MOVIE INFORMATION FOR
SPANISH CLASSES

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ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Bee Movie
Finding Dory
Happy Feet
Horton y el Mundo de los Quién
Living on One Dollar
Los 33
Moana
Río
Río 2
The Good Lie
Una Aventura Congelada - Frozen
Up - Una Aventura de Altura

FAMILY / FRIENDSHIP
Al Otro Lado
Atlético San Pancho
Bee Movie
Bella
Carol's Journey - El Viaje de Carol
Casi Casi
Cautiva
Coco
El Libro de la Vida - The Book of Life
El Norte
Entre Nos
Ferdinand - ¡Olé!  El Viaje de Ferdinand
Finding Dory
The Good Lie
¡Gol! El Sueño Imposible
Happy Feet
Horton y el Mundo de los Quién
Instructions Not Included
Intensa-Mente - Inside Out
La Bamba
La Historia Oficial
La Misma Luna
The Little Mermaid
Living on One Dollar
Los 33
Los Colores de la Montaña
Los Diarios de Motocicleta
María, Llena Eres de Gracia
McFarland, USA
Moana
The Perfect Game
The Princess and the Barrio Boy
Real Women Have Curves
Río
Río 2
Rudolph, El Pequeño Venado
Secret Life of Pets
Selena
Shrek I, II, III
Sin Nombre
Sugar
Tangled
Una Aventura Congelada - Frozen
Una Vida Mejor
Up - Una Aventura de Altura
¡Viva Cuba!
Voces Inocentes
Walkout
Which Way Home
Zootopia

FUN
Atlético San Pancho
Bee Movie
Casi Casi
El Libro de la Vida - Book of Life
Ferdinand - ¡Olé!  El Viaje de Ferdinand
Finding Dory
Frosty, El Muñeco de Nieve
Happy Feet
Horton y el Mundo de los Quién
Instructions Not Included
Intensa-Mente - Inside Out
The Little Mermaid
Moana
The Perfect Game
The Princess and the Barrio Boy
Real Women Have Curves
Río
Río 2
Rudolph, El Pequeño Venado
Secret Life of Pets
Shrek I, II, III
Tangled
Una Aventura Congelada - Frozen
¡Viva Cuba!
Zootopia

HISPANIC CULTURE IN THE U.S.
Bella
César Chávez
Entre Nos
¡Gol! El Sueño Imposible
Instructions Not Included
La Bamba
La Misma Luna
Made in L.A.
María, Llena Eres de Gracia
McFarland, USA
Pelotero
The Perfect Game
The Princess and the Barrio Boy
Real Women Have Curves
Selena
Sin Nombre
Sugar
Una Vida Mejor
Walkout
Which Way Home


HOLIDAYS
Coco - El Día de los Muertos
El Libro de la Vida - El Día de los Muertos
Elf - La Navidad

Frosty, El Muñeco de Nieve - La Navidad
McFarland, USA - Quinceañera
The Princess and the Barrio Boy - Quinceañera
Río - Carnaval
Río 2 - Carnaval
Rudolph, El Pequeño Venado - La Navidad

HUMAN / ANIMAL RIGHTS
Al Otro Lado - Human trafficking
Carol's Journey (El Viaje de Carol) - Spanish Civil War
Cautiva - Dirty War
César Chávez - Farm Workers
El Norte - Discrimination
Ferdinand - Animal Rights, Bullfights
The Good Lie - Refugees
La Historia Oficial - Dirty War
La Misma Luna - Discrimination
Los Colores de la Montaña - Land Mines & Violence
Los Diarios de Motocicleta - Poverty
Made in L.A. - Discrimination
María, Llena Eres de Gracia - Drug trafficking & Poverty
McFarland, USA - Child Labor & Migrant Workers
Secret Life of Pets - Responsible Pet Ownership
Una Vida Mejor - Discrimination
Voces Inocentes - Child Soldiers & War Crimes
Walkout - Education & Discrimination
When the Mountains Tremble - Guatemala

IMMIGRATION
Al Otro Lado - Spain, Mexico, Cuba, U.S.
El Norte - Guatemala, Mexico, U.S.
Entre Nos - Colombia, U.S.
The Good Lie - Africa
La Misma Luna - Mexico, U.S.
María Llena Eres de Gracia - Colombia
Pelotero - Dominican Republic
Sin Nombre - Honduras, Mexico
Sugar - Dominian Republic
Una Vida Mejor - Mexico, U.S.
Which Way Home - Honduras, Guatemala, U.S.

