Sometimes its great to revisit your childhood…here’s a few of our favourite 90’s children’s films…
Jumanji: would it even be a list if we didn’t include a film involving Robin Williams? Of course this film probably did make me a little bit weary of any unsuspecting boardgames that I came across, but filled with adventure and humour this is a classic film that never fails to thrill.
101 Dalmatians (1996): this live action version of Disney’s animated film (based on the Dodie Smith story) might have been outlandish in places (racoons for example) but is good fun in plenty of ways – not least for Glenn Close’s devilishly good performance as Cruella deVil and the outstanding performances of the animal cast.
The Borrowers (1997): while this film has an Americanised feel version of Mary Norton’s book, it is plenty of fun due to the cast that provide plenty of laughs along the way (including a young Tom Felton) – the way in which it has been filmed is extremely clever and a joy to watch from start to finish.
The Addams Family Values (1993): while the 1991 original film is great fun, I still find that its sequel is wonderfully gleeful and mischievous. It pokes fun at everything with a hint of quirkiness that is irresistible from start to finish.
Casper: irresistible silly fun involving a bunch of crazy ghosts, this film features a great cast to pull it off including Bill Pullman and Christina Ricci. As well as the fun, there is a poignancy and gentle look at how grief affects us as well that gives the film more depth.
Matilda: this version of Roald Dahl’s classic story felt for the most part really true to the book. A joy from start to finish, it really hones in and celebrates the power we all have to stand up for what is right. Mara Wilson is sheer perfection as the central character, as is Pam Ferris as the fearsome Miss Trunchbull.
The Wind in the Willows (1996): another classic children’s book transformed to a film, this fun take directed by Terry Jones is so delightfully British and imaginative. I particularly enjoyed the way in which the animals were represented through their clothing and make up – it was really charming.
Mrs Doubtfire: this irresistible film about what happens when a family falls apart is told with great humour and warmth that makes it still a classic comfort film to this day. Robin Williams as always a sheer comedic genius but equally he shows great pain and heartbreak as his character is separated from his children. He is surrounded by a great supporting cast including Sally Field and Pierce Brosnan.
Anastasia: ok while it is historically inaccurate in many ways, this film is still delightful in terms of its songs, characters and the way the story unfolds to a really satisfying conclusion.
Muppet Treasure Island: the Muppets take on this classic book features plenty of catchy tunes, memorable lines and wonderful ways in which the characters of the book clash with the muppets own personalities make it enjoyable to watch.