As much as we like to say that the holidays are about family, love, giving, etc., ask any child in the nation what Christmas is about, and you'll inevitably get the same answer...TOYS!
That's right, folks...Toy Story 3 is officially available for rent! This final installment in the runaway hit series brings back all your old favorites-Woody, Buzz, Slink (now voiced by Blake Clarke, who does an admirable job of filling the late Jim Varney's extremely large shoes), Barbie, Jessie, the Potato Heads, Hamm, and Rex are all back, along with some new characters, including Lotso, the creepily strawberry-scented Losto Huggin Bear, and Ken, who sweeps Barbie off her feet and into his dreamhouse.
This movie takes the franchise to a whole new level, and lives up to the first two in hilarity, and even surpasses them in emotional depth. I'll be honest-I've seen it 4 times and still get choked up every time. Including the time last week I watched it at the store and got choked up while working. Sorry about that, folks.
Moral of the story: rent it today and have a great family night in with the kids and a movie you'll actually enjoy for a change!
-Posted by Colleen
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Paradise Lost
Those of you who read this blog or pick up the Village Vidiot fairly regularly will know that I have recommended this before, but I feel it bears reiterating: everyone who isn't squemish should rent the documentary Paradise Lost.
Filmed in 1993, Paradise Lost follows the famous trial that is now known as the West Memphis Three, where 3 teenagers were convicted of the murder of three 8-year-old boys. Two of them were sentenced to life in prison, and another, Damien Echols, was given the death penalty.
Yesterday, there was a major breakthrough in the case, and after hearing a presentation of new DNA evidence which may indicate the innocence of the three convicts, the Arkansas State Supreme Court ruled for a new trial. (Those interested in reading more can either check out yesterday's Washington Post or go to http://www.wm3.org/.) This case and its history is quickly becoming front-page news nationwide, so go ahead and rent Paradise Lost today and decide for yourself-are they guilty, or innocent?
-Colleen
Filmed in 1993, Paradise Lost follows the famous trial that is now known as the West Memphis Three, where 3 teenagers were convicted of the murder of three 8-year-old boys. Two of them were sentenced to life in prison, and another, Damien Echols, was given the death penalty.
Yesterday, there was a major breakthrough in the case, and after hearing a presentation of new DNA evidence which may indicate the innocence of the three convicts, the Arkansas State Supreme Court ruled for a new trial. (Those interested in reading more can either check out yesterday's Washington Post or go to http://www.wm3.org/.) This case and its history is quickly becoming front-page news nationwide, so go ahead and rent Paradise Lost today and decide for yourself-are they guilty, or innocent?
-Colleen
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
"Friendly" Films to Keep You Warm
To many, Thanksgiving is above all a time to celebrate having food by eating as much of it as possible. Secondarily, it's also a time to gather with friends and family and just have fun. And turkey. Lots of turkey.
In honor of Thanksgiving (my personal favorite holiday), here's a list of 30 films about friendship to cozy up to with twenty of your closest buds, one for each day in November!
1) Steel Magnolias-This one is definitely a tear-jerker, only to be watched with your best girls and a box of tissues!
2) Now and Then
3) Stand By Me-The ultimate "guy friend" movie, this one is probably the only acceptable film for guys to watch together and actually show emotion.
4) The Goonies
5) Grumpy Old Men-A funny flick for the whole family!
6) Circle of Friends
7) Empire Records
8) Thelma and Louise
9) The Fox and the Hound-Kid-friendly!
10) Superbad
11) Pirates of the Carribean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
12) The Lord of the Rings trilogy
13) Up-Also kid-friendly, but have the tissues handy!
14) Toy Story trilogy (FYI, Toy Story 3 is now available on the Kids New Release wall!)-Great pick for a kids' sleepover!
15) Harry Potter series
16) Madagascar-Best for young children
17) When Harry Met Sally...
18) Casablanca
19) The Breakfast Club-Wonderful film, but with quite a bit of language-might want to save this for the over-15 set.
20) Mean Girls
21) Forrest Gump
22) Monsters, Inc.-Funny for all ages!
23) The Jungle Book
24) Shrek trilogy-Great one for the kids!
25) Star Wars series
26) The Boy in the Striped Pajamas-Although there is nothing specifically inappropriate in this film, it is thematically very heavy-watch this one after the kids are in bed and only if you want to go to bed depressed. But it's worth the Kleenex you'll go through!
27) Men in Black
28) Shaun of the Dead
29) South Park TV series
30) Friends TV series
-Posted by Colleen
In honor of Thanksgiving (my personal favorite holiday), here's a list of 30 films about friendship to cozy up to with twenty of your closest buds, one for each day in November!
1) Steel Magnolias-This one is definitely a tear-jerker, only to be watched with your best girls and a box of tissues!
2) Now and Then
3) Stand By Me-The ultimate "guy friend" movie, this one is probably the only acceptable film for guys to watch together and actually show emotion.
4) The Goonies
5) Grumpy Old Men-A funny flick for the whole family!
6) Circle of Friends
7) Empire Records
8) Thelma and Louise
9) The Fox and the Hound-Kid-friendly!
10) Superbad
11) Pirates of the Carribean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
12) The Lord of the Rings trilogy
13) Up-Also kid-friendly, but have the tissues handy!
14) Toy Story trilogy (FYI, Toy Story 3 is now available on the Kids New Release wall!)-Great pick for a kids' sleepover!
15) Harry Potter series
16) Madagascar-Best for young children
17) When Harry Met Sally...
18) Casablanca
19) The Breakfast Club-Wonderful film, but with quite a bit of language-might want to save this for the over-15 set.
20) Mean Girls
21) Forrest Gump
22) Monsters, Inc.-Funny for all ages!
23) The Jungle Book
24) Shrek trilogy-Great one for the kids!
25) Star Wars series
26) The Boy in the Striped Pajamas-Although there is nothing specifically inappropriate in this film, it is thematically very heavy-watch this one after the kids are in bed and only if you want to go to bed depressed. But it's worth the Kleenex you'll go through!
27) Men in Black
28) Shaun of the Dead
29) South Park TV series
30) Friends TV series
-Posted by Colleen
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Horror Movie Remakes That Shouldn't Have Been
We all know that remakes can be a grave mistake. As they say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Hence, I think it's high time for a list of the original classics that inspired the recent slew of horror movie remakes. If you're looking for a good movie to watch in honor of Halloween, take it from me-skip over the newer versions and reach for these instead. You'll definitely be happy you did!
