching story that delves into themes of intelligence, survival, and the ethics of animal testing.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien, and it was Don Bluth's first feature film after leaving Disney.

Description: While not exclusively about scientists, Dr. Emmett Brown's inventions drive the plot, making it a great family film that explores time travel and the ethics of scientific experimentation.

Fact: The DeLorean time machine was chosen for its futuristic look, and the film has inspired numerous scientific discussions about time travel.

Description: This film follows an eccentric scientist who accidentally shrinks his children and their friends to the size of insects. It's a fun, family-friendly adventure that highlights the wonders of science through a comedic lens.

Fact: The film was so popular that it spawned two sequels and a TV show. The special effects used to create the miniature world were groundbreaking at the time.

Description: Professor Philip Brainard invents a substance that can bounce, fly, and even think. This family comedy showcases the chaotic and humorous side of scientific invention.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1961 film "The Absent-Minded Professor," and the original Flubber was made from a mixture of rubber cement, mineral oil, and sodium silicate.

Description: While primarily a comedy, this film features a character who inadvertently gets involved in a scientific plot, showcasing the lighter side of espionage and science.

Fact: The film was adapted from a British stage play, and Bill Murray's performance adds a unique comedic touch.

Description: While more about a robot, the film touches on themes of artificial intelligence and the human capacity for understanding and compassion, making it a poignant choice for this list.

Fact: Brad Bird, the director, fought to keep the film's darker themes intact, believing they would resonate with audiences.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a young boy in a coal-mining town who becomes fascinated with rocketry, inspired by the launch of Sputnik. It's a tale of perseverance and the pursuit of scientific dreams.

Fact: The film's title is an anagram of "Sputnik," reflecting the influence of the Soviet satellite on the protagonist's life.