Contributor: Kristin Smith

kristin-smith

Kristin Smith joined the Plugged In team in 2017. Formerly a Spanish and English teacher, Kristin loves reading literature and eating authentic Mexican tacos. She and her husband, Eddy, love raising their children Judah and Selah. Kristin also has a deep affection for coffee, music, her dog (Cali) and cat (Aslan).

Four girls make pouting, selfie faces.

Cuties

Cuties gratuitously, excessively indulges in the very images and ideas it’s supposedly criticizing.

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Cocomelon

This innocuous, educational show for young ones arrives on Netflix and still sings sweetly.

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First Cow

This slow-moving, big-hearted story illustrates how we can find brotherhood in the most unlikely places.

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A woman and a man sit at a lawyer's desk in court.

Love, Guaranteed

Netflix’s latest romantic comedy, Love, Guaranteed gives viewers a PG-rated, Hallmark-ish option.

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Katy Perry as a frowning clown on the album cover of "Smile"

Smile

Katy Perry embraces some mature moments on Smile. But the immature ones that are still present might make you frown.

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A man and a woman talk at a diner.

The Frozen Ground

Just because this crime thriller is based on a true story doesn’t mean it’s easy to stomach.

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Christian rapper Lecrae's latest album shows him lifting arms up and looking toward the sky in a prayerlike pose.

Restoration

Lecrae’s latest effort is full of grace, honesty and a powerful invitation to embrace the God who loves us.

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A man and a gorilla touch foreheads.

The One and Only Ivan

This lovely film’s minor blemishes don’t mar the positive, family-friendly lessons at the heart of this unfettered story.

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Love in the Time of Corona

The first television show made in the COVID era is an earnest look at love and human nature. But it comes with serious issues.

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A barber made of bread helps two customers.

Bread Barber Shop

This animated Netflix kids show teaches lessons about kindness and acceptance.

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Angry driver leans out window to talk.

Unhinged

This story of road rage run amok unleashes 90 minutes of senseless, vivid violence.

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Miley Cyrus singing into mic with eyes closed

Midnight Sky

Miley’s single again. And, apparently, she’s loving living life on her terms … and loving whoever she wants to.

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Magic teacher and kids make a mess.

Magic Camp

This Disney+ movie’s main message is impossible to miss, namely that true magic is really about love and kindness.

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How to Help Your Kids Thrive During the 2020 School Year

You probably already rolled your eyes reading this title. Thriving this year?! More like surviving… Let’s be honest, this school year, what with so many kids at home due to the coronavirus, is going to be challenging. As a parent, you already have a lo …

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Project Power

Brutal violence, profanity and drug use ultimately undermine this pseudo-superhero project’s empowerment aspirations.

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