As the year draws to a close, parents looking for fresh entertainment for the family have a lot to be excited about! From theater productions that celebrate Filipino folklore to family movies that bring beloved characters to life on the big screen, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of upcoming family-friendly films and shows that you won’t want to miss!
4 Highly anticipated family movies this season!
1. The Wild Robot (October 9, 2024)
Get ready for a heartwarming adventure with DreamWorks Animation’s “The Wild Robot”. Based on the best-selling novel by Peter Brown, this animated film follows the story of Roz, a robot stranded on an uninhabited island. Roz, voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, learns to navigate her harsh surroundings and eventually becomes the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling.
This is one of the most anticipated family movies that promises to touch on themes of survival, belonging, and the emotional journey of discovering one’s place in the world. With a stellar voice cast including Pedro Pascal, Catherine O’Hara, and Kit Connor, The Wild Robot is set to be a cinematic treat for parents and their kids!
Photo credits: Universal Pictures International
2.The Forge (October 9, 2024)
“The Forge,” the latest release from the Kendrick Brothers – the creative team behind the No. 1 box-office hit “War Room,” as well as “Overcomer,” “Courageous” and “Fireproof” – will be showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas starting October 9.
Directed and co-written by Alex Kendrick, “The Forge” is sure to inspire discipleship and prayerfulness as it tells the story of a young man named Isaiah Wright. A year out of high school with no plans for his future, Isaiah is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayers of his mother and her friend Miss Clara, as well as biblical discipleship from his new mentor, Isaiah begins to discover God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine. In “The Forge,” moviegoers will find themselves reconnecting with characters and actors they’ve known and loved as they dive into a compelling new story that is certain to inspire and challenge people to grow deeper in their faith.
3. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (October 16, 2024)
The story of Christopher Reeve is an astonishing rise from unknown actor to iconic movie star. Reeve portrayed the Man of Steel in four “Superman” films and played dozens of other roles that displayed his talent and range as an actor, before being injured in a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. After becoming a quadriplegic, he became a charismatic leader and activist in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injuries, as well as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care – all while continuing his career in cinema in front of and behind the camera and dedicating himself to his beloved family. This film includes never-before-seen intimate home movies and an extraordinary trove of personal archive material, as well as the first extended interviews ever filmed with Reeve’s three children about their father, and interviews with the A-list Hollywood actors who were Reeve’s colleagues and friends.
4. The Colors Within (October 23, 2024)
High school student Totsuko (Sayu Suzukawa) can see the “colors” of others – colors of bliss, excitement, serenity, and many others. She forms a band with fellow student Kimi (Akari Takaishi), who gives off the most beautiful color Totsuko has ever seen. Rounding out their band is Rui (Taisei Kido), a music enthusiast they meet in a far corner of town. Even though Totsuko does not play an instrument, music brings them together.
5. Red One (November 6, 2024)
The mission to save Christmas is on in the action-comedy “Red One,” starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, hitting cinemas on November 6. Directed by Jake Kasdan, known for his work on the “Jumanji” films, this holiday adventure follows the Head of Security at the North Pole (Johnson) teaming up with a notorious bounty hunter (Evans) after Santa Claus is kidnapped. With a screenplay by Chris Morgan and a star-studded cast including Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka, Bonnie Hunt, Kristofer Hivju, Nick Kroll, Wesley Kimmel, and J.K. Simmons, “Red One” promises a fresh twist on the festive season. Don’t miss the new trailer and join the conversation using #RedOneMovie!
6. Moana 2 (November 27, 2024)
Moana and Maui are back in the highly anticipated Moana 2, set to hit Philippine theaters in November. In this sequel, Moana embarks on a new journey across the ocean, reconnecting her people with their ancestors. Fans can expect more breathtaking visuals, catchy songs, and the return of beloved characters like Hei Hei the Rooster and Pua the Pig.
For families who loved the original Moana, this is one of the family movies you won’t want to miss. The film promises to deliver the same inspiring message of courage, leadership, and cultural pride that resonated in the first movie.
