Winter is in full swing, and for many seniors, getting out in the cold isn't something they want to do often or for very long. But whether you like to zip up and brave the brisk winds for a walk or you'd rather stay cozy in an armchair in the assisted living community, winter movies can be fun entertainment. They help you relive or remember past adventures in the snow, warm up under a blanket after your own recent expedition or while away dark winter evenings.
Residents at the Park Regency assisted living community in Loveland, CO, can enjoy films together in the movie room or in the comfort of their own apartments. And access to free Wi-Fi as one of the many amenities makes it easy to stream movies of your choice from services such as Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon. Here are some favorite winter movies you might want to consider.
Disney's remake of C.S. Lewis's popular book in the Narnia series brings true magic to the screen. As the White Witch's wintry powers melt away because Aslan is on the move and the sons of Adam and daughters of Eve have come to Narnia, you also get to see the magic of spring slide in, warming hearts, minds and landscapes.
While it's not entirely accurate to the book, the 2005 movie is a lovely remake full of beautiful cinematography, epic adventures and friendly Narnians — including Mr. Tumnus, the beavers and Father Christmas. Plus, there's Aslan, voiced in iconic fashion by Liam Neeson.
Seniors who remember the C.S. Lewis book fondly may enjoy this re-introduction to Narnia. And seniors of faith who don't know that much about the books can still appreciate the powerful allegorical Christ tale that comes through in the movie well enough, even if it's not quite as well done as it is in Lewis's book.
The late Paul Walker of Fast and Furious fame stars in this movie. As Jerry Shepard, he's locked into a different kind of race: one to return to Antarctica and rescue his abandoned sled dog team. Meanwhile, during Shepard's 6-month quest to return to the snowy landscape, the eight dogs fight through epic challenges and against all hope to stay alive.
This mostly family-friendly movie will hold senior's attention, because the safety of the main canine characters is never guaranteed and the ending is triumphant but bitter-sweet.
Whether you're already a fan of the infamous Disney movie or you just really want to know why your grandchildren continue to sing "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?," Frozen is a great movie for a cold winter's night.
It's got all the Disney hallmarks: family-friendly viewing with a storyline that won't drive off adults, heart-warming conclusions and high-quality musical additions. Some of the most iconic Disney songs of the past 20 years come from this movie, which is about the love and tension between sisters who are very different.
Happy Feet is an odd, upbeat musical comedy with serious lessons about being different and the environment. It's the story of Mumble, a tap-dancing penguin who can't sing like the rest of his kind. Mumble, who is voiced by Elijah Wood, gets teased, ostracized and eventually banished. His banishment results in an epic adventure into the world and a triumphant return to his home and people.
Other voice actors seniors might recognize in this computer-animated film include Robin Williams, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Steve Irwin.
For seniors that want a more adult film or something with a bit more thrill or tension, 2017's The Snowman may be a good option. It's a psychological thriller based on the novel by Jo Nesbo.
The cast of this dark murder mystery includes Michael Fassbender and Val Kilmer. The movie is fast-paced, with numerous murders to be solved all converging into danger for the main characters. Unlike the other films on this list, which are all rated PG-13 or lower, The Snowman is rated R for grisly images, some language, sexuality and brief nudity.
Vertical Limit might be an option for seniors that want a bit of a thrill without the murder mystery aspect. This film is a story about overcoming odds and fears and the power of familial love. Experienced climbers Peter and Annie are brother and sister, but they have grown apart and have different ways of facing the mountains after a tragic accident involving their father.
But when Annie and her climbing team attempt to summit one of the world's highest and most dangerous peaks, they get into trouble near the top. Peter is called on to lead a rescue team to save his sister. The movie is full of breath-taking moments and triumphs, and seniors might find themselves cheering Peter on as the winter minutes slip quickly away with help from the action on screen.