MUSIC

Coco
El Libro de la Vida - Book of Life
Frosty, El Muñeco de Nieve
La Bamba
The Little Mermaid
Moana
Río
Río 2
Rudolph, El Pequeño Venado
Selena
Tangled
Una Aventura Congelada (Frozen)

POLITICAL CONFLICT / WAR
Carol's Journey (El Viaje de Carol) - Spanish Civil War
Cautiva - Dirty War - Argentina
El Norte - Guerrilla vs. Government Army
The Good Lie (La Buena Mentira) - Sudan
La Historia Oficial - Dirty War - Argentina
Los 33 - Mining Industry - Chile
Los Colores de la Montaña - Land mines - Colombia
Voces Inocentes - Civil War - El Salvador
When the Mountains Tremble - Guatemala

POVERTY

El Norte - Guatemala, Mexico, U.S.
Entre Nos - Colombia, U.S.
Living On One Dollar - Guatemala
Los Colores de la Montaña - Colombia
Los Diarios de Motocicleta - South America
Made in L.A. - U.S.
McFarland, USA - U.S.
Pelotero - Dominican Republic
Sin Nombre - Honduras, Mexico
Una Vida Mejor - Mexico, U.S.
Voces Inocentes - El Salvador
When the Mountains Tremble - Guatemala
Which Way Home - Honduras, Guatemala

SPORTS/ATHLETES
Atlético San Pancho - Soccer
Bella - Soccer
El Libro de la Vida - Corrida de Toros
Ferdinand - Corrida de Toros
¡Gol! El Sueño Imposible - Soccer
McFarland, USA - Cross Country
Moana - Sailing
Pelotero - Baseball
The Perfect Game - Baseball
The Princess and the Barrio Boy - Swimming
Sugar - Baseball

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE BEST MOVIES
TO SHOW SPANISH CLASSES
*We have created movie packets filled with high quality pre-and post-viewing activities so that students get the most out of viewing all of the following movies.  Each movie packet contains pertinent vocabulary and crossword puzzles, writing, speaking, and reading activities, as well as excellent cultural information, articles, and video activities about all of the countries and cultural elements represented in the movies.  Cloze activities & speaking, reading, writing, and listening activities for popular songs are also included.
*These Spanish movie guides can be used to teach entire units on immigration, human rights issues, the Dirty War in Argentina, the Civil War in El Salvador, environmental issues, the role of Hispanics in the United States, sports, holidays, and many other interesting cultural topics.

~ Al Otro Lado = Al Otro Lado tells the immigration story of three different children, one from Mexico, one from Cuba, and another from Morocco.  Al Otro Lado portrays many cultural elements of Spain, Mexico, and Cuba while showing the perils immigrants face and the loss experienced when families separate.  Not Rated

~ Atlético San Pancho = This fun and inspiring movie shows that hard work, dedication, and a great leader are all a group of young misfit soccer players from Mexico need in order to bring their little town together for the Copa Coca Cola championship.  This movie demonstrates Mexico’s passion for soccer and themes include the importance of education, family, role models, and friendship.  Not Rated

~ Bee Movie = Bee Movie is a funny animated movie that is a great tool to use to highlight environmental issues with your Spanish classes.  Barry B. Benson is a graduate bee fresh out of college who is disillusioned at his lone career choice of making honey.  On a rare trip outside the hive, Barry's life is saved by Vanessa, a florist in New York City.  As their relationship blossoms, he discovers humans are mass consumers of honey and decides to sue the human race for stealing bees' honey. Rated PG

~ Bella = Bella is a heartwarming love story about life, relationships, and our capacity for love in the face of the unexpected.  Bella took the top prize at Toronto’s International Film Festival by winning the highly-coveted “People's Choice Award”. This film and movie guide can be used to teach students about the themes of forgiveness, loss, courage, and love interwoven with lessons about Hispanic culture, World Cup Soccer, Puerto Rico, and Spanish Harlem.  Rated PG 13

