Thefinalfilmfest

As this school year comes to an end, so does the iconic Messenger column Groovy Movies. Here are the Class of 2023’s top picks for the best childhood movies.

Kennedy Tetour Managing Editor

Disney/PixarAnimation

“Peter

Pan”

“Peter Pan” is a true childhood classic. Released in 1953, “Peter Pan” is certainly a movie from before our time, but still manages to grasp the ever present want to remain a kid for as long as possible.

Neverland is the perfect place to revisit as senior year comes to a close, giving the graduating class one last chance to enjoy their childhood before they go out into the world as adults.

“Tangled”

“Tangled” was released at the peak of the class of 2023’s childhood in 2010. One of my favorite Disney movies from childhood, “Tangled” puts a twist on the classic story of Rapunzel. In this version, Rapunzel is a strong young woman, with a chameleon side kick, who would do nearly anything to be able to see the floating lights. This movie features a group of lovable characters, beautiful songs that define the tone of the movie, and some incredible and bright animation. If you haven’t seen “Tangled,” you’re truly missing out, but if you have you would know just how fun this movie is. It never fails to fill viewers with that warm, fuzzy feeling.

DisneyChannelOriginalMovies

“Teen Beach Movie”

By far, one of the most popular Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMS) of my generation is “Teen Beach Movie”. A spoof on the classic “West Side Story”, except this time featuring a feud between surfers and bikers. This movie is goofy, sweet, and overall just a fun time.

It’s the perfect summer flick, and by far one of the most defining movies of my generation.

“Lemonade Mouth”

The introduction to rap and alternative music for my generation, “Lemonade Mouth” is a classic movie about a band of students who seemingly have nothing in common aside from the fact that they met in detention.

This movie is one of my all time favorites. Featuring great music, a good story, and an even better band of characters, “Lemonade Mouth” is truly the perfect DCOM.

Movies are some of the most memorable, enjoyable and easy to understand parts of life. They offer comfort in times of uncertainty, but can also bring back fond memories of simpler times.

This is especially true for Gen Z. Our eyes have been glued to screens from a very young age, particularly the plasma screens that brought us the joys of “Dora the Explorer” or “Blue’s Clues.”

Since I am a senior this year, I wanted to create a bold conclusion to Groovy Movies, the column that has defined my high school career and my time with the McHenry Messenger. In order to capture the nostalgia of my entire grade, and to create a truly fitting end to my career here at the Messenger, we have collected the class of 2023’s favorite childhood movies.

Animation LiveAction “Shrek”

One of the most iconic films of our time, “Shrek” is a fairytale gone bonkers. The movie is funny, entertaining, and highlights some incredible music from all star group Smash Mouth.

I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who doesn’t like “Shrek”, simply because it’s an iconic movie that entertains audiences of all ages. Though the animation isn’t seamless looking back, the movie itself still holds up to this day and remains one of the greatest animated movies of all time.

“How to Train Your Dragon”

“How To Train

Your Dragon” Is one of the greatest animated series of all time. Though this may be a bold statement, this movie holds strong even 13 years after its release. It’s emotional, heartwarming, and most of all a well written and well executed children’s movie.

I highly recommend that anyone looking for the perfect nostalgic movie watch this masterpiece of a film.

“Labyrinth”

I was absolutely terrified of “Labyrinth” when I was little. The opening scene where the goblins kidnap Toby shocked me to my core, and put me off of the movie for years.

That being said, “Labyrinth” is a masterpiece. Featuring beautiful puppets created by Jim Henson, as well as intricate costumes. This movie is filled with wonderful music and an even better story, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a whimsical story to sweep them away from their daily troubles.

“The Sandlot”

“The Sandlot” has made itself a name within my generation with the sheer amount of times it has been played in class. Whenever a teacher is searching for a family friendly flick to show in class, somehow they always land on “The Sandlot”.

This movie is funny and holds a wonderful story about friendship and acceptance. “The Sandlot” makes the perfect end of year movie to watch with friends or family.

There’s a lot more. Head to themchenrymessenger.com/final-film-fest to see the definitive list chosen by the Class of 2023