Your best 100 kids movies? KIDSFIRST! share that with us

These are films for kids between the ages of 2 and 18 that KIDS FIRST! believes to have universal appeal, exhibit outstanding attributes in terms of their production values and portray values and have qualities that make them as applicable today as the day they were first released.

We know that media has the power to influence children, negatively or positively. The films on this list portray the values and ethics that we, as a culture wish to instill in our children. The idea behind this list is to provide a parent or caregiver with as much information as possible about the age appropriateness of a film, a brief synopsis, the key artists involved and any special audience issues it may address.

1. 101 Dalmatians (1961, Disney, Animated, Family Adventure) The original charming animated canine adventure from Walt Disney. When the treacherous and dog-hating Cruella de Vil and her nasty henchmen kidnap Dalmatian puppies for their cherished spotted fur, it’s up to the puppies' parents, Pongo and Perdita, and some brave farm animals, to free the caged canines. Though 101 Dalmatians has fewer songs than many of its animated Disney musical brethren, the essential musical number, "Cruella de Vil," is still a lot of fun. Based on the 1956 book by Dodie Smith, this Walt Disney animated classic spawned the 1996 live-action remake, as well as a sequel called 101 DALMATIANS II: PATCH'S LONDON ADVENTURE. A signature Disney film and one of the last to be made under Walt's supervision. A true perennial favorite with a simple story, cute puppies, and a good storyline. It moves a bit slowly at the outset but the evil Cruella de Vil, played by Betty Lou Gerson, injects energy with her maniacal driving, her outlandishly long cigarette holder and clouds of cigarette spoke. Recommended for ages 5-12.

2. 101 Dalmatians (1996, Disney, Live-Action, Family Adventure) An updated live-action version of the Disney animated classic now set in modern day London. Fashion designer Anita and computer-game writer Roger meet, fall in love and marry along with their Dalmatians Perdita and Pongo. But the proud dogs' 99 puppies are kidnapped by Anita's boss Cruella De Vil (played by Glenn Close), who is stealing young Dalmatians to make a special spotted coat she has set her heart on. Enlisting the help of the British animal kingdom, Pongo and Perdita set out to find and rescue all ninety-nine pups from their fearsome captors and a hilarious and exciting adventure ensures. This updated version has those darn puppies looking cuter than ever. The scary Cruella de Vil’s outrageous wardrobe alone is enough to love this version. But her behavior, on the other hand, enough to keep your youngest away, although, because she is so obviously wicked it provides a good demonstration of the difference between good and evil. Recommended for ages 5-12.

3. A Bug’s Life (1998, Buena Vista Pictures, Animated, Family Adventure/Comedy) A delightful computer animated gem from Pixar. A Bug’s Life gives a close up view of a colony of ants is threatened by a gang of grass hoppers led by the evil Hopper. Flik, a common ant and misfit, has an uncommon vision when he tries to rise to heroic proportions by enlisting a band of circus fleas to help him defend his colony from the grasshoppers. This is a great movie, funny, beautifully animated, great characters and an engaging storyline. It is representative of the work that’s made Pixar a household name. Directed by John Lasseter, the storyline manages to express the value the life - even for bugs. One of our child jurors commented, "I didn't know bugs were so smart." There are some scary scenes with the menacing grasshoppers and some verbal abuse which makes might make these scenes unsuitable for kids under age five. Be sure to sit through the credits, it's worth it. Recommended for ages 3-7.