1) Halloween (1978)
What, I repeat, WHAT, was Rob Zombie thinking when he remade this? No one could possibly be more bad-ass against Michael Myers than Jamie Lee Curtis. (It appears that Scout Taylor-Compton, the newest Laurie Strode incarnation, didn't even try.) The new Michael isn't even scary-what's scary about an abused child who breaks out of an institution in search for love and family and only kills when he's rejected? It almost makes him sympathetic. The original Michael was pure evil, plain and simple, with no rhyme or reason, which makes for a much creepier villain.
2) A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Let's face it, Freddy was creepier when he had a sense of humor. The newest incarnation, with Freddy as the angry spirit of a child molestor, is just gross. Robert Englund as the original Freddy managed to scare the pants off the audience while at the same time getting laughs, and Jackie Earl Haley as the new Freddy just doesn't pack quite the same punch. Plus, no teenage Johnny Depp in the newest version. So really, why bother?
3) Friday the 13th (1980)
The original has Kevin Bacon. Getting stabbed through the throat. Enough said.
4) The Stepford Wives (1975)
It absolutely breaks my heart that when kids today think of The Stepford Wives, they think of a bad Nicole Kidman comedy. Maybe I'm just biased as this is the first horror movie I ever saw, but this one still gives me chills. What's creepier than seeing your best friend suddenly turn into a picture-perfect housewife robot? Other than Robert Englund, pretty much nothing. Do yourself and the kids a favor, and introduce them to the original creepfest before they're tainted by the less-than-stellar remake (and that description is beyond generous).
5) The Amityville Horror (1979)
Ok, fine. The special effects in this movie are, shall we say, less than perfect. But once you get into it, you'll find yourself screaming right along with the cast when you see Jody the imaginary pig's eyes peeking in the window. I feel less strongly about this remake than the others, but given the choice, I still highly recommend the original over the newer version.
6) Psycho (1960)
Why anyone decided to remake Psycho shot-for-shot but then change the iconic shower scene is beyond me. This is the ultimate example of "if it ain't broke don't fix it". Hitchcock chose to shoot in black and white for a reason. It was a good one. And Vince Vaughn as Norman Bates? Not so much.
Moral of the story? Skip the remakes. The originals are iconic for a reason.
-Posted by Colleen
1) Halloween (1978)
What, I repeat, WHAT, was Rob Zombie thinking when he remade this? No one could possibly be more bad-ass against Michael Myers than Jamie Lee Curtis. (It appears that Scout Taylor-Compton, the newest Laurie Strode incarnation, didn't even try.) The new Michael isn't even scary-what's scary about an abused child who breaks out of an institution in search for love and family and only kills when he's rejected? It almost makes him sympathetic. The original Michael was pure evil, plain and simple, with no rhyme or reason, which makes for a much creepier villain.
2) A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Let's face it, Freddy was creepier when he had a sense of humor. The newest incarnation, with Freddy as the angry spirit of a child molestor, is just gross. Robert Englund as the original Freddy managed to scare the pants off the audience while at the same time getting laughs, and Jackie Earl Haley as the new Freddy just doesn't pack quite the same punch. Plus, no teenage Johnny Depp in the newest version. So really, why bother?
3) Friday the 13th (1980)
The original has Kevin Bacon. Getting stabbed through the throat. Enough said.
4) The Stepford Wives (1975)
It absolutely breaks my heart that when kids today think of The Stepford Wives, they think of a bad Nicole Kidman comedy. Maybe I'm just biased as this is the first horror movie I ever saw, but this one still gives me chills. What's creepier than seeing your best friend suddenly turn into a picture-perfect housewife robot? Other than Robert Englund, pretty much nothing. Do yourself and the kids a favor, and introduce them to the original creepfest before they're tainted by the less-than-stellar remake (and that description is beyond generous).
5) The Amityville Horror (1979)
Ok, fine. The special effects in this movie are, shall we say, less than perfect. But once you get into it, you'll find yourself screaming right along with the cast when you see Jody the imaginary pig's eyes peeking in the window. I feel less strongly about this remake than the others, but given the choice, I still highly recommend the original over the newer version.
6) Psycho (1960)
Why anyone decided to remake Psycho shot-for-shot but then change the iconic shower scene is beyond me. This is the ultimate example of "if it ain't broke don't fix it". Hitchcock chose to shoot in black and white for a reason. It was a good one. And Vince Vaughn as Norman Bates? Not so much.
Moral of the story? Skip the remakes. The originals are iconic for a reason.
-Posted by Colleen
Saturday, October 2, 2010
October Movies!!!
Ah, October. Cool, crisp weather, fashionable sweaters, and Halloween movies!!! Here's my list of the best movies to snuggle up with, one for each night in October!
1) The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Kids)
2) Trick 'r Treat (Horror)
3) Halloween (Horror)-do yourself a favor, rent the original. Even Rob Zombie can't improve on a Jamie Lee Curtis screamfest.
4) Ghostbusters (Comedy)
5) Casper the Movie (Kids)
6) Friday the 13th (Horror)-again, when in doubt, go for the original.
7) Nightmare on Elm Street (Horror)
8) The Nightmare Before Christmas (Kids)-though this one arguably doubles as a Christmas film, it's still good fun at Halloween.
9) Dead Snow (Horror)
10) The House on Haunted Hill (Horror)-once again, original original original. Remakes are a terrible idea.
11) Psycho (Horror)-need I repeat myself again?
12) The Stepford Wives (Mystery)-this time you should see the original for an even better reason than just that it's better-the remake was turned into a comedy, whereas the original is satisfyingly bone-chilling and extra-creepy.
13) The Amityville Horror (Horror)
14) Hocus Pocus (Kids)
15) The Mist-(Horror)
16) Scooby-Doo Meets the Boo Brothers (Kids)
17) Goosebumps: Go Eat Worms (Kids)
18) The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (Classics)
19) Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were Rabbit (Kids)
20) Haunted Mansion (Kids)
21) Scream (Horror)
22) Scary Movie (Comedy)
23) 1408 (Horror)
24) Rocky Horror Picture Show (Musicals)
25) The Shining (Horror)
26) Candyman (Horror)
27) Alien (Sci-Fi)
28) Beetlejuice (Comedy)
29) The Addams Family (Comedy)
30) Silence of the Lambs (Horror)
31) Carrie (Horror)
Have fun, and stay scared!!!!
-Posted by Colleen
1) The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Kids)
2) Trick 'r Treat (Horror)
3) Halloween (Horror)-do yourself a favor, rent the original. Even Rob Zombie can't improve on a Jamie Lee Curtis screamfest.
4) Ghostbusters (Comedy)
5) Casper the Movie (Kids)
6) Friday the 13th (Horror)-again, when in doubt, go for the original.
7) Nightmare on Elm Street (Horror)
8) The Nightmare Before Christmas (Kids)-though this one arguably doubles as a Christmas film, it's still good fun at Halloween.