~ Casi Casi = Casi Casi tells the story of a group of fun-loving teenagers in Puerto Rico who devise a plan to help Emilio win the heart of his high school crush by getting her elected as the class president.  Beautiful scenery and Puerto Rican Spanish are added bonuses with this film. Rated PG

~ Carol’s Journey = El Viaje de Carol relates a beautiful story about a young girl who travels to Spain with her mother to stay with her relatives during the Spanish Civil War.  This movie and movie packet provide the backdrop to learning about this significant time period in Spain’s history.  The movie and related materials will hold the students’ interest because of the additional videos and activities, the easy-to-understand and relatable themes, and the touching story of friendship and family loyalty.  Not Rated

~ Cautiva = Cautiva effectively tells the heartbreaking story of the desaparecidos of Argentina’s dirty war through the eyes of a teenage girl who suddenly finds out that she is the child of a kidnapped young couple who were activists during this tumultuous time in Argentina’s history.  This movie effectively shows the reactions and opinions of the people who supported the regime and the fear of those who dared to oppose the government.  
Not Rated but there is a shower scene with brief nudity, a baby being born scene and a nursing baby scene that the teacher may wish to skip or blur depending on the age, maturity, and background of students.

~ César Chávez, History Is Made One Step at a Time = The movie depicts the 10-year struggle of the Mexican-American hero, César Chávez, and his work with the United Farm Workers toward negotiating better wages and safer working conditions for immigrant farm workers in the United States.  This movie shows the truth about the discrimination faced by the field workers and the journey taken to solve the important human rights issues that still exist in the US.  Rated PG-13

~ Coco = Coco is an award-winning beautifully animated movie that immerses the viewer into Mexican life on the Day of the Dead.  Miguel and his beloved Xolo dog, Dante, travel to la Tierra de los Muertos to find his idol, the Mexican musician, Ernesto de la Cruz.  This movie teaches about El Día de los Muertos, Mexican music, mariachis, Frida Kahlo, and the rich history and culture of Mexico.  Coco explores the importance of family, friendship, traditions, and following your dreams. Rated PG  

~ Elf = Duende starring Will Ferrell, is the holiday comedy that tells the story of Buddy, an elf who comes to New York to find his biological father and to spread Christmas cheer to all.   Rated PG

~ El Libro de la Vida = The Book of Life takes place in the Mexican town of San Angel on the Day of the Dead.  Manolo, María and Joaquín experience many adventures during this fun, culturally rich movie where Mexican culture is ever-present in the background of the story. Bullfighting, the Day of the Dead, La Catrina, la Serenata, and los Mariachis are all depicted beautifully in this excellent film that will appeal to all levels of students!   The well organized and time-saving movie packet includes vocabulary, song activities, crossword puzzles, video activities, extension activities, quizzes, comprehension questions, journals, and excellent cultural information to enhance student learning. 
Rated PG

~ El Norte = El Norte is a classic movie that illustrates the desire for two Guatemalan teens to escape the political persecution and violence they face in their home country.  This movie shows the willingness of immigrants to risk everything to pursue a better life and it depicts many elements of life in Guatemala, including some use of the Indian language, Quiché.  
Rated R War-related violence

~ Entre Nos = This immigration movie is based on the true story of a young Colombian girl who came to the United States with her mother and brother and found they would have to struggle to survive in a new land where they had no family and they did not know the language.  This movie takes place in New York and includes cultural themes like food (empanadas) and extreme poverty.   Not Rated

~ Ferdinand = ¡Olé! El Viaje de Ferdinand honors the classic heart-warming story of the gentle bull who refuses to fight, originally written by Munro Leaf in 1936. This animated film showcases the beauty of Spain including the countryside in Ronda, la Feria de Flores, and the bullring in Madrid.  Ferdinand's message of nonviolence and anti-bullying is consistent throughout this funny and sweet film.  The movie bundle extends student learning with a comprehensive Spain unit and bullfighting unit.   Rated PG