4. A Christmas Story (1983, Warner Home Entertainment, Live Action, Holiday, Family Comedy) A modern classic that celebrates the holidays thru the eyes of 9-year-old Ralph "Ralphie" Parker, who wants only one thing for Christmas – an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot range model BB rifle with a compass in the stock! Along the way, he runs into opposition from his parents, his teacher, a pair of neighborhood bullies and even good 'ol Santa Claus himself. A variety of funny and memorable moments including Ralphie’s dad receiving a hilarious a major award delivered to the house (much to his mother’s dismay) and while Mom must keep the neighbor’s hounds and Dad away from the Christmas turkey. All this while Ralphie continues to scheme and hope for his prized holiday present. This is a movie everyone can relate to; our recommendation is for ages 10 and up. The boy's situation is timeless and captures the essence of childhood in the 1940s or 50s. It raises issues about peer pressure, especially among young boys. The quirky family members are easy to relate to. It is based on the autobiographical novel, "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash," by Jean Shepherd, who also narrates the film as the adult Ralphie. Be forewarned, it contains some strong language, some mild aggression and the idea of promoting a gun as a gift may be troubling in today's culture. Recommended for ages 8-12.

5. A Little Princess (1995, Warner Bros. NR, Adventure Live-Action Fantasy) Another enchanting film based on a book by Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden) about 7 year old Sara Crewe, who was raised in India by her affluent and adoring father. Sara goes off to New York to attend the same boarding school her late mother attended. Initially given a range of privileges because of her father’s wealth Sara is soon crushed to learn of her father’s death and a business catastrophe with one of his partners. Now penniless and an orphan, Sara clashes with the severe headmistress, Miss Minchin, who attempts to stifle her creativity and sense of self- worth. Undaunted, she befriends Becky, the school scullery maid tells her of her belief that "every girl's a princess." Things get even more interesting when a mysterious Indian gentleman moves on next door and takes a special interest in Sara. Beautiful cinematography, wonderfully acted, and great script that is an accurate adaptation of the classic book.The film offers complex messages about death, poverty and hope as well as a stunning female role model. Its fairy tale appeal is timeless. Its messages about compassion and friendship are enough to bring tears to your eyes. Some extreme images and issues - dead soldiers, Sara almost falls to her death, Sara's mother is dead, her Dad is presumed dead, and children are treated poorly - might make this unsuitable for youngest viewers. Recommended for ages 7 to 12.

6. Akeelah And The Bee (2006, Lions Gate, Rated PG, Family Drama) A heartwarming film about how dedication and drive pay off for a young girl. Eleven year-old Akeelah Anderson's (Keke Palmer) life is not easy: her father is dead, her mom ignores her, and her brother runs with the local gang. She's smart, but her environment threatens to strangle her aspirations. When her school's principal threatens detention for her many absences, Akeelah participates in a spelling bee to avoid being punished. Much to her surprise and embarrassment, she wins and the principal asks introduces her to an English professor named Dr. Larabee (Lawrence Fishburne) to prepare for the more prestigious regional bee. As the possibility of making it all the way to the Scripps National Spelling Bee looms, Akeelah becomes inspired and dedicated to winning. But she must first convince her skeptical mother to let her compete. She also must rise to the seemingly impossible level Dr. Larabee's has set and take on more experienced and privileged fellow spellers. Great family film with great values, story, great acting and a fantastic script. Keke Palmer's performance is fabulous as is Mr. Fishburne's. Though the storyline is somewhat predictable and some of the characters a bit shady, the "underdog comes through" message is a heart-warmer. Winner of KIDS FIRST! Best Feature and Best of Fest for 2006. Contains some mild profanity, intense family scenes, local gangs, an unwed mother and a joke about sexual harassment. Recommended for ages 5-12.

7. Aladdin (1992, Disney, Animated, Family Adventure) Aladdin won an Academy Award for The Best Animated Film in 1992 and it continues to be a winner. Aladdin is a street-urchin who lives in a large and busy town long ago with his faithful monkey friend Abu. When Princess Jasmine gets tired of being forced to remain in the palace that overlooks the city, she sneaks out to the marketplace, where she accidentally meets Aladdin. Under the orders of the evil Jafar (the sultan's advisor), Aladdin is thrown in jail and becomes caught up in Jafar's plot to rule the land with the aid of a mysterious lamp. Legend has it that only a person who is a "diamond in the rough" can retrieve the lamp from the Cave of Wonders. Aladdin might fight that description, but that's not enough to marry the princess, who must (by law) marry a prince. With memorable voices by Robin Williams cast as the Genie and several memorable songs. The genie is the best thing in this movie. Robin Williams' performance alone puts this on the "must see" list that will entertain you time and time again. The plot is typical fairytale fare with no great surprises and there are some violent scenes which can be frightening for kids under the age of 5. Recommended for ages 5-12.

