It’s been a tough year. War, a pandemic, and political strife are just a few of our challenges. The film business has faced obstacles of its own and a looming recession won’t make 2023 any easier. Yet, today is Thanksgiving, and we have a lot to be grateful for. As we gather with family and friends, how about celebrating hope and gratitude with a taste of movie magic? We’ve pulled 10 for you to consider, from classics like The Wizard of Oz to A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, and a few that may not be on your radar.
Let’s kick things off with Oscar winner Life is Beautiful, one of my all-time favorites, and a movie I had the pleasure of presenting at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood in 1998. I will be forever grateful to have had the opportunity of introducing actor/director, Roberto Benigni that night, leading to an experience the crowd will never forget. AFI Fest had never opened with a foreign film, and many in the audience had yet to see a movie with subtitles. They were grateful for the new experience.
Life is Beautiful (1997)
A persecuted father maintains determination to keep his son happy during a world war.
Up (2009)
An elderly man journeys to make his late wife's dream come true.
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
Two opposite personalities work together to overcome an obstacle to their destinations.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
An angel helps a depressed man realize how many lives he has changed for the better.
Inside Out (2015)
A girl has conflicting emotions after moving to a different home with her parents.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
A countryside girl believes she needs magic to find happiness but discovers it from her family.
Mary Poppins (1964)
After meeting an extraordinary nanny and her friend, two children eagerly pass on positivity to their parents.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Two kids inspire their friends to embrace the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
Soul Food (1997)
A medical incident depresses a family, but its members persevere in maintaining family traditions.
The Blind Side (2009)
A white couple embraces a homeless black teen which positively transforms their lives.
We hope you get a chance to enjoy one of these classics with your family, and have great Thanksgiving. Know that we appreciate you and your support.