
Five for Families: Documentaries offer a glimpse of nature
Fat-tailed dwarf lemurs reside in sleeping holes found in Madagascar. - photo by Deseret Connect
Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider, as recommended by Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.

Nature documentaries are a cinematic trend that are simple in their approach: allow nature to tell its own story. Here are five documentaries, all rated G, detailing different animals and aspects of the wildlife world.

Redbox: 'Island of Lemurs: Madagascar'

Island of Lemurs: Madagascar follows Patricia C. Wright as she works to protect the endangered lemurs native to the island of Madagascar. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its Dove Family-Approved seal for all ages and referred to it as very educational and informative, adding that Morgan Freeman does his usual outstanding job as narrator and Dr. Patricia Wright is also an educational leader whose work and curiosity about the lemurs adds a nice touch to this production. recommends the film for viewers ages 4 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'Born to Be Wild'

Two animal sanctuaries care for orphaned and endangered animals, one helping elephants and the other orangutans. Parent Previews said it is hard to find anything to quibble about in this documentary and praised the films combination of beautiful cinematography, inspiring characters and cute baby animals. recommends the film for viewers ages 4 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'March of the Penguins'

PluggedIn refers to the film as beyond spectacular, highlighting the great level of personal sacrifice penguin parents give for their young. Parents should note as the film follows the penguins annual march that some of the penguins die due to the harsh elements and a few are killed by predators. recommends the film for viewers ages 4 and older.

iTunes: 'Bears'

An Alaskan bear family raises its young cubs and teaches them to survive. Catholic News Services Joseph McAleer wrote that it is a treat for just about every age, a marvel of moments great and small captured in stunning cinematography. A few moments of fighting among the wildlife are included. recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'African Cats'

Two cat families raise their cubs to live in the wild. Common Sense Media says the film includes breathtaking cinematography and shows how the animals are willing to sacrifice. The website notes, however, that there are some potentially upsetting scenes of animals hunting and dying. recommends the film for viewers 6 and older.
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