Common Sense Media Review
Intense animated adventure has peril, drinking, smoking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
All Dogs Go to Heaven
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 25 parent reviews
Parents say that the movie presents dark themes and moments of violence, making it unsuitable for very young children despite its charming story and positive messages about morality and selflessness. While some appreciate its emotional depth and artistic quality, many caution that elements like gambling, death, and complex plot points can confuse and distress younger viewers, suggesting it may be better suited for mature children and older audiences.
- dark themes
- not suitable for young kids
- emotional depth
- good messages
- complex plot points
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 31 kid reviews
Kids say this animated film has a mix of dark themes and heartwarming moments, leading to diverse opinions on its suitability for younger audiences. While many appreciate its underlying messages about friendship and compassion, concerns persist regarding the presence of violence, drinking, and other mature content that might not be appropriate for very young children.
- dark themes
- family values
- inappropriate content
- emotional moments
- sensitive material
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Charlie B. Barkin (voiced by Burt Reynolds) and his pal Itchy (Dom DeLuise) break out of prison after being framed by Charlie's partner, Carface. When Charlie tries to reclaim his share of the casino they ran, Carface has him killed. Charlie goes to Heaven, which he finds way too dull. He returns to Earth by stealing his life span watch. Charlie rebuilds his empire with the help of Itchy and Anne-Marie, an orphan girl who can talk to animals. Charlie uses her to get horse-racing information while emptily promising to help her find new parents.
Is It Any Good?
There are many odd segments in ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN that seem to complicate, not extend, the plot. But this doesn't seem to bother younger viewers, who enjoy having their shorter attention spans tweaked. The key of the film is its uplifting message that people (and dogs) can always follow through on their word and be redeemed. Despite his selfish deeds, Charlie eventually does the right thing, and earns back his place in heaven, while Carface is carted off, presumably to be eaten by a crocodile.
Many don't seem to mind the film's darkness, which is set in an urban world of poverty that couldn't contrast more with the squeaky-clean suburban normality of most kids' movies. It helps that the characters and backgrounds are drawn with entrancing style, and that the story isn't as grim as the setting might suggest. But more sensitive children may be disturbed by the depiction of death and violence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how drinking and smoking is shown in this movie. Should entertainment for kids show characters drinking and smoking, even if it's meant to represent or parody characters from a certain time and place (e.g., Prohibition-era gangsters)?
If this movie came out today, what do you think would be different?
How does Charlie change for the better during the movie? How does the movie express the theme of forgiveness?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1989
- On DVD or streaming : March 6, 2001
- Cast : Burt Reynolds , Dom DeLuise , Loni Anderson
- Director : Don Bluth
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : MGM/UA
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Run time : 84 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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