This curated collection of ten science fiction films delves into the heart-wrenching yet hopeful theme of children facing illness. These movies not only provide an escape through imaginative storytelling but also offer profound insights into resilience, hope, and the human spirit. Each film in this selection has been chosen for its unique portrayal of illness within a fantastical setting, providing both entertainment and a deeper emotional connection for viewers.
My Girl (1991)
Description: Vada Sultenfuss, a hypochondriac, navigates childhood and friendship with Thomas, who has a severe allergy, leading to tragic consequences.
Fact: Macaulay Culkin, who played Thomas, was already a star from "Home Alone" when this film was made. The film was set in the 1970s, reflecting the era's fashion and culture.
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A Little Princess (1995)
Description: Sarah Crewe, sent to boarding school, uses her imagination to cope with her father's presumed death and her own hardships, including a friend's illness.
Fact: The film was directed by Alfonso Cuarón, who later directed "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." It was shot in Los Angeles, with the school scenes filmed at the Greystone Mansion.
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A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)
Description: This film explores the life of David, a childlike android designed to love, who yearns for acceptance from his human family, especially after his human brother falls ill.
Fact: The film was originally conceived by Stanley Kubrick and later directed by Steven Spielberg. The teddy bear in the movie was voiced by Jack Angel.
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The Lovely Bones (2009)
Description: Susie Salmon, after her untimely death, watches over her family from heaven, where she sees her sister dealing with a mysterious illness.
Fact: The film was directed by Peter Jackson, who also directed the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The visual effects for the in-between world were created by Weta Digital.
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The Secret of Moonacre (2008)
Description: Maria Merryweather inherits her father's estate and discovers a magical world where she must save the Moon Princess, who is sick due to a curse.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Little White Horse" by Elizabeth Goudge. It was the last film role for actor Tim Curry before his retirement.
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Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
Description: Jess and Leslie create an imaginary kingdom where they escape from their troubles, including the illness of Jess's sister.
Fact: The film was adapted from Katherine Paterson's novel of the same name. The treehouse in the film was built in New Zealand.
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The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)
Description: While not directly about illness, the film's theme of innocence and the impact of war on children resonates with the theme of vulnerability and sickness.
Fact: The film was adapted from John Boyne's novel. It was shot in Hungary, with the camp scenes filmed at the Korda Studios.
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The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: Hazel Grace Lancaster, battling terminal cancer, finds love and adventure with Augustus Waters, who has lost a leg to bone cancer.
Fact: The film is based on John Green's bestselling novel. The Anne Frank House scene was filmed with permission from the Anne Frank Foundation.
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The Space Between Us (2017)
Description: Gardner Elliot, born on Mars, comes to Earth to find his father, facing health challenges due to his unique upbringing.
Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, with some scenes filmed in Albuquerque. It explores themes of isolation and the human need for connection.
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The Cure (1995)
Description: Two young boys, one with AIDS, embark on a journey to find a cure, blending reality with their imaginative escapades.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of a boy with AIDS. It was one of the first mainstream films to address the topic of pediatric AIDS.
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