 |
 |
|
By: Jennifer O’Donnell
Date Posted: 7/2/2008
|
|
| | |
|
|
| | |
|  |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Family Movies for Summer
Enjoy the show!
There’s nothing like curling up on the couch (or the floor) with a blanket, a bowl of popcorn and your children at your side. The hot weather is here, so we know you’re going to have some lazy afternoons to fill — in the cool confines of your abode. That’s why we’ve culled 35 of the best family movies of all time for your viewing pleasure. Of course this list is merely a sampling of the great films available for rent — films that are suitable and entertaining for both kids and their parents. Discover a few suggestions you’ve never considered, as well as some tried-and-true offerings sure to take you back to your childhood. Dim the lights; it’s time for our feature presentation: Creature Features
Babe (1995) The little pig that could. Babe surprises even himself in his quest to become a herding pig. A nominee for Best Picture in 1995, Babe didn’t win, but perhaps it should have. Doctor Dolittle (1967) Dr. Dolittle (1998) Rex Harrison (1967) and Eddie Murphy (1998) play the man who can talk to the animals, with amusing results. Finding Nemo (2003) One of the best animated films we could think of. The story of a father’s determination to find his lost son — and the friends along the way who offer to help. Dory, voiced by Ellen DeGeneres, steals the show with her constant patter. Free Willy (1993) A troubled young boy sets out on a mission to free a suffering killer whale. Jurassic Park (1993) A bit scary for the younger set, this tale of science gone horribly wrong still manages to impress. The Lion King (1994) Disney’s best, animated musical (that’s why it went to Broadway) tells a coming of age story set in the African plains. National Velvet (1944) Quite possibly the ultimate horse account, featuring screen legends Elizabeth Taylor and Mickey Rooney. Old Yeller (1957) A mountain family adopts a yellow dog, who takes a liking to the oldest son — a boy with no particular affection for the mongrel. But things change and love finds a way — and the boy’s life is changed forever. Tommy Kirk, a Disney favorite for nearly a decade, holds the lead role. Seabiscuit (2003) The book by Laura Hillenbrand was far better, but the movie gives children a taste of the undersized Depression-era racehorse that captured the heart of the nation and earned the respect of his most fierce competitors. All-star cast includes Jeff Bridges, William H. Macy and Tobey Maguire.
Growing Up is Hard to Do
Big (1988) Tom Hanks skyrocketed to fame and fortune after this movie — and for good reason. As a child trapped in man’s body, he learns that growing up isn’t something to be
skipped over. Boys Town (1938) The story of Father Flanagan (Spencer Tracy) and the founding of Boys Town, a home for orphaned and troubled youth. A very young Mickey Rooney also stars. Edward Scissorhands (1990) Long before Johnny Depp even heard the name Jack Sparrow, he played the role of Edward Scissorhands, a young man with unusual abilities, who adapts to a new life, falls in love and faces hatred and bigotry. Winona Ryder also stars. Shane (1953) There never was a man like Shane. A weary gunfighter tries to settle down as a homesteader, but conflict forces him to reveal his past. “Shane … Shane … Come Back!” Spirit of Adventure
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) The first in the series of movies based on the books even adults can’t wait to read. A young Harry begins his adventure. We really don’t need to fill you in on this one, do we? The Incredibles (2004) A family of superheroes is forced into action — and interaction — with one another. Craig T. Nelson and Holly Hunter voice the parents. The Princess Bride (1987) A wonderful tale of a princess, a pirate and an evil king. The laughs keep coming, as does the swashbuckling. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) The crown jewel in the trilogy, it made a generation of kids actually interested in archeology. Star Wars (1977) Has there ever been a better villain than Darth Vader? We think not. Swiss Family Robinson (1960) A Swiss family is shipwrecked on a desert island. Survival, pirates and sibling competition provide plenty of adventure. Toy Story (1995) This animated classic verifies what we knew all along: Toys do come alive when we’re not around. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen provide voices. Imaginations at Work
Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang (1968) We think this might be Dick van Dyke’s best role (thank goodness he didn’t have to sport a fake British accent like he did in Mary Poppins). An eccentric professor invents a rather interesting car, finds love and almost loses his children to the child catcher. The Muppet Movie (1979) If you grew up in the ‘70s, there’s little chance you don’t remember these puppets with attitude. In their first feature film, Kermie, Miss Piggy and friends jet across the country in search of success in Hollywood. The Never Ending Story (1984) A young boy reads about a fantasy land battling a dreaded disease. As he becomes more and more interested in the story — the kingdom and the characters who live there come to life for him. Wil
ly Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) Charlie, a poor boy with no prospects, wins the chance to tour the most bizarre candy factory of all. Gene Wilder’s slightly creepy portrayal of Willy Wonka put Johnny Depp’s to shame. The Wizard of Oz (1939) No explanation necessary; the movie that started it all. Timeless Tales
Anne of Green Gables (1985) There are several versions of this story based on the book by L.M. Montgomery, but the 1985 TV version starring Megan Follows as Anne Shirley is probably the best known. An orphan girl, sent to an elderly brother and sister by mistake, charms her new home and community and finds the family she desperately wants. Heidi (1937) Shirley Temple’s best role, hands down. Based on the book by Johanna Spyri, Heidi is an orphaned eight-year-old mountain girl tragically separated from her beloved grandfather. Will love find a way? It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) “No man’s a failure who has friends.” A Christmas classic, this gem is probably best for older children who can follow along until the end. A man discovers his life is worth living after all, and the impact he made far greater than he ever imagined. George Bailey may be Jimmy Stewart’s most memorable character. The Secret Garden (1993) The timeless tale of love, hope, magic and friendship. The Sound of Music (1965) Julie Andrews plays the nun who captures the hearts of the von Trapp family as they face turbulent times, Nazi occupation, daring escape through the mountains and more. Based on a true story. Kids with Character
Akeelah and the Bee (2006) The story of an 11-year-old girl and her quest to win a national spelling bee, despite the obstacles, will definitely inspire you. With Lawrence Fishburne and Angela Bassett. The Bad News Bears (1976) The recent remake just couldn’t hold a candle to the original. The language is a bit iffy, but Walter Matthau and Tatum O’Neal reveal what true sportsmanship and team spirit is all about. It just takes them a while to figure it all out. The Parent Trap (1961) Lindsay Lohan is no Hayley Mills. ‘Nuff said. A Christmas Story (1983) Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, but is it too much to hope for? Jam-packed with hilarious scenes and a sentimental look at Christmas and youth. A Little Princess (1995) Visually beautifully and wonderfully acted, it’s far better than the Shirley Temple version of decades before. The story of a rich young girl, pulled from a position of privilege who fights to keep her spirits and hopes alive. Based on the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
|
