This curated selection of family films delves into the fascinating world of electricity, offering both educational insights and heartwarming stories. These films not only entertain but also teach viewers of all ages about the power and magic of electricity, making them perfect for family movie nights or educational viewing sessions.
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)
Description: This classic sci-fi film features an alien visitor who demonstrates the power of electricity by stopping all machinery on Earth, teaching a lesson about the potential of electricity and its control.
Fact: The film was remade in 2008 with Keanu Reeves. The original film was added to the National Film Registry in
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The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes (1969)
Description: This Disney comedy involves a student gaining computer-like abilities after an electrical accident, humorously exploring the intersection of electricity and technology.
Fact: The film was part of Disney's "Dexter Riley" series, which also included "Now You See Him, Now You Don't." Kurt Russell starred in all three films.
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Back to the Future (1985)
Description: The iconic DeLorean time machine runs on a "flux capacitor," which, while fictional, introduces kids to the concept of energy conversion and the importance of electricity in powering innovative devices.
Fact: The film's famous clock tower scene was shot at the Universal Studios backlot. The original script had the time machine powered by nuclear energy.
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Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
Description: Wayne Szalinski's shrinking machine uses electricity to power its experimental technology, providing a fun and educational look at how electricity can be harnessed for scientific discovery.
Fact: The film spawned two sequels and a TV show. The original script had the kids being shrunk to the size of ants.
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Flubber (1997)
Description: Professor Philip Brainard's invention, Flubber, is powered by electricity, showing kids the creative and sometimes chaotic applications of electrical energy in science.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1961 Disney film "The Absent-Minded Professor." Robin Williams improvised much of his dialogue.
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The Iron Giant (1999)
Description: This animated film features a robot that learns about electricity and its uses, emphasizing themes of self-discovery and the ethical use of technology.
Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. Brad Bird, the director, also directed "The Incredibles."
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The Incredibles (2004)
Description: This animated adventure showcases a family of superheroes, with Mr. Incredible using his super strength to manipulate electrical systems, teaching kids about the power and potential dangers of electricity.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in
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The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: While not directly about electricity, this film features a memorable scene where the protagonist, Walter Mitty, uses his knowledge of electricity to save the day, highlighting the importance of understanding basic electrical concepts.
Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by James Thurber. The scene where Walter Mitty uses electricity was improvised by Ben Stiller.
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The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
Description: In this animated adventure, Tintin encounters various electrical devices and gadgets, showcasing how electricity can be used in solving mysteries and adventures.
Fact: The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by Peter Jackson. It was the first feature film to use the performance capture technology developed for "Avatar."
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The Electric Company (1971)
Description: Although primarily a TV show, this educational series used electricity as a theme to teach reading and math, making it a unique entry in our list for its educational value on electricity.
Fact: The show was created by the Children's Television Workshop, which also produced "Sesame Street." It featured Morgan Freeman in one of his earliest roles.
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