Looking for a classic movie the whole family can enjoy? Whether it’s for a family get-together, or a relaxing weekend, here are some old-time favourites to indulge in. Bring out the popcorn and pops, and let’s get watching!
- Alice in Wonderland
Number One on our list for your consideration is Alice in Wonderland. This enchanting movie is based on the English novel by Lewis Carroll which was published in 1865. The story follows the adventures of a young girl named Alice who enters a fantasy world when she falls through a rabbit hole. She encounters many unusual creatures, and together, their shenanigans make every scene of this classic unforgettable.
- The Sound of Music
A heart-warming story full of singing, laughter, and happiness. But that’s not the case from the start. Main character Maria (played by renowned actress Julie Andrews) is introduced as a nun who lacks a bit of discipline, and her superior at the convent sends her off to the Von Trapp family to help with raising their children. The head of the family, Captain Von Trapp, a stern military man, previously raised his seven children alone since the death of his wife. You’ll be thrilled as you watch Maria entwine herself into the lives of the Von Trapps, starting with the children, and eventually winning the heart of their father.
The movie is light and funny, and at the same time, serious due to the war undertones. But it’s the singing and the different personalities of the children, Maria, and their father that lightens the mood of this movie, making it a family favourite for a relaxing weekend.
- Mary Poppins
In Mary Poppins, once again, Andrews portrays her famous character winning the hearts of children and their family. This movie tells the story of the wealthy Banks family and their utterly dissatisfied children who get up to no good (including running away from home). The children seek their parents’ attention (particularly their father’s), but are constantly ignored and dismissed; this leads them to many mischievous events. Then arrives Mary Poppins out of the blue (literally, she descended with an umbrella from the sky!) after the children revised and put out an advertisement their father had written for a no-nonsense nanny to handle the children’s excesses.
- Annie
Annie tells the story of an orphan girl living in an orphanage in New York in the year 1933. The lady, Miss Hannigan, who runs the orphanage, is an alcoholic, and mean to the children, making them do back-breaking chores daily. Annie is optimistic that she’ll fi nd her family, and this hopefulness leads to her running away from the orphanage, where she meets and adopts a stray dog. The adventure continues with Annie getting returned to the orphanage, and eventually being invited to live with the notable Daddy for a week, and ending with her eventual adoption by Warbucks.
- Matilda
This action-packed movie is about a young girl, Matilda, who is a genius in her own right. She is gifted and uses this unusual telekinetic power to her advantage over evil forces and people, including her cruel parents and bully school principal. This one is sure to thrill the children, as they rejoice each time Matilda does a new one on the evil forces
Gladys Christian | Contributing Writer
