101 Dalmatians

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006, Walt Disney Studios, Rated PG-13, Action Adventure) The trio returns in the second film as Captain Jack Sparrow (Johhny Depp) tries to avoid a debt that has to be repaid in blood to the dreaded Davy Jones, the keeper of souls lost in the ocean. Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth (Keira Knightly) accompany him on his latest adventure to avoid paying the debt, which he can only do if he can claim the legendary Dead Man’s Chest. A great and thrilling sequel that will keep you on the edge of your seat with panache and swashbuckling style. It's just scary enough to keep your youngest away but it's silly enough to make the bravo laughable. Johnny Depp plays the perfect Captain Jack Sparrow and Keira Knightly a fabulous Elizabeth. Recommended for ages 8-12.

65. 
    Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003, Walt Disney Studios, Rated PG-13, Action Adventure) This movie really put Johnny Depp in front of the public in a profound way and he does a superb job as the cunning Captain Jack Sparrow in this Disney rendition based on the popular theme park ride “Pirates of the Caribbean.” His performance alone makes this movie worth watching as he teams up with Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) to rescue the kidnapped Elizabeth (Keira Knightly) who is taken by Captain Barbosa, captain of the ship, The Black Pearl; the same ship that Captain Jack Sparrow used to command. Elizabeth’s fate lies in the hands of Captain Jack and Will as they must set aside their rivalry to come together to rescue her. Keira Knightly and Orlando Bloom are also well cast. There is more violence than you would expect for a PG-13 movie and visions of cleavage abound. Add to that some sexual innuendo, a few prostitutes and drinking and we would recommend it best for ages 10-14.
    

66. 
    Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981, Paramount, Rated PG, Adventure) This edge-of-your-seat adventure stars Harrison Ford as a swashbuckling archeologist and was directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by George Lucas. The year is 1936. Renowned archeologist and expert in the occult, Dr. Indiana Jones, is hired by the U.S. Government to find the Ark of the Covenant, which is believed to still hold the ten commandments. Jones has to venture to an array of exotic locales such as Nepal and Egypt to find this it. And his enemy Renee Belloq and a band of evil Nazis are on his tail. Indy narrowly survives a series of fights, chases, and traps, to keep the full power of the Ark from falling into diabolical hands. A blockbuster upon release, Raiders Of The Lost Ark won four Oscars and set off an entire movie franchise. It is the quintessential action/adventure flick and grabs you from the opening scene. Its non-stop action is something many others have tried to imitate but few even come close. You can't get much faster. Filmed in locations all around the world - from Tibet to Egypt, it offers a veritable geography and history lesson. Add to that the clever and humorous script and the deadpan delivery and you've got a very funny action adventure film. Lots of non-graphic violence, profanity, sexual situations, many scary scenes, some racial stereotyping. Recommended for ages 12-18.
    
67. 
    Ratatouille (2007, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Adventure) Another winning animated adventure from Pixar, written and directed by Brad Bird, it tells the tale of Remy, a young rat from the French countryside with a passion whose fine cuisine reins supreme. By happenstance, Remy ends up in Paris cooking at a famous restaurant whose head chef he has admired for years. The preposterous idea that a rat has the capability to concoct epicurean dishes and wins raves from Parisian food snobs may be farfetched but it works. This delightful tale expresses the idea that true art is beyond prejudice, and sustains us. What better message could you want from a family film? Recommended for ages 3 and up.
    

68. 
    Robots (2005, Fox Studios, Rated PG, Animated, Adventure) Rodney Copperbottom is a young robot who likes to repair other older models of robots sets off on his way to find Mr. Big Weld, the greatest robot inventor. What he finds is a greedy newer model that has taken the place of Mr. Big Weld and plans on ‘recycling’ all of the older models of robots and replacing them with newer, high-tech ones. Rodney and his friends are determined to find Mr. Big Weld and return him to his former respected position. This rousing animated adventure teaches lessons about the value of friends and what is really important in life. A classic underdog story with great performances by Robin Williams, Jennifer Coolidge and Mel Brooks. The animation is what really steals the show. Some humor is more geared more for adults than kids but it doesn't detract from the overall story. Contains some potty humor (the robots have the ability to fart), crude language and some cartoon violence. Recommended for ages 5-12.
    

