Posted on 17 July 2019

Wondering what to watch with your children on the plane this summer? These six classics are sure to be on most airlines' playlists, packed as they are with visual gags, top action sequences - and more than a few poignant moments.

                                                                                                                                      

The Secret Life of Pets

The Secret Life of Pets is one of those gems that both kids and adults can enjoy. Max is a dog who has a cushty life with his owner - that is, until said owner brings home a large and troublesome dog named Duke - to live with them forever. The story focuses on Max's ensuing jealousies - until the pair accidentally get picked up by NYC's dog control. Max's numerous furry pet friends then embark on a mission to save the duo. The film is full of hilarious little touches, the best of which lay bare what pets (might) do when their owners go out... It's such a classic it's sure to be on most airlines' film lists. Great to watch if you plan to watch the sequel - out soon - while overseas.

Toy Story 4

While it's not as heart-wrenching as Toy Story 3, the fourth and probably final installment of the series is nevertheless a thumping good watch - whatever your age. There are numerous new characters, the most hilarious of which is Forky, made of a spork and some pipe cleaner. The film touches on the themes of loyalty and friendship and is packed with eye-popping action sequences and poignant moments.

Rio 1 & 2

This is a truly upbeat pair of films to watch on the plane - especially if you're heading to Rio! The plot focuses on a blue macaw named Blu, and his owner Linda, and moves from the US to Brazil. The various birds find romantic interests, but are then thwarted by a nasty bird catcher and his mean winged companion. Expect some wonderful carnival scenes (it takes place during the world famous annual event), dazzling feathered costumes and colourful set pieces. Hugely entertaining for kids, with plenty to keep adults transfixed too!

Ratatouille

Heading to France on your holidays? Then this culinary treat is sure to get your little ones in the mood for their upcoming Gallic adventure. The film centers on a rat named Remy who longs to become a French chef. The rodent makes friends with a restaurant worker called Linguni, to whom the little rat teaches the fine art of French cooking. As well as offering a gripping plot, this film will have you seeking out omelets, French cheese and, naturally, ratatouille - as soon as you touch down.

Inside Out

Pixar had not produced anything truly unique or dazzling since its takeover by Disney in 2006 - until they made Inside Out. The film takes place in the imagination of an eleven-year-old girl and delivers scene after scene of stunning, dreamy visuals, laden with gags throughout (don't miss the end credits). Super entertaining as it is, it also delivers the poignant message that sorrow is just as valuable an emotion as happiness. That may seem rather deep for a kids film, but everyone will come out the other side in a lighter mood - whether they're eleven or a hundred and eleven.

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