*batteries not included (1987)
Synopsis:
In *batteries not included, a group of tenants in a New York City apartment building faces eviction by a greedy developer. As they struggle to save their homes, they receive unexpected help from tiny, mysterious alien spacecrafts that arrive just in time. These small, flying machines have a knack for fixing things and bring a bit of magic to the lives of the residents. The tenants, including an elderly couple, a pregnant woman, and a struggling artist, band together with their new extraterrestrial friends to fend off the developer's plans. The movie follows their efforts to protect their community and the unexpected bond they form with their tiny helpers.
Where To Watch: *batteries not included
Parental Feedback
*batteries not included is a family-friendly science fiction and fantasy movie released in 1987, rated PG, making it suitable for kids. The film combines elements of whimsy and heartwarming storytelling, focusing on a group of tenants in a New York City apartment building who receive unexpected help from tiny alien robots. Parents generally appreciate the movie for its charming narrative and positive messages, though some note that certain scenes might be a bit intense for very young viewers.
Why Kids Should Watch *batteries not included
The movie is praised for its uplifting themes and engaging story.
- Promotes themes of community and cooperation
- Features a strong character arc where residents unite to save their home
- Offers visually appealing scenes with the charming alien robots
- Encourages empathy and understanding among diverse characters
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch *batteries not included
Some parents express concerns about the film's more intense moments.
- Contains emotional scenes that might be challenging for sensitive children
- Includes a few moments of mild peril that could be unsettling
- Some scenes may be visually intense for younger audiences
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about the intensity of certain scenes.
What Parents Should Know About *batteries not included
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The movie showcases characters working together to solve problems and support each other. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | There are scenes where the characters face eviction, which might require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The antagonists face setbacks due to their selfish actions, highlighting cause and effect. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Characters demonstrate teamwork and collaboration to overcome challenges. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the power of community and helping others in need. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Overall, *batteries not included is celebrated for its heartwarming story and positive messages about community and cooperation. While some parents note that certain scenes may be intense for younger viewers, the film's charm and engaging characters make it a worthwhile watch. Parental involvement can help address any confusing moments, ensuring a positive viewing experience. For families seeking similar themes, movies like "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" or "The Iron Giant" might also be enjoyable.
Official *batteries not included Trailer
The Core Values Learned From *batteries not included
*batteries not included's most common core values include Community, Teamwork, and Helping others. The movie showcases Community as the tenants come together to protect their homes, demonstrating the power of unity. Teamwork is highlighted when the residents collaborate with the tiny alien spacecrafts, each contributing their unique skills to solve problems and overcome challenges. Helping others is a central theme, as the aliens assist the tenants in their time of need, showing kids the importance of lending a hand to those who are struggling.
These values are woven throughout the story, teaching children the significance of working together and supporting one another in difficult times.
Other Core Values Explored: Kindness | Perseverance | Empathy | Resilience | Problem-solving | Compassion | Being a good neighbor | Standing up for what's right | Creativity | Generosity | Inclusion | Family love | Courage | Determination | Protecting nature
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From *batteries not included
Believing in the Power of Home: Kids learn the importance of home as a place of safety and belonging. The tenants' determination to protect their building shows children how a home is more than just a physical space; it's where memories are made and communities thrive.
Building Friendships: The movie highlights how friendships can form in unexpected ways. Children see how the tenants, despite their differences, come together and form bonds with each other and the tiny alien helpers, teaching the value of camaraderie and support.
Solving Problems Creatively: Kids witness the tenants using creativity to tackle challenges. The innovative ways they work with the alien spacecrafts to save their homes demonstrate how thinking outside the box can lead to effective solutions.
Working as a Team: The story emphasizes teamwork as the tenants and their new friends collaborate to achieve a common goal. Children learn that working together can make difficult tasks more manageable and successful.
Never Giving Up: The tenants' perseverance in the face of adversity teaches kids the importance of resilience. Despite numerous setbacks, their determination to keep fighting for their home shows that persistence can lead to positive outcomes.
Other Lessons Learned: Defining What Home Means | Embracing Unexpected Love | Finding Courage | Holding Onto Hope | Making a Difference | Practicing Empathy | Supporting Your Friends
Why Kids Love *batteries not included
In a bustling cityscape filled with towering skyscrapers and neon lights, kids are drawn into a world where tiny alien spacecrafts with quirky personalities bring magic to everyday life. These little helpers, with their knack for fixing things, create a sense of wonder as they zip around, showcasing cool gadgets and wild inventions. The movie is a playground of creativity, where kids can imagine themselves tinkering and building alongside the inventive characters. As the tenants of the apartment building band together, unexpected friendships form, adding humor and warmth to the story.
The teamwork and camaraderie among the diverse group of characters make for exciting and heartwarming moments. With its mix of futuristic elements, charming robots, and the thrill of solving puzzles, the movie captivates young audiences, keeping them entertained and eager to see what happens next.