See more movie reviews

Scooby-Doo and the Samurai Sword (NR)

common sense media says

Scooby's Japanese adventure is fun but a little violent.

parents & educators say
See all 3 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that there are many fight scenes in this straight-to-DVD Scooby-Doo movie -- "samurai" and "sword" are part of the title, after all. Some of the images of the Black Samurai are frightening: He has blazing eyes and sharp fangs, and his presence is larger than life. Themes of master and apprentice take on a master and servant tone, which might be a little off-putting to some parents.

Educational value: Kids might pick up a little about Asian culture, but overall the movie's goal is to entertain rather than educate.
Positive messages: "The Gang" is very cooperative, and they strive to help people solve mysteries. The way the movie presents Asian culture is a mixed bag -- some of the stereotypes are a little off-putting (everyone in Japan is always taking
photos, Manga-style female violence, etc.), while others are fine (the role of
honor in society). There are also themes related to a "master" and a "servant" role.
Positive role models: Velma and Daphne are strong female characters whose skills help with
problem solving.
Violence & scariness: A decent amount of violent imagery. Nothing bloody, but there are brutal scenes where sword fighting, martial arts confrontations, and ninja attacks are highlighted. Some threatening phrases and references to violence. "The Sword of Doom shall be your destroyer," yells the Black Samurai, for example.  
Sexy stuff: Girls and teens are shown wearing short skirts and curve-revealing outfits. Nothing new about this. When Daphne and Miyumi engage in martial arts conflict, Shaggy says: "Like, meow. Talk about a kung fu cat fight!"
Language: Polynesian natives speak in Ooga-booga language, which could be perceived as demeaning.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Scooby-Doo and the Samurai Sword

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about what it means to be a true master. Is it someone who controls other people, or someone who teaches others? Do you have mastery in any particular field? How can you gain mastery? Does it take practice, or does it happen magically?
  • How does this movie compare to other Scooby-Doo movies or TV series you've seen?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Scooby and the gang fly to Japan for Daphne's (voiced by Mindy Cohn) martial arts exhibition and land smack in the middle of a mystery. It appears that the Black Samurai has suddenly arisen from the dead; finding the Sword of Fate is the only way to fight his larger-than-life presence. Daphne's skills as a martial artist are put to the test, while her friends' loyalty is questioned. As the mystery intensifies, so do the challenges that face our unlikely heroes. Can they, like, master their own skills and save the day? Watch and see, young samurai.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Definitely compelling -- but also focused on fighting -- SCOOBY-DOO AND THE SAMURAI SWORD attempts to bring a little bit of Japanese culture to the mystery at hand. With dragons and ghostly samurais, the feature succeeds in creating an entertaining addition to the Scooby-Doo empire. But the fighting and violence between opponents isn't always appropriate for the youngest viewers. The Black Samurai also cuts a pretty scary figure.

Still, there are jokes and antics and chase scenes galore, which will engage kids. Fans of Scooby and Shaggy will definitely get their fill of zany fun.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Warner Home Video
Director: Christopher Berkeley
Cast: Casey Kasem, Frank Welker, Mindy Cohn
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 75 minutes
DVD release: April 7, 2009
MPAA Rating: NR
This review was written by Joly Herman
 
 

Review It

 

Review Scooby-Doo and the Samurai Sword

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

JR01
adult
7
 
Not for fans of the series
Scooby Doo has always been cheesy fun, but it had an important core message: seemingly supernatural occurrences have rational (if campy) explanations. It's critical to note that the Gang never solves the mystery in this movie— supernatural elements remain unexplained in the end. In contrast with the Scooby Doo tradition; dragons, ghosts, and "spirits" are presented as real. Definitely not for fans of Scooby Doo.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (13) | had useful details (12) | read my mind (11)
Lord of Sushi
teen, 16 years old
6
 
Decent
This movie is a decent movie that uses the same formula as all the other lame direct-to-dvd Scooby Doo movies. Hoewver, this one is more violent than the other ones as there is actual swords used. I only rated this 3-stars as there's more violence, but no blood or gore.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (12) | had useful details (11) | read my mind (13)
PatrickGraham
kid, 11 years old
4
 
O.K.
I thought it was pretty good, except it got boring around the middle. Great for kids!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (11) | had useful details (9) | read my mind (9)

More reviews ...

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

vote now

Will you see Scooby-Doo and the Samurai Sword?

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

More animated adventures
For kids who love thrills
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