 | 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. |
Den Brother
- Disney Channel
- Genre: Comedy
Common Sense Media says
Fun family comedy has sweet messages for kids.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this cute but predictable comedy may seem corny to older tweens and teens, but its positive messages about integrity, accountability, and respect make it a worthwhile choice for younger kids. The main character struggles with the relatable issue of balancing individual pursuits with his responsibilities to his family, which should give parents and kids who tune in plenty to talk about afterward. The movie does briefly address the death of a parent, but it's done in a thoughtful way, and there's no other iffy stuff to speak of.
What's the story?
Life is sweet for teen hockey phenom Alex Pearson (Hutch Dano), whose team’s success practically guarantees him a coveted spot on the All-Star team ... and possibly the sought-after attention of his pretty classmate, Matisse (Kelsey Chow). But his plans come to a screeching halt when his showboating ways land him on suspension, his dad assigns him an overdue list of household chores, and he inadvertantly takes over his little sister’s Bumble Bee troop after their den mother moves away. None of this sits well with self-absorbed Alex, who sets to work scheming ways to get Emily (G Hannelius) and her friends to do his work, all under the guise of earning merit badges to qualify for an upcoming troop event. But when the truth about his intentions come out, Alex is forced to re-evaluate his priorities, even if it means setting aside his personal goals.
Is it any good?
DEN BROTHER is a sweet tale of personal growth and accountability emphasized by the heartwarming relationship between a teen and his adoring little sister. In other words, it’s a typical Disney-fied tale that will bombard young kids with sugary-sweet messages ... and be deemed corny by those only slightly older. Tweens will know that things don’t always work out in real life like they do on Disney’s screen, but littler kids won’t be bothered (and might just be inspired) by the movie’s idealized view of the world.
The movie does briefly touch on a few serious issues -- like the death of a parent and the impact of a father’s heavy work load -- but overall its tone is light and comedic, and its pace will keep kids interested throughout. In true Disney fashion, it’s devoid of any iffy content and an fun pick for family viewing time.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the show’s themes of responsibility and integrity. What do these concepts mean to you? How did the characters display these traits?
Kids: What are some of your life goals? Do you want to be the best at something? What level of dedication would it take to do that? What might you have to give up?
Parents and kids can discuss their own family’s rules about responsibility. Kids: What are some of your responsibilities at home? Which ones help your other family members? Why is it important to help each other?
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- Teens & kids
AGE
It didn't suprise me that this one of these Disney Movies that are trying to change kids, so they don't grow up and make horrible life descions. But it ended up to be a boring movie that was very unrealistic. All the disney movies are unrealistic and the events would never happen in REAL life. On the bright side, there were pretty good role models.
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AGE
Snoozerrrr.
Typical feel-good Disney movie... really cheesy and kind of predictable. Definitely anyone older than 11 or so wouldn't like it, but really little kids will get excited at watching this wannabe girl scout troop find happiness in the main character's brother helping out. Of course, since it's Disney, none of this would happen in real life. No teen would go to this extent to make his sister happy. The only reason I rate it off isn't for it being appropriate or not, but just because it's kind of boring and might even loose young viewers.
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Kid, 10 years old
October 19, 2010
AGE
Den Brother
The Movie Is Great.I Only Like G.Hannelius As Emily.She"s Cute.And Other Than That Hutch Dano Is Retarded.The Movie Analisis Is Good.Good For Ages 4+
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AGE
positive message
cute movie. one of the best Disney channel movies. im 17 and have watched this movie 3 times already:) definitely recommend it for kids
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Kid, 9 years old
September 4, 2010
AGE
no title
i loved it
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AGE
Pretty forgetable
I've seen this movie and it was pretty forgettable. It's predictable and not very realistic. It might keep young kids interested, but older tweens and teens will probably dislike it. Still, fine for kids 8+ Sex: Some brief mild flirting and a brief kiss on the cheek
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Kid, 10 years old
February 10, 2012
AGE
Den Brother
Den Brother Is An Average Movie That You Can See Everyday,But All The Actors Except For G.Hannelius Did Horrible. Overall Den Brother Is An Average Movie.
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| TV rating: | NR |
| Network: | Disney Channel |
| Cast: | G Hannelius, Hutch Dano, Kelsey Chow |
| Genre: | Comedy |
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