Other than the fact that historical fiction is educational in it's own way by showing viewers what life was like in "those days", this movie also has other good qualities. I mean, yeah it's a B grade movie that came out in 1995, but the overarching message of friendship, loyalty, and the value of doing the right thing is timeless. I mean, yes there are murder scenes and tense "whew!" moments, but don't kids deserve a good thriller? I'm not much of a fan of horror films or thrillers in general, but I'd compare this movie to some episodes of Little House On the Prairie and Where the Red Fern Grows as well as Tuck Everlasting. Also, if you let your kids watch Indiana Jones, this movie should be just fine for their little eyes. :-)