Films About Race for Kids
Films about race for kids tackle themes of racial differences, diversity, and inclusion in a manner that is accessible and engaging for younger audiences. These movies often aim to educate children about the importance of accepting others regardless of their skin color, ethnic background, or cultural practices. Through storytelling, characters, and sometimes real-life events, these films can help foster a sense of empathy and understanding among kids, encouraging them to appreciate and celebrate the diverse world around them.
“Zootopia”, 2016
Director: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, Jared Bush
This animated film from Disney depicts a city inhabited by anthropomorphic animals, where a bunny cop and a cynical con artist fox must work together to uncover a conspiracy. It cleverly addresses themes of prejudice and stereotypes, making it a great conversation starter about race and diversity for kids.
Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Jenny Slate, Nate Torrence, Bonnie Hunt, Don Lake, Tommy Chong, J.K. Simmons, Octavia Spencer;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: animation, comedy, crime, detective, adventure, family, action;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “Zootopia” on the website imdb.com
“Remember the Titans”, 2000
Director: Boaz Yakin
Based on a true story, this film follows a newly integrated Virginia high school football team in 1971. The team, along with their coaches, must overcome racial tensions to find unity and success. It's a powerful story of overcoming prejudice, suitable for older kids.
Starring: Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris, Ryan Hurst, Donald Faison, Craig Kirkwood, Ethan Suplee, Kip Pardue, Hayden Panettiere, Nicole Ari Parker;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: biography, sport, drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 113 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Remember the Titans” on the website imdb.com
“The Color of Friendship”, 2000
Director: Kevin Hooks
A Disney Channel Original Movie inspired by true events, it tells the story of a friendship between a black American girl and a white South African girl during apartheid. It explores themes of racial prejudice and the power of friendship to overcome them.
Starring: Lindsey Haun, Shadia Simmons, Carl Lumbly, Penny Johnson Jerald, Anthony Burnett, Travis Kyle Davis, Melanie Nicholls-King, Susan Danford, Stephen Jennings, Michael Kanevsky;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: drama, family, biography;
Duration: 87 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “The Color of Friendship” on the website imdb.com
“Ruby Bridges”, 1998
Director: Euzhan Palcy
This film is based on the true story of Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to desegregate an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960. It's a poignant look at the courage of a young girl and her family in the face of racism.
Starring: Penelope Ann Miller, Kevin Pollak, Michael Beach, Jean Louisa Kelly, Peter Francis James, Patrika Darbo, Chaz Monet, Diana Scarwid, Lela Rochon, Toni Ann Johnson;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: drama;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Ruby Bridges” on the website imdb.com
“Raya and the Last Dragon”, 2021
Director: Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada, Paul Briggs, John Ripa
In this animated fantasy film, Raya, a young warrior, must track down the legendary last dragon to stop the evil forces threatening her home. The movie celebrates cultural diversity, with a focus on themes of trust and unity across different backgrounds.
Starring: Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, Izaac Wang, Gemma Chan, Daniel Dae Kim, Benedict Wong, Jona Xiao, Sandra Oh, Thalia Tran, Lucille Soong;
Production year: 2021;
Genre: animation, fantasy, action, drama, comedy, adventure, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 107 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Raya and the Last Dragon” on the website imdb.com
“Hidden Figures”, 2016
Director: Theodore Melfi
Although more suitable for older kids, this film tells the inspiring true story of three African-American women mathematicians at NASA who played crucial roles in the space race. It addresses racial and gender discrimination while highlighting perseverance and intelligence.
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell, Kimberly Quinn;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Hidden Figures” on the website imdb.com
“Akeelah and the Bee”, 2006
Director: Doug Atchison
This film follows Akeelah Anderson, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles, as she strives to win a national spelling bee competition. It touches on themes of socio-economic and racial challenges while emphasizing the importance of community support and determination.
Starring: Keke Palmer, Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett, Curtis Armstrong, J.R. Villarreal, Sean Michael, Sahara Ware, Lee Thompson Young, Julito McCullum, Erica Hubbard;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Akeelah and the Bee” on the website imdb.com
While these films are aimed at children, they provide valuable lessons for viewers of all ages, promoting discussions around race and diversity that can contribute to broader understanding and acceptance.
In conclusion, films about race for children play a crucial role in fostering empathy, understanding, and a broad perspective on diversity from a young age. Through engaging stories and relatable characters, these films gently introduce complex themes of racial diversity, discrimination, and inclusivity, laying the groundwork for a more open-minded and racially aware generation. By presenting these issues in a context that children can understand and empathize with, these movies not only entertain but also educate, prompting important conversations between children and adults. They serve as essential tools in building a foundation of respect and appreciation for the rich tapestry of human culture, encouraging kids to cherish individual differences while recognizing our shared humanity. As society continues to grapple with racial issues, the importance of such films cannot be overstated; they are beacons of hope and understanding in the quest for a more inclusive world for everyone.