9) Dead Snow (Horror)
10) The House on Haunted Hill (Horror)-once again, original original original. Remakes are a terrible idea.
11) Psycho (Horror)-need I repeat myself again?
12) The Stepford Wives (Mystery)-this time you should see the original for an even better reason than just that it's better-the remake was turned into a comedy, whereas the original is satisfyingly bone-chilling and extra-creepy.
13) The Amityville Horror (Horror)
14) Hocus Pocus (Kids)
15) The Mist-(Horror)
16) Scooby-Doo Meets the Boo Brothers (Kids)
17) Goosebumps: Go Eat Worms (Kids)
18) The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (Classics)
19) Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were Rabbit (Kids)
20) Haunted Mansion (Kids)
21) Scream (Horror)
22) Scary Movie (Comedy)
23) 1408 (Horror)
24) Rocky Horror Picture Show (Musicals)
25) The Shining (Horror)
26) Candyman (Horror)
27) Alien (Sci-Fi)
28) Beetlejuice (Comedy)
29) The Addams Family (Comedy)
30) Silence of the Lambs (Horror)
31) Carrie (Horror)
Have fun, and stay scared!!!!
-Posted by Colleen
Friday, September 24, 2010
Documentaries You Should Be Watching
I know, I know...you come to video stores to pick up your favorite action flick and zone out, not to learn. But by passing by the documentary section, you are missing out on some extremely interesting and, dare I say, awesome films. Here's a short list of my favorites that you shouldn't miss!
Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg
Before Joanie loved Chachi and Lucy 'splained to Ricky, there was Mrs. Goldberg, leaning out her kitchen window to gossip with the neighbors. Released this August, this documentary by local filmmaker Aviva Kemper and featuring interviews with our very own Potomac Video customer Mindy Weisel is a biography of Gertrude Berg, the first powerhouse woman in television. Berg created the radio show The Goldberg's, which was a staple in American life during and after World War II. Upon the advent of television, she produced, wrote, and starred in the sitcom version of the radio show, which became the first true family sitcom. This touching documentary follows Berg's career, family life, and eventual anonomity as Lucille Ball took over as the first lady of television. Absolutely worth a look, and easy to find-it's still on the New Release wall!
Every Little Step
Broadway has some of the best dancers in the world. And you can watch them sweat, stress, and put their best foot forward in this documentary following the auditions for the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line. Following the auditions from the beginning preliminaries to final callbacks almost a year later, this film will make you laugh and touch your heart as you watch these dancers do everything they can to make the cut. Great pick for anyone who loves great dancing, real drama, and good old-fashioned reach-for-the-stars inspiration. This one is also a good one to watch with the kids!
Paradise Lost
This real-life courtroom drama follows the West Memphis Three, a trio of teenaged boys in West Memphis Arkansas convicted of the brutal murder of three children, through their trial and eventual encarceration. You will feel as if you're watching a top-rate John Grisham thriller-except this one is entirely real. And making this film even more nail-biting is the fact that Damien Echols, one of the convicts in this case, has his last appeal for a re-trial a week from today before the Arkansas Supreme Court, and will serve out his sentance on Death Row should his appeal be rejected. Are they guilty or are they not? Decide for yourself as you watch the court proceedings unfold, but watch it when the kids are in bed-crime scene photos are displayed without any editing or censorship.
Deliver Us From Evil
Another nail-biter, this documentary follows a Catholic priest convicted of sexual abuse as he attempts to reconnect with and apologize to all the children (now adults) that he hurt over his long career as a parish priest. You will find yourself crying along with the victims as they express their pain and face their demons. An absolutely incredible film, but it's not for the weak at heart-this film doesn't make any attempts to mask the victims' pain or sugar-coat the situation. Definitely one to watch after the kids are in bed.
Paperback Dreams
This documentary is about the downfall of the independent bookstore and it's effect on the literary world. Thoroughly depressing for lovers of indie bookstores, the film follows an independent chain as it is hit with the realities of the recession and bargain-book superstores. Fascinating and extremely relevant, this film will make you want to run right out to Second Story Books and buy out their stock!
-Posted by Colleen
Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg
Before Joanie loved Chachi and Lucy 'splained to Ricky, there was Mrs. Goldberg, leaning out her kitchen window to gossip with the neighbors. Released this August, this documentary by local filmmaker Aviva Kemper and featuring interviews with our very own Potomac Video customer Mindy Weisel is a biography of Gertrude Berg, the first powerhouse woman in television. Berg created the radio show The Goldberg's, which was a staple in American life during and after World War II. Upon the advent of television, she produced, wrote, and starred in the sitcom version of the radio show, which became the first true family sitcom. This touching documentary follows Berg's career, family life, and eventual anonomity as Lucille Ball took over as the first lady of television. Absolutely worth a look, and easy to find-it's still on the New Release wall!
Every Little Step
Broadway has some of the best dancers in the world. And you can watch them sweat, stress, and put their best foot forward in this documentary following the auditions for the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line. Following the auditions from the beginning preliminaries to final callbacks almost a year later, this film will make you laugh and touch your heart as you watch these dancers do everything they can to make the cut. Great pick for anyone who loves great dancing, real drama, and good old-fashioned reach-for-the-stars inspiration. This one is also a good one to watch with the kids!
Paradise Lost
This real-life courtroom drama follows the West Memphis Three, a trio of teenaged boys in West Memphis Arkansas convicted of the brutal murder of three children, through their trial and eventual encarceration. You will feel as if you're watching a top-rate John Grisham thriller-except this one is entirely real. And making this film even more nail-biting is the fact that Damien Echols, one of the convicts in this case, has his last appeal for a re-trial a week from today before the Arkansas Supreme Court, and will serve out his sentance on Death Row should his appeal be rejected. Are they guilty or are they not? Decide for yourself as you watch the court proceedings unfold, but watch it when the kids are in bed-crime scene photos are displayed without any editing or censorship.
Deliver Us From Evil
Another nail-biter, this documentary follows a Catholic priest convicted of sexual abuse as he attempts to reconnect with and apologize to all the children (now adults) that he hurt over his long career as a parish priest. You will find yourself crying along with the victims as they express their pain and face their demons. An absolutely incredible film, but it's not for the weak at heart-this film doesn't make any attempts to mask the victims' pain or sugar-coat the situation. Definitely one to watch after the kids are in bed.
Paperback Dreams
This documentary is about the downfall of the independent bookstore and it's effect on the literary world. Thoroughly depressing for lovers of indie bookstores, the film follows an independent chain as it is hit with the realities of the recession and bargain-book superstores. Fascinating and extremely relevant, this film will make you want to run right out to Second Story Books and buy out their stock!