8. Alice in Wonderland (1951, Disney, Animated, Classic, Family Adventure) A classic Disney animated adaptation of Louis Carrol’s books Alice’s adventures In Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Young Alice becomes bored one day and her mind starts to wander. She sees a white rabbit that appears to be in a hurry and she chases it into its burrow and enters the merry, topsy-turvy world of Wonderland! Memorable songs and whimsical escapades highlight Alice's journey, which culminates in a madcap encounter with the Queen of Hearts - and her army of playing cards! A most bizarre series of adventures begins. Features the voices of Kathryn Beaumont as Alice (and was also the voice of Wendy Darling in the later Disney feature film, Peter Pan) and Ed Wynn as the Mad Hatter. Whimsical, magical adventure with great characters and a memorable score. The fantasy of the world down the rabbit hole is very surreal - entertaining for some, disturbing for others. There is delightful choreography of the dancing playing cards. Also, the Queen beheads several cards and calls for Alice's execution - too scary for the preschool crowd. Recommended for ages 6–12.

9. Alvin And The Chipmunks (2007, FOX, Rated PG, Animated/Live-Action Adventure Comedy) Inspired by the popular music group and animated children’s series, Alvin, Simon and Theodore, lose their tree home which is cut down and turned into Christmas tree for the lobby of Los Angeles-based JETT Records. As they escape from the tree they meet a frustrated songwriter named David Seville and despite a frenzied, house-wrecking first meeting, they impress him with their singing talent. Seeing the opportunity for success, Dave makes a pact to seek success with the trio’s songs. While that ambition is initially a frustrating struggle with the difficult trio, their shared dream eventually does come true. But the success presents its own problems as a unscrupulous record executive named Ian Hawke plans to break up this happy family to exploit the boys. Can Dave and the Chipmunks discover what they really value amid the superficial glamour around them? Very funny movie based on the characters Ross Bagdasarian introduced in the 50s. Its nostalgia factor places it well with adult chipmunk fans and kids just seem to be just as enchanted. The CGI characters are adorable, each with their own individual characteristics. Contains some potty humor and suggestive lyrics. Recommended for ages 5-12

10. An American Tail (1986, Disney, Animated, Family Adventure) Former Disney animator, Don Bluth and Steven Spielberg took a sad tale and made it enjoyable in this animated story about a young Russian mouse coming to America in the late 1800s. Young Fievel, however, is separated from his family upon his arrival in New York City, and he discovers to his horror that there are cats in America too (his father said there weren't). Great songs, (Oscar-nominated, "Somewhere Out There") lovable characters, and a storyline that addresses friendship, death and separation. Fievel is sweet and brave. It's filled with action and suspense and good messages about power, freedom , "America," and cats. Definitely has parts that are too scary for kids under five. Recommended for ages 5-10.

11. Annie (1982, Sony Pictures, Family Musical) The heartwarming film takes the Tony award winning Broadway musical based upon the popular 1930s Harold Gray comic strip, Little Orphan Annie, to the big screen and stars Albert Finney, Carol Burnett, and Ann Reinking and was nominated for 2 Oscars. And Director John Huston's version burns a little place for itself in your heart. Carol Burnett's Miss Hannigan is wonderful, Albert Finney plays a brilliant Daddy Warbucks and Aileen Quinn plays a delightful and talented Annie. Though the storyline is 100 percent predictable, the energy of this musical in its non-stop music and dancing makes walk out of the room just a little lighter, singing the memorable song, "Tomorrow." Recommended for ages 5-12.

