Bridge to Terabithia

Two outsiders use their imaginations to create a magical realm where they rule in this adaptation of Katherine Paterson’s beloved novel.

School life is difficult for Jess (Josh Hutcherson). He’s good at drawing and fast at running, but his family doesn’t have a lot of money, and some bullies at school make his life tough. When he discovers that the new girl at school, Leslie, has moved into the house next door, he finds that he has a new friend.

The pair quickly takes to exploring the woods around their homes after school. Leslie encourages them to use their imaginations to transform the woods into a land called Terabithia. It’s a world filled with amazing creatures that they rule over as king and queen, but soon they’ll have to face the realities of the outside world.

Curator's Note

Directed by Gábor Csupó, one of the creators of the Klasky-Csupo animation studio behind Rugrats and Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, Bridge to Terabithia features creature design that will feel familiar to many, especially those who grew up in the 90s. What sets the film apart from Csupó’s other works and other family films from the era is its profound and disarming emotional depth. It tackles loss and grief in a moving way that respects its audience, and it features excellent performances from the young cast.

Tickets to our Kids' Flicks with Feelings films include a pre-screening talk that introduces the concept of emotional intelligence to younger viewers, as well as a take-home activity kit.