-Posted by Colleen
Sidewalk Sale!
Need some new DVDs to add to your collection? Kids watched your copy of Scooby-Doo so often it looks like it got run over by a truck driven by zombies? Rented your favorite Steve Martin flick so many times you could have bought it twice and still spent less money on it? Then come on down to our Sidewalk Sale! This Saturday and Sunday, September 25-26, from 11-4, we will be selling our surplus inventory for uber-cheap out in front of the store! So take advantage of the ridiculously warm Fall we're having, and take a stroll down to our MacArthur store this weekend.
See you there!
-Posted by Colleen
See you there!
-Posted by Colleen
Monday, August 30, 2010
Back to School Movies for September!
Back to school season...new pencils, new teachers, new books, tons of new clothes...September can be stressful for school-goers (and parents!) of all ages. So what better way to relax than to sit back and watch movies about other people stressing about school? Here's our list of 30 back-to-school films, one for each day in September!
1) Mean Girls- Comedy, PG-13
2) Clueless-Comedy, PG-13
3) Schoolhouse Rock: Earth-Kids, NR
4) Dead Poet's Society-Drama, PG
5) Diary of a Wimpy Kid-Kids New Release Wall, PG
6) Accepted-Comedy, PG-13
7) American Graffiti-Comedy, PG
8) Hairspray-Musical, PG
9) Grease-Musical, PG
10) Animal House-Comedy, R
11) Assassination of a High School President- Comedy, R
12) Back to School-Comedy, PG-13
13) The Breakfast Club-Drama, R
14) Bring It On-Comedy, PG-13
15) College-Comedy, R
16) Freaky Friday- Kids, G (1976 version)/PG (2003 version)
17) Princess Diaries-Kids, G
18) Legally Blonde-Comedy, PG-13
19) High School Musical-Kids, G
20) Harry Potter-Kids, PG (parts 1, 2, 3, & 6)/PG-13 (parts 4 & 5)
21) The Skulls-Mystery, PG-13
22) 17 Again-Comedy, PG-13
23) Cruel Intentions-Mystery, R
24) Buffy the Vampire Slayer-Comedy, PG (movie)/Television, NR (TV show)
25) The Faculty- Horror, R
26) 10 Things I Hate About You-Comedy, PG-13
27) Not Another Teen Movie- Comedy, R
28) Pleasantville-Comedy, PG-13
29) Good Will Hunting- Drama, R
30) Superbad-Comedy, R
Be sure to check out these titles and more, all available at our MacArthur store!
-Posted by Colleen
1) Mean Girls- Comedy, PG-13
2) Clueless-Comedy, PG-13
3) Schoolhouse Rock: Earth-Kids, NR
4) Dead Poet's Society-Drama, PG
5) Diary of a Wimpy Kid-Kids New Release Wall, PG
6) Accepted-Comedy, PG-13
7) American Graffiti-Comedy, PG
8) Hairspray-Musical, PG
9) Grease-Musical, PG
10) Animal House-Comedy, R
11) Assassination of a High School President- Comedy, R
12) Back to School-Comedy, PG-13
13) The Breakfast Club-Drama, R
14) Bring It On-Comedy, PG-13
15) College-Comedy, R
16) Freaky Friday- Kids, G (1976 version)/PG (2003 version)
17) Princess Diaries-Kids, G
18) Legally Blonde-Comedy, PG-13
19) High School Musical-Kids, G
20) Harry Potter-Kids, PG (parts 1, 2, 3, & 6)/PG-13 (parts 4 & 5)
21) The Skulls-Mystery, PG-13
22) 17 Again-Comedy, PG-13
23) Cruel Intentions-Mystery, R
24) Buffy the Vampire Slayer-Comedy, PG (movie)/Television, NR (TV show)
25) The Faculty- Horror, R
26) 10 Things I Hate About You-Comedy, PG-13
27) Not Another Teen Movie- Comedy, R
28) Pleasantville-Comedy, PG-13
29) Good Will Hunting- Drama, R
30) Superbad-Comedy, R
Be sure to check out these titles and more, all available at our MacArthur store!
-Posted by Colleen
Thursday, August 26, 2010
The Red Shoes
As you may or may not know, the all-time epitome of dance movies, The Red Shoes, has just recently been re-released, with new color enhancement. (And it's gorgeous!) In honor of this fantastic movie (located on our New Release wall), here is a list of what are (in my humble opinion) the all-time greatest dance movies, all available at our MacArthur store.
White Nights-Mikhail Barishnokov and Gregory Hines star in this political drama set in Russia in 1985. Barishnokov plays a dancer who defected from Russia and has the misfortune to be in a plane that crashes on Russian soil, leaving him trapped. He is housed in Siberia with Raymond (Hines), a Vietnam draft dodger who tap dances for his meager living. Together they manage to escape the Soviets and perform some great numbers along the way. Great pick for those who love dance movies but want something with a little more substance than say, Step Up 2 the Streets.
Dirty Dancing- Who doesn't love this classic dance flick? Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray star in this legendary film about upper-middle-class teenager Baby Houseman (Gray) who is swept off her feet (literally and figuratively) by the charming dance teacher Johnny (Swayze). You'll be singing and dancing along with them as they have the time of their life at a resort in the Catskills.
Center Stage-This film is the traditional classic dance movie personified. Jody Sawyer (Amanda Schull) is a dance hopeful who is admitted to the prestigious American Ballet Company training academy. She experiences failure, love, and heartbreak as she struggles to find her place in the dance world. With fantastic dance sequences and a strong supporting cast (including Zoe Saldana, Susan May Pratt, Peter Gallagher, and New York City Ballet star Ethan Stiefel), this is a film you should definitely check out!
Hairpsray-Not just a dance flick but a full-on musical, this re-make of the hit 80's movie is sure to warm your heart. Tracy Turnblad (played by Nikki Blonsky) has a big dream to dance on the Cornie Collins Show-a dream that's almost bigger than her. Eventually, she charms her way into the show and into the hearts of the citizens of Baltimore and becomes a local celebrity. But she's not done yet-she uses her fame to help fight for civil rights. With an all-star cast, including John Travolta (as Tracy's mother!), Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Michelle Pfieffer, Queen Latifah, and Zac Efron, this is a film you can watch over and over with the whole family.
Ziegfeld's Follies-Though not entirely a dance film, this collection of classic vignettes includes musical numbers, comedy sketches, and beautiful dance numbers. With some of early cinema's biggest stars, including Fred Astaire, Lucille Ball, Judy Garland, and Lena Horne, this film is a must-see for fans of movies musicals.
