Child Characters in Cinema: Exploring Classic Films Done Right
The idea of taking a classic film and redoing it with child actors can be intriguing. It opens up a myriad of possibilities, but it can also be a delicate balance. One film that springs to mind is Erik the Viking, which portrays the Norse gods as children at the end. Meanwhile, in The Moonrise Kingdom, the protagonists are young characters. However, when considering which film would benefit from a child-friendly remake, The Great Escape stands out as a strong candidate for such a project.
Why Choose The Great Escape?
One film that stands out for a child-friendly remake is The Great Escape. The movie, originally featuring veteran actors, has a plot that could be easily adapted to a younger audience. The original The Great Escape with Steve McQueen and Michael Caine was a thrilling adventure that never relied on sexual content or mature themes. A remake with children could maintain the spirit and charm of the original, presenting a historical adventure story that both kids and adults could enjoy.
Addressing Sensitivity in Remakes
As mentioned, there are concerns around sexualizing child characters, particularly when it involves suggestive themes like those seen in Chicago. However, when the themes are more appropriate, such as in Erik the Viking and The Moonrise Kingdom, the remakes are more acceptable. The key is to maintain a respectful and appropriate tone, avoiding any controversial elements that could offend audiences. The Hunger Games reboot of Peter Rabbit serves as a cautionary tale. In one scene, Brendan Gleeson’s character (Pammy) uses an Epi-Pen due to a reaction to blackberries, causing controversy in the politically correct (PC) climate. But it is important to remember the context: Pammy's actions are meant to protect the titular character, which makes the scene less about hysteria and more about the characters' goals.
Choosing the Right Film
For a remake featuring all child actors, one film that stands out is Disney’s The Rescuers. This animated feature, based on the work of Eleanor Estes, tells the story of a rescue mission involving animal characters looking for a missing girl. It combines elements of heartwarming drama, wit, and a nostalgic charm that appeals to both children and adults. The themes of abduction and rescue are handled with care and sensitivity, providing a high emotional payoff. Another film that fits well is The Sandlot.
The Sandlot: A Classic Adaptation
The Sandlot is a wonderful choice for a remake with children. The movie has all the elements one would want in such a film: classic lines, a great soundtrack, a quirky plot, and notable performances (including James Earl Jones). The storyline focuses on a group of boy baseball players, and it successfully shows a time-honored rivalry and the daily life of childhood. The authenticity of the characters and their interactions make it a timeless classic. None of the characters are overly caricatured, ensuring a balanced and relatable portrayal of young people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there are various films that could be done with child actors, the remake of The Great Escape is a particularly compelling choice. Additionally, The Rescuers and The Sandlot offer stories that remain fresh and engaging, blending the best of child-appropriate content without losing their charm and depth. These films show that with care and respect, classic stories can be adapted to a new generation while maintaining the essence of the original.