Photo by Pixabay on Pexels
For many kids, animated films are a special experience. I’m sure I don’t only speak for myself when I say that most of our childhood “classics” are animated shows that we watched again and again with equal delight. Social media #90sKid posts are a testament to that. I, for one, would light up every time my favorite scheduled cartoon or movie (#DisneyChannelMovies) came on TV. But in this day and age where everything’s so ready any and every time, how do we share this same thrill and joy with our children?
Well, it might not be exactly the same, but anticipating and watching the next big animated films on cinema can surely replicate the experience, albeit a bit more long-term. The bonus part though, is that unlike those immediate cartoons on TV that you used to watch alone, this can be a joint experience that you can share with your children.
So without further ado, here are five animated films to watch out for this 2019!
1. Toy Story 4
This movie’s not only bound to make you cry with nostalgia; it’s also an excuse to make a co-fan out of your kid! Kidding aside, the best part of introducing Toy Story 4 to your child is rewatching Toy Story 1, 2, and 3 together. It’s a movie for all ages, and that mushy feeling you still get in your heart every time you think of the letters A N D Y under Woody’s foot is proof of that.
2. How to Train Your Dragon 3
Join Hiccup and Toothless in the last installment of the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy. Despite looking like they have less—Hiccup lacking physical strength, and Toothless lacking, well, teeth—the two main characters have managed to rise above their circumstances and found the bravery to face the world. Show your children that their unique traits aren’t something they should hide, and more importantly, that they’re what can make them strong in ways that others aren’t. And really, there’s no age limit to finding yourself, so maybe you’ll also be able to learn a thing or two from this inspiring film.
3. Spies in Disguise
A cool spy named Agent Sterling becomes something else entirely in this movie. I’m not even going to spoil this for you. Watch the trailer.
4. Missing Link
Has your son or daughter ever asked you, “What happens if Big Foot was civilized and literate?” No? Well, it’s good to know the answers to these sort of ambiguous questions anyway. If you’re thinking of introducing the infamous Big Foot to your children, it’s time to set aside the scary legends and horror stories, and try this movie out instead.
5. Ugly Dolls
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and well, a concept dependent on cultural norms. Putting sociology aside, it’s not always easy for a child—or even for an adult—to see that he or she is beautiful not just despite, but also because of certain physical qualities. Discover the beauty of “ugly” body parts in the movie Ugly Dolls. The musical number in the movie trailer is enough to spread upbeat positivity to anyone who’s having a bad day. Full disclosure though, these ugly dolls are the cutest thing ever!
Bonus:
Wreck-It Ralph 2
This movie doesn’t really count in the list, since it’s currently showing right now. But the first Wreck-It Ralph movie was just so good, with its life lessons on perspective, acceptance, struggle, and understanding. Your tiny chikiting’s bound to pick up a few important things, and enjoy the interaction between Penelope and the Disney Princesses along the way. So take my word for it, and check out the movie in cinemas today!
Patricia Li is a frequent contributor to Familywise Asia and Workwise Asia. She loves to read and write, and tries to incorporate this in her career.
