Do you know how to choose a family movie?

Fall is here which means shorter days and more time bonding with the family. We drink our favorite warm beverages and snuggle under a blanket on the couch. The question that always comes up as soon as we get comfy is, “What are we going to watch tonight?”

Back in the day that question was one that could put a monkey wrench in a perfectly good evening. When you have three stubborn family members with strong personalities and very different and distinct tastes, finding a movie everyone is into can be a challenge. Fortunately, we’ve learned some ways to compromise so that we can all have a relaxing and enjoyable evening.

Does your family have this problem, too? Take a page from the Riley family book and try out some of our “find a movie” solutions.

Here’s how to choose a family movie:

1. Take turns choosing.
This seems like the obvious way to make sure everyone gets a chance to watch a movie that they’ll enjoy, but you have to be intentional about it. Schedule days for each person, and really keep track. Make it a rule that the other family members can NOT complain about the movie selection, either.

2. Watch TV shows instead of movies.
If you can’t find a movie that everyone wants to watch, pick an episode or two of a television show. It’s much quicker than a movie, so you can watch a bunch of different shows in one night. Give everyone in the family the opportunity to select a show. The bonus is that you’ll be able to refill your popcorn bowl as the next episode is loading up!

3. Pick a movie randomly.
Instead of letting any one person choose or trying to come to a consensus, pick a movie randomly. “We will watch the movie that is listed #3 under Popular on Netflix”, or “We will watch the first movie that we see that starts with the letter P”. Give it a try! You might find something new to watch!

4. Rewatch a movie that you know everyone loves.
If push comes to shove and you can’t find a movie, just watch something you’ve already seen. The most important thing is that the family is together, right?

Looking for something to watch on Netflix with your family? Check out new episodes of Project Mc2, The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show, and the new series Haters Back Off!