69. 
    Seabiscuit (2003, Universal Studios, Rated PG-13) The incredible true story of the undersized Depression-era racehorse whose victories lifted the spirits of a nation suffering through hard times. The film stars Jeff Bridges and is narrated by historian David McCullough which adds a "documentary" feel and enhances the drama of the story. Seabiscuit is an endearing story of friendship and devotion and succeeds in mending the main characters' fractured lives, as it interweaves the interactions between horse, jockey, trainer and owner and their adoring fans. The film accurately portrays the real people and events of those troubled times and how Seabiscuit "fixed us, every one of us." Tobey Maguire brought together a stellar cast to bring this true story to the screen. Great performances, thrilling race scenes, and a script that's about heart. The quartet of underdogs give it all they've got, overcoming adversity to become champions. We cheer along with them because it restores our faith in humanity. Contains some mild profanity, some mils violence and sexual situations. Recommended for ages 12- 18.
    

70. 
    Shark Tale (2004, Dreamworks, Rated PG, Animated, Adventure) Oscar is just a regular fish who works at the ‘Whalewash’ just like his father. Luck has it that he comes across a shark that has been hit by an anchor and killed. He decides to take advantage of the situation and tell everyone that he killed the shark, becoming rich and famous overnight. Along the way he makes friends with the dead shark’s brother, Lenny, who is a vegetarian and has been shunned from his shark family for not eating fish. Join these two as their adventure continues through comedy, tragedy and good silliness. A predictable storyline but good messages about love, family and honesty. Great voice cast that consists of Will Smith As Oscar, Renee Zellwegger as Angie, Martin Scorsese as Sykes, Jack Black as Lenny and Robert de Niro as Don Lino. The animation makes this film. It's super! Great expressions made by the fishes. One character dies which can be upsetting for kids under 5. Recommended for ages 5-10.
    
71. 
    Shrek (2001, Dreamworks Animation, Rated PG, Animated Fantasy Adventure) Such an incredible film with delightful humor and excellent computer animation. Traditional fairy tales are satirized, gender stereotypes are pulverized, and all result in a happy surprise ending. The storyline emphasizes loving people for who they really are. It contains some minor naughtiness, such as the potty humor, which makes kids uproariously laugh and adults cringe. The witty humor and loveable characters, especially Eddie Murphy's incessantly talking and singing donkey, are what make you want to watch this again and again. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
    

72. 
    Shrek 2 (2004, Dreamworks Animation, Rated PG, Animated Fantasy Adventure) The funny and loveable ogre Shrek (Mike Myers) returns in this great family comedy. After he and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are married, it’s time to meet the in-laws, which becomes an adventure in itself. Shrek and his trusty steed, Donkey (Eddie Murphy) are a great duo in this sequel as they face the vain Prince Charming, and meet the ever clever Puss In Boots (Antonio Banderas). Fall in love with the entire cast all over again and meet new characters as well as Shrek 2 is not to be missed! Most sequels are disappointments. This one is even better than the first. With a great script, nonstop humor, wonderful voice talent this film belongs in every child's library. The animation is wonderful; the characters feel real. Mostly, you'll find yourself belly-laughing throughout. It does have some comic violence, potty humor and some mild profanity. Recommended for ages 5-12.
    

73. 
    Shrek The Third (2007, Dreamworks, Rated PG, Animated Fantasy Adventure Comedy) Shrek (Mike Myers) is back in action, when the King of Far Far Away (John Cleese) dies and he is supposed to be the successor, but he also discovers that Fiona (Cameron Diaz) is with child. However, Shrek doesn’t really want to be a monarch, or a father, so he sets out with Donkey (Eddie Murphy) and Puss In Boots (Antonio Banderas) to find the kingdom’s next heir – Arthur (Justin Timberlake). While he is away, Prince Charming is up to no good as always. He rallies all of the villains and outcast creatures to try to take over the Kingdom of Far Far Away. Will Shrek return in time? Or will the Kingdom of Far Far Away be lost in the hands of villains? The animation is better than ever and always fun to watch. Shrek is a love. Overall, it's very funny but doesn't surprise us as much as the original. The new voices and characters add pizzazz, particularly casting Larry King and Regis as the ugly step-sisters. But, on the downside, the fairy tale high schoolers appear to be doing drugs, alcohol and smoking and it contains some cartoon violence, crude humor and suggestive content. Recommended for ages 7-12.
    

