Genre
Imax
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens
Star Wars fans can rest easy; director J. J. Abrams (Star Trek) clearly knows how to stay faithful to sci-fi classics.
Speed Racer
It's not entirely clear why the Wachowski sisters, the CGI geniuses behind the Matrix trilogy, didn't make this zany family film into an animated feature.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
With this gripping film, there's no longer a doubt that Harry Potter -- the character, as well as the film series -- has grown up.
300
At times engrossing and at times laughably over-the-top, "300" is entertaining as an extended war sequence.
Night at the Museum
Mostly cute if often frantic, this family-friendly movie runs out of story early.
Happy Feet
Lest you think this upbeat animated musical is a rip-off of the 2005 documentary March of the Penguins, let's set the record straight.
Open Season
From some of the folks behind The Lion King and Monsters, Inc comes a zany animated flick about the oddest of couples, inspired by the work of cartoonist Steve Moore.
The Ant Bully
This is a fun family movie with some great life lessons. While most kid movies spout valuable life lessons of one sort or another, the ones that work don't talk down to kids.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
The fourth film in the Harry Potter series tends to move steadily from plot point to plot point, ensuring that each beloved character from the novel gets at least a brief moment on screen.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
Portrayed in broad, cartoonish strokes, the kids' cruelties in the film serve as comedy, though they're not always funny, and each child-parent set reveals its dysfunction.
Robots
Just like its endearing hero Rodney, this movie is assembled from hand-me-down parts (like its classic underdog story), but it has tons of heart.
The Polar Express
Director Robert Zemeckis has done a good job of maintaining the integrity of Chris Van Allsburg's brief book in its expansion to feature length.
Spider-Man 2
This is a dazzling story of love, loss, adventure, courage, heartbreak, tough choices, and tender feelings.
Treasure Planet
This animated sci-fi adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story is a dazzling vision, with masted schooners sailing past stars and planets.
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones
This film improves over its predecessor in almost every way.
Apollo 13
In addition to having a thrilling story, masterful performances, and technical authenticity, this movie is a heartening story of the triumph of smart guys with slide rules.