Kids
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax Review
Ahh young love. Ted(voice of Zac Efron), a 12 year-old boy, asked Audrey, (voice of Taylor Swift), the girl of his dreams, what she would do if a boy showed her a real tree; Audrey replied, “I’d marry him.” That was it for Ted, he was on a mission to find out why the trees in their world were all chopped down, and he was determined to find a tree to show Audrey. He went to visit Once-ler, a strange creature who was involved with the tree debacle. While chatting with Once-ler, Ted learned the intriguing story of the Lorax,(voice of Danny DeVito), a charming creature who fought to save the trees. So now it was up to Ted to fulfill his goal, and get the girl. Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, is a fun, entertaining movie for kids of all ages.
Rating: 5 out of 5 buckets
Release Date: August 7, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG
Best Age Group: Any age
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Mild
Crude or Profane Language: None
Drugs and Alcohol Content: None
Talking Points:
The Lorax has caused some controversy because of the environmental message instilled throughout the film. Some commentators thought the message was over the top, trying to “indoctrinate our children.” Some adults may feel the same way, however kids will most likely enjoy this film. It was an entertaining movie, with some catchy tunes and fun characters. The theater was packed with young kids, who were all very attentive, while laughing at the humorous parts.
When Once-ler gave Ted the last tree seed, he said, “It’s not what it is. It’s about what it can become.” We all grow and learn in life, especially our children. A good lesson for kids.
It was annoying to see Once-ler’s family mocking and criticizing him; saying he would never succeed. When he became successful they were supportive, however when he failed, they left him.
Once-ler broke a promise to the Lorax, which ultimately hurt him. This could spark some good parent/child conversations.
Sexual Content: Mild
- Animated characters wore bikinis.
- Ted had a dream that he kissed Audrey, it was a sweet innocent scene.
Violent Content: Mild
- There was some slapstick, silly animated violence.
- Ted was threatened and chased by Mr. O’Hare, a business tycoon, who sold bottled city air. He may scare young kids.
- When Ted approached Once-ler’s house, he had to avoid an array of old machinery, loaded with dangerous blades.
Crude or Profane Language: None
Drugs and Alcohol Content: None
Overall The Lorax is a cute entertaining film for young kids. It’s appropriate for kids of any age, though parents need to be aware of the mild, slapstick violence.
Dolphin Tale Review
Sawyer Nelson was a shy, lonely boy who didn’t have many friends. However his life dramatically changed one day when he was asked to help a dolphin who was washed up on shore. The dolphin got caught in a crab trap, and severely damaged her tail; she was rescued and taken to local marine hospital, where they named her Winter. With a poor prognosis, and no tail, it took a group of dedicated doctors, biologists, and of course the dolphin’s loyal companion, Sawyer, to inspire a miracle that saved Winter’s life. The real dolphin, plays herself in this heartwarming true story about perseverance and hope; a movie for the whole family.
Rating: Four out of five buckets
Release Date: September 23, 2011
MPAA Rating: PG
Best Age Group: 8 +
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Mild
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild
Talking Points:
Sawyer’s father abandoned the family when he was little, however his older cousin becomes a father-figure for him, and becomes a wonderful role model.
When Klye (Sawyer cousin) gets injured and can no longer swim, the doctor stresses that just because he can’t swim doesn’t mean he can’t find something new to excel at. He said, “Just because you’re hurt doesn’t mean you’re broken.” This is a constant theme throughout the film, whether it’s a physical injury, struggling financially, or emotional issues, it’s possible to pull together and overcome difficult situations. A great parent/child conversation.
It’s so sweet to see the relationship between Winter and Sawyer. Not only is Winter’s life saved, but so is Sawyers as he comes out of his shell.
Sexual Content: Mild
- Girls are shown in bikinis at a pool party.
Violent Content:Mild
- When we see Winter washed up on shore she’s tangled in a heavy rope.
- We see an x-ray of a large tortoise with a hook under it’s shell.
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
- Slang words such as “darn,” “shoot,” and “crappy” are used.
Drug and Alcohol Content: None
Overall ‘Dolphin Tale’ is an amazing true story, one that the whole family can enjoy. I interviewed kids of all ages, even teenagers, who all loved the film.
Crooked Arrows Review
Lacrosse was originated by the Native American’s about one thousand years ago, and has become a popular sport in schools and communities all over the United States. Crooked Arrows centers around a Native American high school lacrosse team, named the Crooked Arrows, which competes against an elite prep school league. Though the Crooked Arrows are not as equipped or well trained as the prep school teams; this Native American team stays true to their heritage, and is ready for the competition… but can they win? Crooked Arrows is an inspirational sports film for kids ages 10 and up, lacrosse players will especially like it.
Rating: 5 out out 5 buckets
Release Date: October 23, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG13
Best Age Group: 10+
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Mild
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
Drugs and Alcohol Content: None
Will Kids Like It? Yes
See a clip of my review here, along with Snow White and the Huntsman!