Holiday Inn-Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, this classic family film about a hotel only open on holidays is sure to make you smile. With a soundtrack filled with well-known songs, such as "Easter Parade" and "White Christmas" and dance sequences featuring Fred Astaire and Marjorie Reynolds, this film is a great selection to watch with the family.
-Posted by Colleen
White Nights-Mikhail Barishnokov and Gregory Hines star in this political drama set in Russia in 1985. Barishnokov plays a dancer who defected from Russia and has the misfortune to be in a plane that crashes on Russian soil, leaving him trapped. He is housed in Siberia with Raymond (Hines), a Vietnam draft dodger who tap dances for his meager living. Together they manage to escape the Soviets and perform some great numbers along the way. Great pick for those who love dance movies but want something with a little more substance than say, Step Up 2 the Streets.
Dirty Dancing- Who doesn't love this classic dance flick? Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray star in this legendary film about upper-middle-class teenager Baby Houseman (Gray) who is swept off her feet (literally and figuratively) by the charming dance teacher Johnny (Swayze). You'll be singing and dancing along with them as they have the time of their life at a resort in the Catskills.
Center Stage-This film is the traditional classic dance movie personified. Jody Sawyer (Amanda Schull) is a dance hopeful who is admitted to the prestigious American Ballet Company training academy. She experiences failure, love, and heartbreak as she struggles to find her place in the dance world. With fantastic dance sequences and a strong supporting cast (including Zoe Saldana, Susan May Pratt, Peter Gallagher, and New York City Ballet star Ethan Stiefel), this is a film you should definitely check out!
Hairpsray-Not just a dance flick but a full-on musical, this re-make of the hit 80's movie is sure to warm your heart. Tracy Turnblad (played by Nikki Blonsky) has a big dream to dance on the Cornie Collins Show-a dream that's almost bigger than her. Eventually, she charms her way into the show and into the hearts of the citizens of Baltimore and becomes a local celebrity. But she's not done yet-she uses her fame to help fight for civil rights. With an all-star cast, including John Travolta (as Tracy's mother!), Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Michelle Pfieffer, Queen Latifah, and Zac Efron, this is a film you can watch over and over with the whole family.
Ziegfeld's Follies-Though not entirely a dance film, this collection of classic vignettes includes musical numbers, comedy sketches, and beautiful dance numbers. With some of early cinema's biggest stars, including Fred Astaire, Lucille Ball, Judy Garland, and Lena Horne, this film is a must-see for fans of movies musicals.
Holiday Inn-Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, this classic family film about a hotel only open on holidays is sure to make you smile. With a soundtrack filled with well-known songs, such as "Easter Parade" and "White Christmas" and dance sequences featuring Fred Astaire and Marjorie Reynolds, this film is a great selection to watch with the family.
-Posted by Colleen
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Movies For The Kids You Won't Have to Suffer Through
It's Friday night, and like so many parents of the DC metro area, you bring your child along to Potomac Video with you for a bit of digital entertainment. Whatever keeps them quiet, right? Much to your chagrin, your son heads right away for the Pokemon shelf, in search of the elusive volume 16B he hasn't seen yet. While as a parent you enjoy spending time with your child no matter what, you wish somehow there was more common ground-- that you could actually enjoy watching a film with your child AND feel like he is taking away some sort of valuable lesson, no matter how trivial. The following list, comprised solely of films rated PG and G, is here to help.
1. The Addams Family
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's crazy, cooky, and campy. All the elements of "frivolous" children's fantasy are present, but, unbeknown to them, the execution is superior.
Why You'll Like It: Anjelica Huston, Christina Ricci, Christopher Lloyd, and Joan Cusack round out an all-star cast that enchants on-screen. The subtlety of some humor is more adult-targeted, and, at the end of the day, the film demonstrates that even people who look and act different can be kind.
2. Casper
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Casper is cute, innocent, and gets himself into youthful trouble. Your kids will squeal with delight as he accidentally fries himself sunny side up like an egg. His ghostly uncles provide much of the comic relief, with Stinky have such potent breath he can induce fainting and Fatso emitting such hefty flatulence no child can help but laugh. The scenery in the film, most of all the magic machine, is sure to impress any
Why You'll Like It: The film is parody rich, and the references to Ghostbusters, The Exorcist, and the Terminator are a silent nod to you, the adult viewer. The film is a classic depiction of good triumphing over evil and tackles the issue of single parenthood following the death of a spouse.
3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Based off of best-selling book series, your children are no doubt already curious about this film. Diary of a Wimpy Kid taps into the world of children and tackles the ever-popular subject of fitting in in a way that is all at once lighthearted, meaningful, and appropriate. Your kids will laugh as the "wimpy kids" have to challenge the "gorillas" in a game of capture the flag, and shake their heads as the main character temporarily loses his sense of self in pursuit of popularity.
Why You'll Like It: The film teaches a clear-cut lesson on what is important during the oh-so confusing time that is middle school. You will laugh along with your child as the legend of the Cheese Touch Unfolds and as Greg accidentally pees on his older brother, the hostile singer of awful garage band, Loded Diaper. The film is evocative of The Wonder Years, but more child-friendly, and with a bit more toilet humor.
5. E.T.
I will admit, when my dad showed me this movie at age four, it terrified me (and my mother subsequently suffered for many, many nights), so you might want to reserve the viewing of this film for older kids, as real youngsters might find parts of the film overwhelming. For me, it was the scene in which E.T. falls into the river and turns white with hypothermia, shortly thereafter ending up on a ventilator and in a body bag.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: E.T. is cute. He waddles around and eats Reese's Pieces, and Elliott, with his unwavering determination to help his other-worldly friend and flying bike is a hero to all children who ever dreamed of the impossible. Your kids will feel excitement as Elliott and his siblings try to keep their friend a secret from their seemingly clueless mother, and sit on the edge of their seats as E.T. has close encounters with death and with the authorities.
Why You'll Like It: Spielberg made it. It's a classic film about the goodness of a child and the power of determination, and the special effects were ground-breaking for the time.
Fun Fact: When building the animatronic E.T. puppet, Spielberg looked through photographs of famous people to incorporate distinctive features into the alien. The little guy's trademark wide, gentle eyes were inspired by Albert Einstein's.
6. Fly Away Home
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Baby geese are really cute. Who could not have a soft spot for baby geese? Additionally, the heroine of the film goes on to lead a cross-country flight with her father, and children will find the visuals both enjoyable and empowering.
Why You'll Like It: This film again deals with the topic of single parenthood, in particular the theme of an under-enthused young girl being raised by the father with whom she is not very close. By the film's end, however, the relationship foraged between them is strong and both characters have grown tremendously. The film is also visually impressive, feeling much more like a made-for-adults drama than a children's film. And they save the animals. Who could not like it? Jeff Daniels and Anna Paquin Star.
