See more movie reviews

Gulliver's Travels (NR, 1939)

common sense media says

Classic 1930s animated tale. Fine for kids.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this film contains some cartoonish violence involving a gun, and wildly unrealistic fistfights characteristic of animated TV shows and movies.

Positive messages: Putting aside differences, making peace, cooperation.
Violence & scariness: Some cartoonish punching and kicking.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Pipe smoking.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Gulliver's Travels

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about why the Liliputians needed a "giant" like Gulliver to show them the ways of peace and cooperation. What is the best way to solve a disagreement like the one in the movie when there is not a mediator like Gulliver to intervene?

What's the story?

What's the story?

GULLIVER'S TRAVELS is an animated musical from 1939 based on the classic Jonathan Swift tale that chronicles a shipwrecked man's visit to an island of tiny people. Gulliver finds himself in the middle of conflict between warring factions of Liliputians. It seems that the families of two star-crossed lovers can't compromise on which song to play at the wedding, and it takes Gulliver to show them the value of working together.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

While this movie bears a resemblance to the popular Disney children's films of the day, it features the unique Rotoscope style of animation pioneered by the Fleischer animation studios who also produced Popeye. It's a bit slow-paced by today's standards; older kids might be bored by the songs and the long slapstick routines. Children are sure to be delighted by the premise and the characters, and the message of peace at the heart of the tale makes it an ideal starter for the youngest viewers.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Fleischer Studios
Director: Dave Fleischer
Cast: Jessica Dragonette, Lanny Ross, Sam Parker
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 76 minutes
Theatrical release: December 22, 1939
DVD release: February 6, 2001
MPAA Rating: NR
This review was written by Elliot Panek
 
 

Review It

 

Review Gulliver's Travels

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

awesome presto
kid, 11 years old
5
 
Awesome movie!! I loved all the bits and recommend it to people all ages
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (9) | had useful details (10) | read my mind (10)
gershannie
teen, 17 years old
6
 
my first movie seen
this is the best movie for children ever!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (10) | had useful details (9) | read my mind (8)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see Gulliver's Travels?

Won't miss it
On the fence
No way

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Other classic animated movies
For kids who love animation
Browse more movies
About our rating system
ON: Content is 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
Our child development rating guidelines