For the kids in the group:

• Pixar makes good again with Finding Nemo. Somehow they have the unerring capacity to perfectly anthropomorphize anything, this time breathing life, vibrancy and emotion into the undersea world. Boiled down to its essence, this is the story of a father's quest for his "kidnapped" son. He travels far — physically and otherwise — and experiences much in his quest. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more solidly effective performance from Ellen DeGeneres than her characterization of the forgetful fish Dory. The animation and backdrops are stunning. Click!

The Catch-All:

• The Adventures of Indiana Jones box-set. I shouldn't have to explain this one. At last the entire series is available on DVD and includes a feature-length documentary on the making of all three movies. Young, old, who cares, there's something for everyone in this set. You can't beat this set for pure action and enjoyment. (Updated note: this one is on backorder, so if it absolutely must be there by Christmas, make another selection.)

Hopefully this will help those of you needing some last-minute help with the Christmas selections. And if all else fails, gift certificates are a great way to say "I appreciate you and am thinking about you but have no clue what your taste in films might be so I'm punting."