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Banjo the Woodpile Cat

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 3, age appropriate for kids over 5; suggested age 5.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Great animation, so-so story.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 5 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Banjo learns life lessons and learns to overcome obstacles.
  • Violence & scariness:

    Rats and vicious dogs harass Banjo.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

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

    Examples of Banjo's misbehavior include smoking a pipe and sampling a mug of beer.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Banjo the Woodpile Cat

Parents need to know that this movie has lavish visuals and beautiful character animation, the somewhat syrupy story will probably entrance only the very young. There are some intense themes here: Banjo feels misunderstood and experiences mild peril alone in the city. More sensitive children may be disturbed by Banjo's separation from his family. The ideal age group for this movie is grade-school kids. Most will be able to identify with Banjo who constantly gets into trouble for misbehaving. Older children may still enjoy it, but 11- and 12-year olds may find the simple story too sentimental for their tastes.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why Banjo made the decisions he did. Why did he feel he needed to leave home? Can you see scenes where Banjo's parents showed they loved him, even when he was being disciplined?

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 6 and give it 4.0

    A good first film for Don Bluth

    Though amazing tame for a Bluth production. The visuals might be a bit too extreme for a really little kid, but the film is very sweet and Banjo himself is adorable.

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