I've never met anyone who didn't enjoy this heartwarming tale of a pig who is nurtured by a mother-figure border collie and thus, thinks that he too should be herding sheep. The animals "talk" to one another and the topic of stereotypes and discrimination/bias are handled in a positive way. The issue of animals being bred to be eaten is present but could only disturb the most sensitive of very young viewers. There is a brief scene of animal poaching but it is not violent. There is a shotgun present in a scene where the farmer considers slaughtering the pig but again, no violence. This film leaves you feeling good and presents many positive themes for kids. (The scene with the duck -- who thinks he's a rooster -- trying to make off with the alarm clock is too cute!) Good for young kids but also entertaining for adults.
Babe
(1999, Rated G, Family and kids, Starring James Cromwell, Hugo Weaving, Christine Cavanaugh)Most Recent Reviews
Parent & Educator Reviewers Say | Kid Reviewers Say
- I rate this title on for age 7 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Good role models
A New Classic
- I rate this title iffy for age 5 and give itMy concerns are:
- Excessive violence
Great film but think carefully about what you'll serve kids to eat afterwards
This is a great film, very sweet and heartwarming, but the realities of farm life may be strong for young viewers. My 5yo was aware that some farm animals are raised to be eaten, but that indistinct awareness didn't quite prepare her for the frank discussions about eating animals that are present in the film or for the more serious concept that the farmer kills the animals in order to eat them. I had very fond memories of the 2nd half of the film (Babe at the sheepdog competition), but had forgotten how brutally honest the film is about where food comes from in the first half. I'm not saying that this is bad information (it's a fair take on farm life, albeit with talking animals), just that many parents may not be prepared to discuss these details with a 5yo (especially as many adults don't want to face those realities themselves).
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 5 and give it
Wonderful movie perfect for young children
Babe is a story about a nice pig with manners that breaks down barriers of prejudice. He's a lovable, honest character, but strong as well. A good role model. Very entertaining as well. I must have watched it ten times of my own accord, and I'm an adult.
- I rate this title on for age 5 and give it
- I rate this title iffy for age 8 and give it
Not really for young kids
I actually like the movie, but think it has harsh language and violence. The sheep and the dogs are at odds and each think the other is stupid...there is a good message in the end, but for younger audiences the focus might be on the words rather than the resolution. BUT...the biggest issue I have with the movie is the violent relationship between the two dogs that are like a married couple. He acts like a typical abusive partner and she comes across as the typical abuse victim prior to getting out of the relationship. She makes excuses for his abusive behaviors. I think adults should be very careful about letting young children see these parts of the movie without some discussion. But aside from these issues, it is otherwise a very cute movie that ends well with good lessons for mature enough audiences.
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Not the best for the under 3 set
Cute but not excessively cute portrayal of animals. Kids may miss some of the nuance but they still get the point. The under 3s may be upset that Babe could get eaten or be scared when the dogs attack the sheep. Some kids may also have trouble understanding the farmer's accent the first time thru but they'll get used to it. When my 5 yo allows my husband to pick the movie, this is always his first choice. Read the book to your preschooler too. The movie follows the story line quite well and it's a good early chapter book. Skip Pig in the City tho - too dark.
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Unique Creation
The first of two movies-this one is clearly a great example of family friendly entertainment. It is a truly unique creation and communicates good lasting values. A caution for those 3 and under - some sequences may be violent and dark so you will need to be there to explain what's happening.
Parent & Educator Reviewers Say | Kid Reviewers Say
- I rate this title on for age 7 and give it
adorable
MY WHOLE FAMILY LOVES THIS MOVIE its such a cute movie but maybe a bit scary i know im almost 10 but that kitty freaked me out lol
- I rate this title on for age 5 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Educational
- Good role models
kids 4 and up would love it
i loved this movie its soooooo good for little great movie WATCH THIS MOVIE
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give itMy concerns are:
- Excessive violence
- My highlights are:
- Good role models
We love it
My family loves this movie
- I rate this title on for age 7 and give it
Charming!
This was such an adorable movie! Babe is so cute, although I must say, the word butt heads was used, and there was a little highlight of violence. I give it a four star review.

