The absolute best kids' fiction movies ever, according to me
What’s entertaining?
Sitting on the couch watching a movie with my 8-year-old, I find myself reflecting on what I’ve seen over the years with my children that I have found truly delightful.
And I want to share that delight. So here are my top children’s fiction movies in English. I've seen each of these more than 10 times -- now that’s good value! My children and I know the full scripts to most of these, and can do many of the voices.
Presenting, in no particular order...
The Princess Bride
Why you should watch this film:
Pirates, a princess, a giant, sword fighting. Billy Crystal and snappy dialogue.
Ever After
Why you should watch this film:
The interesting, brainy, socially responsible girl gets the prince. She also climbs trees, works hard and has compassion.
The Neverending Story
Why you should watch this film:
Boy heroes who really do good are rare. Challenges, quests, conquering terrible fear… and saving the world.
Finding Nemo
Why you should watch this film:
Beauty. Friendship. Good dad… oh, and the reef!
Kiki’s Delivery Service
Why you should watch this film:
Delightful Hayao Miyasaki movie about a little witch learning to make her own way in the world. A story about preparing for adolescence and the joy of being oneself -- and being responsible.
Help I’m a Fish
Why you should watch this film:
Siblings cooperating to save each other -- underwater!
Monsters Inc
Why you should watch this film:
Scary looking guys befriend and save the little girl. Night frights are gone, and the good guys win.
Toy Story
Why you should watch this film:
Friendship, love and loyalty hold the characters together. Don’t we all need some more love in our lives?
Pom Poko
Why you should watch this film:
Another gem, this time with Hayao Miyazaki as Executive Producer. Raccoons are threatened by humans moving into their habitat, so learn to transform themselves into humans to survive.
The following ones might be coming onto the list, but too soon to tell….
Arthur and the Invisibles
Why you should watch this film:
Boy as hero, has great relationship with grandparents. Makes good choices, and a great adventure!
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Why you should watch this film:
Hayao Miyazaki is a genius. A girl and a boy save the world by preventing war. Beautiful animation, great values. Inspiring -- I want to be like her!
Bolt
Why you should watch this film:
Cute story, co-operation wins. Good fun, good values without being preachy… the and 3-D animation rocks.
The Tale of Despereaux
Why you should watch this film:
Use the movie to get your kid to read this book with you. You will delight in the language and at the child in the story -- mighty mouse, sad princess and it all works out well.
What are your favorite movies? I'd love to watch them with my children!
Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke must have come close in the animations as well...
Also, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (original with Gene Wilder in his finest moment) would have to be in my top 10.
Posted by: Rupe | June 10, 2009 at 03:33 AM
You forgot Mulan. I love that film. How can you not love a Disney film with crossdressing men? But the best part is that everyone in the film pretends to be somethingthey are not at some point in time, and when they finally let that fade away and be who they are, well, success happens.
Also, I LOVE Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, and, of course, Princess Bride (one of the best films of all time!) You should see UP when it comes out over there- it was extremely good.
Posted by: Ashley | June 10, 2009 at 08:16 AM
In Ever After the girl is the strong one - she sword fights! Totally historically inaccurate, but it's great to see a girl character take matters into her own hands and not wait for someone to rescue her!
For Princess Bride you forgot to mention one very important thing - Cary Elwes in tights.
Posted by: Condo Blues | June 16, 2009 at 07:13 PM
I went to see Ponyo - the new Hiyao Miyasaki movie. Lovley take on the Hans Christian Anderson version of The Little Mermaid. Opens in theatres in US August 14. 9 yo laughed and laughed. I had a tear too...
Posted by: Melissa | July 22, 2009 at 01:44 PM