Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny animated adventure is just ducky; some peril, threats.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Migration
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 70 parent reviews
Parents say the movie is a mixed bag for family viewing, offering humor and positive messages about family togetherness, but also contains numerous intense and frightening scenes that might scare younger children. While some parents found it entertaining and suitable for older kids, many noted that the pacing and perilous elements made it too anxiety-driven and unsuitable for sensitive or younger viewers.
- funny moments
- intense scenes
- family-friendly
- mixed reactions
- unsuitable for young kids
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 38 kid reviews
Kids say that this movie is a fun and heartwarming adventure filled with humor and positive messages about family, courage, and growth, making it suitable for younger audiences. While some found it engaging and cute with strong character dynamics, a few others noted moments of mild violence and confusion regarding plot elements, leading to mixed feelings about its appropriateness for older kids.
- fun family adventure
- positive messages
- mild violence
- suitable for kids
- mixed reviews
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Every winter, overprotective father duck Mack Mallard (voiced by Kumail Nanjiani) and his family opt out of flying south and brave the elements in their New England pond because it's familiar and safe. But when a gaggle of geese invite the Mallards to join their MIGRATION to Jamaica, he reluctantly agrees to pack the family up and join the adventure.
Is It Any Good?
With little iffy content and plenty of humor, this Mike White co-written comedy is a charming choice for all ages to watch together. Migration is best suited for the big screen: The swooping action and in-your-face visuals put viewers in flight alongside the Mallards. But, with snappy action and dialogue, it's just as entertaining on a small screen -- and, given the fact that the Mallard family's flight is somewhat terrifying to them, little ones may be less likely to feel their fright outside the cineplex.
Like an interesting bird sitting outside your window, the movie is diverting -- and likely to leave viewers young and old in a good mood. The voice cast is talented, and there are nice messages about staying optimistic when all seems hopeless and parents letting their kids spread their wings (literally, in this case) as they grow.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the danger and peril in Migration. Did you ever feel scared or worried for the Mallards' safety? How much scary stuff can young kids handle?
The Mallards see their migration as a vacation. Have you ever been on a family trip? How did it compare to the ducks'?
Why do birds fly south for the winter? What are some real-life threats they might face on the way?
How does Dax demonstrate bravery? Why is courage an important character trait?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 22, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : January 23, 2024
- Cast : Kumail Nanjiani , Elizabeth Banks , Awkwafina
- Director : Benjamin Renner
- Inclusion Information : Indian/South Asian Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Bisexual Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Run time : 83 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action/peril and mild rude humor
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : January 1, 2026
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