What Makes a Great Family Film? Lessons from Fly Away Home

BY: Sharon Fitness for GOOD

Family films hold a special place in our hearts, bringing generations together to share in stories that entertain, inspire, and teach valuable lessons. But what exactly makes a great family film? A standout family film combines engaging storytelling, relatable characters, universal themes, and visually captivating elements that appeal to viewers of all ages. New to GOOD is FLY AWAY HOME, a heartwarming adventure that continues to resonate with audiences more than two decades after its release and is a perfect example of a great family family, combining all these elements.

Engaging Storytelling

A great family film must have a compelling narrative that captures the imagination and keeps viewers invested from start to finish. FLY AWAY HOME excels in this regard with its unique and touching storyline based on a true story. The film follows the journey of a young girl, Amy, who, after losing her mother, moves to rural Canada to live with her estranged father, Thomas. When Amy discovers a nest of orphaned geese, she raises them and then takes on the challenge of helping them migrate south for the winter, using her father’s ultralight aircraft to guide them.

The film’s plot is not just about the physical journey of the geese but also about the emotional journey of a father and daughter reconnecting after a significant loss. The narrative is layered with themes of healing, resilience, and perseverance, making it deeply engaging for viewers of all ages.

Relatable Characters

A key ingredient in a successful family film is its characters. They should be relatable, multi-dimensional, and capable of evoking empathy. In FLY AWAY HOME, Anna Paquin’s portrayal of Amy is both sensitive and compelling. Viewers, especially younger ones, can easily relate to her sense of loss and desire for connection. Jeff Bridges, as her father Thomas, brings depth to his role as a loving but initially distant parent trying to rebuild his relationship with his daughter.

The characters are well-developed, with believable arcs that show growth and change over the course of the film. This development is crucial in making the audience care about their journey, both physically as they guide the geese and emotionally as they heal their broken family bond.

Universal Themes with Positive Messages

Family films often stand the test of time because they deal with universal themes that resonate across generations. FLY AWAY HOME touches on several of these themes, such as the importance of family, the power of perseverance, and the beauty of nature. The film’s message about overcoming adversity and finding hope and strength in difficult times is universally relatable, making it suitable for viewers of all backgrounds.

Additionally, FLY AWAY HOME subtly incorporates lessons about environmental conservation and the bond between humans and animals. It teaches viewers about responsibility, empathy, and the impact one can have on the natural world, all without being preachy or heavy-handed.

Visually Captivating

A great family film should also be visually engaging, using its cinematography to complement the story and evoke emotions. FLY AWAY HOME is renowned for its stunning aerial cinematography, which captures the beauty of the natural landscapes and the incredible journey of the geese. The film’s breathtaking visuals not only enhance the viewing experience but also draw viewers into the story, making them feel as if they are part of Amy and Thomas’s adventure.

The use of natural settings and real-life ultralight aircraft adds authenticity to the film, making it not just a visual delight but also an educational experience for younger viewers who may be fascinated by the mechanics of flight and wildlife conservation.

Balance

One of the hallmarks of a great family film is its ability to balance adventure with heartfelt, emotional moments. FLY AWAY HOME achieves this balance beautifully. While the film is filled with exciting scenes of flight and challenges during the geese’s migration, it also takes the time to explore the emotional landscape of its characters. Moments of quiet reflection, such as Amy’s initial struggles with grief or the father-daughter bonding over the shared mission, provide depth and contrast to the adventure, making the story richer and more rewarding.

Music

An impactful soundtrack can elevate a family film from good to great, adding layers of emotion and aiding in storytelling. The music in FLY AWAY HOME, composed by Mark Isham, perfectly complements the film’s tone, with its gentle, uplifting melodies underscoring the themes of hope and resilience. The soundtrack enhances the emotional impact of key scenes, helping to build tension during moments of uncertainty and bringing a sense of peace during more reflective moments.

The Magic of Great Family Films

Great family films like FLY AWAY HOME remind us of the power of storytelling to connect us, inspire us, and teach us. These films create a shared experience for families to enjoy together. Whether it’s the journey of guiding geese to safety or navigating the ups and downs of family relationships, films like FLY AWAY HOME resonate because they speak to fundamental human experiences and values. So, the next time you’re looking for a film that the whole family can enjoy, consider one that offers both entertainment and a meaningful message, just like this heartwarming classic. Look out for FLY AWAY HOME on GOOD. Watch now, CLICK HERE.

FLY AWAY HOME is now streaming on the GOOD app. Watch HERE.

About the Author: Sharon Fitness is a staff writer for GOOD. She’s a movie buff, TV fan, foodie and dog lover.

Feature Images: Promotional Images from the film by GOOD.