7 New Family Movies and TV Shows Streaming in March

1. Wonka (Home Video)

An eccentric chocolatier introduces his magical treats to a new city, only to be blocked by a group of local businessmen. (If you’re curious, one of the chocolates makes you float upward into the sky.) This toe-tapping musical is the backstory to the well-known tale of Willy Wonka, a franchise that included 1971’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (starring Gene Wilder) and 2005’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (starring Johnny Depp). This newest one features Timothée Chalamet in the lead role. Rated PG for some violence, mild language, and thematic elements.

2. The Blind (Great American Pure Flix) 

A young husband and wife overcome multiple trials when he encounters Christ. This inspiring film is the backstory to that of Phil and Kay Robertson, who are best known as the wise-cracking, tight-knit family in Duck Dynasty but who split up early in their marriage due to his addiction to alcohol and bouts with anger. Andrew Hyatt, who directed Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018), also directed The Blind. Rated PG-13 for thematic content and smoking. Due to adult themes, this one may not be appropriate for young children.

Photo credit: ©Fathom; used with permission.

3. Journey to Bethlehem (Netflix) 

A young woman learns she will give birth to the Savior of the world. This Bible-based musical tells the story of Mary, Joseph, and the Christ child through a blend of pop musical and classical melodies that will have you singing. For King and Country’s Joel Smallbone portrays Herod’s son Antipater, while CCM artist Moriah plays Deborah. Grammy winner and Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae portrays the angel Gabriel. It’s my 12-year-old daughter’s new favorite movie. Rated PG for thematic elements.

RELATED PODCAST: Hear from Lecrae:

Photo credit: @Affirm. Used with permission.

4. Just In Time (Great American Family) 

A young couple who are grappling with infertility begins questioning their bond until a stranger intervenes and points them toward their faith. It stars Laura Osnes, Peter Bryant, and Greyston Holt and was executive-produced by Candace Cameron Bure. It debuts on March 26 and is one of several faith-centric programs on Great American Family. The History of Easter, presented by the Museum of the Bible, will air on Great American Family on March 29 at 5 Eastern. The Passion Play, presented by Shepherd Church, will air that same day at 3:45 Eastern.

Photo credit: Just In Time Movie / Great American Family

5. Testament: The Story of Moses (Netflix) 

This three-part series mixes docudrama with expert interviews to tell the story of the biblical patriarch who trusted God and led his people out of Israel. Among the contributors are Rachel Adelman of Hebrew College, Pete Enns of Eastern University, Tom Kang of New Story Church, and Andy C. Lewter of Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. The filmmakers said they wanted to make a series that followed the journey of Moses “from outcast and outlaw to deliverer of the Israelites and messenger of God.” The series includes viewpoints of different faith traditions, including traditional, historic Christianity. Coming March 27.

6. The Baxters (Prime Video) 

This gripping family saga is based on the Karen Kingsbury novels and follows John and Elizabeth Baxter and their five adult children as they navigate the trials of life. Season 1 focuses on John and Elizabeth’s daughter, Kari, as she confronts the jarring revelation that her professor husband, Tim, has had an affair with one of his college students. It’s a faith-driven series that includes adult themes and is most appropriate for older teens and adults. It stars Roma Downey and Ted McGinley and launches on March 28. Prime Video rates it 13+.

7. Tom and Jerry (Netflix) 

A charismatic young woman tries to plan an elaborate hotel wedding, only to be thwarted by a cat and mouse involved in a long-standing feud. This live-action film is similar to Space Jam (1996) and places animated characters in the real world. It’s a film that’s hilarious, entertaining, and largely family-friendly. It stars Chloë Grace Moretz, Michael Peña, and Ken Jeong. Rated PG for cartoon violence, rude humor, and brief language.

Photo credit: ©Warner Brothers; used with permission.