Fun Films for the Family

Andrew and I have been having fun watching some old classics the last few months since we can rent them for free at BYU. Getting to know stars like Jimmy Stewart, Gene Kelly, and Olivia de Havilland have been an absolute treat and have made me nostalgic for the 'good old days' when movies were always clean, family friendly, and highly entertaining. Here are some of the ones we have recently seen:

 Sometimes you just want to be thoroughly entertained, and with Singin' in the Rain, you aren't disappointed. Although the plot of the movie feels more like an excuse to show off Kelly's ingenious dance moves and tricks, you don't seem to mind much. It's hard to go back to watching Dancing with the Stars and So You Think you can Dance after you've been mesmerized by all the fun and talent this film has to offer.

 I had already seen this Jerry Lewis comedy, but Andrew hadn't, and boy was he in for a surprise. Lewis creates two hilarious characters so effortlessly that you begin to question if it is really the same actor. This Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde remake made us laugh, almost cry, and feel pretty awkward alongside this nutty professor. 

 Unfortunately this movie was a little bit disappointing. Although James Stewart and Doris Day gave great performances, and there were thrilling Hitchcock elements, the plot simply didn't work. The film did feature the song "Que Sera, Sera, (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)" which would later win an academy award for best Original Song. Doris Day sings it beautifully and is one of my personal favorites.

 This is an exciting war movie that captivates your attention from the beginning as a daring group of POW try to escape. It takes place at the end of World War II with Frank Sinatra cast as the tough American Colonel that is leading them. We were on our toes the whole time hoping that they would make it out against all odds. 

 I had never seen this classic before, much to Andrew's dismay. But I've rectified the situation and can now proudly adore this film along with the rest of the world. The story is timeless, contains adorable humor, and has a "wonderful" message that touches your heart and makes you shed a few tears.

  This was a bit of a flop for us. The plot was pretty good, but the star roles of Paul Newman and Julie Andrews were underused. Newman's character was pretty boring even though he was supposed to be this exciting spy. And Andrews played a pathetic clingy girlfriend who was clueless for most of the film. However, the villain was very convincing and there were lots of exciting thrills along the way.

 We've both seen this one before, but couldn't resist watching it again. This is probably one of Andrew's all time favorites and it's easy to see why. The music is so enchanting that you find yourself singing the songs for days after watching it. Audrey Hepburn's Eliza Doolittle is simply perfect and I love the beautiful romance that develops between her and Professor Higgins. 

 This movie was as exciting and adventurous as a Robin Hood film should be. Errol Flynn is the classic white-knight hero of idealistic speeches, and daring missions. It warms your heart to ride along side Sir Robin as he triumphs over evil, creates hope for the poor and weak, and charms the girl of his dreams.