Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fantasy adventure has stereotypes, cartoon violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Moonbound
What's the Story?
In MOONBOUND, Peter (Aleks Le) gets to follow in his late astronaut father's footsteps when a chance encounter kicks off an adventure that takes him to the moon on the trail of his missing sister.
Is It Any Good?
As an example of cutting edge digital animation, this German fantasy adventure is top tier. Moonbound boasts some incredible visual moments, real TV showroom stuff that would show off and sell the brightest and best models. Visually, there's no shortage of awe inspiring cosmic invention as the adventure kicks off into space, with dairy lands and giant bears. Which is why it's so miserable to see zero invention when it comes to the characters. Rather than use the flair it has in abundance in its world building, it instead slavishly copies Pixar with cookie-cutter mannerisms and overactive eyes.
With such visual flair and a flurry of fantasy inventions, it's a shame there are so few hooks to hold the viewer's attention. A couple of laughs are welcome along the way and the ending is gently uplifting. But for most of the runtime, there's little to engage with or care about. On top of that, the lame stereotypes and standard dead dad dealt to its central characters feel as tired as its character design. There's no denying Moonbound is visually spectacular. But as far as the story goes, there's little that's not been done before, and better.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the cartoon violence in Moonbound. Did it feel appropriate for a movie like this? Why, or why not? What's the impact of media violence on kids?
How do some of the characters demonstrate perseverance, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths? Can you think of a time when you've demonstrated these traits?
Discuss Peter and Anne's relationship. How do they overcome their sibling rivalry?
Discuss Mr. Zoomzeman's use of his "forget-me-not" juice. Did it seem like he was overly dependent on it? Do you think it symbolized alcohol and some of the issues that can cause?
How were some of the non-White characters portrayed in the movie? Why might their portrayals be described as problematic? What are some of the dangers of stereotyping people?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 6, 2022
- Cast : Aleks Le , Howard Nightingall , Lilian Gartner
- Director : Ali Samadi Ahadi
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Viva Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Book Characters
- Run time : 85 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some action and rude material
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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