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With most people shut up in their homes, if you have Netflix there’s hundreds of movies to choose from and plenty to watch with all the family says our movie guy, James Finnegan…
As the cinemas are currently closed, it might be a time to revisit, or even introduce, some of the classic family favourites available on Netflix — especially if you have had a week of continual Peppa Pig episodes, and need a change of style and pace.
First up is Peter Rabbit (2018), a very funny update of the Beatrix Potter story combining live action and CGI.
It concerns a battle of wills over land, specifically a vegetable garden, between animals and humans.
Staring Domhnall Gleeson, Rose Bryne and the vocal talents of James Corden, Daisy Ridley and Margot Robbie, the sequel is due out this year and might be a lovely Family return to the Cinema when we get back to normal.
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Next up is Shrek, which came out in 2001, so might have been missed by a generation or two. Shrek, voiced by Mike Myers, is an Ogre who finds his swamp taken over by other fairytale characters.
With the help of Donkey (Eddie Murphy), he sets out to rescue Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) in an attempt to find favour with the evil Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow) and get his swamp back.
However, Fiona has her own secret. You can also then enjoy the sequel, named with stunning originality, Shrek 2. Personally, I would then leave the series.
Another film for your concideration is Happy Feet (2006). Every King Emperor Penguin has a unique song that is used to attract a mate. Unfortunately, Mumble can’t sing – but, boy, can he dance.
Unfortunately this is not a talent appreciated by everyone. This is a wonderful, innovative animated film with a subtle ecological message and a cast of very special vocal talents including the late, great Robin Williams.
Also released in 2006 was the lovely Charlotte’s Web. Fern saves the life of a newborn piglet and names him Wilbur.
In a whimsical live action telling of the classic story, Wilbur is ignored by the other animals, but makes friends with Charlotte, a spider who lives in the barn. It’s a friendship that eventually defines them both, with a spectacular cast and evocative soundtrack by Danny Elfman
Last, but by no means least, is the classic Wizard of Oz which despite being over eighty years old still has the power to enchant children (and adults) of all ages.
It is normally a Christmas favorite but why wait until then to enjoy the adventures of Dorothy, Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in their quest to find the Wizard and get back home, as well as escape the clutches of the Wicked Witch of the West.
These are just a few ideas to keep the smallies entertained. Please feel free to add your own suggestions and recommendations in the comments. In the meantime, stay safe and, as always, enjoy the films.
