Elvis the Pig
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Elvis the Pig
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Elvis the Pig is a live-action movie about a little girl trying to save her pig named Elvis from getting turned into barbeque when her family decides to sell the farm and move to the city. As the story unfolds everyone realizes Elvis is more than just a pig to them, and they work together to get him back. Though it's never acted upon, there are mentions of Elvis being used for food, which could be upsetting to some kids. Language includes some rude insults such as "shut up" a few times. There's a brief moment where a little girl is chased by an excited dog that wants to play tug-of-war with her backpack. No one is harmed. There's some brief potty humor as men trip and fall into a pile of farm manure. On a couple of occasions, kids briefly leave their homes without parental permission (one time they leave a note). They are remorseful and face consequences when they return. Kids can learn the value of being honest and opening up to their families about their feelings and the importance of communication. A mother plays a prominent role as a role model and helps her family process their emotions.
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What's the Story?
In ELVIS THE PIG a family has to leave their farm and move to the city to make ends meet. Their youngest daughter Riley (Aggie Bell) is heartbroken when she realizes her best friend, a pig named Elvis, can't go with them. Her father decides they have to sell him to a local farmer named Hal (Darren Andrichuk). Little do they know that Hal doesn't plan to keep Elvis as a pet, but wants to turn him into food. Once they discover Hal's intentions for their beloved pet, the whole family has to come together to try to save him and their farm. Along the way, the family learns some things are worth more than money.
Is It Any Good?
Though the production value isn't high, Elvis the Pig is an endearing movie that should captivate younger fans of farm animals. Elvis is a talking pig, but he doesn't have many lines; that could be a good thing, though, because his voice doesn't seem to fit the character and can be distracting at times.
Thankfully, the story is simple enough for younger viewers to follow. The central plot focuses on the family and their attachment to Elvis. Mr. Bell (Jackson Berlin), Riley's dad, goes through the most character development in the story. In the beginning, he's obviously struggling as he's trying to make ends meet and provide for his family. The prospect of selling their family farm is weighing on him. It's refreshing to see a character go through real emotions with problems many average families face. Sometimes he snaps at his kids, but it's obvious he feels bad and he comes around to apologize for his behavior, modeling emotional maturity. Mrs. Bell (Sadie Silcock) provides great moral support for the entire family throughout the film. She seems to have the answers everyone is looking for but allows each character to reach that conclusion on their own. Overall, it's a fine choice for young animal lovers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of communication. When did you notice the characters modeling good communication skills and when could they have done better? How do you get your parents' attention when you have something important to say? How would you like your parents to respond to you while you're sharing?
What do you think life on a farm like the one in Elvis the Pig might really be like? Which animals live on farms? What other movies have talking farm animals?
How does the family come to work together to help their pet, even though at first they don't all agree?
The beginning and end of the film were animated. How might the movie have been different had the whole thing been animated?
How do the characters in Elvis the Pig demonstrate compassion and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 6, 2022
- Cast: Darren Andrichuk, Aggie Bell, Jackson Berlin, Camryn Macdonald
- Director: Jason Mills
- Studio: Vision Films
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Friendship, Horses and Farm Animals
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion, Integrity
- Run time: 70 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: January 23, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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Heartwarming farm story is touching and a bit scary.
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Charlotte's Web (2006)
Enchanting take on a beloved children's classic.
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For kids who love animal tales
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