~ Finding Dory = Buscando a Dory along with our Spanish movie guide and environment unit have everything you need to teach the themes of family, animals, the environment, and overcoming obstacles. There are vocabulary lists and activities, comprehension questions, quizzes for all levels, environment articles with activities, video activities, Dory movie characters Power Point, listening activities, and speaking activities for all levels!  Rated PG

~ Frosty, El Muñeco de Nieve = This fun holiday movie brings the joy of the holidays alive while teaching useful conversation expressions and reinforcing the themes of friendship and love.  The movie is in English or in Spanish with songs in English.  Rated G

~ ¡Gol! El Sueño Imposible = Goal! The Dream Begins tells the story of a young undocumented soccer player from a poor neighborhood in Los Angeles who travels to England to follow his dream of playing professional soccer.  This movie will be a favorite of students as the actors are great and the story is inspiring and very sweet.  Rated PG

~ The Good Lie = La Buena Mentira is based on the heartwarming true story of the “Lost Boys of the Sudan” who survived becoming orphans due to militia attacks that led to the destruction of their village.  The film depicts their long, arduous journey to a refugee camp in Kenya and then finally to their emigration to the United States thirteen years later.  This movie shows the plight of the world’s poorest refugees in an inspirational and unforgettable story.  Social justice, poverty and the lack of drinking water are themes in this movie.   Rated PG-13

~ Happy Feet = Happy Feet is an animated wonder about a misfit penguin named Mumble who protects his friends and teaches others about what is most important in the world.  This movie highlights environmental issues and is a great addition to any unit on the environment or nature. 
Rated PG


~ Horton Y El Mundo de los Quién = Horton the elephant demonstrates tremendous kindness and patience as he struggles to help the small creatures who live on the flower petal that he found in the forest.  This movie inspires students to want to do the right thing while it teaches fun and useful conversation vocabulary and expressions.  Rated G

~ Instructions Not Included = No Se Aceptan Devoluciones is the amazingly funny, witty, and heart-breaking Mexican movie that is written by, directed by, and stars Eugenio Derbez.  Valentín Bravo and his adorable daughter grow up together during this film that shows the importance of being bilingual, the love between family, and the difficulties faced when dealing with unimaginable loss.  Rated PG-13     

~ Intensa-Mente = This computer animated Disney movie shows the inner workings of a young girl’s mind as she copes with her emotions after a sudden move to a new city.  Inside Out will change the way you think about how you think and feel, and it will make you laugh and cry throughout.  Rated PG  

~ La Bamba = The true story of pop idol Ritchie Valens brings alive his music (sung by Los Lobos during the movie) along with the touching story of his family who went from a life working as migrant workers to a life of opportunity and promise during the late 1950's.  This classic movie shows several examples of discrimination against Latinos along with highlighting the importance of family and persevering to overcome obstacles.  Rated PG-13

~ La Historia Oficial = The Official Story is a gripping drama that shows the atrocities of the Dirty War in Argentina.  La Historia Oficial features a History Teacher who is forced to look at the ugly truth of her country’s history and she eventually questions whether her adopted daughter is the child of one of the desaparecidos (political prisoners).  There is actual footage of the protesters called Las Madres de la Plaza in this movie and the lead actress was forced into exile after her portrayal of this role.  Rated R

~ La Misma Luna = Carlitos is the central character in this beautiful immigration story of a mother’s love for her child and a son’s bravery to make a better life for himself.  This story has so many heroes and touching moments that it will be a favorite of all who watch it!   Rated PG-13

~ The Little Mermaid = La Sirenita shows the adventures of Ariel the mermaid as she meets and falls in love with the human, Prince Eric.  Ariel and her friends Flounder, Sebastian, and Scuttle must combat the evil sea witch Ursula, while avoiding the wrath of Ariel’s father, King Triton, who has forbidden them from going to the surface.  This movie is filled with incredible songs and natural beauty.  Rated PG

~ Living on One Dollar is a documentary that takes place in rural Guatemala where four friends experience the challenges faced when living on an average of one dollar per day for two months.  This eye-opening documentary teaches about poverty, world hunger, and the need for clean, accessible water.  All who see this movie will be inspired to fight for social justice and to be a part of the solution to end world poverty.  Not Rated 

