Common Sense Media Review
Beatles classic with great animation, music.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Yellow Submarine
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 12 parent reviews
Based on 20 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a colorful and whimsical journey filled with imaginative animation and catchy Beatles songs, appealing to both children and adults. While it offers many funny moments and clever references, some may find elements like the Blue Meanies intimidating and the psychedelic imagery overwhelming.
- whimsical animation
- catchy songs
- family friendly
- colorful journey
- some violence
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
All is peace, love, and music in gentle Pepperland until the wicked Blue Meanies take over. The Beatles come to the rescue via the title vessel, meeting all kinds of strange and interesting characters along the way.
Is It Any Good?
YELLOW SUBMARINE is a pleasure for the eyes, ears, and heart. It features spectacular animation, gorgeous music (including "When I'm 64," "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," "All Together Now," and the lovely "Sea of Time," written by longtime Beatle collaborator George Martin), witty wordplay (lots of puns and some sly political satire), and a sweet story with a nonviolent happy ending. Younger kids will appreciate it on a different level from their older siblings and parents, and that's just fine.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different ways to interpret this movie. Do you think there are hidden messages? Why do you think the Beatles wanted to make this movie?
What are the ways in which the animation is distinct and unique, often imitated but never duplicated?
It has been over 50 years since the Beatles first attained international success and recognition. Why do you think they and the messages contained in their music continue to remain popular? Do you think people will still be listening to their music in the next 50 years?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 13, 1968
- On DVD or streaming : September 14, 1999
- Cast : John Lennon , Paul McCartney , Ringo Starr
- Director : George Dunning
- Studio : MGM/UA
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate