by JRR

Created on: September 20, 2008

Even now I thoroughly enjoy spending a day watching children's movies with my daughter from when she was little.

Sadly, I haven't been able to share my all time favorite with her, Song of the South (1946). Being the first to combine live actors and animation, it was truly ground breaking.

Including stories by Uncle Remus I will never forget hearing Brer Rabbit beg Brer Fox not to throw him in the briar patch or the story of the tar baby. It is truly one I wish I could share with her.

Coming across this topic gave me the opportunity to share not only my favorites but Sami's also.

1.) Where The Red Fern Grows-1974
The story of a young boy and his love for his two red bone hound dogs. Working hard to raise the money to buy them, he raised and loved Dan and Lil Ann like family.

The movie shows their adventures and how their love and devotion for each other grows.

Dan proves his love by giving his life for his boy. Lil Ann, unable to live without Dan, mourns herself to death. The testament to their love is proven by the red fern that grows between their graves.

2.) Old Yeller-1957
What can be more heart wrenching than a young boy raising and ugly mutt of a dog, only to have the dog sacrifice itself for the family he loves. Old Yeller is just such a story. To make it even worse to have to shoot the dog you have come to love because it is rabid. This too is a story of love and devotion. One that still makes me cry no matter how many times I watch it.

3.) Robin Hood-1973
This animated film has been one of Sami's favorites since she was a baby. The story is timeless, Robin Hood taking from the rich and giving to the poor and trying to win the hand of Maid Marion.

4.) Babe-1995
Have you ever wondered what animals thought or did when people weren't around. That is exactly where Babe takes us. The story of a pig who thinks he is a dog, bringing life back to the farm and the owners.

5.) Charlottes Web-1973
Although in 2006 a live version was made and released, it is the animated version that we have watched time and time again. It is a story of love and friendship. It also gives excellent examples of not judging someone by looks alone.

6.) Who Framed Roger Rabbit-1988
A hilarious combination of live actors and animation, Roger tries to save Toon Town from being destroyed.

7.) The Wizard of Oz- 1939
"I don't think we're in Kansas anymore Toto", will long remain in the minds of many. As will the quest for a heart, a brain, and courage, all of which were found within. Through all her adventures Dorothy learns there really is no place like home.

8.) ET-1982
Everyone's favorite Reese's Pieces eating alien who is befriended by Elliot. It is a story of an alien's desire to return home and a young boy willing to give up everything to help him get there.

9.) Beauty and The Beast-1991
One of the most beautiful stories told. One that most young girls dream about. Love overcoming all obstacles, seeing beyond all outward appearances. The truth that opposites attract and that true love is worth everything.

10.) The Lion King-1994
Young Simba is much more interested in having fun than learning to be King. A story of love and friendship, forgiveness and betrayal.

Other Favorites Of Ours:
The Fox and The Hound-1981
Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory-1971
Monster's Inc.-2001
Pocohantas-1995
Born Free-1966
Call of The Wild-1935

Each one has lessons to be learned. Lessons unique to each story. Ones to teach children for years to come and remind us as adults when we seem to forget.

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