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Oliver!

(1968, Rated G, Musical, Starring Ron Moody, Mark Lester, Oliver Reed)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Glorious musical based on Oliver Twist.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Class issues.
  • Violence & scariness:

    Bill kills Nancy and is himself killed, Oliver in peril.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Lots of drinking
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Oliver!

Parents need to know that this G-rated film has some sad, tense, and scary scenes that may upset younger or more sensitive kids. Oliver's circumstances are harsh and before he meets the man who will eventually adopt him, he's not treated well by the adults in his life. He's yelled at, threatened, chased, and kidnapped. He's befriended by Nancy (who becomes somewhat of a mother figure to the lad), but she's tragically murdered by her criminal boyfriend. Oliver steals, but for him, it's a matter of survival. Bill Sikes is a truly scary character who may upset younger or more sensitive kids.

Read our full review by Nell Minow

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about Nancy's relationship with Bill, and about the mistakes people often make when they think that loving someone can change them. Why does Mr. Sowerberry insult Oliver? Oliver wants someone to "buy" his happy moment and save it for him. If you could pick a day to have saved that way, what day would you choose? Why did Nancy stay with Bill? Why does Mr. Brownlow think that he can trust Oliver? How does that trust make Oliver feel? What would Mr. Brownlow have done if he had not turned out to be related to Oliver?

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 7 and give it 4.0

  2. Parent Reviewer
    Lives in Wisconsin
    I rate this title on for age 7 and give it 5.0

    A favorite from my childhood and a good introduction to the theater. My 7-yr old was interested in the story but didn't enjoy the musical numbers although he stuck with it (complaining all the while!) I think it works as a "boy's" musical. I'm sure he'll come around someday...

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