9 Children’s Films That Broke The Mould

Are you sitting comfortably? Then we shall begin. Making films for children requires a very specific skill-set. To be effective and successful, the story must be told in a way that engages the young mind, without condescending. It must contain enough action to hold the attention, without being too violent or frightening. It must involve characters that are relatable, as well as those that capture the imagination. Crucially, it must also appeal to grown-ups, since they are ones paying for the theatre tickets. This is a very fine line to walk, and many fall by the wayside. On the other hand, walking this fine line can lead to stagnation. As with any movie genre, it is easy to fall into the trap of predictability and worn-out narrative tropes. Rare is the children’s film that achieves the necessary balance, while offering something fresh and original. Rarer still are the children’s movies that actually break the mould.

The Polar Express (2004)

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Though it received mixed reviews, this adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg’s book of the same name has taken its place in history as a groundbreaking endeavour thanks to its 2006 entry into The Guinness World Records. Written and directed by Robert Zemeckis, and starring Tom Hanks, the film is listed as being the first all-digital capture film, and is also the first animated feature from Castle Rock Entertainment.

Featuring human characters animated using live action performance capture, the story follows a sceptical young boy on Christmas Eve, as he boards a magical train bound for the home of Santa Claus. It became the first film presented in IMAX format which hadn’t been specifically made for IMAX, and was also the first to open in IMAX 3D simultaneously alongside its theatrical release.


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Author
Sarah Myles
Sarah Myles is a freelance writer. Originally from London, she now lives in North Yorkshire with her husband and two children.