~ Los 33 = The 33 is based on the true story of the 33 miners who were trapped in a copper and gold mine in Chile for 69 days while members of a rescue team worked tirelessly to try to save them.  This movie shows the heroism and bravery of the miners, their families, Don Francisco, and the Chilean people.  Antonio Banderas, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Kate del Castillo bring this beautiful movie to life brilliantly.  Rated PG-13 

~ Los Colores de la Montaña = The Colors of the Mountain shows the beauty of Colombia and its people as well as the dangerous aspects of living in this South American nation.  The story is told through the eyes of the children that live in a small, rural mountainous region in Colombia.  The children witness the strong desire of their teacher to give them a voice by educating them, as well as the fear that exists among the people of their village due to landmines, paramilitary groups, and violence.  There are so many rich cultural themes depicted in this film, and the scenery in the movie is breathtaking!   
Not Rated

~ Los Diarios de Motocicleta = Motorcycle Diaries is based on diaries and letters to home written by Ernesto "Che" Guevara during a motorcycle tour through Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, and Peru during the early 1950's, years before Guevara achieved international renown as a Communist and Latino revolutionary.  Diarios de Motocicleta depicts a gentle, healing nature in the main character, and allows the viewer to draw conclusions as to how and why Ernesto Guevara transformed into the brutal, fierce revolutionary “Che” Guevara.  The scenery including that of Machu Picchu is extraordinary.   Rated R       

~ Made in LA = This documentary follows the story of three Latina immigrants working in Los Angeles garment sweatshops as they embark on a three-year journey to win basic labor protections from the mega-trendy clothing retailer, Forever 21.  Made in L.A. reveals the impact of the struggle on each woman's life as each is gradually transformed by the experience. This documentary is compelling but humorous.  Made in L.A. is a story about immigration, the power of unity, and the courage it takes to find your voice.  Not Rated 

~ María, Llena Eres de Gracia = Maria, a young Colombian girl, leaves her small village in search of a means to help her family financially and she ends up being a drug mule on her way to the United States.  This film and movie guide can be used to enlighten students about the issues facing this dynamic country and will also expose students to the different dialect and accent of Colombian Spanish speakers.  Students will be entertained by this touching story of a young girl searching for a better life far from home.  The movie guide includes documents and activities to teach Colombian culture well! 
Rated R


~ McFarland, USA = This amazing movie is based on the true story of a coach who inspires his economically disadvantaged Hispanic students to achieve both academic and athletic success despite many obstacles.  McFarland, USA features songs by Juanes and Los Tigres del Norte.  There is also cultural information about education among Latinos, poverty, migrant workers, quinceañeras, and many more topics that pertain to Latino life in the US.  All who watch this movie will be filled with hope!  Rated PG

~ Moana: Un Mar de Aventuras = Moana is the perfect movie to teach about environmental issues such as conservation, overfishing, and preserving the beauty of the world for future generations.  Moana also illustrates themes such as family traditions, customs, loyalty and friendship while entertaining with comprehensible conversation and catchy songs in Spanish.  The movie guide includes articles, song activities, vocabulary exercises, and video activities to make this movie a valuable learning tool.  Rated PG 

~ Pelotero = The film, Pelotero, documents the issues that face two young Dominican baseball players as they confront competition and corruption to achieve their Big-League dreams.  For 16-year-old baseball players, or peloteros, the only real chance to escape poverty in the Dominican Republic comes every July 2nd, the day they become eligible to sign professional baseball contracts.  Pelotero provides an intimate portrait of two MLB prospects as they navigate the calculating and often corrupt world that surrounds Major League Baseball’s recruitment of the Dominican Republic’s top talent.  The 81 page movie packet includes cultural information about Merengue and the Dominican Republic as well as vocabulary, crossword puzzles, journals, quizzes, comprehension questions, movie critiques, and several cultural video activities.  Not Rated

~ The Perfect Game = El Juego Perfecto depicts the true story of the talented baseball team from Monterrey, Mexico that defies the odds when they become the first non-US team to win the Little League World Series in 1957.  This movie uncovers the discrimination that existed in America during this time, but it also shows the tremendous kindness shown by many who helped this team to overcome their lack of money, language barrier, and cultural differences.  The song from the movie is as beautiful and inspiring as the movie itself!   Rated PG

