Parents need to know that this movie has a lot of cartoon violence -- some scary-looking creatures face off against each other, including monsters and decaying mummies. There are a lot of meaningful glares and lightning-type bolts shooting out between the characters, but even those who are defeated and seem to evaporate turn out not to be gone for good. Human characters are in peril, too, and sometimes seem to be hurt, but again it's only temporary and there are no serious or graphic injuries. One girl character is loyal and brave, but when the creatures attack, she's the only one who cries and is incapable of fighting back. Some mild schoolyard language like "blow chunks," as well as many threats, insults, and boasts. A somewhat decadent character refers to wine spritzers and is so effete that some viewers may wonder if he's supposed to be a stereotyped gay man.

Families can talk about the characters' view that there's nothing more powerful than friendship. Do you agree? Families might also enjoy looking for the movie's many references to other movies, including On the Waterfront, The Godfather, and The Wizard of Oz.