Classic Holiday Movies for Kids and 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'

By Common Sense Media December 1, 2015

Common Sense Media shares its ratings for three classic Christmas movies, and what to expect in Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens, in theaters Dec. 18.

If you celebrate Christmas, there's no doubt that you've seen Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Miracle on 34th Street, and It's a Wonderful Life. We're sure you can't wait to share these holiday movies with your kids—we can't!—but when is the right age to screen these classics? Common Sense Media shares its ratings, and the appropriate ages, for these holiday classics. Plus, what to expect in the newest theatrical release of the Star Wars franchsie: Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

Recommended Age: 3+
An old-school, heartwarming classic for all ages.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Recommended Age: 6+
A classic holiday movie for the whole family.

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Recommended Age: 9+
This classic delivers warmth all year long.

In Theaters Dec. 18: Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens

Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens is set approximately 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi. Directed by J.J. Abrams, this seventh installment in the Star Wars saga is the first in a planned new trilogy continuing George Lucas’ epic adventure. Many of the franchise’s iconic characters are returning, including Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Chewbacca, R2-D2, and C-3PO. The star-studded cast also includes Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, and Lupita Nyong’o. Official plot details have yet to be revealed, but rumors suggest that Solo will be helping the main characters (played by John Boyega and Daisy Ridley) search for Skywalker after finding the Jedi master’s severed hand and light saber. As in the previous installments, expect plenty of sci-fi action, adventure, and violence.

Main photo: Miracle on 34th Street

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