There is nothing more exciting than when a favorite book gets turned into a tv show or movie.
Okay, maybe the birth of a child. Or when said child successfully potty trains. Or when said child can finally get snacks by themselves…but I digress.
I like to keep an eye out for any book I have read or want to read that gets a film adaptation. But I also like to watch for any children’s stories that may be hitting the big screen. Furthermore, it is especially nice to have a movie based on a book if your child doesn’t really care for reading or they haven’t found something they like yet. I think that regardless of whether or not your child reads the book first or sees the movie first, they will definitely be motivated to read the story after seeing it play out on the big screen.
Something about seeing characters and worlds come to life makes the book so much more special and magical.
While researching for 2018 movie releases, I discovered these five movies that I know my kids will want to see:
1. Peter Rabbit [trailer]
Premieres February 9 and features the voices of Daisy Riddley, Margot Robbit, Sam Neill, James Cordon, and Sia. It is an adaptation of the classic by Beatrix Potter. Rated PG.
2. A Wrinkle in Time [trailer]
Premieres March 9 and features not only a female director, but a star-studded diverse cast, including Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, and Oprah. This fantasy story looks incredibly well done. I think this one will be a movie for the whole family from younger school-age children to teenagers. Rated PG.
3. The Jungle Book
Premieres October 19 and features Andy Serkis (who played Gollum in LOTR and Caesar in the Planet of the Apes franchise), Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling. Not yet rated.
4. The Grinch
Premieres November 9 with Benedict Cumberbatch voicing the Grinch. This is one of my kids’ favorite holiday stories. What’s not to love about a Dr. Seuss story?! Not yet rated.
5. Mary Poppins Returns
Premieres December 25 and features Emily Blunt (as Mary Poppins), Meryl Streep, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Colin Firth, Angela Lansbury, and Dick Van Dyke (who was in the original). This movie follows what happens after the children from the original are grown. It’s based on the novels by PL Travers. Not yet rated.
And there you have it! These five movies are all based on classic children’s tales. It really surprised me and also really filled my heart with joy. Seems like not only are there five new movies to look forward to, but there are also five new stories to share with my children.
