Common Sense Media Review
Lovable cartoon classic with cute dogs and a mean villain.
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101 Dalmatians
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 31 parent reviews
Parents say that this animated classic is a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and family values, featuring adorable Dalmatians and a memorable villain. However, many express concerns about inappropriate content for young viewers, including smoking, violence, and outdated gender dynamics, suggesting it may not be suitable for very young children.
- family values
- cute characters
- content concerns
- outdated portrayals
- charming classic
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 23 kid reviews
Kids say that while the movie is a beloved classic featuring cute dogs and a strong family message, it can be quite scary for younger children, particularly due to the villain Cruella De Vil's menacing demeanor and themes of puppy kidnapping. Reviewers appreciate its charm and humor but caution that some content, like mild profanity and smoking, may not be suitable for the youngest viewers.
- scary moments
- timeless tale
- family messages
- mild profanity
- classic animation
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Like Lady and the Tramp, 101 DALMATIANS is told from the perspective of dogs, this time two dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita, the cherished pets of Roger and Anita. Anita's old friend, one of the most notorious villains in movie history, is the aptly named Cruella De Vil. Her henchmen kidnap Perdita's puppies and 84 others so she can make them into a dalmatian fur coat. Pongo and Perdita, with the help of their animal friends, undertake a daring rescue.
Is It Any Good?
The puppies are adorable, and the movie is exciting, funny (with a sly poke at television and the kids who watch it), and fun. Cruella is still one of the most memorable villains in the history of the movies -- for good reason. She's loud and mean, and she's willing to wear a coat made of 101 puppies -- what could be worse?
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the responsibilities of raising a pet, as Roger and Anita do in 101 Dalmatians. Do kids think they would be able to maintain enthusiasm for their pet? Would they be responsible for feeding, brushing, playing, and walking it? What kind of commitment is it to raise a pet, particularly a dog?
What makes Cruella scary? Can you think of any other villians as scary as her? What similarities do all villains share?
How do the dogs in 101 Dalmatians demonstrate teamwork? Why is this an important character strength?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 25, 1961
- On DVD or streaming : March 3, 2008
- Cast : Betty Lou Gerson , Cate Bauer , Rod Taylor
- Director : Clyde Geronimi
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals
- Character Strengths : Teamwork
- Run time : 79 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 6, 2026
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