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Five for Families: Family films featuring dinosaur tales
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Elsa, left, Woog, Rex and Dweeb from "We're Back! A Dinosaur's Story." - photo by Deseret Connect
Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.

Disney's recently released "The Good Dinosaur" treads familiar territory as it features a tale of an Apatosaurus, T. rexes and other prehistoric species. Here are five other dino flicks for families to consider.

Amazon Instant: 'We're Back! A Dinosaur's Story'

Were Back! A Dinosaurs Story brings a group of dinosaurs into the modern world as Captain New Eyes travels back in time and feeds the dinosaurs Brain Grain cereal, making them intelligent and friendly. MovieGuide.org highlights positive elements in the film, such as the characters willingness to sacrifice for one another and a plotline where one characters evil power is destroyed when he refuses to become good. The website notes, however, that younger children may be frightened by some elements, including hypnosis, children signing contracts in blood, a strong focus on fears, and Halloween effects. The film is rated G. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 5 and older.

iTunes: 'The Land Before Time'

A group of young dinosaurs travel together to the Great Valley in order to escape famine and reunite with their families. It is the first in a series of films and also sparked a TV show. Common Sense Media says the series shows kids that the bonds of friendship go deeper than appearance, but it notes that young viewers may be disturbed seeing the childlike dinosaurs torn from their parents. Ok.com recommens the film for viewers ages 4 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'Walking With Dinosaurs'

A young dinosaur is born the runt of his herd and must learn to use his wits and courage in order to hold his own. Parent Previews said the BBC film attempts to make educational programming more entertaining for kids and notes that the film is likely to be more appealing to children who have an interest in dinosaurs. It is rated PG for creature action and peril, and mild rude humor. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs'

Sid the sloth thinks he is adopting three dinosaur eggs but ends up being taken by their T. rex mother, so his friends embark on a journey to save him. Common Sense Media called the film a fun sequel to the Ice Age franchise but notes that the film is more intense than past films due to scenes of suspense involving main characters and cartoonish violence. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.

iTunes: 'Dinosaur'

An orphaned dinosaur goes on a journey to find refuge after a meteorite destroys his home. PluggedIn.com states that there is a lot to like about Dinosaur, including its special effects and solid messages. The website notes that while the film may be too intense for very young children and a bit predictable for older audiences, it ends up being a reasonably enjoyable, morally grounded film. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.
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