7. The Goonies
Why Your Kids Will Like It: There is not much for your kids to dislike in this classic 80's film, which, coincidentally, has risen to cult status among aficionados since its release. The Goonies live in a quirky world where everything is an adventure, and, on the quest to save their house, encounter a bit of humor and danger.
Why You'll Like It: Written by Steven Spielberg, this film moves at an adult pace and the stark comic value of certain elements will tickle you. Watch out for the fat Goonie, Chunk, being made to do the "Truffle Shuffle," a belly-bearing jiggle, before he is allowed entry into the homes of his fellow Goonies. If you or your children have never seen this one, place it high on your list of future rentals, as it will not disappoint.
A Small Disclaimer: There is one scene containing a skeleton among the ruins of pirate treasure.
8. Hachi
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Hachi is really just too cute, and his loyalty is moving, even for the youngest of viewers. Your kids will delight in seeing Hachi meet Gere's character around town, and the lengths he goes to to be with his master.
Why You'll Like It: It's innocent, moving, and shows a new side of Richard Gere. Truly a beautiful film about the love a man and a dog can share.
A Small Disclaimer: Have the tissues ready.
9. Hook
Why Your Kids Will Like It: A whimsical twist on the classic Peter Pan story, the visuals in Hook will have your kids mesmerized. Something about taking the narrative out of the context of a cartoon and into live action makes the elusive Neverland that much more enchanting.
Why You'll Like It: In addition to the same reasons as your children, you will take particular delight in seeing appearances from Julia Roberts, Robin Williams, a highly caricatured Dustin Hoffman, and even Phil Collins.
10. Labyrinth
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Labyrinth takes Place in a magical world guaranteed to be unlike anything your kids have ever seen in film so far. Filmed in the era before CGI was prevalent, puppeteer/director Jim Henson truly outdid himself in this one. The visuals alone will have your kids watching this one over and over again.
Why You'll Like It: Aside from the fact that it stars Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie and features a few awesome musical numbers (and trust me, I loathe musicals... but then again I love Bowie), you will appreciate Sarah's determination to save her baby brother and the incredible amount of growing up she does under pressure. This film is truly enjoyable for people of all ages, and is one of our shift staples here in the MacArthur store.
11. A Little Princess
Why You'll Like It: Nominated for an Academy Award for best Art Direction, the film is visually stunning and has a unique aesthetic which you will not likely forget quickly. Additionally, it carries the important message of persevering even when life becomes incredibly difficult, and, when put in a historical context, is racially radical in Sara's befriending of Becky.
12. The Little Rascals
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This film portrays children as functioning completely independently from adults, a notion which is always intriguing to children, but which is perhaps so successful in this film because of all that the little rascals accomplish. Your children will go green with envy when they see the clubhouse and go kart that the He-Man Woman Haters Club has managed, all being under the age of eight, to build for themselves, and will laugh as they see Alfalfa bite into a sandwich spiked with kitty litter and get chased across the lawn by a Doberman in his underpants.
Why You'll Like It: It's charming and somehow evocative of an earlier time, perhaps due to the fact that it was inspired by Our Gang and even features some of the original cast members as the new kids' parents. Daryl Hannah, Donald Trump, Mel Brooks, Whoopi Goldberg and Reba McEntire make cameos, and you will appreciate the lessons the film teaches your children about honesty, friendship, and even kindness across the genders.
13. Matilda
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Matilda has magical powers, but unlike Harry Potter, she is stuck in a disenchanting and nonmagical world. Consequently, her antics are able to shine in greater boldness than in they'd be able to in the films about her magical "brethren." Your child will love watching Matilda make pancakes and make a deck of playing cards fly around her in the room as she dances. Even young viewers will be impressed by the proclivity of Matilda, who is not only magical, but also highly intelligent and has a great thirst for knowledge, devouring books from the time she is old enough to sign for a library card and walk herself hime.
Why You'll Like It: Emerging from the same production studio as Garden State, Pulp Fiction, and Freedom Writers, Matilda is pure gold in the form of a children's film. Aside from the film's high valuation of education, you will enjoy watching the on-screen chemistry created by Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman in this rare shared performance in which they play a sleazy used car salesman and a bleached blonde bingo maniac, respectively. Paul Reubens (aka Peewee Herman) makes a cameo appearance as an FBI agent as well, the irony of which is lost on few adults.
14. The Parent Trap (1961 version!)
Why You'll Like It: It's all in good fun, and it hails from an era when films were wholesome and family values were upheld. Women will enjoy looking at the early 60's fashion. Something about the good intentions of the days of yore will strike a nostalgic chord with you that Hannah Montana, in its ever-failing attempts at wit, does not.
15. Pirates of the Caribbean (This film is rated PG-13)
Yes, this film deviates from the "unequivocally family friendly" range of G/PG ratings, but it is such a great family film that it deserves a mention. Also, please keep in mind that even though it has a bit of a stricter rating than the other films on this list, it is made by Disney and according to imdb, it earned its rating for "action/adventure, violence." Having viewed this film myself several times, I can relate to you, the discerning parent, the following regarding these elements:
1. The fight scenes are epic, and they do cause quite an adrenaline rush.
2. Any violence is highly stylized/made humorous. There is no gore of any kind in the film.
3. The greatest cause for concern as a parent is that, under the light of the moon, there are a few scenes in which captain Barbossa and his crew turn into skeletons, to which some children have a sensitivity. However, Disney takes great care to make the crew seem humorous and simple-minded, and consequently they are not very intimidating.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's an utterly thrilling escape into an exotic world of swashbucklers, sea monsters, maidens, and vigilante justice. Your children will immediately feel affection for the oft-confused but always successful Jack Sparrow, and cheer him on in his quest against captain Barbossa. Older children will even appreciate the romantic side plot that develops between Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley.
Why You'll Like It: This film has an incredible ability to transport audiences of all ages, and you will appreciate an all-star cast that includes Geoffrey Rush and Johnny Depp. At the end of the day, the good guys win. On the way, there is a bit of romance, a lot of humor, some adventure, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery to keep you thoroughly attached to the screen. Parents of particularly picky boys might benefit from picking up one of the Pirates films on the next movie night, though it has something for everyone.
16. The Santa Claus
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This movie is not just for Christmas time. At the tender age of 6, I received a VHS copy of this, which my younger brother and I wore into a skipping jumble of ironically placed "festive" music. Your kids will adore the North Pole in the movie, abundant with toys, elves, and holiday confections. The modern twist on santa's magic, such as a CD cookie dispenser in the sleigh, makes the movie feel current and appeals to the sensibilities of the modern kid more so than the black and white santa stories you see on TCM every year.
