- Nim's Island
- Fox Home Entertainment, $30
It may seem that Abigail Breslin is automatically hired to play anyone under 13 in a movie these days, but watch her in a great family film like Nim's Island and you'll understand why: She's one of the most talented child stars since Jodie Foster (who happens to costar here). Breslin commands the screen in this modern-day fable, which asks her to do most of her acting opposite a sea lion and a lizard. Her character, Nim, lives alone on a remote island with her scientist father. When her dad disappears on an expedition, Nim works to survive on her own while seeking, via e-mail, the help of an adventure writer (the gamely goofy Foster). There's just enough action to keep young kids on the edges of their seats without providing fuel for nightmares, and plenty of comedy to break up the thrills. And you won't tire of young Ms. Breslin. —Ages 5 and up
