May 21, 2005 10:29 AM
Movie classics your kids will love
Even today's most techno-savvy kids accustomed to vibrant color and sound - all the bells and whistles - respond to a story well-told. They can handle black and white. And just as we encourage children to read classics, we can encourage them to see them. Like best-loved books, these films with kid-appeal have stood the test. of time to become part of our heritage. Filmed during Hollywood's wholesome heyday, most were never rated (NR).
Beauty and the Beast (1946, Lopert Films, NR, French with subtitles) Enchanting and artful version of the fable of a self-sacrificing young woman who takes her fathers place as hostage in the castle of a beast. She overcomes her fear, he overcomes his mistrust and finally her love and compassion release a prince. 6+
Captains Courageous (1937, Warner, NR) Rudyard Kipling story of a spoiled, rich boy neglected by his father who is lost at sea, rescued by a Portuguese fisherman, and made to work hard and behave respectfully. But his heart is not the only one changed - as seen in his reunion with his now-loving father. All ages.
David Copperfield (1935, Warner, NR) A faithful and viewer-friendly book-to-screen translation, abounding in Christian themes. Among a multitude of fascinating Dickens characters, an unwanted boy endures trials to prove that gentle kindness triumphs over all adversity. 5+
Go West (1940, Warner, NR) The Marx Brothers go western in this hilarious comedy not the most popular of their films with adults, but a kids' favorite. Choose this when you're willing to watch something just plain silly. All ages.
Gone With the Wind (1939, Warner, G) The Civil War becomes compellingly real in this 3+hour epic, best savored uninterupted snuggled up on a rainy afternoon. The contrast between Scarlett OHara - self-centered, willful, and proud - and her self-sacrificing friend Melanie will spark many a family discussion. 8+
It's a Wonderful Life (1946, Republic, NR) A man grows bitter at the thwareting of his boyhood dreams of leaving his small town and doing big things. As crises mount, he thinks the world would have been better off without him until a loveable angel shows him what big things he's really done. All ages.
March of the Wooden Soldiers (1934, Third Coast, NR) Pass up later versions and choose the Laurel and Hardy version. Santa Claus's assistants make a mistake that ends up saving Toyland from evil in this Classic Mother Goose tale set to music and laughter. All ages.
Seven Samurai (1954, Home Vision, NR, subtitles) In this Japanese epic, the granddaddy of many American films, a village threatened by marauders hires seven professional soldiers to protect them. Detailed, fascinating, and perceptive look at human nature and relationships. 8+
Singin' In the Rain (1951, Warner, G) Thoroughly entertaining musical sendup of a pivotal point in Hollywood history - the transition from silent movies to talkies. Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds shine, the musical numbers sparkle, and laughs abound. All ages.
Wizard of Oz (1939, MGM, G) Dorothy longs to find a place where troubles melt like lemon drops. Her unexpected journey to Oz is rich in reassurance about the things we often think we have in short supply - brains and hearts and courage - and a long-lasting reminder that there's really no place like home.
Comments
We just watched Singing in the Rain last night! Wonderful movie! I will have to add the others you listed to my Netflix queue. I have netflix just so that we can watch all of the wonderful old classics they have. Thanks for the suggestions!
Posted by: Adrienne | May 21, 2005 12:53 PM
