Parents looking for things to do with their offspring on chilly November days will be warmed by the knowledge that a strong of international blockbusters are coming to Beijing cinemas this month. We’ve picked out three fabulous fantasies for families to enjoy together. Don’t forget that international films are usually screened in both subtitled and dubbed versions, often at different times at the same cinema. Make sure you’re booking for a screening which suits your language skills.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

Already screening is Disney’s latest live-action fantasy, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. It’s based on the classic story which also inspired Tchaikovsky’s much-loved ballet, about a Christmas gift which opens a door to a magical kingdom. So far the movie has been less well-loved, with one critic describing it as “an explosion of special effects and set design in search of a story.” However little princesses will adore its sparkly festive glamor.

The House With a Clock in Its Walls

Director Eli Roth is not exactly known for family-friendly fare, but like Peter Jackson before him, he’s brought skills honed in the horror genre to more mainstream fantasy. The House With a Clock in Its Walls may still be a little scary for the youngest kids, but should provide satisfying thrills for elementary-age kids and up. It’s the tale of a boy who goes to stay with his uncle in a mysterious house, and discovers a hidden world of witches and warlocks.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

Despite the last of the novels having hit the screens seven years ago, the Harry Potter universe keeps on giving. Fantastic Beasts began as a fundraising book for charity but has now spawned not only a film but a sequel too. Kids who are potty about Potter will love this prequel, with a screenplay by JK Rowling herself, in which a young Albus Dumbledore joins up with Newt Scamander to battle the dark wizard Grindelwald.

Photos: www.rottentomatoes.com, Wikimedia Commons