Mom and Dad Save the World
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Mom and Dad Save the World
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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 Mom and Dad Save the World is a playful sci-fi adventure that adults and kids can enjoy. When the evil ruler of a planet, Emperor Tod Spengo (Jon Lovitz), spots Marge (the mom in the title, played by Teri Garr), he plans to marry her before destroying Earth. This sets off a wacky adventure with many positive messages and some fantasy violence. Marge and her husband, Dick (Jeffrey Jones), love each other and strive to make sure the other is safe. Marge is kind, thoughtful, clever, and confident. Dick begins sad and lost, but in trying to save the day, finds purpose and regains his confidence. Emperor Spengo is a cartoonish depiction of a vain, arrogant leader. He kidnaps Marge and his lustful intentions are hinted at but are not explicit. There is some innuendo, however. The movie has some fantasy violence and slapstick, with ray guns, silly sword fights, and some alien puppets that could be scary for young kids. Mild language includes "jeez" and "jerk" and there is a small amount of potty humor.
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What's the Story?
In MOM AND DAD SAVE THE WORLD, galactic evil ruler Tod Spengo's (Jon Lovitz) plan to destroy Earth is sidetracked when he spots suburban mother Marge (Teri Garr) and kidnaps her with a plan to marry. Marge and husband Dick (Jeffrey Jones) must break free and save Earth before Spengo can carry out his plan.
Is It Any Good?
This fun early '90s sci-fi comedy adventure puts a couple of parents in the lead roles. But thanks to Mom and Dad Save the World's invention, pacing, and silly humor, kids won't mind tagging along for the ride too. Garr is a hoot as the confident, kind and sometimes no-nonsense Marge. Equally, the transformation of Jones' Dick is a joy. He goes from a brow-beaten sad guy to the liberator of a planet and reinvigorated husband who is happier, confident, and with purpose. This mom and dad leave the planet in a better state than when they got there and through kindness, improve everyone's lives. Well, everyone except the evil ruler, Spengo. Lovitz throws himself into the role, embracing the character's preposterous pomposity and making all his scenes hilarious. From his ridiculous array of wigs to his slimy demands, he proves a great villain, showing how power can corrupt.
The overall look of the movie is a cross between Flash Gordon and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie. But it works! The garish sets and alien puppetry lend a tactile feel to the environment. The movie's surreal tone and silly humor has a direct Monty Python's Flying Circus influence. Python's Eric Idle even features as an unhinged toppled king left to rot in a dungeon and plays the role perfectly Pythonesque. Unfairly dismissed as a flop, this fun family adventure is well worth a watch.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different character strengths promoted in Mom and Dad Save the World. What examples of perseverance, courage, empathy, communication, and teamwork can you give from the movie? Can you think of a time when you've demonstrated these traits?
Discuss the violence in the movie. Did the fantasy and comedic elements reduce the impact? If so, why? What's the impact of media violence on kids?
How did Emperor Tod Spengo rule his planet? Did he learn any lessons along the way?
Movie Details
- In theaters: July 24, 1992
- On DVD or streaming: August 30, 2005
- Cast: Teri Garr, Jeffrey Jones, Jon Lovitz
- Director: Greg Beeman
- Studio: Warner Bros.
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: Adventures, Space and Aliens
- Character Strengths: Communication, Courage, Empathy, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 88 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG
- Last updated: August 13, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Time Bandits
Fun fantasy has a bit of bite.
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Flash Gordon (1980)
Sci-fi comic-strip movie is too intense for younger kids.
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The Princess Bride
Witty, winsome fairy tale for the whole family.
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Spy Kids
Just the right combination of fantasy and comedy.
For kids who love sci-fi adventures
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