74. 
    Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Fantasy Adventure) The first, and most famous and most memorable animated feature from the Disney Studios, Snow White is a simple story based on the European fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm about a beautiful and good-hearted princess saved from the evil of her wicked step-mother, the Queen, by a band of seven adorable dwarfs. The film has since become an incomparable screen classic. Disney's first animated feature truly holds its place as the crown jewel that reigns supreme in the category of animation. It set the stage for the string of animated features that followed, though always shone through as the "best of the best." Based on the classic Grimm Brothers fairy tale, with a great music score ("Whistle While You Work," "Some Day My Prince Will Come," "Heigh-ho! Heigh-ho") and dwarfs that steal the show. Great performances by Adriana Caselotti as the voice of Snow White and Harry Stockwell as the Prince and Lucille La Verne as the Queen set a new standard in 1937 for family entertainment. Contains some scary scenes and a very un-politically correct female. Recommended for ages 4-12.
    

75. 
    Star Wars – Episode I, The Phantom Menace (1999, 20^th Century Fox, Rated PG, Science Fiction Advneture) The “first” Star Wars film, written and directed by George Lucas as a prequel to the original Star Wars which was released in 1977. This First Episode follows the adolecence of Anakin Skywalker, who is destined to become Darth Vader. The friendship of Obi-wan Kenobi, Yoda and Qui-Gon Jinn are also central aspects. And the beginning of the rise to power of Senator Palpatine to become Emperor and master of the Dark Side. The Phamtom Menace is a visual feast for the eyes with lavish sets, innovative special effects and a menagie of aliens and creatures, including an especially wicked new villan named Darth Maul. Great visuals, and special effects, as the fourth in the series, the characters are familiar and welcome. Natalie Portman and Pernilla August's performances are outstanding. Excellent soundtrack. There is a fair amount of fantasy violence but nothing graphic. Recommended for ages 8-12.
    

76. 
    Star Wars – Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983, 20^th Century Fox, Rated PG, Science Fiction Adventure) The third of George Lucas’ original trilogy of Star Wars film, Return of the Jedi sees Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) rescuing Han Solo (Harrison Ford) from the clutches of Jabba the Hutt. The Rebel Alliance attempts to destroy a second even more massive Death Star, as the Rebels defeat the Empire on the moon of Endor, aided by the furry and cute but corageous Ewoks. But Luke Skywalker still faces the ultimate test as he tries to bring his father back from the Dark Side of the Force. Some of the new characters we meet here such as Jabba the Hutt and the adorable Ewoks make this unforgettable. Filled with non-stop action and incredible special effects, it is fun, fantastical, and deserves a place in our family sci-fi library. Contains non-graphic violence, some sexual situations, and one character smoking from a hooka. Recommended for ages 8-12.
    

77. 
    Stuart Little (1999, Sony/Columbia, Rated PG, Live-Action, Animated, Action Adventure) Great things really do come in small packages as audiences will delight when they meet Stuart (Micheal J. Fox). Stuart is a mouse who is adopted by a human family, the Littles (Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie and Jonathan Lipnicki) But being a mouse isn’t so easy as he finds out when he’s chased relentlessly by the household cat, Snowball. Many adventures await Stuart, but through determination, love and kindness he shows the Littles just how big of a heart he has. Great family movie though it drifts dramatically from the original book but still tells a good story. The animation is so well done, you start to believe that Stuart is real. Great action scenes; outstanding cast. Humor appeals to both kids and adults. It does have some mild profanity and scenes of peril. Recommended for ages 2-5.
    

