 | 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. |
Jingle All the Way
- Hallmark Channel
- Genre: Kids' Animation
Common Sense Media says
Heartwarming holiday tale has strong marketing tie-ins.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this delightful, low-key holiday special tells the story of a special connection between a boy and a dog and is a treat for viewers of all ages. Its narrative style reflects the story's original book format, which can encourage read-aloud session within your own family. The storybook -- along with an extensive line of products like Christmas ornaments, stuffed animals, and accessories -- is available at Hallmark stores, and Jingle also stars in e-cards and apps that can be accessed online. This sweet story celebrates the holiday spirit, family, and pets and their people.
What's the story?
JINGLE ALL THE WAY follows the escapades of an adorable husky puppy whose chance encounter with a young boy named Andrew (voiced by Ryan Bley) leads to an instant emotional connection. Despite Andrew's persistence, his mom (Morgan Cox) insists that the time isn't right to add a dog to the family, so Andrew and Jingle (Thomas Stroppel) must part ways. The spunky little pup just won't give up and sets out on a snowy adventure to find his favorite boy, guided by a friendly cardinal (Brian Finnerty) and a series of ringing bells that help lead the way, but in the end, it takes a Christmas miracle and the help of a jolly visitor in red to reunite these two friends.
Is it any good?
If you think this sweet little pup looks familiar, you're right. He's a recognizable face at Hallmark stores, gracing everything from greeting cards to Christmas ornaments, and he stars in his very own storybook, which inspired this TV special. There's no direct marketing within the movie itself, so kids won't make the connection just from tuning in, but they may be drawn to Jingle products if you find yourself amid them at the store.
Commercial ties aside, this is a gentle, heartwarming tale that celebrates the power of love, the ability to succeed against all odds, and the bonds between pets and their people. Much of the story is told from Jingle's perspective, with the help of a narrator (Chad Darrow), since the animals don't talk, and it's a real treat to tag along with the playful pup on his snowy journey to a forever home. The simple, slow-paced story is a perfect escape for families from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about taking care of pets. What pets do you have? What are your responsibilities toward them? What might happen if you don't care for them the way you should? What is special about your relationship with your pets?
Kids: What does "advertising" mean? Have you ever seen a product advertised in a show or movie? Does seeing something on TV make you more inclined to want it? Why or why not?
Kids: What are some of your favorite gifts from Christmases past? How does it feel to receive a very special gift? What is on your wish list this year? Do you have plans for special gifts for other people? Is it true that giving is better than receiving?
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AGE
A heartwarming family tale...
This is the kinda stuff that we need more of on TV, not the mainstream junk people are filtering in nowadays. Jingle All the Way is a heartwarming tale about a boy and a dog, who, through a chance of fate, are drawn together by an unbreakable bond. The titular character is a faithful young boy, who stops at nothing to save his new friend and find him a good home. My only complaint would be the narration, as it was a little too "documentary" for a children's television special, but all-in-all, Jingle All the Way is a masterpiece and is perfect for the whole family.
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Nice Holiday Movie for Kids
Great movie for kids. Kinda sad in the middle :(. Haha I liked it, but it was kinda corny. The product placement was very noticeable. In the beginning it said, "If you have a stuffed Jingle, bring him with you so he can watch too!" or something like that.
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| Topics: | adventures, friendship, holidays |
| TV rating: | TV-G |
| Network: | Hallmark Channel |
| Cast: | Chad Darrow, Ryan Bley, Thomas Stroppel |
| Genre: | Kids' Animation |
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