10 must-see DVDs for kids

With all these bicultural children being brought into the world this year (including Perrine's expected twins in a few weeks !), I thought it would be a good idea to share my list of favourite films and books for pre-school years.

Let's start with the DVDs that have kept my two sons (now five and two) happy for the last couple of years. Obviously, they are all at their best in their original language, although the French versions are usually very well made (except for Wallace & Gromit).

1- Wallace & Gromit. From their debut in the short film A Grand Day Out to The Curse of the Ware Rabbit, there's no beating the lovable plasticine duo.
2- Chicken Run. Created by the same studio as Wallace & Gromit, a hilarious remake of The Great Escape, with a distinct Scottish-friendly tone to it (hey, there's Mel Gibson in the cast).
3- The Jungle Book. Disney is supposed to be ancient history, but this classic has it all : great graphics, catchy tunes, unforgettable characters.
4- Shrek 1, 2 & 3. Dreamworks' answer to Disney became an instant hit seven years ago. The first film was good, the second one was okay, the third one was phenomenal. Can't wait for Number four in 2010.
5- Stuart Little 1 & 2. A mouse is adopted by a New York family. Voiced by Michael J. Fox, this cool rodent will win your heart, especially in the sequel (his dad is played by Hugh "Dr House" Laurie !).
6- Fantasia. More Disney but a great excuse to introduce your child to classical music.
7- Kirikou et la Sorcière. A French film at last ! You couldn't get more different from Hollywood blockbusters, but this African tale is universal.
8- Thomas the Tank Engine. Choo choo ! Two-year-olds still love to board this chubby locomotive.
9- Enchanted. Disney again ! But this time the Dream Factory has decided to have a laugh at itself. Definitely designed for seven-year-old girls, but my boys were enchanted too.

And also : Toy Story 1 & 2, Ice Age 1 & 2, Bob the Builder, Jay Jay the Jet Plane, Balamory (a Scottish TV series recommended by Mo)... I couldn't choose a number 10. The great news is, most kiddies films are catered for adults as well, so you're bound to have a good time with your wee one(s).

Spéciale dédicace à Perrine, qui va bientôt découvrir les joies des DVD pour enfants avec la naissance prochaine de ses jumeaux. La bonne nouvelle, c'est que le cinéma pour les petits est souvent excellent, un vrai plaisir pour les grands aussi.