Invite students and their families to come once a week, once a month, or a couple times in the summer to watch a fun family film together. After watching the film as a group, discuss the Jewish values that come across in the film. Here are some suggested films and guiding questions to get at the Jewish values. Have more films to suggest? Send your ideas to aviva@behrmanhouse.com.

  The Wizard of Oz (1939)
  What does the Scarecrow teach us about hokhmah (wisdom)?
  What does the Tin Man teach us about ahavah (love) and hesed (kindness)?
  What does the Cowardly Lion teach us about ometz lev (courage)?

The Truman Show (PG, 1998)
To what extent does Truman have behirah hofshit (free will, the ability to make choices)?
What can we learn about k’vod habriyot (human dignity) from the way Truman is treated?
What can we learn about emet (truth), herut (freedom) and geulah (redemption) from Truman himself and his actions?

  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (PG, 2005)
  What do we learn about sameah b’helko (personal satisfaction, being happywith what you have) and other important character traits from Veruca Salt, Augustus Gloop, Violet Beauregarde, and Mike Teavee?
  What do we learn about shlom bayit and the importance of family from Charlie and Willy Wonka?

Up (PG, 2009)
What did we learn about hiddur p’nei zaken (cherishing the elderly)?
What can Carl teach us about hatmadah (perseverance)?

Below you will find a link to a Study Guide for the film Toy Story 3 (G, 2010).