The best animal stories on film are able engage their audience in ways that children can comprehend and store in their memory for years to come. But just because the story stars an animal does not qualify it as a classic. Character and plot development still matter. So when considering family-friendly animal movies, which deserve to counted as the best of the best?
1. “Babe”
A uniquely spun fairy tale of a pig on a quaint sheep farm, “Babe” is suspenseful and masterfully told. Kids will giggle at the singing mice between scenes, while viewers of all ages will have their attention wrapt as they see the events unfold. Are pigs as capable as dogs? “Babe” answers that question artfully.
2. “Stuart Little”
Urbanites and suburban families will resonate with the city-based setting of the “Stuart Little” films. Cats and mice battle it out and befriend one another in these color-coordinated modern fairy tales. Starring Michael J. Fox, Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, and Johnathan Lipnicki, the performances are superbly fitting as well.
3. “Milo and Otis”
Dudley Moore gives a stunning performance as the narrator of this tale of friendship that buds between a kitten and puppy. They begin their lives together on the same farm, with the mischievous Milo getting them in and out of trouble. The pair then set out on a coming-of-age adventure fraught with danger, romance, and the miracle of new life.
The general consensus is that the 1973 animated version is the enduring classic, while the live action 2006 film has its merits as well. Whichever version one watches, this E.B. White story deserves a place in classic children’s literature and family films. Even adults may not be able to resist succumbing to the heart-breaking moment near the end.
What is it like to grow up deep in the forest? A fawn named Bambi shows us his process of discovery as his character is challenged and built over time. Chattering forest creatures abound, while “man” is the enemy to be feared in one of the greatest Disney stories ever.
A couple of other excellent animal films deserve honorable mention. The most recent “Lassie” movie was released in 2006, and stars John Lynch, Samantha Morton, and Peter O’Toole. This “Lassie” film, which begins in Scotland, is a suspenseful adventure story that shows the strength of loyalty and love. Back in the Disney realm, “Finding Nemo” is one of the best modern animated tales celebrating a father’s love. It centers on a family of clown fish who settle happily on a coral reef, until tragedy strikes twice. Even viewers as young as two will be spellbound by the action-packed story and superb voice talents featured in this 100-minute movie.
By engaging the heart, mind, and imagination, animal stories can uniquely captivate those who read and watch them. Like their literary forebearers, classic animal films show people the truths of how creatures grow up, fall in love, rise in face of overwhelming odds, and take on new responsibilities. These compelling films demonstrate that tales of animals personified hold a timeless appeal for viewers of all ages.