~ The Princess and the Barrio Boy = La Princesa y El Chico del Barrio is a lighthearted but touching movie about young love, friendship, family unity, and typical high school issues such as grades and sports.  Sirena and Sol are the main characters who come from different backgrounds but learn valuable lessons from each other along the way as they fall in love.  This movie shows several important aspects of Hispanic culture in the United States including a quinceañera.  Rated F for Family

~ Real Women Have Curves = East Los Angeles is the backdrop for this comedic drama about a teenage girl trying to figure out whether she should follow her dream of getting a college education or doing what her Hispanic family expects by getting a job to help support the family.  The dialogue is ¾ English and ¼ Spanish with superb examples of Hispanic culture in the United States.  Rated PG-13

~ Río = This beautifully animated and funny movie depicts the life of Blue, an endangered Spix’s macaw from Brasil’s rainforest as he faces challenges and meets new animal friends during Carnaval in Río de Janeiro.  Blue will steal your heart as you learn about cultural topics such as Carnaval and samba music while also gaining knowledge about the illegal animal trade in Latin America.  There are free Power Points to teach about the lovable characters from Río, from Río 2, and even about Brasil and the rainforest.  Rated G

~ Río 2 = This colorful and vibrant animated movie shows many of the animals of Brasil’s rainforest while it highlights the environmental issue of deforestation.  Blue and his family of rare Spix’s Macaws travel from Río de Janeiro to deep in the Amazon rainforest to learn to be wild birds and to help save other endangered wild birds.  Río 2's touching yet funny story will hold your attention while you learn about environmental themes in Latin America.  There are so many fun songs and rich cultural themes in this movie!  
Rated G       

~ Rudolph, El Pequeño Venado = In Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Christmas is almost cancelled because of a fierce storm, but Rudolph saves the day by guiding Santa's sleigh through the snow with his glowing nose, . This is the traditional Christmas story that reminds students it is a wonderful thing to have differences and being a good friend is very important.  This classic holiday movie is in Spanish or in English with songs in English.

~ The Secret Life of Pets = Beginning level through AP Spanish students will love this adorable and witty movie that teaches about the importance of friendship, loyalty, and caring for pets! Our Spanish movie guide includes a La Vida Secreta de Tus Mascotas characters Power Point, vocabulary & vocab activities, comprehension questions, true/false quizzes, a variety of video activities to extend student learning, multiple article activities for AP Spanish, and much, much more!  The themes of responsible pet ownership, the benefits of interacting with pets, cultural comparisons of pets around the world, problems related to stray dogs and cats, friendship, the world-wide popularity of telenovelas, and honoring dead loved ones with ofrendas are all present in the movie and in these resources for teachers!  Rated PG 

~ Selena = Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the award-winning Tejano singer who sang both in Spanish and English, is played brilliantly by Jennifer Lopez in this film.  Selena tells the story of the talented Latin superstar, who was tragically killed by her employee because she was caught stealing from Selena.  This movie features many of Selena’s most popular songs, and her rise to fame despite facing early obstacles is portrayed beautifully. 
Rated PG


~ Shrek I, II, III = All three of the Shrek movies feature a loveable ogre and his hilarious friends as they set off on journeys of adventure.  These movies contain common useful conversation expressions along with characters that students identify with and love.   

~ Sin Nombre = Immigration, poverty, gangs, the train that many immigrants ride through Mexico called La Bestia and love are all central to this award-winning film that sheds light on the obstacles faced by migrants traveling from Central America to the United States for a better life.  It is the story of an unlikely friendship between a young girl from Honduras and a young man in danger after he chooses to leave his gang.   Rated R

~ Sugar = Azúcar tells the story of a Dominican baseball player who comes to the United States as a recruit for a professional team.  Sugar shows the background of how young baseball players get their opportunity for a big break to come to the U.S.  Cultural elements of the Dominican Republic such as merengue as well as immigration issues are depicted beautifully in this film.  Rated PG-13

