The Air Up There (1994)
Release Date:
1994
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 47m
Synopsis:
In The Air Up There, Jimmy Dolan, a college basketball coach, is on a mission to recruit a new star player. He travels to Africa after spotting a talented young player named Saleh on a video. Upon arriving in Saleh's village, Jimmy discovers that Saleh is part of a tribe with its own customs and traditions. To win over Saleh and his community, Jimmy must adapt to their way of life and prove himself. As he navigates cultural differences and unexpected challenges, Jimmy's determination to recruit Saleh is tested. The film follows Jimmy's journey as he tries to convince Saleh to join his team while respecting the values of the village.
The Air Up There, released in 1994, is a sports comedy film rated PG, making it suitable for kids. The movie combines elements of adventure and humor, following a basketball coach's journey to recruit a talented player from Africa. Parents generally appreciate the film's lighthearted tone and the cultural exploration it offers, though some feel it could have delved deeper into its themes.
Why Kids Should Watch The Air Up There
The movie is praised for its engaging storyline and positive messages.
- Promotes themes of perseverance and teamwork.
- Features a strong character arc where the protagonist learns valuable lessons.
- Offers vibrant visuals and cultural settings that captivate young audiences.
- Includes humorous moments that entertain and engage kids.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch The Air Up There
Some parents express concerns about certain cultural portrayals and stereotypes.
- May present cultural stereotypes that require parental context.
- Includes scenes that might be confusing without background knowledge.
- Some humor may not resonate with all children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about cultural portrayals.
What Parents Should Know About The Air Up There
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The protagonist learns the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The cultural differences and challenges faced by the characters may require explanation. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The main character's initial arrogance is addressed and leads to personal growth. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film emphasizes teamwork and collaboration through the basketball storyline. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The movie delivers a message about the value of cultural understanding and cooperation. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
The Air Up There is generally appreciated for its humor and positive messages about teamwork and cultural understanding. However, some parents feel the film's portrayal of cultural elements could be more nuanced. Engaging in discussions with children about the cultural aspects can enhance their understanding and enjoyment. For families seeking similar themes, movies like Cool Runnings might offer a more balanced portrayal.
Official The Air Up There Trailer
The Air Up There, released in 1994, is a sports comedy film rated PG, making it suitable for kids. The movie combines elements of adventure and humor, following a basketball coach's journey to recruit a talented player from Africa. Parents generally appreciate the film's lighthearted tone and the cultural exploration it offers, though some feel it could have delved deeper into its themes.
Why Kids Should Watch The Air Up There
The movie is praised for its engaging storyline and positive messages.
- Promotes themes of perseverance and teamwork.
- Features a strong character arc where the protagonist learns valuable lessons.
- Offers vibrant visuals and cultural settings that captivate young audiences.
- Includes humorous moments that entertain and engage kids.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch The Air Up There
Some parents express concerns about certain cultural portrayals and stereotypes.
- May present cultural stereotypes that require parental context.
- Includes scenes that might be confusing without background knowledge.
- Some humor may not resonate with all children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about cultural portrayals.
What Parents Should Know About The Air Up There
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The protagonist learns the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The cultural differences and challenges faced by the characters may require explanation. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The main character's initial arrogance is addressed and leads to personal growth. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film emphasizes teamwork and collaboration through the basketball storyline. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The movie delivers a message about the value of cultural understanding and cooperation. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
The Air Up There is generally appreciated for its humor and positive messages about teamwork and cultural understanding. However, some parents feel the film's portrayal of cultural elements could be more nuanced. Engaging in discussions with children about the cultural aspects can enhance their understanding and enjoyment. For families seeking similar themes, movies like Cool Runnings might offer a more balanced portrayal.
Official The Air Up There Trailer
The Core Values Learned From The Air Up There
The Air Up There’s most common core values include Determination, cultural Appreciation, and Teamwork. Throughout the movie, determination is showcased as the main character, Jimmy Dolan, faces numerous challenges while trying to recruit a talented player from a remote village. His unwavering commitment to his goal teaches kids the importance of Perseverance. Cultural appreciation is highlighted as Jimmy immerses himself in the local customs and Traditions, showing children the value of Respecting and Understanding different cultures.
Teamwork is a central theme as Jimmy collaborates with the villagers to achieve a common goal, demonstrating to kids how working together can lead to success. These core values are woven into the story, providing children with valuable lessons on determination, cultural appreciation, and teamwork.
Other Core Values Explored: Leadership | Perseverance | Respect | Friendship | Courage | Open-mindedness | Self-discovery | Problem-solving | Building trust | Inclusivity | Valuing diversity
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From The Air Up There
Believing in Yourself: Kids learn the importance of self-confidence as they watch Jimmy Dolan navigate a new environment and face challenges head-on. His determination to achieve his goal, despite obstacles, teaches children that believing in oneself is crucial to overcoming difficulties.
Building Friendships: The film highlights the value of forming genuine connections. As Jimmy interacts with Saleh and his community, children see how building friendships can lead to mutual understanding and support, emphasizing the importance of trust and camaraderie.
Embracing Differences: Through Jimmy's journey, kids are shown the significance of accepting and appreciating cultural differences. By immersing himself in the village's traditions, Jimmy demonstrates how embracing diversity can lead to personal growth and a broader perspective.
Following Your Passion: Jimmy's dedication to recruiting Saleh underscores the lesson of pursuing one's passion. Children learn that following their dreams requires perseverance and commitment, even when faced with setbacks.
Respecting Other Cultures: The movie teaches kids about the importance of cultural respect. As Jimmy learns to adapt to the customs of Saleh's village, children see how respecting other cultures fosters harmony and understanding.
Other Lessons Learned: Keeping an Open Mind | Overcoming Failure | Supporting Personal Growth | Working as a Team
Why Kids Love The Air Up There
In "The Air Up There," kids are taken on an exciting journey where basketball meets adventure in a vibrant African setting. The film is filled with thrilling moments as Jimmy, a determined coach, navigates the challenges of a new culture to recruit a talented player. Kids will love the dynamic basketball scenes and the colorful depiction of village life, where every day is an opportunity for exploration and fun. The movie is a celebration of teamwork and friendship, as Jimmy and the villagers come together to solve problems and achieve their goals.
The characters are relatable and engaging, with Jimmy's humorous attempts to fit in providing plenty of laughs. The lush landscapes and lively community create a backdrop for exciting adventures, where kids can imagine themselves as part of the action. With its mix of sports, humor, and cultural exploration, "The Air Up There" offers a captivating experience that keeps kids entertained and eager to see what happens next.