Common Sense Media Review
Lovable pet tale about friendship despite differences.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Adventures of Milo and Otis
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 54 parent reviews
Parents say the film is a nostalgic yet controversial choice, praised for its storytelling and charming animals, but marred by serious allegations of animal cruelty during production. While some viewers enjoy it as a heartwarming adventure for families, many parents express horror and disappointment after researching the film's backstory, revealing the distress and danger the animals faced on set.
- animal cruelty
- mixed reviews
- nostalgic experience
- family adventure
- emotional impact
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 42 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is adorable and heartwarming, perfect for younger audiences, though many reviews express serious concerns about the animal cruelty that occurred during its production. Despite its cute narrative and nostalgic charm, viewers are divided, with some unable to overlook the reported abuse, leading to mixed feelings about recommending it.
- animal cruelty concerns
- nostalgic charm
- suitable for young kids
- mixed reviews
- adorable and cute
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
At the start of THE ADVENTURES OF MILO AND OTIS, newborn Milo, a real scamp of a kitten, meets timid puppy Otis and it's the beginning of a hilarious friendship. Trouble finds them everywhere, even in the form of an irritated, nose-tweaking crab! But fun turns into peril when Milo gets swept downriver in a box. Otis follows, trying to rescue his frightened friend. From then on the two have numerous scary encounters -- most notably with a voracious bear who just won't give up -- but eventually Otis rescues his friend. Joyce, another cat, joins Milo and Otis as they try to return to the farm. Otis becomes jealous of the new cat's relationship with Milo and takes off on his own. In the midst of winter, Otis meets and falls for Sandra, another pug. Milo, Otis and their respective mates give birth to many little ones. Milo and Otis reconcile and in the spring, finally head for home.
Is It Any Good?
In terms of spunkiness, Milo is one of the most high-spirited rascals in children's cinema. Dudley Moore provides the voice of Milo, Otis, and the narrator: he's alternatively excited and droll, speaking for each animal character and providing amusing commentary. Like many adventure tales, The Adventures of Milo and Otis is a coming-of-age story: they leave home for the first time, undergo tests of their courage and friendship, and return ready to accept responsibility. The movie also addresses the cyclical nature of life, demonstrating that birth and death are part of the process. We see animals born and eaten; Milo catches a trout, the raccoon shows up and steals the trout, only to have a bear show up and claim it for himself. Thus, although the animals here have human voices, the movie acknowledges their place in the natural world. Above all, this is story of a friendship. Cat and dog are there for each other in the end. The movie places great value on overcoming differences, suggesting that if Milo and Otis can do it, so can people.
Unfortunately, after the film's release, animal-rights groups in Australia and Europe accused the Japanese filmmakers of cruelty and of killing or injuring the various cats and dogs used in the production for the benefit of the movie's plot. The American Humane Society attempted to investigate the allegations, but nothing was confirmed except for the fact that the movie does not depict any animal injuries or deaths.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the friendship between Milo and Otis. How is it special? How did they prove their loyalty to one another in The Adventures of Milo and Otis? What lessons can we learn from them?
What do you think about the allegations that the filmmakers endangered animals in the making of this movie? Does that change your experience of the film? Does it make you less likely to watch or recommend it?
How do Milo and Otis demonstrate teamwork and courage in The Adventures of Milo and Otis? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 5, 1989
- On DVD or streaming : March 21, 1995
- Cast : Dudley Moore
- Director : Masanori Hata
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Animals ( Wild Animals ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 76 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate