Classic Children's Fantasy Films
Kid's Fantasy Movies That Rival Modern Cinema in Value and Quality
There are five fantasy movies that set the bar for all others, five amazing classics that all families must experience together
Before Eragon and Harry Potter, The Golden Compass and Narnia there were a handful of fantasy movies that delighted children and engaged adults. These masterpieces are still available today, and are guaranteed "must sees".
The Last UnicornFamily/Fantasy 1982
Taglined "A Treasured Fantasy Classic of Incomparable Charm", this animated film based on the novel by Peter S. Beagle stars the voices of Alan Arkin, Jeff Bridges, Mia Farrow and Angela Lansbury. A simple story about a brave unicorn and a magician who travel together to fight an evil king who is obsessed with capturing all the world's unicorns and forcing them into exile. With old style animation and beautiful colors, this film features a heroic knight, an magically possessed tree and all the laughter and tears that any parent or child could possibly want. Appropriate for all ages from infant to adult.
The Dark Crystal
Family/Adventure/Fantasy 1982
This movie, written by Jim Henson and David Odell features the magic of Jim Henson creations in an otherworldly setting. 1,000 years ago the mysterious Dark Crystal was damaged by one of the Urskeks, beginning an age of chaos. An evil race of birdlike lizards, the Skeksis, gnomish dragons who rule this fantastic planet with an iron claw. Meanwhile, the orphan Jen, embarks on a quest to find the missing shard of the Dark Crystal in hopes of restoring balance to the universe. With a darker feel, this movie is probably most suited to children seven and older. The genius of Jim Henson was lost with his untimely death, and this movie is one of the last true masterpieces showcasing his talent to future generations.
Labyrinth
Musical/Family/Adventure 1986
"Where everything seems possible and nothing is what it seems." 15 year old Sarah accidentally wishes her baby half-brother, Toby, away to the Goblin King Jareth who will keep Toby if Sarah does not complete his Labyrinth in 13 hours. What happens next is a tale too tall for words. In a mystical journey through kingdoms unknown, this story twists it's way through the Labyrinth and into the hearts of all who travel along. Also written by Jim Henson, and displaying a wide array of his puppet creations, this pre-computer generated era is the real deal. Starring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly, rent this movie while your family is still young enough to believe in the unbelievable. Suitable for children ages five and up.
The Never Ending Story
Adventure/Family/Drama 1984
Directed and written by Wolfgang Petersen, this phenomenal fantasy adventure is about a boy who needs a friend, who finds a world that needs a hero, in a land beyond imagination. Through the pages of a mysterious book, a boys dives into a wonderful fantasy world that needs him now as much as he needs the escape. This movie is suitable for all ages and is considered to be one of the best fantasy movies of all times.
The Secret of Nimh
Fantasy/Animation/Family 1982
Right before your eyes and beyond your wildest dreams, a field mouse must seek the aid of a colony of super-intelligent rats to save her ill son. This animated film has some of the most amazing animation to ever make the big screen, and one of those classic stories that trancend time and generations. Truly amazing, this film must be seen by everyone at least once. Watch this with the entire family and see a timeless classic all over again.
