James and the Giant Peach

An unhappy orphan named James lives with two cruel aunts until a chance encounter nudges his world into danger and wonder. A strange benefactor hands him a bag of enchanted crocodile tongues and, when it spills, a colossal peach bursts from the garden and begins to float skyward. James clings to the fruit as it rises, and the peach carries him away to lands filled with wind and weird creatures. James befriends a band of talking insects who become his unlikely crew, including a brisk Grasshopper and a wary Spider, all drawn together by shared misfortune. Together they face strange challenges, test their courage, and learn that friendship can be a lifeline when life turns hostile.

Directed by Henry Selick and based on Roald Dahl's book, the film uses stop motion to bring a magical world to life. Released in 1996, it blends practical effects with miniature sets and a vivid voice cast.

The production carried a budget of about 38 million, but the worldwide gross was roughly 28.95 million. While the film found audiences on home video and TV, theatrical returns did not match the budget, marking it as a modest performer.

Even with a modest box office, the film left a mark in family fantasy through its bold visuals and the giant peach. Its stop motion and tactile design gave Dahl's tale a tangible magic that influenced later projects in the genre and remains a favorite among fans of practical effects.

Critics lauded the movie for its inventive look and the warmth of its ensemble, though some noted uneven pacing at times. The story centers on resilience in the face of hardship, the value of friendship, and discovering a family beyond blood ties. It balances whimsy with darker undercurrents, turning a fairy tale into a story about courage and community.