Operation Christmas List (2016)

Release Date:

2016

Movie Rating:

TV-Y

Runtime:

1h 28m

Operation Christmas List (2016) - Vertical Movie Poster

Synopsis:

In Operation Christmas List, 12-year-old Barney is determined to make this Christmas the best one yet. With his two best friends, he sets out on a mission to secure the ultimate holiday gift. The trio devises a plan to sneak into a local toy store after hours, hoping to snag the coveted toy before it sells out. As they navigate the store's aisles, they encounter unexpected challenges and a few surprises along the way. Their adventure is filled with clever tactics and teamwork as they try to outsmart the store's security measures. Barney and his friends must rely on their wits and each other to complete their mission and make this Christmas unforgettable.

IMDb
4.5
Rotten Tomatoes
Metacritic

Where To Watch: Operation Christmas List

Parental Feedback

Operation Christmas List, released in 2016, is a family-friendly comedy adventure aimed at kids. The movie captures the whimsical spirit of the holiday season with a lighthearted tone that most parents find charming and enjoyable for young audiences. While some reviews mention minor concerns, the general sentiment is positive, with many appreciating its festive themes and playful storyline.

Why Kids Should Watch Operation Christmas List

The movie is praised for its heartwarming messages and entertaining plot.

  • Promotes the value of friendship and teamwork.
  • Features a memorable scene where the characters work together to solve a problem.
  • Offers colorful visuals and a festive atmosphere that kids enjoy.
  • Includes humorous moments that keep the tone light and engaging.

Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Operation Christmas List

Some parents note a few elements that might require guidance.

  • Contains mild emotional challenges related to holiday expectations.
  • Includes a scene where characters make a risky decision without immediate consequences.
  • Some plot elements may be confusing for very young children.

Verdict: Parent Approved

Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers positive messages about friendship, teamwork, and holiday spirit.

What Parents Should Know About Operation Christmas List

Question Answer
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? Yes, characters demonstrate teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? There are moments of disappointment that may need parental explanation.
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? Yes, characters learn from their mistakes and make amends.
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? Teamwork is a central theme, with characters collaborating to achieve their goals.
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? The movie emphasizes the importance of friendship and working together.

The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback

Operation Christmas List is generally well-received by parents for its positive messages and festive charm. While there are minor concerns about certain plot elements, these can be easily addressed with parental guidance. The movie's strengths lie in its ability to entertain while promoting values like teamwork and friendship. For families seeking a lighthearted holiday film, this is a delightful choice. Consider pairing it with other family-friendly holiday classics for a cozy movie night.

Official Operation Christmas List Trailer

The Core Values Learned From Operation Christmas List

Operation Christmas List's most common core values include Friendship, Teamwork, and Problem-solving. In the movie, kids learn the importance of sticking together and supporting each other through the main characters' exciting journey. Barney and his friends rely on their bond, showing how strong friendships can help them overcome obstacles. As they work together, they realize that teamwork is essential to achieve their goal. Their shared moments of laughter and planning demonstrate how friends can make any Adventure unforgettable.

Throughout their mission, Friendship plays a key role in every step they take. There's a scene where Barney and his friends face a tricky security system. Together, they brainstorm ways to bypass it, using their creativity and teamwork. This moment shows how combining their individual strengths helps them solve problems they couldn't tackle alone. Their teamwork not only highlights their closeness but also teaches kids that challenges become more manageable with friends by your side.

Other Core Values Explored: Generosity | Family love | Helping others | Kindness | Determination | Perseverance

The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Operation Christmas List

Believing in Yourself: Barney and his friends display confidence and determination in their plan to secure the ultimate gift, showing kids the importance of believing in their own abilities to accomplish goals.

Building Friendships: As the adventure unfolds, the trio's friendship strengthens, highlighting the power of companionship and mutual support in overcoming challenges.

Working as a Team: Teamwork is a key factor in their mission's success, teaching children that collaboration and combining strengths make difficult tasks achievable.

Doing What’s Right: The kids face moral dilemmas during their escapade, and their choices emphasize the importance of making the right decisions even when it's tough.

Finding Courage: Despite initial fears and obstacles, Barney and his friends demonstrate courage in pursuing their goal, empowering kids to step out of their comfort zones and be brave.

Other Lessons Learned: Embracing Differences | Making a Difference | Practicing Empathy | Supporting Your Friends

Why Kids Love Operation Christmas List

Operation Christmas List whisks kids into a mischievous whirlwind of late-night capers and cunning plans. Sneaking into a toy store after hours, Barney and his best friends embark on an exhilarating mission filled with clever tactics. The toy store transforms into a vibrant labyrinth, offering hidden nooks and towering shelves to explore, making every turn a thrilling surprise. Kids love the inventive tricks the characters use to dodge security, their antics turning a simple shopping trip into an epic adventure packed with curiosity and laughter. Unexpected moments keep kids on their toes, as the trio encounters playful obstacles that add a twist to their quest, sparking bursts of giggles and excitement.

Kids find themselves hooked on the magic of problem-solving with a dash of friendship as Barney and his pals face unexpected challenges. Their plan requires not just guts but also a creative spark, pulling kids into a world where using your imagination means victory. Cheering for new friendships and teamwork makes kids smile as they watch the group tackle tricky puzzles and funny mishaps together. This lively adventure uncovers secret shortcuts and unexpected allies, encouraging kids to imagine themselves in similar thrilling escapades. From outsmarting gadgets to forming connections with quirky allies, Operation Christmas List feels like a never-ending ride through a fun-filled, festive wonderland.