Dinovember is a month-long celebration of dinosaurs, imagination, and fun, originally inspired by parents creating playful dinosaur scenarios for their children. Over time, it has evolved into an educational and cultural event embraced by schools, libraries, and families alike. For libraries, Dinovember is the perfect opportunity to engage young readers, foster a love of learning, and provide entertainment through dino-themed programming, displays, and events.
One of the best ways to bring Dinovember to life in your library is through film screenings or curated collections of dinosaur-themed movies. These films can captivate audiences of all ages, combining thrilling adventures with important lessons about friendship, courage, and discovery. Here are some of the best family-friendly dinosaur films to help your library celebrate Dinovember in style.
The Land Before Time (1988)
A timeless classic that has delighted audiences for decades, The Land Before Time follows Littlefoot and his friends as they journey through perilous landscapes in search of the Great Valley. With themes of friendship, resilience, and adventure, this heartwarming story is perfect for kids and families. It’s an excellent choice for storytime tie-ins or a nostalgic movie night.
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Dinosaur (2000)
Disney’s Dinosaur blends CGI animation with live-action backdrops to create a unique prehistoric experience. The story follows Aladar, an Iguanodon raised by lemurs, as he leads his herd to safety after a meteor strike. Its environmental message and exciting adventure make it a fantastic addition to any Dinovember lineup.
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The Good Dinosaur (2015)
This Pixar gem imagines a world where the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs never hit Earth. The story centers on Arlo, a young Apatosaurus, who befriends a human boy named Spot on a journey of growth and courage. With it's adorable animation and emotional depth, this film is sure to capture hearts during any family film event.
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Planet Dinosaur (2011)
A BBC production, Planet Dinosaur is a documentary that offers a detailed and scientifically accurate look at the world of dinosaurs. With its detailed CGI and expert commentary, this film dives into the history of the most fascinating and fearsome creatures to ever walk the Earth. It’s a fantastic option for educational screenings or as a supplement to dinosaur-themed lessons.
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Dino Dana (2017)
This movie follows Dana, a young paleontologist-in-the-making, who embarks on a series of dinosaur adventures in the real world and with the help of her magical Dino Field Guide. Dino Dana is a fun and educational show that blends imagination with science, as Dana and her friends get up close and personal with a variety of dinosaurs. It's a fantastic choice for younger viewers looking to learn about prehistoric life while engaging in exciting and interactive storytelling.
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The Dino King (2013)
This South Korean animated film, also known as Speckles: The Tarbosaurus, tells the story of a young Tarbosaurus named Speckles. After losing his family to a predator, Speckles must find his place in the dangerous world of the Cretaceous period. With stunning animation and a touching narrative, The Dino King offers a mix of action and emotion that resonates with young dinosaur enthusiasts.
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Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985)
A classic dinosaur adventure, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend follows a couple who discovers a living Brontosaurus family in the African jungle. As they strive to protect the creatures from poachers, the film balances thrilling action with heartfelt moments. Its timeless charm makes it an engaging choice for families and a nostalgic pick for adults.
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Dinosaur Island (2014)
This family adventure film tells the story of a boy named Lucas who finds himself stranded on a mysterious island populated by dinosaurs. As he navigates the island and encounters prehistoric creatures, Lucas learns valuable lessons about courage and friendship. With colorful visuals and an engaging story, Dinosaur Island is a great pick for young viewers.
Click here to purchase on DVD from Amazon.
My Pet Dinosaur (2018)
Imagine what it would be like to discover a dinosaur in your backyard. This charming film follows a boy who befriends a baby dinosaur that unexpectedly hatches from a strange egg. As the dinosaur grows, the pair faces challenges from authorities and the town's suspicious residents. My Pet Dinosaur combines humor, adventure, and a heartwarming message about friendship and compassion.
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Bizarre Dinosaurs (2009)
This National Geographic documentary takes a deep dive into some of the most unusual and strange dinosaurs that ever roamed the Earth. Bizarre Dinosaurs explores the bizarre features and behaviors of these creatures, showcasing their diversity and oddities. Perfect for curious minds, this documentary is both informative and fascinating, making it an excellent choice for families and science enthusiasts looking to learn about the lesser-known aspects of dinosaur history.
Click here to purchase on DVD from Amazon.
Dinovember is the perfect time to introduce children and families to the incredible world of dinosaurs through films. These picks are fun, educational, and packed with adventure, making them great options for library screenings and classroom use. With these dinosaur films in your collection, you’ll be ready to celebrate Dinovember and spark the imaginations of young dino-fans everywhere.
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