10- Ice Age (2002)
Perhaps a seemingly questionable selection, Ice Age starts our list off at number ten. More than just a story about returning an infant to its father, Ice Age delivers the timeless message of family and friendship in a fun and fairly refreshing way. Although the characters feel more than familiar (the villain turned hero, the quirky sidekick and, naturally, the stubborn and sarcastic leader), their interaction with the world around them feels new and exciting. It’s a story of how even in the face of global extinction we need to hold on to the people who give our lives meaning, and value the friendships that bring us new adventures.
Plus, let’s be honest, that prehistoric squirrel with horrible luck just makes the movie.
9-Wreck-It Ralph (2012)
Wreck-It Ralph took theatres by storm last November, so it’s no surprise to find it here. A wonderfully fun film, Wreck-It Ralph delighted audiences with a new take on what it means to be a hero. The movie delivered an interesting message of how our perceptions and preconceived notions of the world around us set limitations on both ourselves and other people. A movie that teaches us all the importance of following our dreams and never giving up, Wreck-It Ralph will have viewers rooting for the “villain” the whole way through. Not to mention the fun of getting to revisit the classic video games, and characters, that made many a childhood.
8- Despicable Me (2010)
Another heartwarming tale about family, Despicable Me finds itself on the list at number eight. A cute story, made even cutter by the fun loving yellow minions, about what it means to be a family and the unconditional love that goes along with the territory. Gru, voiced by the hilarious Steve Carell, is a not-so-evil genius who ends up adopting three small girls with big personalities. While he’s reluctant to care for them at first, he begins to open his heart to them and finds that as a result his life has been changed for the better. A funny movie that just about everyone will love, Despicable Me is anything but despicable.
7- Shrek (2001)
A playful movie, Shrek, brought a fun twist to the classic fairytales of our youth. The handsome prince, sent to rescue the damsel in distress, is a thing of the past. Instead, Shrek is the story of an ogre who falls in love with the fair maiden and befriends a smart ass (pun most definitely intended). Together, the three of them try and save their home from the tyranny of Lord Farquaad. Shrek was also more than a story about two unlikely people falling in love; it was about them learning to love themselves for who they are, and not for who they’re supposed to be.
6- The Incredibles (2004)
Ever wonder what would’ve happened if Superman had fallen in love with Wonder Woman, settled down, and raised a family together? Well 2004’s The Incredibles answered that question. The story of a super power wielding family, this movie showed the world that with great power comes great responsibility, resentment, and even greater problems. This film showed audiences that it takes more than super strength to hold a family together, while also playing with the idea that “when everyone’s super, no one will be,” something our generation of celebrity and reality TV are just figuring out.