Common Sense Media Review
By Ellen Dendy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Classic Christmas TV special is sing-along fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Frosty the Snowman
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 19 parent reviews
Parents say this classic animated holiday special is enjoyable for the whole family, offering positive messages about friendship and imagination, although some adults express concerns about its underlying themes regarding safety. While many appreciate the charming music and characters, others point out that certain language and emotional scenes may not be suitable for very young children.
- family-friendly
- positive messages
- safety concerns
- charming music
- suitable for older kids
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say that this 1986 Christmas special is a beloved classic that offers a delightful mix of cute animations, sing-along fun, and a strong message of friendship and empathy. While some find it a little short and note a couple of sad moments, especially when the main character melts, most agree it is a charming film worth watching during the festive season.
- classic charm
- short length
- friendship message
- holiday spirit
- cute animations
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Narrated by Jimmy Durante, this classic Christmas cartoon forms a heartwarming story around the catchy 1950s song "Frosty the Snowman." The story begins when a magic hat lands on the head of a run-of-the-mill snowman and brings him to life. Just as in the song, Frosty (voiced by Jackie Vernon) is a jolly, happy soul. He enchants the local kids, who follow him around like the Pied Piper. But the magic hat belongs to wicked magician Professor Hinkle (Billy De Wolfe), who vows to get it back even if it means the end of Frosty. And Hinkle isn't the only danger -- temperatures begin to rise, and Frosty starts to melt. When young Karen (June Foray) decides to help Frosty get to the North Pole where he'll be safe, the two encounter some mildly scary situations on their adventure, but friendly woodland animals and Santa come to their aid. In the final scene, it appears that Frosty is gone forever, but never fear -- this winter tale has a happy ending.
Is It Any Good?
A simple story line and mildly scary/sad scenes that quickly melt into happy situations make this half-hour tale appropriate for very young viewers. Parents will enjoy reliving their childhood and sharing this classic with their kids, and the beloved holiday song figures prominently throughout this short feature -- kids of all ages will have fun singing along (turn on the DVD's subtitle feature if you don't know all of the words).
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Karen's bravery and loyalty in helping her new friend, Frosty, as well as Frosty's unselfish gesture when he takes Karen to the greenhouse to warm up. Families can also discuss the dangers of leaving home without getting permission from a parent. Could Karen have called someone or asked a parent to come along? Families can also unite in a fun sing-along of the familiar "Frosty the Snowman" tune, which is interspersed throughout the story.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 17, 2000
- Cast : Billy De Wolfe , Jackie Vernon , Jimmy Durante
- Directors : Arthur Rankin Jr. , Jules Bass
- Studio : Sony Wonder
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Run time : 30 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : not rated
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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