| 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. |
Parents need to know that this 1960 Disney movie includes frequent battles against pirates and wildlife. Although there's no bloodshed, the violence looks real. The pirates who attack the family appear as Asian stereotypes. Animal lovers will dislike the way the youngest child captures wild animals to keep for himself.
A shipwrecked family sets out to make the best of their situation on a deserted island in this classic Disney film based on the book by Johann David Wyss. The Robinson family creates inventive homemade gadgets (most notably, a fabulous tree house), far outdoing the castaways on Gilligan's Island. But their new life isn't all fun and games as they battle pirates and wild animals.
THE SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON is a good introduction for kids reluctant to watch old movies. Shot on the island of Tobago, the scenery is gorgeous and the sets cleverly designed. Adults may occasionally wince at the stilted performances, but kids will be too wrapped up to care. Children may be enthralled by the animals, but find the tiger and snake scary. Parents should note that the violence against the pirates, particularly in the battle scenes, could be a problem for younger viewers.
Families can talk about what it might really be like to be stranded somewhere far away from home. What should you do if you're ever in a tough situation like the Robinsons'? How realistic is their scenario?
Families can also discuss the stereotypes featured in the movies. How has our culture changed since this movie was made? Why wouldn't the same characterizations be OK today?
| Topics: | adventures, book characters, pirates |
| Studio: | Walt Disney Pictures |
| Director: | Ken Annakin |
| Cast: | Dorothy McGuire, James MacArthur, John Mills |
| Genre: | Action/Adventure |
| Run time: | 126 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | December 21, 1960 |
| DVD release date: | May 7, 2002 |
| MPAA rating: | G |