Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that BAMBI II picks up right where Bambi left off. There are many references to the death of Bambi's mother and frightening scenes of hunting dogs chasing Bambi. Faline's mother is caught in a hunter's trap. A new character, Ronno, is a bully fawn who picks on Bambi -- "Isn't Bambi a girl's name?"
Families can talk about the bullying behavior of Ronno and how to stand up for oneself and be an ally to one's friends. Pre-viewing, parents may also want to prepare their younger kids about what happened to Bambi's mother. They could talk about how they felt when they were young viewers watching this classic film.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Pam Gelman
Most parents have distinct memories of watching Bambi as a child, and will be happy to know that Bambi and his father have come a long way in accepting their new life together. Although it's mostly the story of a mother-less fawn, BAMBI II also shows the emotional development of a father who has lost a soul mate and is learning to be a single parent.
This film starts with Bambi learning of his mother's death. His father, wonderfully voiced by Patrick Stewart, is the Great Prince and therefore has no time to raise a fawn. He seeks the help of the wise owl to find a doe to raise him as her own.
In the meantime, Bambi reunites with buddies Thumper, Flower, and Faline to romp in the forest. In steps a new character, Ronno, a young bully fawn who teases Bambi, usually resulting in scuffles between the two.
But it's the inner drama of Bambi's struggle to accept his mother's death that may upset today's kids. At one point he hears his mother calling to him. It turns out to be a hunting ploy, and Bambi is cornered by several fierce-looking dogs. His father rescues him and Bambi is scolded for falling for "man's tricks." When Bambi asks about his mother, he's told to leave the past in the past. Swallow it down and let the pain stay there -- not the best message for kids.
By the end of the film, Bambi has matured into a teenage deer with small bumpy antlers. Over time, he has had playful adventures with his father and after another frightening chase scene with hunting dogs, has earned his respect and his heart. The Prince takes Bambi to the spot where he met his mother and opens up.
Disney has made great efforts to maintain the classic style of animation that gave Bambi the recognition and honor as one of Disney's greatest films. There's also typical feel-good Disney music by Allison Krauss and Martina McBride that accompanies a few scenes.
But BAMBI II may be hard for sensitive kids to watch. You may want to pre-screen before you share with your little ones.
Rate It!
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ViolenceBambi is chased by hunting dogs. In climax scene he climbs rocks to escape dogs and falls. |
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Social BehaviorFather struggles as single parent and learns to open his heart to his son. |
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