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Dragonheart (PG-13, 1996)

common sense media says

A kid-friendly fantasy adventure.

parents & educators say
  • 33% say there are positive role models
  • 33% say there are positive messages
See all 9 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that even children who are usually frightened by movie dragons might not find this dragon scary. The language is palatable for both kids and adults. There are a few action scenes of sword fighting and dragon slaying, yet they relate to the movie's messages about loyalty, duty, and social responsibility.

Positive messages: Not applicable.
Violence: Dragon slaying and medieval sword fighting.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Dragonheart

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about myths and legends, such as the Arthurian legends. They might also discuss the idea of tyranny and a ruler's responsibility to those he rules. Concepts of sacrifice, duty, chivalry, and the threat of endangered species may also be good talking points.

What's the story?

What's the story?
DRAGONHEART is a heartwarming tale that follows the story of Bowen (Dennis Quaid), a once-chivalrous knight who has since strayed from his path to become a for-profit dragon slayer. His greedy nature compels him to slay enough dragons to threaten the existence of the species. Bowen must face the death and destruction he has caused when he meets Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), the last of the dragons. To extend the career of Bowen (now the last of the dragon slayers), the two strike up a shrewd deal to "act out" slayings. Eventually their traveling show leads them to a kingdom where Bowen and Draco must face the tyrant King Einon (David Thewlis), with whom they share a history.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
The fantasy world of Dragonheart has less depth than those of Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, but it still remains an enchanting place where dragons roam and knights follow codes of chivalry. The movie addresses issues of social responsibility and as in all good fairy tales, characters must come to terms with their decisions -- for better or for worse.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Universal Pictures
Director: Rob Cohen
Cast: David Thewlis, Dennis Quaid, Sean Connery
Genre: Fantasy
Run time: 103 minutes
Theatrical release: May 31, 1996
DVD release: March 31, 1998
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: action/violence
This review was written by Tony Nigro
 
 

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What parents & educators say

11
Based on 6 parent & educator reviews:
  • 33% say there are positive role models
  • 33% say there are positive messages
Read the reviews

Most useful reviews by all members

westburytf
adult
 
Cool Movie
This movie is awesome! It has tons of action and excitement. There are some violent scenes in the movie so I advise parents to be very careful.
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Jadenp
teen, 15 years old
11
 
Suggested MPAA Rating: PG-13 for intense violence, graphic images, and thematic material.
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chloe.bailey
kid, 13 years old
10
 
cool
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LadyFlameSinger
adult
12
 
Not quite what I was expecting
I watched this movie expecting good things. Huh. Boy was I surprised. The only highlight of this movie was Sean Connery as the voice of Draco, which, I must say, is just about the most unimaginative name that they could have given the dragon. I wasn't quite expecting it to be as violent as it was, and while I love to have a villain you can hate, the bad guy in here was practically vomit-inducing. I could barely watch him! I wasn't terribly inpressed with anyone's acting, and while the movie had a relatively decent ending, it is definitely not a movie I'm going to go around recommending.
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starwars reviewer
kid, 13 years old
9
 
Dragonheart: A tale of bravery, courage, knights, and a priest that can kick behind!
When I first saw this movie, I had only been walking into a room, and it was playing on the TV. Still, when I saw a giant talking dragon fighting a dragon bounty hunter, I was hooked. I watched it all, and to be honest, this movie is awesome! It had great special effects, decent acting, and as few plotholes as possible. Also, while I am just a sucker for medieval battle scenes, their's was really creative. My favorite character was the priest, who was one of the elite archers in the final battle. He could have killed the enemy with one shot, but... Uh oh! That's spoiler territory! My advice; see the movie and look out for a wierd priest towards the beginning. This is a really good movie if you like dragons, knights, and medieval fights! Thanks for reading!
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Nikon117
adult
9
 
It is a very good movie for the age of it. i got it for my 9th b day. im 22 and i still love it. it is well made kinda violent. dont even bother seeing the second one. its so bad. they made up a terrible story and added ninjas even though ninjas are awesome this movie is
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huttonfamily6
parent of and 3 , 9 , 11 , 13 year old
11
 
Great movie for whole family to watch
We all as a family ejoyed this movie, and my son was able to understand the positive messages, while my daughters enjoyed the magic and fun.
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piratesoftheca ...
adult
 
good movie for all ages
This film was wonderful in my opinion. There are messages about respect, loyalty and friendship to be seen, and most of the comedy can be understood by most anyone. Sean Connery portrays Draco the last living dragon and does a fine job of it too. There is a sequel, but i would recomend it more for younger viewers because it is more of a childrens movie.
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moviegeek
adult
 
I cry every time
Even though I'm fifteen, I LOVE THIS MOVIE! It's funny and has a good message for kids. It is also very entertaining for adults and teens. Sean Connery is the best and he does a great job as the dragon, Draco. Your kids will love Draco!
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
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