The Man from Snowy River

Back in 1982, this family-friendly Western -- complete with A-list star Douglas and a sweeping score -- put the Australian film industry on the map and made American audiences take notice. Decades later, parts of the movie feel overly sentimental (the music is especially cheesy every time Jim and Jessica gaze at each other and heavy handed at the mere possibility of violence). But it's still a charming and feel-good film, especially for audiences who like stories about self-starting young heroes who don't let their perceived station in life get in the way of their ambition or their sense of duty. Jim has a remarkable belief in honor and what's right, even if Harrison treats him like a lowly employee.

The cinematography and the horse sequences are especially beautiful, as are all the sweeping shots of the snow-capped hills. Like the sequences of The Lord of the Rings that feature New Zealand's beautiful landscape, this film highlights the gorgeous Australian hill country with a tenderness that makes the land another character in the movie. One of the best parts of the tale is Douglas' double duty as the rich and powerful Harrison and his estranged brother, Spur, who's a peg-legged hermit convinced that there's gold to be found in the hills. The romance is mostly an exercise in longing looks and good-natured pranks, but it strikes just the right note of chaste fluttery for tween viewers. Families who appreciate animal tales will love this classic drama.