3. Cast Away (2000)
Robert Zemeckis rears his head for a second time on this list, with everyones favorite man-on-an-island film, Cast Away. Tom Hanks holds the film together like his career depends on it, and the result is highly engaging stuff. Although it is in no way related, and may be more about the landscape than anything else, Cast Away feels like a distant cousin to the Pirates Of The Caribbean franchise - and as such, might be one of the more instantly accessible films for kids. Cast Away is the sort of film that illustrates the importance of hope, survival instinct and the ability to be confident in yourself. There is of course the whole Wilson scenario, which will be a point of fun for kids (except when he dies), and who knows - Zemeckis use of scenery and that roaring ocean soundtrack, may even help inspire your kids to become the Bear Grylls of tomorrow.
Parental Benefits: If you are one of those parents who think Scouts and Brownies is a worthwhile endeavor for children, then Cast Away might be a good way to bring them round to the idea of outdoorsy type stuff. For the rest of us, Cast Away is just an excellent opportunity to watch a family film that isnt all talking cats and straight-to-video tripe.