Talking Points:
This is a film that won’t win an Oscar; the acting is good, not great, but it’s an appropriate inspirational sports film. The coach focuses on the team aspect of the game. When the only Caucasian boy on the team misses the game winning shot, Coach Logan emphasizes the fact that it’s a team sport, he says, “we win and lose together.” This could spark a great parent/child conversation.
The Crooked Arrows are humiliated by their privileged rivals, but Coach Joe Logan does a great job of motivating his team and keeping them true to their heritage and valued traditions.
There are some fun, entertaining clips during the credits.
Younger kids may get bored with the storyline; when they’re not playing lacrosse.
Sexual Content: Mild
- We see some innocent flirting.
- Players are shown in the locker room wearing only briefs, some are naked, we see their back side.
Violent Content: Mild
- We see some aggressive hits and plays during the lacrosse games, but appropriate for PG13.
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
- While playing in a game, the boys say, “vagina dodge,” when near the cheerleaders. The translation is show on the screen.
- There is some name calling…”wussy.”
Drugs and Alcohol Content: None
Will Kids Like It? Yes
Overall this is an inspirational sports film, with an education about the Native Americans and their sport…lacrosse. I recommend this for kids ages 10 and up.
Coraline Review
Coraline is about an eleven year old girl whose family had just moved from Michigan to Oregon, where it’s rainy and gloomy. Coraline is continuously being brushed off by her parents, who both work from home. While investigating their new house, Coraline discovers a door that leads to a world in which she gets everything she wants. Her parents in this new world play games with her, make great meals, and give her plenty of attention. The only upsetting thing about her new world is that the “other mom and dad,” have black buttons instead of eyes. However she still continues to make return visits, until her “other mom” reveals her true self.
Rating: Two out of five buckets
Release Date: July 21, 2009
MPAA Rating: PG
Best Age Group: 10+
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Moderate
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild
Talking Points:
The 3D affects are not overdone, shows brilliant colors and life of the new world she goes into.
The movie takes on the theme of ” The grass is always greener on the other side.” Which is demonstrated to be not true. In her new world she gets everything she wants, but it’s shown to be empty. Coraline learns to appreciate reality.
Sexual Content: Mild
- Sexual comments are made.
- Characters wear really short shorts, and other revealing outfits.
Violent Content: Moderate
- The movie is scary. It includes dark, creepy and spooky scenes throughout the movie. They show visions of monsters and ghosts of murdered children.
- I read that the director said, “We’re hoping for an edgy PG. We’re trying to send a signal with the trailer that it’s scary and only for brave children of any age.” It’s not for little kids under 8.”
Crude or Profane Language: Mild
- “Creep,” dingbats,” and “wusspuss” are some of the name-calling that’s said in the film.
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild
- Coraline’s mom comments on her husband being drunk.
If you like scary movies, you may lie this. I would recommend it for children 10 and above.
Brave Review
Wild and strong willed teen-aged Princess Merida clashes constantly with her mother the Queen as her mother struggles to prepare Merida for marriage and ultimately to be the next Queen. After a big clash, Merida flees to the forest where she meets a mysterious witch. She convinces the witch to cast a spell which turns her mother into a bear. Now, she has 48 hours to figure out how to turn her back and learn some important lessons along the way.
Rating: 4 1/2 buckets out of 5
Release Date: November 13, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG
Best Age Group: 7+
Sexual Content: Mild
Violent Content: Moderate
Crude or Profane Language: None
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild
Will Kids Like It? Yes
Wild and strong willed teen-aged Princess Merida clashes constantly with her mother the Queen as her mother struggles to prepare Merida for marriage and ultimately to be the next Queen. After a big clash, Merida flees to the forest where she meets a mysterious witch. She convinces the witch to cast a spell which turns her mother into a bear. Now, she has 48 hours to figure out how to turn her back and learn some important lessons along the way.
Talking Points:
Great family lessons – Merida and her mother fought often but they really loved each other. Both Merida and the Queen learned to listen to each other.
The movie is fun, funny and action packed. Kids as young a seven seemed to enjoy it and were captivate by the movie.
The animation was stunning and 3D effects were well done.
Sexual Content: Mild
- Two of the King’s Lords moon another character by lifting their kilts.
Violent Content: Moderate
- There are numerous animated battles between men and also between men and bears. One battle is particularly tense and may frighten small children.
- There are scary beasts in the film, which may scare young kids.
Crude or Profane Language: None
Drugs and Alcohol Content: Mild
- The King drinks from a flagon.
- Merida suggests that her dad have some of the King’s wine.
Will Kids Like It? Yes
Overall this was a fun entertaining movie for the whole family. However parents need to be aware of the moderate violence that may scare young kids. I recommend this film for kids ages 7 and up.