Why You'll Like It: Tim Allen, though thought of as accessible to children, is an adult's comic, and his bitterness and disenchantment is not that of your typical cartoon Grinch. Jabs at going to therapy and the woes of divorce and mid-life weight gain will have adults smirking, and all of the family bonding and crackling fires will leave you feeling warm and cozy.
17. Toy Story:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It entertains the idea that your toys come to life when you are out of the room and has the child-friendly aesthetic for which Pixar has become famous.
Why You'll Like It: It promotes teamwork and enforces that things change in life, but that with a positive outlook everything will be okay. Having been released in 1995, Toy Story will impress you with its animation, from the smooth movement of the characters to the level of expression on their faces. The story of the underdog, which is Woody's story, has something to offer for audiences of all ages.
18. Up:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: What could possibly be more whimsical than the idea of tying balloons to your house and flying off into the sky? Kids will laugh at the grumpiness of Carl and the silliness of Russell and Dug when they see that the sky really is the limit in this instant classic.
Why You'll Like It: Much of the nuance in this film will go over your child's head, as it was not intended to be solely for children. You will sympathize along with Carl as he loses his wife, and be glad for him as the sense of joy in his life is renewed.
-posted by Anna
1. The Addams Family
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's crazy, cooky, and campy. All the elements of "frivolous" children's fantasy are present, but, unbeknown to them, the execution is superior.
Why You'll Like It: Anjelica Huston, Christina Ricci, Christopher Lloyd, and Joan Cusack round out an all-star cast that enchants on-screen. The subtlety of some humor is more adult-targeted, and, at the end of the day, the film demonstrates that even people who look and act different can be kind.
2. Casper
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Casper is cute, innocent, and gets himself into youthful trouble. Your kids will squeal with delight as he accidentally fries himself sunny side up like an egg. His ghostly uncles provide much of the comic relief, with Stinky have such potent breath he can induce fainting and Fatso emitting such hefty flatulence no child can help but laugh. The scenery in the film, most of all the magic machine, is sure to impress any
Why You'll Like It: The film is parody rich, and the references to Ghostbusters, The Exorcist, and the Terminator are a silent nod to you, the adult viewer. The film is a classic depiction of good triumphing over evil and tackles the issue of single parenthood following the death of a spouse.
3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Based off of best-selling book series, your children are no doubt already curious about this film. Diary of a Wimpy Kid taps into the world of children and tackles the ever-popular subject of fitting in in a way that is all at once lighthearted, meaningful, and appropriate. Your kids will laugh as the "wimpy kids" have to challenge the "gorillas" in a game of capture the flag, and shake their heads as the main character temporarily loses his sense of self in pursuit of popularity.
Why You'll Like It: The film teaches a clear-cut lesson on what is important during the oh-so confusing time that is middle school. You will laugh along with your child as the legend of the Cheese Touch Unfolds and as Greg accidentally pees on his older brother, the hostile singer of awful garage band, Loded Diaper. The film is evocative of The Wonder Years, but more child-friendly, and with a bit more toilet humor.
5. E.T.
I will admit, when my dad showed me this movie at age four, it terrified me (and my mother subsequently suffered for many, many nights), so you might want to reserve the viewing of this film for older kids, as real youngsters might find parts of the film overwhelming. For me, it was the scene in which E.T. falls into the river and turns white with hypothermia, shortly thereafter ending up on a ventilator and in a body bag.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: E.T. is cute. He waddles around and eats Reese's Pieces, and Elliott, with his unwavering determination to help his other-worldly friend and flying bike is a hero to all children who ever dreamed of the impossible. Your kids will feel excitement as Elliott and his siblings try to keep their friend a secret from their seemingly clueless mother, and sit on the edge of their seats as E.T. has close encounters with death and with the authorities.
Why You'll Like It: Spielberg made it. It's a classic film about the goodness of a child and the power of determination, and the special effects were ground-breaking for the time.
Fun Fact: When building the animatronic E.T. puppet, Spielberg looked through photographs of famous people to incorporate distinctive features into the alien. The little guy's trademark wide, gentle eyes were inspired by Albert Einstein's.
6. Fly Away Home
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Baby geese are really cute. Who could not have a soft spot for baby geese? Additionally, the heroine of the film goes on to lead a cross-country flight with her father, and children will find the visuals both enjoyable and empowering.
Why You'll Like It: This film again deals with the topic of single parenthood, in particular the theme of an under-enthused young girl being raised by the father with whom she is not very close. By the film's end, however, the relationship foraged between them is strong and both characters have grown tremendously. The film is also visually impressive, feeling much more like a made-for-adults drama than a children's film. And they save the animals. Who could not like it? Jeff Daniels and Anna Paquin Star.
7. The Goonies
Why Your Kids Will Like It: There is not much for your kids to dislike in this classic 80's film, which, coincidentally, has risen to cult status among aficionados since its release. The Goonies live in a quirky world where everything is an adventure, and, on the quest to save their house, encounter a bit of humor and danger.
Why You'll Like It: Written by Steven Spielberg, this film moves at an adult pace and the stark comic value of certain elements will tickle you. Watch out for the fat Goonie, Chunk, being made to do the "Truffle Shuffle," a belly-bearing jiggle, before he is allowed entry into the homes of his fellow Goonies. If you or your children have never seen this one, place it high on your list of future rentals, as it will not disappoint.
A Small Disclaimer: There is one scene containing a skeleton among the ruins of pirate treasure.
8. Hachi
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Hachi is really just too cute, and his loyalty is moving, even for the youngest of viewers. Your kids will delight in seeing Hachi meet Gere's character around town, and the lengths he goes to to be with his master.
Why You'll Like It: It's innocent, moving, and shows a new side of Richard Gere. Truly a beautiful film about the love a man and a dog can share.
A Small Disclaimer: Have the tissues ready.
9. Hook
Why Your Kids Will Like It: A whimsical twist on the classic Peter Pan story, the visuals in Hook will have your kids mesmerized. Something about taking the narrative out of the context of a cartoon and into live action makes the elusive Neverland that much more enchanting.
Why You'll Like It: In addition to the same reasons as your children, you will take particular delight in seeing appearances from Julia Roberts, Robin Williams, a highly caricatured Dustin Hoffman, and even Phil Collins.
10. Labyrinth
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Labyrinth takes Place in a magical world guaranteed to be unlike anything your kids have ever seen in film so far. Filmed in the era before CGI was prevalent, puppeteer/director Jim Henson truly outdid himself in this one. The visuals alone will have your kids watching this one over and over again.
