As 2019 has finally come to a close, we can’t help but reflect and feel nostalgic for all the great experiences of the past year. Thinking back on all the peaceful weekends spent wandering about Old Town Calabasas after the farmers market or exciting plans of grabbing dinner and a movie at the Regal Edwards Theater, 2019 was a great year of entertainment. Here’s a look back at ten of the best movies from 2019 that are sure to get the whole family excited.
Toy Story 4
In the latest iteration of the Pixar classic, Toy Story 4 gives back life to all your favorite toy heroes all while adding some fresh new faces to the franchise. An exciting journey with their new owner Bonny takes Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang on a road trip. With new featured characters such as Forky, a spork toy Bonny makes in class, providing existential comedic relief and emotional reuniting of old friends such as Bo Peep, this movie is great for the whole family. Sure to tug at your heart strings, Toy Story 4 teaches lessons of adventure and friendship that people of all ages can enjoy.
Into the Spider-Verse
Although just barely outside the scope of 2019, being released in December of 2018, Into the Spider-Verse more than deserves a second screening. An innovative new animation style and unforgettable soundtrack, this animated picture has it all. Following the traditional underdog turned superhero story line fans crave, this movie takes a unique spin on a classic adding in Spider-Men, Spider-Women and even a Spider-Pig into the mix. An ode to the classic Spider-Man humor, this heartwarming movie is sure to get the whole room laughing.
Aladdin (Live Action)
Giving new life to all your favorite songs from the original movies and even adding a female empowerment power ballad, this live action movie reminds us all why we loved Aladdin in the first place. With the incredible Will Smith as Genie, this movie goes through the rags to riches love story we have all come to love. A story of friendship, love and magic, this new twist on a Disney Classic is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Frozen 2
Follow-up to the worldwide phenomenon, Frozen 2 had some big shoes to fill. However, this movie did not disappoint. With a completely original story that still follows the heartwarming tale of sisterly love, this sequel keeps you on your toes as it changes everything you thought you knew about these lovable characters. As crowd favorite Olaf goes through a hysterical path to maturation, we are also introduced to endearing new faces. Following the story of their parent’s past, this adventure is sure to bring everyone together to watch.
Little Women
The most recent adaptation of the Louisa May Alcott novel, this movie beautifully captures the essence of the classic novel. Fighting against the societal expectations of 19th century England, Jo March and her sisters fight to find their own definition of fulfillment. A tale of love, heartbreak and female empowerment, this Oscar-nominated rendition creates an uplifting interpretation of the novel that will leave your family thinking.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
As Star Wars continues to take over the world, episode IX is the perfect film to get family members of every age excited as to where the story will go next. As always, Star Wars does not disappoint with beautiful visuals and astonishing special effects. With all the new characters that the younger generations have used as their connection to the franchise, the latest movie in the series, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker works towards all the elements older generations love about the original movies. Through its imaginative story lines, unexpected plot twists and unstoppable friendships, this movie brings an enthralling end to the series.