78. 
    Superman, The Movie (1978, Warner Bros., Rated PG, Action Adventure) Actor Christopher Reeve was first propelled to stardom in his role as the Man of Steel based on the popular comic series. The movie begins on planet Krypton, which is about to be destroyed by an exploding sun, where Superman's father Jor-El (played by Marlon Brando) sends him off to Earth while he is still a baby. The boy crash lands in Smallville, a small Midwest farming town where he is found by the kind Jonathan Kent and wife Martha Kent and raised as their own son, now named Clark. Fifteen years later he receives a psychic 'call', and discovers it is coming from a glowing green crystal in the remains of his ship hidden in the barn. Now he discovers his powers and destiny. While appearing to the world as a bumbling and nerdy newspaper reporter Superman fights evil while clad in the classic red and blue costume bearing the S-shaped crest of the House Of El, with the mission of protecting his newly adopted home planet. He won’t have to wait long as criminal mastermind Lex Luther embarks on a plan to send a nuclear missiles flying off course and causing a gigantic earthquake that threatens to destroy California. An icon of American pop culture, Superman is one of our imaginary childhood heroes. He's an old-fashioned hero with values like truth and honesty. Christopher Reeve's performance made Superman real for many of us. The romance with Lois Lane, a classic of our time. There are some intense acts of violence and some mild profanity that make this unsuitable for youngest viewers. Recommended for ages 6-12.
    

79. 
    The Aristocats (1970, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Adventure) Set in Paris in 1910, the adventure follows a family of aristocratic felines that the victims of a plot by their owner's butler to cheat them out of a huge inheritance. Kidnapped and stranded far from home in the French countryside, they meet a charismatic alley cat who, with the help of other animal accomplices, seeks to foil the dastardly butler’s plan. Classic family film with cute characters, sad portions and a happy ending. Outstanding animation, musical score and colorful characters keep the story swinging and full of life. Great voice cast of Eva Gabor, Phil Harris, Sterling Holloway and Scatman Crothers. Good triumphs over evil. Differences are set aside to help each other. Recommended for ages 4-12.
    

80. 
    The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005, Walt Disney Studios, Rated PG, Fantasy Adventure) Based on the book by C.S. Lewis’s, this riveting adventure is very true to the original story, really bringing Narnia to life. Join four siblings named Lucy, Peter, Edmund and Susan as they stumble upon a magical wardrobe that takes them to another time and place – the fantastic world of Narnia – where they encounter many wonderful and magical beings that are being dominated by a never ending winter caused by a spell of the evil White Witch. The children are guided by the King Lion, Aslan, to restore Narnia back to its warm and peaceful original state. Wonderful musical score, cinematography, great special effects, particularly the computer generated creatures - the centaurs, fauns, Cyclops, wolves and foxes. The King Lion is awesome; he feels almost human. The four kids are terrific as is Tilda Swinton as the White Witch and Lion Neelson's voice talent as the Lion. The battle scenes are very intense and violent. Recommended for ages 8-12.
    

81. 
    The Goonies (1985 Warner Bros., Rated PG, Adventure Comedy) A group of misfit siblings and friends stuck in a small town find a map to hidden treasure, during a time when their financially strapped families are being forced out by big land developers. Experience the quest together and watch out for the Italian brothers, and the booby traps. Try to find One Eyed Willie in an underground cave of mazes and secret ocean passage. The adventures continue as the friends must pull together in order to stay alive and stay in their town. But “Goonies never say die!” Hands down favorite for many adults, Goonies is a classic 80s child / adventure film bordering on being a cult classic. With great characters, great music and non-stop action, it has a scruffy kind of feel that makes kids seem like kids. There is some mild profanity and some harassment by and for kids. Recommended for ages 8-12.
    

82. 
    The Incredibles (2004, Walt Disney Studios, Rated PG, Animated Adventure) Meet the Incredibles, Bob and Helen who used to be famous superheroes until they were forced to retire and live secretly among the ‘regular’ people. Life was getting ordinary, kids, work, when Bob is called out again to perform superhero work. But now he cannot do it alone, he will need the help of his family; wife, teenage son and daughter, and infant son. Enjoy them each unleash their special powers and come together as the Incredibles fight to save the world. Another wonderful movie from Pixar under the direction of Brad Bird (Iron Giant, Ratatouille). Great characters, excellent voice talent, and an outstanding storyline bring home a winner for both kids and adults. Favorite character - Dash. References to the McCarthyism of the 50s isn't lost on kids if adults take time to discuss it with them afterwards. Some intense perilous scenes and cartoon violence. Recommended for ages 5-12.
    