Why You'll Like It: Aside from the fact that it stars Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie and features a few awesome musical numbers (and trust me, I loathe musicals... but then again I love Bowie), you will appreciate Sarah's determination to save her baby brother and the incredible amount of growing up she does under pressure. This film is truly enjoyable for people of all ages, and is one of our shift staples here in the MacArthur store.
11. A Little Princess
***This movie will probably be better suited for watching with young girls.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Adapted from the novel and influenced by the 1939 version starring Shirley Temple, A Little Princess is an escape into a magical world which will have your own little princess captivated. The daughter of a wealthy British soldier Sara Crewe has to leave her home in India for a New York boarding school when her father leaves for World War I. When he is presumed dead and Sara presumed poor, it is through her friendship with the house servant and her vivid imagination that she is able to keep her spirit and her sense of grace intact.Why You'll Like It: Nominated for an Academy Award for best Art Direction, the film is visually stunning and has a unique aesthetic which you will not likely forget quickly. Additionally, it carries the important message of persevering even when life becomes incredibly difficult, and, when put in a historical context, is racially radical in Sara's befriending of Becky.
12. The Little Rascals
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This film portrays children as functioning completely independently from adults, a notion which is always intriguing to children, but which is perhaps so successful in this film because of all that the little rascals accomplish. Your children will go green with envy when they see the clubhouse and go kart that the He-Man Woman Haters Club has managed, all being under the age of eight, to build for themselves, and will laugh as they see Alfalfa bite into a sandwich spiked with kitty litter and get chased across the lawn by a Doberman in his underpants.
Why You'll Like It: It's charming and somehow evocative of an earlier time, perhaps due to the fact that it was inspired by Our Gang and even features some of the original cast members as the new kids' parents. Daryl Hannah, Donald Trump, Mel Brooks, Whoopi Goldberg and Reba McEntire make cameos, and you will appreciate the lessons the film teaches your children about honesty, friendship, and even kindness across the genders.
13. Matilda
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Matilda has magical powers, but unlike Harry Potter, she is stuck in a disenchanting and nonmagical world. Consequently, her antics are able to shine in greater boldness than in they'd be able to in the films about her magical "brethren." Your child will love watching Matilda make pancakes and make a deck of playing cards fly around her in the room as she dances. Even young viewers will be impressed by the proclivity of Matilda, who is not only magical, but also highly intelligent and has a great thirst for knowledge, devouring books from the time she is old enough to sign for a library card and walk herself hime.
Why You'll Like It: Emerging from the same production studio as Garden State, Pulp Fiction, and Freedom Writers, Matilda is pure gold in the form of a children's film. Aside from the film's high valuation of education, you will enjoy watching the on-screen chemistry created by Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman in this rare shared performance in which they play a sleazy used car salesman and a bleached blonde bingo maniac, respectively. Paul Reubens (aka Peewee Herman) makes a cameo appearance as an FBI agent as well, the irony of which is lost on few adults.
14. The Parent Trap (1961 version!)
******This movie will probably be better suited for watching with young girls.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's impossibly untrue, and it involves a secret scheme, something which inherently appeals to children. Also coming into play is the wicked stepmother to be, Vicki, a character so vile, it is easy to take delight in the twins' tricking of her. It's interesting to watch how each of the girls live in each other's lives, and your child will be curious to see how successful the twins are in passing.Why You'll Like It: It's all in good fun, and it hails from an era when films were wholesome and family values were upheld. Women will enjoy looking at the early 60's fashion. Something about the good intentions of the days of yore will strike a nostalgic chord with you that Hannah Montana, in its ever-failing attempts at wit, does not.
15. Pirates of the Caribbean (This film is rated PG-13)
Yes, this film deviates from the "unequivocally family friendly" range of G/PG ratings, but it is such a great family film that it deserves a mention. Also, please keep in mind that even though it has a bit of a stricter rating than the other films on this list, it is made by Disney and according to imdb, it earned its rating for "action/adventure, violence." Having viewed this film myself several times, I can relate to you, the discerning parent, the following regarding these elements:
1. The fight scenes are epic, and they do cause quite an adrenaline rush.
2. Any violence is highly stylized/made humorous. There is no gore of any kind in the film.
3. The greatest cause for concern as a parent is that, under the light of the moon, there are a few scenes in which captain Barbossa and his crew turn into skeletons, to which some children have a sensitivity. However, Disney takes great care to make the crew seem humorous and simple-minded, and consequently they are not very intimidating.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's an utterly thrilling escape into an exotic world of swashbucklers, sea monsters, maidens, and vigilante justice. Your children will immediately feel affection for the oft-confused but always successful Jack Sparrow, and cheer him on in his quest against captain Barbossa. Older children will even appreciate the romantic side plot that develops between Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley.
Why You'll Like It: This film has an incredible ability to transport audiences of all ages, and you will appreciate an all-star cast that includes Geoffrey Rush and Johnny Depp. At the end of the day, the good guys win. On the way, there is a bit of romance, a lot of humor, some adventure, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery to keep you thoroughly attached to the screen. Parents of particularly picky boys might benefit from picking up one of the Pirates films on the next movie night, though it has something for everyone.
16. The Santa Claus
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This movie is not just for Christmas time. At the tender age of 6, I received a VHS copy of this, which my younger brother and I wore into a skipping jumble of ironically placed "festive" music. Your kids will adore the North Pole in the movie, abundant with toys, elves, and holiday confections. The modern twist on santa's magic, such as a CD cookie dispenser in the sleigh, makes the movie feel current and appeals to the sensibilities of the modern kid more so than the black and white santa stories you see on TCM every year.
Why You'll Like It: Tim Allen, though thought of as accessible to children, is an adult's comic, and his bitterness and disenchantment is not that of your typical cartoon Grinch. Jabs at going to therapy and the woes of divorce and mid-life weight gain will have adults smirking, and all of the family bonding and crackling fires will leave you feeling warm and cozy.
17. Toy Story:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It entertains the idea that your toys come to life when you are out of the room and has the child-friendly aesthetic for which Pixar has become famous.
Why You'll Like It: It promotes teamwork and enforces that things change in life, but that with a positive outlook everything will be okay. Having been released in 1995, Toy Story will impress you with its animation, from the smooth movement of the characters to the level of expression on their faces. The story of the underdog, which is Woody's story, has something to offer for audiences of all ages.
18. Up:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: What could possibly be more whimsical than the idea of tying balloons to your house and flying off into the sky? Kids will laugh at the grumpiness of Carl and the silliness of Russell and Dug when they see that the sky really is the limit in this instant classic.
Why You'll Like It: Much of the nuance in this film will go over your child's head, as it was not intended to be solely for children. You will sympathize along with Carl as he loses his wife, and be glad for him as the sense of joy in his life is renewed.
-posted by Anna
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