12. Babe (1985, Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Family, Comedy) A charming family film combines drama with comedy and adventure in this story about a pig who learns to behave like a sheepdog in order to save his place in the barnyard. The story revolves around a piglet won by a farmer at the county fair who is then adopted by a canine matriarch who teaches him the ropes of sheep-dogging. Babe is a model of goodness; there isn't a mean bone in his little porky little body. We can listen in on the conversations he has with the entire menagerie of farm animals through the magic of this film. All the animals are adorable in this charming story based on the children's book by Dick King-Smith. You may have seen animals talking in movies before, but make no mistake - Babe stands above the rest. The animals' lips are in sync with their lines and Babe is a model of goodness. Really, all the animals are adorable, particularly the singing mice who you have to see to believe. Nominated for many Academy Awards, and awarded "Best for Visual Effects." There are some frightening scenes - the slaughterhouse scene and the sheep who dies. Recommended for ages 4-12.

13. Back To The Future (1985, Universal Studios, Rated PG, Science Fiction Adventure Comedy) The life of Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is pretty pathetic. His family is dysfunctional, he’s always late to school and he loves loud music. Marty’s one true friend is the wacky Doctor Emmett Brown (Christopher Lloyd ) a mad scientist who builds a time machine out of a DeLorean. From there, Marty's humdrum life becomes literally a blast from the past as he is transported to 1955 where he meets the man who will become his father, but he’s a bullied whimp, and his mother, who is a beautiful teenager. Marty has to get his parents to meet and fall in love or he will never be born but things get interesting when his own mother takes a romantic interest in this stranger from the future. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and produced by Steven Spielberg Back To The Future also won an Oscar. A wonderfully inventive film with a marvelous cast, great script and an excellent score. Great humor with clever and witty and memorable lines. It actually makes time travel make sense. The relationship between Marty and Doc make this film. Contains some bullying, mild profanity, some sexual situations and some racial slurs. Recommended for ages 8 - 14.

14. Bambi (1942, Disney Home Entertainment, Family Animated) The animated story of a young fawn named Bambi, hailed as the 'Prince of the Forest' at his birth. Bambi makes friends with a bashful skunk named Flower, and a precocious rabbit named Thumper. . Bambi is a serious film covering the circle of life - from birth to death. It was the first Disney feature that animators made the characters more life-like than cartoon-like. Even after 60 years, Bambi's production values are impressive. There are scenes that are too intense for the youngest viewers - the pheasant is shot, hunting dogs attack Bambi's mate, Bambi is wounded, the forest fire becomes uncontrollable, and of course Bambi's mother is shot and killed in the first 15 minutes. That does takes place off camera but is something not to be taken lightly for kids under five. Recommended for ages 5-12.

15. Beauty And The Beast (1991, Disney, Animated Fantasy, Family Musical) Another hit animated musical from Disney, Beauty And The Beast remains one of the best known of the studio's films, and depicts on the timeless children’s fairy tale about a beautiful woman kept in a castle by a horrific monster. Belle is a smart but bookish girl with an eccentric inventor for a father. One day he offends the Beast, who was once Prince Adam but was cursed into a beast by the Enchantress who saw no love for others in his arrogant heart. Belle boldly offers to take her father’s place and while imprisoned in the Beast’s gloomy mansion, slowly teaches him to love. Simply said - great songs, wondrous animation, strong story, wonderful sets and stunningly beautiful music. Angela Lansbury, as Mrs. Potts singing the title song is memorable. Belle's strength and character make her a true heroine. Alan Menken's score and Howard Ashman's lyrics are outstanding. This truly is Disney at its best! Nominated for Best Picture Oscar. Recommended for ages 4-12.

