Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
1990s martial arts comedy; slapstick violence, potty humor.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
3 Ninjas
What's the Story?
3 NINJAS is a martial arts comedy about a trio of brothers -- Rocky (Michael Treanor), Colt (Max Elliott Slade), and Tum Tum (Chad Powers) -- who've grown up training to become ninjas under the supervision of their loving Grandpa Mori Tanaka (Victor Wong). When Grandpa's rogue ex-student Hugo Snyder (Rand Kingsley) kidnaps the brothers as a part of a scheme to take down their FBI-agent dad, Rocky, Colt, and Tum Tum must work together and use their ninja skills to escape.
Is It Any Good?
This slapstick martial arts comedy is outdated and often cringey, but it also embodies classic 1990s kid movies. There's a reason why this trio of brothers has stuck around all of these years, inspiring multiple sequels. The charming trifecta of Rocky, Colt, and Tum Tum; the acting skills of Wong; and the Home Alone-style antics and laughs make for a winning combination. Has it aged well? Not a chance. The dated '90s phrases and bad stunts stick out like a sore ninja kick to the head. But is it still a foundational part of '90s kid entertainment history? Absolutely.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in 3 Ninjas. Is it realistic or more for entertainment? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
How do the ninjas demonstrate perseverance, teamwork, and courage? Why are these important character strengths?
The ninjas stand up to those who bully others. Do you think they did the right thing? Why, or why not?
What aspects of this movie make it feel dated? How do you think it would be different if it were remade today?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 7, 1992
- On DVD or streaming : January 1, 2014
- Cast : Victor Wong , Michael Treanor , Max Elliott Slade
- Director : Jon Turteltaub
- Studio : Touchstone Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 84 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : martial arts action, mild language, and theme
- Last updated : March 12, 2024
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