Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that in this adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic story, young James both loses his parents and is forced to live as a servant to abusive relatives. James risks his life in a trip across the ocean, and there's one particularly scary encounter with a toothy shark. The movie may inspire kids to build little hot air balloons with candles, as James does, and it may encourage bug-phobic kids to become even more enamored of their insect friends. It offers positive messages about friendship, acceptance, and facing your fears and has a strong role model in James, who's courageous in the face of difficulty.

Sexual Content

Flirtation between the Centipede and the Spider.

Violence

Scary situations in which James' parents die; James' aunts threaten to beat him. Some frightening characters -- including a many-toothed shark. Many perilous scenes in which key characters are almost killed.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

Positive themes/messages include friendship, facing your fears, and finding people who love you for you.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable