The opening scene is a bit startling: women washing clothes in the river with a lion lurking; consequences are deadly. This scene was more upsetting than the elephant stampede noted in the Commonsense review. Other issues: For a woman living in Africa close to nature, Joy's hair is always perfect and she is a woman of her time: persistent maybe, but not at all equal to the men. Men ultimately make all the decisions. Other items date the movie and one should be prepared to discuss for example, why the White Europeans live in modern houses, and are in positions of authority while the Black Africans are in the background-literally. The story moves along quickly-almost too choppy at times. Nevertheless, it is a movie with depth and one can focus children on the complex issues regarding the lions: safety of the zoo versus dangers in the wild with freedom.
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Born Free
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 6; suggested age 6. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
A compelling classic nature story.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 6 and Up
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
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Language:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About Born Free
Parents need to know that although young viewers may initially resist this "old" movie, they'll ultimately be captivated by the amazing story. The animals will delight, but young and sensitive kids might be overwhelmed by the violence, and lioness Elsa's bittersweet return to the wild. School-aged kids may be frightened by scenes of hunting and killing, plus Elsa sets off an elephant stampede. And as Joy grows deeply attached to Elsa, so do viewers. Teaching her how to live on her own, then letting her go, is extremely difficult for the Adamsons and viewers. This may be a hard sell for teens, but the story is compelling.
Read our full review by Common Sense Media Editors
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about human responsibility to nature. What makes us good stewards of the earth? How do we care for the animals and plants around us?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 8 and give it
Classic yet a movie of its time
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