7. A Minecraft Movie (April 2, 2025)
For families who love gaming, A Minecraft Movie is sure to be a hit! This live-action adaptation brings the blocky world of Minecraft to life, starring Jason Momoa and Jack Black. The movie follows four misfit friends who are pulled through a mysterious portal into the Minecraft Overworld. There, they must team up with Steve, the expert crafter, to face dangerous foes like Piglins and Zombies while learning the importance of creativity.
This highly anticipated family movie will inspire both kids and adults to embrace their imagination and problem-solving skills as they watch the characters embark on their epic adventure.
Photo credits: Warner Bros. Pictures
8. Mufasa: The Lion King (December 18, 2024)
Disney fans will also be excited for Mufasa: The Lion King, coming to theaters this December. Told in flashbacks by Rafiki, this film recounts Mufasa’s origins as an orphaned cub who overcomes adversity to become king.
With a star-studded cast including Donald Glover, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, and John Kani, this family movie will give audiences a deeper understanding of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. Mufasa: The Lion King is sure to be a roaring success with families looking to relive the magic of the original film.
4 Must-watch family-friendly theater plays & productions
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Bar Boys: A New Musical (October 4 to November 3, 2024)
For families who love theater, Bar Boys: A New Musical is a must-watch! After a successful run earlier this year, this adaptation of Kip F. Oebanda’s 2017 film is back on stage. Following the lives of four friends as they navigate the challenges of law school and life, this musical production highlights the value of friendship, resilience, and justice.
With direction by Pat Valera and original music by Myke Salomon, Bar Boys will run from October 4 to November 3, 2024, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. It’s a great introduction to Filipino theater for tweens and teens who want to experience local culture through the lens of contemporary storytelling.
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Jepoy and the Magic Circle (October 5, 2024)
If you’re looking to introduce your children to local culture, Jepoy and the Magic Circle is a must-watch theater production. Staged by Repertory Philippines’ RTYA at their new home in Eastwood, Quezon City, this interactive musical is based on a Palanca Award-winning short story by Gilda Cordero Fernando.
The show follows Jepoy, a young boy, as he stumbles into a magical realm filled with legendary Filipino creatures like the Kapre and Maria Makiling. Directed by Joy Virata, this production offers vibrant costumes, puppetry, and original music. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to appreciate Filipino folklore and learn about the importance of caring for the environment.
Photo credits: Repertory Philippines
3. Sandosenang Sapatos (November 15 to December 8, 2024)
Sandosenang Sapatos, a beloved musical from Tanghalang Pilipino’s previous season, is returning this November. Adapted from Dr. Luis Gatmaitan’s touching short story, the musical follows the journey of a child who, born without feet, dreams of fulfilling her father’s wish for her to be a ballerina.
The show features enchanting music and a heartfelt story about perseverance and understanding. With a creative team led by director Jonathan Tadioan and stage adaptation by Layeta Bucoy, Sandosenang Sapatos promises a moving experience for families. Running from November 15 to December 8, 2024, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, this production will be a wonderful way to end the year with your loved ones.
4. Balete (September 13 to October 6, 2024)
Tanghalang Pilipino’s Balete brings to life the novel Tree by National Artist F. Sionil Jose. This stage adaptation tells the story of a young boy in a small Ilokano town grappling with societal and class divisions.
Directed by Chris Millado, with a creative team including Rody Vera (adaptation), Delphine Buencamino (assistant direction), and Teresa Barrozo (music arrangement), Balete offers a deep dive into Filipino social dynamics and the complexities of growing up in a divided society. Running from September 13 to October 6, 2024, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, this play is an insightful and impactful watch for older children and adults.
5. Gary V Back @MC! (October 11, 2024)
Join Mr. Pure Energy, Gary Valenciano, along with the Aliw Award-winning all-woman band Rhythm n’ Babes and the MC High School hip-hop Sayawatha Dance Troupe for GaryV Back@MC on October 11, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Marian Auditorium at Miriam College. Proceeds will support alumni projects, scholars, and activities for the college’s centennial celebration in 2026. Purchase your tickets in the TicketWorld website or call TicketWorld Mobile at +63999 954 5922 / +63917 550 6997, or contact the Maryknoll/Miriam College Alumni Association (MMCAA) at 8930 6272 local 1187.
