What Movies Inspire a Child's Imagination?August 03, 2015

Come September, the members of the Starlight Children's Foundation will eat, drink, and breath cinema. This will be the time to entertain the sick children, and a good movie will certainly lift up their spirit. But it won't be any (motion) picture. Coming up with a (film) line up may be a long process, as no two individuals have the same preference. In this case, it should be movies that inspire a child's imagination.

You might be thinking that reading (aloud) would be better, but they may not be in the mood to listen. (Imagine what a sickly child must go through, which is rather hard to do.) A motion picture, on the other hand, can grab their attention right away. It's only a question of which ones (to see). Here are some suggestions:

Harry Potter. Don't be surprised if many young students can finish reading a Harry Potter book in a day or two. J.K. Rowling's narration has a spellbinding effect, such that they can't wait to know the outcome of the story. The film series didn't disappoint either. Never mind if it's dark in nature. (It's not the first time that children encounter such setting and characters.) The series are the perfect antidotes, and who knows, the kids may have enough energy to read the books. Again.

The Chronicles of Narnia. C.S. Lewis, a native of Belfast, laid his religious beliefs in this fantasy series. And you don't have to agree (or disagree) with it. After all, the books can captivate any reader instantly. What better way for sick kids to forget what they're going through, and the image of the White Witch may prompt them to hug someone. Don't hesitate.

Peter Pan. Joe Wright's retelling of "Peter Pan; or, the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up" will open on October 16. Hugh Jackman will play Blackbeard, prompting those who know the novel if there's such a character. They don't have to wait, as Disney's animated version is arguably the best adaptation of the book. Words can't describe what it feels like soaring through the air, with Neverland (or London) behind. This may be a good substitute to aspirin.

Oliver! Only Carol Reed can think of Oliver Twist and Fagin singing and dancing. It's so much fun to see, and you might be astonished to see the kids improve after the screening. This is a Charles Dickens novel. Some might wonder about â€œA Christmas Carolâ€. Go out, look around, and you'll figure out. As for â€œGreat Expectationsâ€, they might not understand Miss Havisham. No need to explain â€œA Tale of Two Citiesâ€.

Joey. The line-up won't be completed without a homegrown feature. Ian Barry's picture about a boy who is trying to save a baby kangaroo is a heartwarming experience. No one can ask for something better. And brace yourselves when the two reach Sydney.

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