~ Tangled = Enredados tells the story of Rapunzel, a lovely young princess who is forced to remain in her tower by the evil Madre Gothel.  This movie is filled with lovable characters, exciting adventures, fun and catchy songs, and Disney magic throughout.   Rated PG

~ Una Aventura Congelada = Frozen is an adorable movie has adventure, romance, an amazing soundtrack (especially in Spanish), and its characters are such great role models for friendship and loyalty.   Princess Anna and Queen Elsa are beautiful yet complex characters and Olaf the Snowman and Sven the reindeer are hilarious!  The Spanish version is very well done and the dialogue is easy to understand.  Rated PG 

~ Una Vida Mejor = This heartbreaking and moving story is about Carlos Galindo, a kind, hard-working man who comes to the United States to create a better life for his wife and little boy.  He tries to do the right thing but faces constant obstacles while also living in fear of being discovered by La Migra.  A Better Life shows the harsh realities of what happens to families as a result of illegal immigration as they search for the American dream.  The movie packet includes several cultural and immigration activities, video extension activities and writing and listening activities.   Rated PG-13

~ Up =
Una Aventura de Altura tells the touching story of a loving elderly couple who live a rather ordinary life and never get to realize their dream of traveling to Paradise Falls in South America.  However, all of that changes when the wife gets ill and the husband faces the task of following their adventure on his own along with a funny Cub Scout, a dog, and an exotic bird.  Rated PG 

~ Viva Cuba = This movie is a fun, lively movie about two little Cuban kids who are best friends. The children decide to run away when Malú’s mom tells her that she is taking her away from Cuba to live in another country.  In addition to the beautiful images of Cuba and the Cuban dialect that exist throughout the film, cultural elements such as opinions about the government and typical school uniforms and conduct are seen.  This movie is an excellent way to introduce topics such as Operación Pedro Pan, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the cultural impact of Cubans on the United States (activities in packet). 
Not Rated

~ Voces Inocentes = Innocent Voices is the incredibly moving story of a little boy who lives in civil war torn El Salvador during the 1980’s.  The movie is based on a true story and it does an amazing job of teaching about this important historical event. Voces Inocentes shows how the war affected the schools, the church and its leaders, individual families, and the child soldiers who were made to serve in the government’s army even at the age of 12.  Students will never forget this movie, and although it is very poignant, it is also inspiring and uplifting.     Rated R for war-related violence

~ Walkout = Students will identify with the inspirational story of the courageous walkout student organizers from East Los Angeles during the 1960’s who have today become successful role models.  Students will learn about Famous Hispanics, issues related to education and Hispanics serving in the Armed Forces, and the cultural impact of Hispanics in the US then and now.  Information about César Chávez and other Chicano heroes is also included both in the movie and in the video guide.  Not Rated 

~ When the Mountains Tremble = Cuando Tiemblan las Montañas documents the amazing true story of Nobel Peace Prize winner and Quiche Indian, Rigoberta Menchú.  This documentary relates the struggles of the poor and peaceful Mayan population of Guatemala that were forced to fight against their own government due to years of persecution and discrimination.  Not Rated

~ Which Way Home = This Academy Award-nominated documentary shows the reality of what life is like for the poor, abandoned children who leave their home countries of El Salvador, Honduras, and Mexico in search of opportunities and their families in America. This film’s movie guide provides interesting and inspiring learning opportunities to understand social justice, discrimination, poverty, immigration, and loyalty.  Rated R

~ Zootopia = Zootrópolis features all types of mammals who live and work together in a bustling city where Judy Hopps is the first bunny to join the police force.  Judy works together with the wily fox, Nick Wilde, to solve the mysterious case of the missing mammals.  This hilarious movie not only entertains but it also teaches powerful lessons about stereotypes and overcoming obstacles.  Rated PG

Visit our Popular Movies Page to see movie trailers, movie packets, free videos, and additional resources!















"Si tienes la oportunidad de ayudar a alguien y no lo haces, estás malgastando tu vida."
                          - Roberto Clemente, Sugar
Click here to download this master list of Spanish movies organized by theme!
Movie Trailers and Clips in Spanish
Spanish Movie Titles and Trailers Warm-Up Game with Movie Vocabulary Unit