When I was a girl, one of my favorite movies was Annie (1982). I adored the Depression-era costumes, Tim Curry’s cunning villain and of course all of the fabulous musical numbers. ‘Hard Knock Life’ was by far the best song in the movie- the song’s lyrics and catchy tune were paired perfectly with the high-energy chorography expressed so convincingly by the ‘orphans’. While I admired the young actresses for their precocious talents, I couldn’t help but wonder- couldn’t the guys who made this movie have cast at least one black girl?
This type of question kept repeating itself for many years. Nowadays (fortunately) most of the best movies feature multi-ethnic casts. These casts are less likely to exclude vast viewing groups. During the last decade, the film industry has made great strides. When children watch films nowadays they are more likely to see a range of racial and cultural differences among the characters. With this in mind, my list of the top ten children’s movies of the decade shows degrees of diversity.
1. The Iron Giant (1999)The gentle giant was voiced by Vin Diesel. A sweet movie with an enduring message: might is not right. Look out for the coffee scene!
2. Shrek (2001) Two of the world’s most talented comedians lend their vocal talents to this movie. Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy make this modern classic as memorable as it is hilarious. Fiona, voiced by Cameron Diaz, provides a refreshingly original fairytale princess.
3. Spirited Away (2001) A self-centered girl undergoes a tremendous transformation. Just enough scary, just enough sweet.
4. Rabbit Proof Fence (2002) Warning: this film is not for all children. Young children might especially need to skip it. Set in 1930’s Australia, this film is based on real events and it chronicles racial injustice at its worst. Three young aboriginal girls must outfox and evade their British oppressors.
5. School of Rock (2003) Jack Black at his silliest finest! The kids in his class really rock.
6. Akeelah and the Bee (2006) Rising star Keke Palmer steals the show in this moving story about realizing your dreams.
7. Pirates of the Caribbean-Dead Man’s Chest (2006) There was a time when all swash-buckling movies featured monochromatic casts. Not so in this movie; pirates can be black, Asian or female!
8. High School Musical (2006) What time is it? The original and the best in the HSM franchise, this movie will be enjoyed for years to come. If high school were really this fun, nobody would ever want to graduate!
9. Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (2008) The young and the talented meet up in this thrilling movie. Abigail Breslin does a splendid job in the lead role. It’s a nostalgic movie and it will take young viewers back to a time beyond even their grandparent’s memories- but it’s worth it. Even if you just watch the movie to see the protective Will holding little Countee’s hand; too cute!
10. The Princess and the Frog (2009) Many argue that Disney could have made an African American princess movie as far back as the 1980’s. There’s no doubt that the folks at Disney were a little behind the times when it came to making this film- but made it they did, and it’s a beautiful picture. The animation style is reminiscent of classic Disney movies; this suits the story and theme very well. The highlights include Jenifer Lewis- the voice of Mama Odie- a real cinematic treat for the end of this decade.
