The Land Before Time

“Some things you see with your eyes, others you see with your heart.”

In a time of earthquakes, volcanoes, and famine, herds of dinosaurs are migrating in search of the legendary land of food and safety called the Great Valley. Young Littlefoot, a long-necked dinosaur, is separated from his grandparents when an earthquake divides the land during an intense T-Rex attack. Littlefoot’s mother is killed protecting him, but with her last breath she tells him how to find the Great Valley. Now alone and grieving, Littlefoot sets out on the dangerous journey, guided by his mother’s final instructions and the hope that his grandparents are waiting for him.

Along the way, Littlefoot meets other young dinosaurs who have also been separated from their families. Although their parents taught them that different species of dinosaurs don’t mix, the five youngsters must learn to work together to survive the treacherous journey, facing predators, natural disasters, and the constant challenge of finding food.

The Land Before Time is an animated classic from the 80s that resonates with biblical themes: A journey through a dangerous barren wilderness to reach a promised land echoes the Israelites’ exodus, while Littlefoot’s mother tells him, “Let your heart guide you, it whispers so listen closely,” a reminder that God often speaks in whispers. The film emphasizes the need for hope and faith in the unseen, and the value of friendship. The film is rated G but, like The Lion King, includes some scary moments and intense drama with the death of a parent.

Runtime: 1 hour, 9 minutes
Rated G
USCCB rating: A-I
IMDb Parents Guide
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