Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mild language and peril in chaotic family adventure.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Kangaroo Kids
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Thirteen-year-old orphan Johnny (Josefina Baeza) bonds with a kangaroo who has been imported to save a failing zoo, run by Johnny's foster mom, Audrey (Melissa Lugo). Little do they know a plot is underway to steal the animal. Con artist Jacob (Robbie Allen) has hired a clumsy trio of two-bit criminals, led by Kodiak (Branscombe Richmond), so he can use the kangaroo to woo wealthy single mom Kathryn (Kathleen Kinmont). But they've sorely underestimated the determination and wits of Johnny and her gang of friends.
Is It Any Good?
Wacky characters, confusing humor, inexplicable camera movements, and stilted acting undermine a potentially heartwarming story involving a girl bonding with a kangaroo. From the start, Kangaroo Kids feels off. We're dropped into the middle of a heist involving three old guys with unwitty banter and zany costumes. Other characters are introduced disjointedly. Some feel like bad stereotypes; some just seem to be following director's orders, making the viewer wonder whether this whole project was a family affair. Or maybe the lack of subtlety was the director's way of speaking to a younger audience? Child actor Baeza is the one bright light.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the portrayals of family and forgiveness in Kangaroo Kids. In what ways are families constructed, and how do they fall apart?
What other movies have you watched involving zoos? Do you think the zoo in this film actually exists? How could you find out?
How does the kids' teamwork pay off for everyone?
What do you know about kangaroos? Where can you go for more information?
Why does Johnny bond with the kangaroo?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : February 17, 2026
- Cast : Josefina Baeza , Branscombe Richmond , Melissa Lugo
- Director : Fairai Branscombe Richmond
- Inclusion Information : Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , South American Movie Actor(s) , Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Scatena & Rosner Films
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals , Family Stories , Friendship
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 19, 2026
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