83. 
    The Jungle Book (1967, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Adventure) An endearing animated adventure inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s famous "Mowgli" story, a feral man-cub who grows up deep in the jungle with animals as friends. The wise panther Bagheera knows the boy must go back to his own kind to escape ruthless tiger Shere Khan. During his journey, Mowgli encounters an unforgettable menagerie of friends and foes including mad King Louie of the Apes, the hypnotic snake Kaa and the loveable, happy-go-lucky bear Baloo, who teaches Mowgli “The Bare Necessities” of life and the true meaning of friendship. It drifts from the book, thankfully as it’s a rather dark tale. Offers instead the brilliant colors that cel animation can do, which far surpasses CGI animation. With a wonderful Oscar nominated musical score, it is perhaps most famous for having been the last animated film that Walt was personally involved in. Recommended for ages 5-12.
    

84. 
    The Lion King (1994, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Adventure) A young lion prince named Simba is born in Africa, making his uncle Scar the second in line to the throne. Scar is angry and deviously plots with the hyenas to kill the King and Prince Simba, and make himself the new ruler of the animal kingdom. The King is killed but Simba is led to believe by Scar that it was his fault. Ashamed and sad he flees the kingdom in shame. Then after years of exile he is persuaded to return home to overthrow Scar and rightfully claim the kingdom as his own birthright and complete the "Circle of Life.” This rousing animated musical features memorable songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, won two Academy Awards and features a memorable cast including Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, and Jeremy Irons. Wonderfully animated, it tells an original story, slightly reminiscent of Shakespeare's Hamlet, about the circle of life of a lion, from birth to manhood and delivers valuable life lessons about things like honor and responsibility. It appeals to adults as well as children though it does have some scary scenes, including the death of a parent and bloody battles that make it unsuitable for your youngest. Recommended for ages 7-12.
    

85. 
    The Little Mermaid (1989, Walt Disney Studios, Rated G, Animated Family Adventure) Inspired by the classic children’s story by Hans Christian Andersen, Ariel, a beautiful mermaid and the youngest daughter of King Triton, is dissatisfied with life under the sea. She longs to be with the humans above the surface, and is often caught in arguments with her father over those "barbaric fish-eaters.” Undaunted she journeys with her faithful best friend Flounder, to meet Ursula, the Sea Witch, to strike a deal that will make her wish come true. But Ursula has bigger plans for this naïve mermaid and her father. Winner of two Academy Awards, this beautifully animated film showed us a magical underwater world and a new type of female role model. Ariel is a contemporary young woman who made a radical departure from the female characters of yesteryear. We love that she is smart, sometimes rebellious, and clever. With an incredible musical score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman and a great voice cast, this film belongs in every young girl's library. There is some mild violence and scary scenes and some mild profanity. Recommended for ages 4-12.
    

86. 
    The Muppet Movie (1979, Henson, Rated G, Puppet/Live-Action Adventure) The Muppet Movie is the first of a series of live-action musical feature films starring Jim Henson's Muppets. The film is a film-within-a-film as Kermit the Frog is persuaded by agent, Dom DeLuise to pursue a career in Hollywood. Along the way, he also picks up Fozzie Bear and a variety of misadventures occur which introduce them to a variety of eccentric characters, played by notable human guest stars, and other Muppets including Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant Beaker and a colorful assortment of other Muppets. Kermit must also elude the grasp of a frog-leg restaurant magnate. This was the first feature Muppet movie which brought Henson's lovable characters ton the big screen. Its plot is reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz, with Kermit leading the rest of the Muppets on the road to Hollywood. Filled with goofy humor and puns that appeal to kids, it's also the first time we see Muppets full-length, not just from the waist up. The song, “The Rainbow Connection" was nominated for an Oscar. Lots of slapstick violence and physical comedy. Recommended for ages 4-8.
    

87.