Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gripping biopic has violence, animals in peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Gorillas in the Mist
What's the Story?
In the late 1960s, Dian Fossey (Sigourney Weaver) convinced the famous anthropologist Louis Leakey to let her count the population of GORILLAS IN THE MIST, in the mountains of eastern-central Africa. Helped by Sembagare, a local tracker she hired and who remained with her until the end, Fossey eventually found several groups to study. Able to get closer to the gorillas than anyone ever had, Fossey documented many previously unknown behaviors. Fossey soon became alarmed when her studies showed a rapid decline in the gorilla population, and dedicated the rest of her life to fighting against poaching, capturing for zoos, and loss of habitat due to tourism. When photographer Bob Campbell (Bryan Brown) arrived at her camp, the two fell in love, but either staying together or breaking up would require tremendous sacrifice for both of them. Will history say the sacrifices were worthwhile?
Is It Any Good?
Gripping, haunting, tragic, but ending on a hopeful note, this movie based on Dian Fossey's life and work will put sensitive animal lovers through an emotional wringer. Gorillas in the Mist boasts wonderful performances, beautiful photography, and a compelling drama that keeps the viewer riveted. The violence, animals in peril, and tragic deaths of important people and beloved animals make it best for mature teens and up.
As Fossey's obsession with the gorillas deepens to near madness, the movie loses some momentum and some of the realism. But it's an incredibly compelling story, and a worthwhile way to start important conversations about continuing conservation efforts.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Gorillas in the Mist. Is there a good reason for it? Is it too much? Why?
Why should we care whether mountain gorillas become extinct or not? How many mountain gorillas are there in the world today? How can you find out more about their numbers and their habitat?
What traits does Dian Fossey have that you admire? Do you agree with her tactics, or did she go too far? Why?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 7, 1988
- On DVD or streaming : January 1, 2017
- Cast : Sigourney Weaver , Bryan Brown , John Omirah Miluwi
- Director : Michael Apted
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studios : Universal Studios , Warner Bros. , The Guber-Peters Company
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Adventures , Animals ( Wild Animals ) , History , STEM
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 129 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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