16. BIG (1988, FOX, Rated PG, Family Comedy) BIG was directed by Penny Marshall and continues to warm hearts with this funny tale about staying young at heart. A young boy named Josh Baskin (Tom Hanks) half-heartedly makes a wish to be an adult from an old magical fortune-telling machine, but he is very surprised to wake up the next day in the body 30 year old! Josh tries to convince his mother he is still her son but she chases him away thinking he’s an intruder. He finally convinces his 13-year-old best friend, Billy Kopecki, of the events that happened and the pair travels to New York to find the machine that can fix his wish. Josh gets a lowly data-entry job at the MacMillan Toy Company and develops a relationship with a toy executive named Susan. A series of funny events occur as Josh learns to get used to the adult world he always wanted to be part of. And he discovers it isn’t all he originally thought it was. Would he still like to remain an adult? Hilarious film. Great direction by Penny Marshall and great acting - one of Tom Hanks' finest performances. His portrayal of a young boy in an adult body is completely believable and Josh's lack of adult social skills and childish personality contribute much of the humor. The scenes when Josh takes a job at MacMillan Toys are gut-busters. There are some sexual innuendos and adult situations. Recommended for ages 6 - 12.
17. Cars (2006, Walt Disney Video, Animated, Family Adventure, Comedy) A rollicking, animated, automotive adventure where the cars are the actors - their headlights are their eyes, they have distinct personalities, jealousies, hopes, dreams and passion. Lightning McQueen is a cocky, rookie red race car. Speeding on his way to a big race, he crashes into Radiator Springs while racing through the sleepy town’s dusty main street. Sentenced to community service, McQueen meets and slowly befriends Radiator Springs automotive residents including Sally, a snazzy 2002 Porsche, Doc Hudson, a 1951 Hudson Hornet with a mysterious past, and Mater, a rusty but trusty redneck tow truck. McQueen learns the value of friendship and a lesson in cooperation as he learns there is more to life than trophies, fame, and sponsorships. John Lasseter's rendition of this NASCAR -type story is too much fun. He develops his characters and storyline that will have every young kid hooked on who did what. Recommended for ages 4-12.

18. Charlotte’s Web (2006, Paramount Pictures Home Entertainment, Animated, Family Comedy-Drama) This wonderful film is based on the classic children's novel by E.B. White amd features a memorable cast of voices including Dakota Fanning who is delightful as Fern, Julia Robert's voice as Charlotte is just perfect, and the talking barnyard animals are fun. Wilbur is a young pig that learns about life’s many wonders from a witty cast of barnyard friends including cows, sheep, geese, a rat, a horse, and of course a spider named Charlotte who teaches Wilber tender lessons about the cycle of life and the meaning of friendship. When "Some Pig" is woven into Charlotte's web, it brings a certain magic to the barn and suddenly, Wilbur becomes exactly that - "Some Pig." It addresses the topic of death, but in a very appropriate and non-frightening way when Charlotte's brood take her place in the barn. Recommended for ages 5-12.

19. Chicken Run (2000, DreamWorks SKG, Animated, Family Adventure) Entertaining for all the family from the brilliant animators at Aardman Productions (the creators of Wallace and Gromit). This cute story has comedic aspects, colorful claymation and brilliant dialogue that make it a classic. It’s a comedic story of a group of chickens that are trapped on their farm and desperately want to escape. If they don't produce any eggs for the week, farmers Mr. and Mrs. Tweedy will have their heads. After every attempt, they fail and their time is running out. In the tradition of great prison breakout films like Stalag 17 and The Great Escape, it offers up great talking points for business, politics, assertiveness, persistence and teamwork. It also suggests looking for different ways to solve problems. The chickens are like real people, with good expressions and human voices. Recommended for ages 8-18.

20. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968, MGM, Family Comedy Adventure) This is a quirky and funny film about an eccentric professor (played by Dick Van Dyke) that invents wacky machinery including a rather peculiar flying car. Despite his genius he can’t seem to make ends meet. But the evil foreign government of Vulgaria resorts to all sorts of dastardly schemes to acquire it and a wild and funny adventure begins. The evil Baron Bomburst kidnaps the professor and his children and has designs on the car. But the professor soon finds that the Baron has declared children illegal in Vularia and he must save not only his amazing car but also the children of Vulgaria. The film was inspired by Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: The Magical Car, a children's novel written by James Bond creator Ian Fleming (James Bond novelist) for his son Caspar.The soundtrack alone makes the movie. It is simply wonderful. The story is slightly scary but predominantly warm and funny. Dick Van Dyke's performance is brilliant, fast-paced and lively. The style is somewhat dated, especially the special effects but it doesn't matter - it's appealing to kids. Recommended for ages 4 to 10.
21. Cinderella (1950, Walt Disney Productions, Animated Family Musical) This beautifully animated classic Disney film belongs in every child's library. Fairytales last forever because of their universal appeal. Here we have the nasty stepmother, the evil stepsisters, the charming prince, and of course, the Fairy God Mother who comes to Cinderella's rescue. The Disney embellishments of dozens of little birds, mice and other animals helping Cinderella clean or dress are absolutely charming. Overall, the story portrays positive values, shows the beauty within and demonstrates that true worth can sometimes be over looked. Recommended for ages 4 to 12.

