 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Dr. Seuss: The Lorax
- Review Date: February 13, 2012
- NR
- Genre: Family and Kids
- 1972
Common Sense Media says
Outstanding 1970s Dr. Seuss parable about protecting nature.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this is not the 2012 theatrical version of The Lorax -- it's an early 1970s animated version of the Dr. Seuss book that tells a timeless story of humanity's relationship with the land, water, air, and animals that will appeal to kids. There are instances of cartoonish violence as the Truffula Trees are chopped down -- Seussian machines abound -- but the lesson imparted by the Lorax as he speaks for the trees and all of nature should spark positive discussions on what can be done to protect our planet.
What's the story?
THE LORAX (voiced by Bob Holt) speaks for the Truffula Trees, the Brown Bar-ba-loots, the Humming-Fish, and all of nature. But when the Once-ler (also Holt) opens up a factory, the Truffula Trees are chopped down to supply humanity with Thneeds. As the factory grows along with the demand for Thneeds, the Truffula Trees -- along with the Brown Bar-ba-loots and the Humming-Fish -- all start to disappear, no matter how much the Lorax protests. As the Once-ler and the Lorax argue about progress and profits versus preservation and pristine air, land, and water, their world becomes increasingly more polluted, and it seems as if it's almost too late to save the living things the Lorax speaks for.
Is it any good?
Clearly a product of the ecological movements of the early 1970s, the message of The Lorax continues to resonate today. Filled with songs, rhymes, and the distinctive style of Dr. Seuss' animation that has transcended generations, The Lorax is a fast-paced and highly creative parable on the perils of unchecked economic expansion and environmental damage.
Originally a TV special, The Lorax was re-released on DVD to coincide with the 2012 Zac Ephron and Taylor Swift version of the story. For parents, this could present an opportunity to compare and contrast the past and present, in how themes and adaptations of classic children's books are interpreted then and now. Regardless, this version of The Lorax is definitely worth seeing.
Explore, discuss, enjoy
Families can talk about how the interests of the Lorax and the Once-ler are initially opposed, but eventually the same. Why is that? What lesson did the Once-ler learn?
How is the story similar to and different than other kids' movies with strong messages about the importance of protecting the environment?
What makes this story stand the test of time?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
Teen, 13 years old
February 17, 2012
AGE
love!
the lorax is my fave doctor suess story! and this movie is really good! i have seen the trailer for the new one looks like they added alot in.
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Parent of 5 year old
March 2, 2012
AGE
Great Dr. Seuss film for the little ones and adults!
Amazing movie!! I love the positive message it sends to kids and adults that we should be held responsible for our actions and we can always strive to make the world a better place. It is a very beautiful movie and engaging! I highly recommend this film and it's even better if you read the book beforehand!
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 12 years old
March 10, 2012
AGE
The Lorax is a superb film
I think its really stupid that alot of people are saying that it was giving the message that if you cut a tree youre a murderer.... thats so not true. its message is to respect our environment!
My Review:
Violence 1/5: There is a chase that might be intense for younger viewers. Also, the bad guys sings briefly about wanting a tree to shrivel up and die.
Sex 1/5:A ten year old has a innocent crush on a teen girl.
Language 2/5: Common sense didnt mention this, but im pretty sure i heard one use of d**m
Consumerism: WHO FREAKING CARES ABOUT CONSUMERISM ANYWAY????
Drugs Alchohol: none
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Parent
March 3, 2012
AGE
review of the Lorax
this movie is a must for kids!!!
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Teen, 14 years old
March 19, 2012
AGE
Makes people notice.
I like this mainly because of the book. To me, this is showing that people with greed distroy something beautiful. I think what was happening in the movie is now coming to life. For example, the people in Brazil are destroying the rain forest for farming and wood. The rain forest isn't made for farming. There isn't enough nutrients in the soil for that which makes people cut more trees. In the movie, the villian is cutting trees for their soft leaves but when there is no more. He has a problem; he just learned too late. Hopefully, kids today won't become money grubbers and try to protect the last wild places like where Dr. Seuss created before it was turned into a dirty city.
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 12 years old
March 16, 2012
AGE
Um my thinking
I think this Movie teaches everybody a lesson of Respect....And even though it's made for kids An adult would love this movie...It's funny,cute,Positive, educational, And just outstanding! Love it..
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Parent
March 9, 2012
AGE
SuPeR MoM ReViEw
The Lorax is a great family movie!!! My kids loved it!!! We will be buying the DVD when it comes out... Def. worth going to see!!! Great story on how to stand up for what you believe in and teaches kids about the enviroment!!!! Love It!!! ;)
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Parent
December 10, 2012
AGE
go ahead its okay
okay for anyone it learns about how trees help us and to respect nature
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
Parent
April 6, 2012
AGE
Lovely film
Despite having no female protagonists, it is a good message and a truly creative vision that young people will enjoy.
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 11 years old
June 17, 2012
AGE
Great movie for little ones. c:
As a small child, this was always one of my favorite Seuss adaptions. I recall renting it from my local movie store sevral times, and I still watch it on ocassion. Not only does this special have infectiously catchy songs, but also a great moral. Hidden underneath all the 1970's physidelic-ness, you'll find a great invromental message. The only iffy thing I can think of is that the Onceler is constantly holding a cigar. Other than that, a great movie. (:
What other families should know:
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Topics: | book characters, great boy role models, science and nature |
| Studio: | Warner Home Video |
| Director: | Hawley Pratt |
| Cast: | Athena Lorde, Bob Holt, Eddie Albert |
| Genre: | Family and Kids |
| Run time: | 25 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | February 14, 1972 |
| DVD release date: | February 14, 2012 |
| MPAA rating: | NR |
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
