July 4th Weekend is a time to honor our country.  It's also a holiday when many people travel, trying to make the most of a 4-day weekend by taking vacations, flying, driving or taking the train. That means rushing around for hours, packing and unpacking and, for those who have children, herding the troops.

It can also be a time to have a staycation and remain at home sharing pleasurable activities. That's when a new DVD or Amazon Video of a fun film that parents can watch with their kids can be just the ticket.    

"How to Beat a Bully" is a "Home Alone" meets "Big Fat Liar" kind of comedy with an anti-bullying theme. It is on DVD and is also available on Amazon, Vudu, FandangoNow, Google Play and iTunes.

"How to Beat a Bully" revolves around a 12-year-old boy who moves to a new town and gets picked on by school bullies. In order to protect himself he uses his brain instead of his fist, and comes up with an idea that not only stops the bullies, but gets them to be his new BFFs. Along the way, there are humorous adventures, in which he gets his dad in trouble with some bad guys, who want to do more than bully him. 

The film is recommended Family-Friendly by the Dove Foundation and was awarded "Best Feature Film" at the L-Dub Film Festival.

The filmmakers are excited about the movie's positive message. "We know watching the film will be fun for all but more than that, it can be a shared experience that opens up a discussion on the subject of bullying.  What better way to begin a conversation than with something that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike – and get them in a mood to feel good and embrace each other's individuality and differences."

The Huffington Post and Examiner published articles about "How to Beat a Bully" and Splash Magazines Worldwide gave it a glowing review that lots of big studios would be thrilled to get for any of their new movies.

Splash's review called "How to Beat a Bully" "a delightful 83-minute comedy… that can give kids and parents smiles and laughs …a classic farce that is fun, whimsical, and absolutely enjoyable.''

The film also shares a good message about stopping bullying and shows a relatable family that has to overcome moving to a new town and assimilating with new neighbors, and a young son having to make new friends and fend off bullies.

Watching a movie at home is economical as well as enjoyable. Compare it to the price of mom and dad taking two or three kids out to the movies – that would cost a hefty fee. Watching "How to Beat a Bully" at home on  Amazon or Google Play costs from only $1.99 or $2.99 to rent ...or for members of Amazon Prime, it's even free. Families having a barbeque can put the kids in front of the TV for an hour and a half while preparing the food. Or later in the summer, invite their friends over for a movie day.

The "How to Beat a Bully" filmmakers say they love making people laugh.  But they are happy that this film is also an opportunity to get the word out on the topic of bullying.