Films About Children's Television
The world of children's television has inspired a range of films that explore themes of imagination, friendship, and the impact of media on young audiences. These films often feature beloved characters from television shows, bringing them to the big screen in stories that resonate with both children and nostalgic adults. From animated adventures to live-action comedies, these films celebrate the magic of childhood and the joy of storytelling.
“The Muppets”, 2011
Director: James Bobin
This musical comedy revives the beloved Muppet characters from the classic children's television show, as they come together to save their old theater from a greedy oil tycoon. Full of humor, catchy songs, and heartwarming moments, it captures the essence of what made the Muppets iconic.
Starring: Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Rashida Jones, Jack Black, Alan Arkin, Emily Blunt, Steve Whitmire, Eric Jacobson, Dave Goelz, David Rudman, Matt Vogel, Peter Linz, Bill Cobbs, Zach Galifianakis, Ken Jeong, Jim Parsons, Eddie Pepitone, Kristen Schaal, Sarah Silverman, Eddie «Piolin» Sotelo, Raymond Ma, Shu Lan Tuan, Donald Glover, Dahlia Waingort Guigui, Jonathan Palmer, Don Yanan, Michael Albala, Julia Marie Franzese, Gunnar Smith, Connor Gallagher, Justin Marco, Cameron Kasal, Justin Tinucci, Alex Long, Aria Noelle Curzon, James Carville, Leslie Feist, Whoopi Goldberg, Selena Gomez, Dave Grohl, Neil Patrick Harris, Judd Hirsch, John Krasinski, Rico Rodriguez, Mickey Rooney, Tyler Bunch, Bruce Lanoil, Michelan Sisti;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: musical, comedy, adventure, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Muppets” on the website imdb.com
“The Magic School Bus Rides Again: Kids in Space”, 2020
Director: Richard Weston
While technically a special, this animated film continues the legacy of the beloved children’s television series. Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a cosmic journey to explore space, blending education and entertainment seamlessly.
Starring: Kate McKinnon, Matthew Mucci, Mikaela Blake, Gabby Clarke, Roman Lutterotti, Leke Maceda-Rustecki, Birva Pandya, Lynsey Pham, Kaden Stephen, Chris Hadfield, Becky Grimm, Kintaro Akiyama;
Production year: 2020;
Genre: animation, science fiction, comedy, adventure, family;
Duration: 45 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,3;
More information about the film “The Magic School Bus Rides Again: Kids in Space” on the website imdb.com
“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, 2014
Director: Jonathan Liebesman
This live-action film brings the popular animated series to life as the four ninja turtles fight against the evil Shredder in New York City. It became a cult classic, beloved for its action, humor, and nostalgic appeal.
Starring: Megan Fox, Will Arnett, William Fichtner, Alan Ritchson, Noel Fisher, Pete Ploszek, Johnny Knoxville, Jeremy Howard, Danny Woodburn, Tony Shalhoub, Tohoru Masamune, Whoopi Goldberg, Minae Noji, Abby Elliott, Madison Mason, Taran Killam, K. Todd Freeman, Paul Fitzgerald, Malina Weissman, Venida Evans, Mikal Vega, Braeson Herold, Chris Wylde, Chance Kelly, Rick Chambers, Leyna Nguyen, Derek Mears, Matthew Andrews, Sal Ardisi, Cat Ascienzo, Stacey Bender, Richard Bird, Rick Bolander, Roger Brenner, Chris Brewster, Dondrie Burnham, Cathy Cavadini, Kymberly Clark, Richard R. Corapi, Christopher James Cullen, Sue Dahlman, Joseph Dimartino, Greg Duncan, Kevin Eastman, Robert Ian Evans, Bill Farmer, Alison Fernandez, Emory Davis, Richard Foley, Stephon Fuller;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: science fiction, action, comedy, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 101 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,8;
More information about the film “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” on the website imdb.com
“Bob the Builder: Bob's White Christmas”, 2002
Director: –
This festive special follows Bob and his team as they prepare for Christmas, showcasing teamwork and problem-solving in a charming, family-friendly way.
Starring: Jack Angel, Lachele Carl, Maria Darling, William Dufris, Bill Farmer, Lorelei King, Sonya Leite, Alan Marriott, Mickie McGowan, Phil Proctor;
Production year: 2002;
Genre: ;
Rating: IMDB: 0;
“Dora and the Lost City of Gold”, 2019
Director: James Bobin
Based on the adventurous children's show, this live-action film features Dora as she leads her friends on a mission to save her parents and uncover the secrets of a lost Incan city. It blends adventure and humor while promoting themes of exploration and friendship.
Starring: Isabela Merced, Eugenio Derbez, Michael Peña, Eva Longoria, Jeff Wahlberg, Nicholas Coombe, Madeleine Madden, Temuera Morrison, Benicio Del Toro, Madelyn Miranda, Dee Bradley Baker, Malachi Barton, Sasha Toro, Marc Weiner, Joey Vieira, Pia Miller, Adriana Barraza, Damien Garvey, Anikka Abelita, Daniel Donaldson, Tivon Toito'ona, Emily Bell, Jace Fleming, Michelle Collins, Bailey Hendy, Darcy Worthington, Matt Okine, Natasa Ristic, Christopher Kirby, Christopher Rawlins, Isela Vega, Danny Trejo, Q'Orianka Kilcher, Natalie Kinghorn, Michael Rooney, Daniel Valle, Kate Wormald, Abdulaye Sow, Brooke Schembri, Dustin Taylor, Elke Tulip Paes, Georgia Rothera, James David Portas, Joel Murphy, Kalahni Mia Spink, Karin Mochizuki, Kristin Sparks, Leyton Oliver Bartley Beal, Ly Thanh Dat, Mitchell Adam Marshman;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: fantasy, action, comedy, detective, adventure, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
More information about the film “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” on the website imdb.com
These films not only entertain but also convey important messages that resonate with young audiences, making them a significant part of children's media culture.
In the realm of films about children's television, we are transported to a world of wonder, imagination, and nostalgia. These films beautifully capture the magic and impact that children's shows have on our lives. They delve into the behind-the-scenes drama, the creative process, and the profound influence that these shows have on both the young and young-at-heart. Through heartwarming stories, compelling characters, and a touch of whimsy, these films remind us of the power of innocence, friendship, and the enduring legacy of children's television. Whether we're reliving our own cherished memories or discovering the enchantment for the first time, these films serve as a delightful reminder that the world of children's television is one that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
