The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep

(Sony, $29)

Against a bleak World War II backdrop, lonely young Angus discovers a dinosaurlike egg in Scotland's famously foggy lochs, and—like every child who comes into contact with a bizarre creature—declares himself the only one capable of raising the beast. In the tradition of wonder films like E.T. and The Iron Giant, the monster is presumed dangerous the moment it's spotted by adults (in this case, a battalion of British soldiers), leaving the kid to save its life. There are plenty of scary moments, especially when the military men fire cannons at Crusoe—as Angus has named him—and the frightened sea dragon strikes back at the humans. But older kids will love the electrifying suspense of the final chase scene, and this DVD's twinkly, magical feel will leave all smiling when the credits roll. —Ages 8 and up

Pucca: Kung Fu Kisses

(Shout! Factory, $15)

You don't see much martial-arts-themed romantic-comedy anime for kids (or for adults, for that matter), but ninjas have never been so cute. —Ages 5 and up

Ben 10: Race Against Time

(Warner, $15)

This live-action movie, based on the Cartoon Network hit, layers tween angst over the TV show's fast-paced, effects-laden alien battles.—Ages 5 and up

ToddWorld: Making New Friends, Volume 3

(Genius Products, $12)

In these episodes inspired by the neon-bright picture books of Todd Parr, goofy sweetness is the order of the day. —Ages 2 to 4