Common Sense Media Review
By Ellen Dendy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
A big, Harry family adventure full of laughs.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
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Harry and the Hendersons
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 22 parent reviews
Parents say the movie offers a nostalgic blend of humor and heartwarming moments but is significantly marred by excessive foul language that many found inappropriate for younger audiences. While some families appreciated the film's charm, they were disappointed by the amount of swearing, which detracted from its suitability as a family-friendly option.
- excessive language
- family friendly concerns
- nostalgic charm
- mixed reviews
- inappropriate for kids
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 14 kid reviews
Kids say that while the film has its moments of humor and a heartwarming story about friendship with a Sasquatch, it unfortunately features excessive profanity that may not be suitable for younger audiences. Many reviewers note that the language and some intense scenes could be frightening or inappropriate for kids, suggesting parental guidance for viewers under 10.
- excessive profanity
- suitable for ages 9+
- funny moments
- some scary scenes
- parental guidance recommended
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
The Henderson household turns upside down with the arrival of humungous houseguest Harry family comedy. After accidentally mowing down a real live, really smelly Sasquatch, the Henderson family believes the strange creature is dead. In complete shock, they tie it to the top of their station wagon and head home. Tucked away in the Henderson's suburban home, the Sasquatch revives and goes on a mad hunt for anything that fits his vegetarian diet. When dad George Henderson (John Lithgow) comes face-to-face with the enormous, wild creature, his instincts kick in and at first he considers shooting the Bigfoot to save his family. But Harry, as the Hendersons end up naming him, proves to be an intelligent, gentle being. And once the family comes to love him, they realize they must save him from those who would do him harm.
Is It Any Good?
A comedy at heart, HARRY AND THE HENDERSONS offers some touching scenes and powerful messages in between rollicking action scenes, slapstick gags, and sharp one-liners. Harry bonds with each member of the Henderson family -- especially precocious (and occasionally foul-mouthed) 8-year-old Ernie (Joshua Rudroy) -- and the Hendersons unite in their mission to save their newfound friend.
Most of the action is cartoonish, but there is definitely some suspense when the hunters go after Harry. And for those against hunting, the story loses some of its enjoyment. Otherwise, this movie is pure family comedy wrapped up in a wild adventure story.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the legend of Bigfoot, and the variations of Bigfoot from around the world. Do you think it's possible that such a remarkable creature could remain undiscovered? If Do you think what the Hendersons experienced could really happen?
undisputable proof of Bigfoot's existence was finally uncovered, what are some of the things we might learn?
Some of the characters schemed to make money by capturing and exhibiting Harry the Bigfoot. How do you feel about that, and how does it compare to zoos? The circus?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 26, 1987
- On DVD or streaming : April 24, 2007
- Cast : John Lithgow , Joshua Rudroy , Melinda Dillon
- Director : William Dear
- Studio : Universal Studios Home Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Activism ( Animal rights ) , Animals ( Wild Animals ) , Transportation ( Cars & Trucks ) , Family Stories ( Dads , Moms ) , Fantasy ( Monsters ) , STEM ( Nature )
- Run time : 110 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : January 31, 2026
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