Nature: Animal Odd Couples
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Nature: Animal Odd Couples
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Nature: Animal Odd Couples is an episode of PBS's show Nature. This fascinating animal documentary examines interspecies relationships among animals and discusses the true nature of friendship. Although the movie is appropriate for young children, there is some frank talk about animals dying that may not be well suited for sensitive kids.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
Friendship isn't just for humans. The Nature team examines various sets of unlikely animal pairs throughout the world, including a cheetah and a puppy, a dog and a deer, and a horse and a goat. While exploring how these animals interact, the true nature of friendship is discussed and what kind of role it plays in the lives of humans and animals. We hear from experts in the field, such as a scientist studying monkey populations; animal owners throughout the world; and behavioral specialists such as the well-known autistic professor of animal science, Temple Grandin.
Is It Any Good?
This inspiring documentary gives great insight into the emotional world of animals and humans, while also showing some really adorable animal pairs. Animal lovers will be enthralled by the fierce cheetah playfully tumbling with a puppy and touched by the old goat who leads his blind horse buddy to graze every day. And most viewers will be fascinated by how friendship physically affects animals, an area of science that is just being explored. Sensitive kids may be upset by the death of one animal featured -- though it's not shown on-screen -- and talk of euthanizing animals. And some younger kids may be bored by the amount of scientific discussion or find it's over their heads. But most animal lovers will be able to enjoy this fascinating movie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendships. Do you think it's necessary to have friends in your life? Why, or why not?
Do you have any friends who are very different from you? What makes your friendships work?
Do you have any pets? Have you seen your pets befriend other animals?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: January 1, 2013
- Directors: Susan Fleming, Sara Marino
- Studio: PBS
- Genre: Documentary
- Run time: 60 minutes
- MPAA rating: G
- Last updated: June 24, 2020
Our Editors Recommend
-
Nature
Stunning glimpses of our natural world.
-
Jeff Corwin Unleashed
Lions and tigers and cobras, oh my! Kids OK.
-
PBS' Nature
Fun interactive games from the popular PBS series.
For kids who love animals
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate