Gerry (Paul Walker) is an expedition leader who guides scientists around Antarctica with a pack of eight dependable sled dogs, but after a dangerous expedition nearly kills a researcher, the entire base is immediately evacuated … except for the life-saving dogs. Left behind for weeks that quickly turn into months, the dogs must battle harsh elements and threatening predators to stay alive until Gerry, who won't give up on his pals, can safely rescue them. Preschoolers won't understand the plot, but kids 8 and up will love this frosty adventure -- and surprisingly, you will too. Here are three suggestions to broaden your family's movie experience:

The More You Know: Your kids may want to find out more about courageous sled dogs, and a good book to start with is 'The Great Serum Race: Blazing the Iditarod Trail' by Debbie S. Miller. The fascinating picture book follows the true story of 20 sled teams that braved subzero temperatures to travel from Nome, Alaska to Anchorage to pick up a much-needed antidote to a diphtheria outbreak in 1925. Two of the dogs, Togo and Balto, became internationally renowned heroes and inspired their own books (two of the best are 'Balto and the Great Race' and 'Togo') and movies (see film recommendations below). If you're looking specifically for Arctic tales, check out 'Big-Enough Anna: The Little Sled Dog Who Braved the Arctic' by arctic adventurer Pam Flowers. Anna is the runt of the litter, but she ends up taking the lead dog's place during a perilous 2,500 mile expedition.

No Dog Left Behind: Max, the pup of the mush team, starts the movie with a lot to learn from head dog Maya. But by the end, Max emerges as leader of the pack. Ask your kid how Max showed he was ready for greater responsibility, and discuss how he was an example of courage and persistence. Who else was both brave and determined? Gerry doggedly tries to find a way back to his beloved crew, but most of the supporting characters also do their part to make sure the rescue mission is successful.

Dealing With Grief: Even kindergarteners will recognize when two of the sled dogs die. Don't be surprised if your child reacts in unexpected ways. In fact, don't be surprised if you too have to reach for a Kleenex … or two. During a screening, one child kept asking: "The dogs aren't really dead, are they?" while his young friend wept aloud. Talking about death can be uncomfortable, but explain that in the movie, the dogs die of starvation, exhaustion and injury, because they had to fend for themselves for many months. The "dog actors" who played the dogs, however, are just fine. Remember that children who've experienced a pet's loss will probably make a connection between the on-screen deaths and their late furry friends.

If You Liked 'Eight Below' We Recommend:

1. 'Balto'
2. 'Call of the Wild'
3. 'Homeward Bound'
4. 'Snow Dogs'
5. 'White Fang'

Family Film Guide Main