Common Sense Media Review
Heartwarming tale of immigrant mouse has peril.
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An American Tail
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
Based on 19 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a nostalgic classic that beautifully depicts the immigrant experience while highlighting themes of family and hope. However, some viewers find it too dark for younger audiences, noting its occasional scary elements and slower parts that could be difficult for very young children to appreciate.
- nostalgic classic
- immigrant themes
- dark elements
- suitable for older kids
- family friendly
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In AN AMERICAN TAIL, Fievel Mousekewitz (voiced by Phillip Glasser) is a little Russian mouse who immigrates to the United States with his family after they're told that "there are no cats in America, and the streets are paved with cheese." But Fievel gets separated from his parents and sister and is forced to work in a sweatshop by the evil Warren T. Rat (John Finnegan)—a cat in disguise. Fievel is resilient and courageous and finds friends (including a kind cat) who help him search for his family.
Is It Any Good?
This is a heartwarming animated tale about the experience of immigrants coming to America in the 1800s. Told from the perspective of an adorable young mouse, An American Tail engages kids in an important part of U.S. history. Specifically, the Mousekewitzes, who begin the film warmly celebrating Hanukkah in Russia before snarling cats attack and set fire their neighborhood, reflect the real-world violence against Jewish families that led to a wave of 19th century migration. That said, some cultural clichés border on harmful—not all Italians are mobsters, for example—but the voice performances are charming, and the songs like the mega-hit "Somewhere Out There" are catchy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the scary parts of An American Tail. What exactly makes a movie scary—music, images, your own imagination? What makes some movies thrilling, and others too frightening? How much scary stuff can young kids handle?
How does Fievel demonstrate perseverance and courage? Why are those important character strengths?
Has your family—recently or in past generations—had any experience with immigration? Is there anything in the movie that you can relate to?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 21, 1986
- On DVD or streaming : January 20, 2004
- Cast : Christopher Plummer , Dom DeLuise , John Finnegan , Phillip Glasser
- Director : Don Bluth
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals ( Mice ) , History , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Faith ( Judaism ) , Family Stories
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 81 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Awards : Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee
- Last updated : August 19, 2026
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