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.

Sarah Myles Nov 17, 2014 10:49 am2014-11-17T10:47:19-05:00

Toy Story (1995)

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The story of the awkward birth of friendship between Woody The Cowboy and Buzz Lightyear – anthropomorphic toys belonging to the young Andy – is treasured by millions of children and adults alike. Directed by John Lasseter, from a script he wrote with Andrew Stanton, Joel Cohen, Alec Sokolow and Joss Whedon, Toy Story counts Steve Jobs and Edwin Catmull among its executive producers.

On release, it stormed the box office, taking $361 million against a $30 million budget – and launched a franchise that is among the most critically acclaimed series of films in history. But, it is the film’s status as the first feature length computer animated film by Pixar that makes it groundbreaking. As Pixar’s first theatrical film release, Toy Story heralded a new era in children’s films, spear-headed by the studio that has since become an icon in the genre. Its success paved the way for subsequent titles, including Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc, The Incredibles, WALL-E, Up, Ratatouille, Cars and Brave.

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