Top 10 Children’s Films for Family Fun

Description: This classic film brings to life the magical nanny who uses her unique blend of magic and common sense to teach the Banks family valuable life lessons. Its blend of live-action and animation was groundbreaking at the time.

Fact: Julie Andrews won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Mary Poppins, her first major film role. The film was nominated for 13 Academy Awards, winning five.

Description: Disney's animated adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's stories follows Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves, as he navigates the dangers of the jungle. It's a celebration of friendship, courage, and the beauty of nature.

Fact: The film was the last animated feature Walt Disney personally supervised before his death. The song "The Bare Necessities" became one of Disney's most popular songs.

Description: This whimsical film follows Charlie Bucket, who wins a golden ticket to tour the mysterious and magical chocolate factory of Willy Wonka. It's a story about the consequences of greed and the rewards of kindness.

Fact: Gene Wilder, who played Willy Wonka, improvised the famous entrance scene where he limps out of the factory, suddenly somersaults, and then stands up straight. The film's ending was also changed from the book to provide a more uplifting conclusion.

Description: A fairy tale adventure that blends romance, comedy, and swashbuckling action, this film tells the story of Westley, a farmhand, who must rescue his true love, Buttercup, from the clutches of the evil Prince Humperdinck.

Fact: The film was initially a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. The line "Inconceivable!" spoken by Vizzini has become one of the most quoted movie lines.

Description: This adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, who discovers a hidden, neglected garden and brings it back to life, along with the spirits of those around her. It's a tale of healing and the power of nature.

Fact: The film was shot on location at Allerton Castle in North Yorkshire, England, which provided the perfect backdrop for the mysterious garden. The garden itself was created specifically for the film.

Description: The first feature-length film to be entirely made with CGI, Toy Story introduces us to a world where toys come to life when humans aren't looking. It's a story about friendship, growing up, and the magic of imagination.

Fact: Toy Story was the first film ever to be completely created using computer-generated imagery (CGI). The character of Woody was originally conceived as a ventriloquist dummy, but was changed to a cowboy doll to make him more likable.

Description: Based on Roald Dahl's book, this film follows the story of Matilda, a brilliant young girl with extraordinary powers, who uses her abilities to stand up to her cruel parents and headmistress. It's a tale of empowerment and the triumph of good over evil.

Fact: Mara Wilson, who played Matilda, was chosen from over 5,000 girls who auditioned for the role. The film's director, Danny DeVito, also provided the voice for Matilda's father, Harry Wormwood.

Description: Set in the Cold War era, this animated film tells the story of a young boy who befriends a giant robot with a heart. It's a poignant exploration of identity, friendship, and what it means to be human.

Fact: The film was a box office failure but has since been recognized as a modern classic. The voice of the Iron Giant was provided by Vin Diesel, who was relatively unknown at the time.

Description: This underwater adventure follows Marlin, a clownfish, on his quest to find his son, Nemo, who has been captured. It's a touching story about the lengths a parent will go to protect their child, filled with humor and heart.

Fact: The film was the second highest-grossing film of 2003, behind only "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King." The character of Dory was inspired by a friend of the director who had short-term memory loss.

Description: This animated masterpiece tells the story of Simba, a lion cub who must overcome adversity to take his rightful place as king. Its themes of responsibility, courage, and the circle of life resonate deeply with viewers of all ages.

Fact: The film was the highest-grossing animated film of all time until 2019 when it was surpassed by its own live-action remake. The song "Circle of Life" was performed by Carmen Twillie, who was also the voice of the opening chant in the film.