22. Curious George (2006, Imagine Entertainment, Family Animated Adventure) Everyone’s mischievous clumsy monkey gets the big screen treatment in this wonderful animated tale featuring voices of Will Ferrell, Dick Van Dyke and Drew Barrymore. When The Man with the Yellow Hat (Ferrell), who audiences discover is actually named Ted Shackleford, discovers that the natural history museum where he works is in financial trouble and museum director's son wants to turn it into a parking lot, he offers to bring back a mysterious idol from Africa that's guaranteed to pull in crowds. The idol is only three inches tall and far from spectacular. More importantly, Ted also brings back a lonely yet irrepressible and lovable monkey he names George. Together they set out on a fun-filled and wild adventure through the big city as they try to save the museum. This I truly a film that even your youngest kids can enjoy. Lacks the scary scenes and adult humor that are often included in current kids' films. Has a few slapstick moments and most importantly, a story line that kids can easily follow, great 2D animation bright colors and a terrific soundtrack by Jack Johnson. It rings true to the spirit of the books, and thankfully, George (Frank Welker) does not talk. Recommended for ages 2-12.

23. Dr. Dolittle (1967, 20th Century Fox, Family Comedy) Dr. John Dolittle is a veterinarian that has the unique ability to talk to and understand animals. This 1960s era film features Rex Harrison as the loveable and eccentric Dr. Dolittle. He plays the role straight. You can't help but love every time Dr. Dolittle says good morning to all the animals. Although the music is corny, it's still appealing to kids who can relate to Dr. Dolittle fulfilling his dream. Recommended for ages 4-12.

24. Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears A Who (2008, 20th Century Fox, Family Animated Adventure) Based on the timeless classic book by Dr. Seuss, the imaginative elephant Horton hears a cry for help coming from a tiny speck of dust floating through the air. Suspecting there may be life on that speck and despite his friends who think he has lost his mind, Horton is determined to help. Featuring a memorable cast of voices including Jim Carrey, Carol Burnett and Steve Carell, this is a faithful and hilarious adaptation of Dr. Seuss' classic book with outstanding talent, vibrant animation, nonsensical rhymes and expressive characters. Carrey's portrayal of Horton is charming. Thankfully, they didn't fall into the potty humor trap for this film which is refreshing. The film's message is about respect and having faith in things that can't be seen. The message, "a person's a person no matter how small" introduces kids to thoughtful philosophical questions. Recommended for ages 4-12.

25. Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000, Universal Studios, Rated PG, Live-Action Fantasy Comedy) Inspired by the famous holiday book by Dr. Seuss, audiences are introduced to a magic world called Whoville that is populated by the Who's who absolutely adore Christmas. Expertly crafted production with great music, costumes, scenery and cinematography. This classic Christmas story has built-in meanness by the Grinch counterbalanced by Cindy Lou Who - who has her own doubts about the holiday, believing that the true meaning of Christmas may have become lost amidst the holiday rush and the hubbub. The sets and costumes are outstanding, the Grinch funny and scary all at once. Ultimately it delivers a little magic that places it right in with other holiday favorites. Contains some crude humor. Recommended for ages 5-12.

26. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982, Universal Studios, PG, Adventure) Elliot is your normal boy living in the suburbs, until he meets a lost little alien. Elliot befriends the alien and names it E.T. and tries to help him find a way to get back home. During his stay little E.T. learns about human daily life and the many comical incidents that occur every day. But the government also knows of E.T. and has its own plans. Elliot must race with his friend and E.T. to make a rendezvous with the spaceship before time runs out. A fantastic film for kids today that holds their attention and captures their hearts. From the spaceship's first landing to Elliot's discovering E.T. to the flying bicycle to E.T. phoning home - we're glued to the screen. Filled with charming moments, it is a story about love, innocence and friendship. It is wonderfully cast and written and, of course, won Steven Spielberg our admiration forever. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

27. Elf (2003, New Line Cinema, Rated PG, Holiday Fantasy Comedy) Buddy (Will Ferrell) was a baby orphan who stowed away in Santa’s sack one Christmas Eve and was raised by the elves of the North Pole. When it comes time to tell eventually him that he is in fact not an elf, Buddy is determined to go to New York to find his biological father, Walter (James Caan). Buddy’s understanding of society is based purely on Christmas themes; fun, candy, and toys. Anything else is just not logical. As Buddy’s and Walter’s relationship gets of to a rocky start it eventually grows and each learns very valuable lessons from the other. Will Ferrell is charmingly funny in this role. His childlike behavior is believable. The scene when he climbs into one of the Elf's beds only to have his legs dangle over the side is hysterical. Another great title for Holiday viewing. Some mild profanity, rude humor and drunkenness. Recommended for ages 5 -12.

28. Enchanted (2007, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated/Live-Action Family Romantic Comedy) A soon-to-be classic that delivers a very good message about love and how it differs in real life from fairy tales. The film begins in 2D animation, reminiscent of the classic Disney films. The beautiful damsel, Giselle, is discovered by a handsome prince who proposes marriage. Then, Giselle is pushed down a well by the evil stepmother and lands smack in the middle of Times Square as a real live person. Her fairy tale optimism and good nature run counter to the real world but somehow her ideas take hold. This film became an instant classic partly because it's so clever and partly because, "what young girl doesn't like a story about a beautiful princess?" Recommeded for ages 5 and up.

29. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986, Paramount, Rated PG, Comedy) Written and directed by teen autuer John Hughes, Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) is the master of pranks and high school shenanigans, and he’s out to prove it in this comedy about “playing hooky” from school. He has the entire school believing that he’s deathly ill, but his sister, Jeanie (Jennifer Grey) and his principal are convinced that he is faking. Go along with Ferris and his friends Cameron and Sloane on the best day off of their lives, driving in a Ferrari, going to a baseball game, singing in a parade and most of all, not getting caught…. or do they? This is a hilarious comedy that every teen relates to. Ferris' clever and quirky behavior is so improbable, that teens just love him. The fact that he outsmarts all the adults and suffers no consequences is paramount to the film but problematical on other levels. Great script, outstanding performances, great laugh and great message - "life goes by so fast, don't miss it." Contains mild profanity, car theft, lying, and presents kids as being smarter than adults. Recommended for ages 14-18.

30. Field Of Dreams (1989 Universal Studios, Rated PG, Fantasy Family Sports Drama) Field Of Dreams is a film about baseball and its quirky impact on a small Iowa town directed and adapted by Phil Alden Robinson from the novel Shoeless Joe by W. P. Kinsella. Farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) hears a voice in his corn field tell him repeatedly, "If you build it, he will come." He interprets this message as an instruction to build a baseball field on his farm, upon which will appear the ghosts of some of the game’s most controversial players such as Shoeless Joe Jackson and the other seven Chicago White Sox players that banned from the game for throwing the 1919 World Series. When the voices continue, Ray seeks out a reclusive baseball author named Terence Mann (James Earl Jones), who had once written about the golden days of baseball.to help him understand the meaning of the messages and the purpose for his field. The pair goes on a wandering road-trip in search of one of a ballplayer named Archibald "Moonlight" Graham who might have some answers. “Moonlight” may no longer even be alive but he might still be able to give the answers. The phrase, "If you build it, the