Many of us have “Movie Nights” in our homes. Watching the daily fare on the tube doesn’t hold a candle to getting a prime spot on the couch with your kids, some popcorn and your favorite children’s film to make it an evening to remember. That being said, I will go out on a limb and admit that I personally dig the classic children’s movies more so than the more recent offerings. I don’t know what it is but I find them much more magical and thought-provoking. Sure, I’ve enjoyed some of the neat effects and futuristic story lines of the past few years but nothing can hold a candle to Judy Garland chanting “There’s no place like home,” and other goodies.To that end, here are my picks for the top 10 classic children’s movies of all time (in my humble opinion).
1) The Sound of Music (1965) – The hills truly were alive when Julie Andrews created the character of Maria in this timeless and beautiful film about the Von Trapp family. From the breathtaking scenery to the unforgettable music to the touching storyline about the Von Trapp family children, this film has it all.
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| Image courtesy of www.the-sound-of-music-guide.com |
2) The Wizard of Oz (1939)- Who could forget Dorothy’s ruby slippers and her determined quest to make her way back to Kansas? How about the Wicked Witch of the West? The Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion round out a cast of characters that make this gem from 1939 a must-see classic.
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| Image courtesy of http://thebestpictureproject.wordpress.com |
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| Image courtesy of www.moviemantz.com |
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| Image courtesy of http://filmfather.blogspot.com/ |
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| Image courtesy of http://penonpointe.wordpress.com |
7) The Red Balloon (1956) – This film made a lasting impression on me when I saw it as a young girl. I can still remember the myriad of feelings and emotions that it evoked, in spite of the movie’s simple premise. One of the best movies for kids ever (video below).
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| Image courtesy of www.curatormagazine.com |
8) The Parent Trap (1961) – Hayley Mills stars as herself – times two – as identical twin girls who are dealing with their divorced parents. Touching and entertaining, this film is so much better than the 1998 Lindsay Lohan version.
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| Image courtesy of www.parentpreviews.com |
9)Mary Poppins (1964) – When Mary Poppins sings “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down,” you actually believe her. Who wouldn’t want a nanny like this one, sugar, umbrella, flying abilities and all? This is one great family flick that will remain a classic for years to come.
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| Image courtesy of www.allstarpics.net |
10) Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – Okay, it’s a holiday flick, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that a young Natalie Wood steals the show in this wonderfully touching movie. It makes you believe in Santa Claus all over again.
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| Image courtesy of www.mattrailer.com |
So there you have it – some great movies to watch, curled up on the couch with the kids. Stay tuned for The Top 10 Modern Children’s Movies of All Time coming soon!
Wondering about the Top 10 Classic Children’s TV Shows of all time? Click here for details!
What are your picks for the best classic family movies?
VIDEO: The Red Balloon
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Love the Sound of Music and ET. Also would add Bambi, The Fox and the Hound and Enchanted.
Love the Sound of Music and ET. Also would add Bambi, The Fox and the Hound and Enchanted.
Those ones are great as well, Mel! I loved Bambi too. I may have to do a second installment…:)
Thanks for commenting.
My sisters and I use to watch the Sound of Music all the time together! Memories…
@Demika CaldwellYes, that's one of my all-time faves that never gets old. The music is what gets me…
the sound of music, marry popins ,dorothy etc they remind me of old times.
@easy_magicMe too! They don't make them like that anymore…:)