Animation
“The LEGO Batman Movie”
Acting as an indirect sequel to “The LEGO Movie”, and as a slapstick animated film, “The LEGO Batman Movie” is one for the books. Showing a different and less dark side of Batman, this movie truly captures the essence of childlike comedy without becoming annoying. In addition, it features lovable characters and a well executed story. I highly recommend this movie to anyone looking for a fun film to enjoy with the whole family.
“Shrek”
One of the most iconic films of our time, “Shrek” is a fairytale gone bonkers. The movie is funny, entertaining, and highlights some incredible music from all star group Smash Mouth. I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who doesn’t like “Shrek”, simply because it’s an iconic movie that entertains audiences of all ages. Though the animation isn’t seamless looking back, the movie itself still holds up to this day and remains one of the greatest animated movies of all time.
“Coraline”
“Coraline” is arguably my generation’s introduction to horror films. Stop motion animation and a horrifying story arch come together perfectly to create the perfect movie to freak out little kids while still entertaining older viewers. As far as I’m concerned, “Coraline” is perfect.
“Ponyo”
“Ponyo” was my personal introduction to Studio Ghibli, and likely one of the most popular Ghibli films from my childhood. This movie is one of my favorites to this day. It’s whimsical and adorable, and displays some of the most delicious looking animated food I have ever seen. “Ponyo” is certainly one for the books, and I highly recommend it to anyone searching for the perfect heartwarming story.
“Kung Fu Panda”
Starring the incredible Jack Black, “Kung Fu Panda” is a children’s comedy about a panda named Po who pursues a career in martial arts. With the announcement of a fourth movie, now is the perfect time to brush up on all things “Kung Fu Panda”. In addition, this movie is a favorite for many members of the class of 2023, thus making it a perfect family film to watch as this school year comes to a close.
“How To Train Your Dragon”
“How To Train Your Dragon” Is one of the greatest animated series of all time. Though this may be a bold statement, this movie holds strong even 13 years after its release. It’s emotional, heartwarming, and most of all a well written and well executed childrens movie. I highly recommend that anyone looking for the perfect nostalgic movie watch this masterpiece of a film.
“Rio”
A tale about the now extinct Spix’s macaw, ”Rio” is an animated film that puts a twist on the real life story of a Spix’s macaw named Elvis. This movie is well executed and strongly highlights themes of loyalty. It makes the perfect adventure film to watch with younger audiences this summer, while also still teaching a lesson about family.
“Barbie”
The Barbie franchise is one of the most successful and Iconic toy franchises to ever exist. With the live action “Barbie” movie coming out this July, now is the perfect time to catch up on all of the early 2000s Barbie movies. From “Fairytopia” to “Princess Charm School”, all of the Barbie movies are filled with magic and fun that will instantly transport viewers back to simpler times.
“The Bee Movie”
Easily the most memeable movie of my generation, “The Bee Movie” is a 2007 animated flick that offers a deep dive into the beehive. This movie is certainly weird, featuring a romantic relationship between a human woman and a bee, but it’s certainly entertaining. I recommend anyone who wants to think back to middle school times watch this movie, as it was at its peak when the class of 2023 was in junior high.
“Over The Hedge”
“Over The Hedge” is making its way back into the narrative as it was recently released on Netflix. Though the animation doesn’t quite hold up, and the story isn’t that great either, this movie makes the perfect example of a bad children’s movie that viewers can look back on and cringe.
“The Land Before Time”
“The Land Before Time” is one of the most heartbreaking movies from my childhood. Between the contents of the film, and the things that happened behind the scenes, this movie will truly break you. If the end of the school year is getting you in your feels, this movie is the perfect film to draw out the tears.
“Happy Feet”
“Happy Feet” was probably one of the most watched movies in my household as a kid. Back in the days when minivans had built in TV screens, “Happy Feet” was one of mine and my siblings’ road trip movies. For viewers looking for an up beat, yet terrifying story about tap dancing penguins, “Happy Feet” is the perfect movie for you.
“The Lorax”
A creative recreation of a classic story, “The Lorax” stars Danny Devito, Taylor Swift, and Zac Efron. This movie is colorful and bright, and features some incredible music. Sharing the backstory of the Once-ler, this movie is cute and will entertain even the most rambunctious kids.
“Corpse Bride”
When I was a little kid, I had a movie poster from “Corpse Bride” hung up above my bed. Though the poster scared me half to death as a child, the movie has always been a favorite of mine. Scored by Danny Elfman of Oingo Boingo, my love for this movie was essentially passed down to me from my parents. Viewers longing for a morbid love story can stop their search with the iconic tale of “Corpse Bride”.
“Madagascar”
Another easily memeable movie, “Madagascar” joins the ranks of the most loved movies from my childhood. With several sequels and spin offs, “Madagascar” is a hilarious animated comedy about a gang of misfit zoo animals who just want to see the world. Not only is this movie funny, but it also tells a story of an unlikely family who would do almost anything to stick together.
“Blue’s Clues: Blue’s Big City Adventure”
Though “Blues Clues” was never my number one, it was my older brother’s absolute favorite throughout childhood. With the return of everyone’s favorite host, Steve, now is the perfect time to sit down with younger family members and look back on Blues adorable adventures in “Blue’s Clues: Blue’s Big City Adventure”