Pinocchio (2020)

Parents need to know that Pinocchio is a live-action Italian (with English subtitles) retelling of the famous story about a puppet boy, with some perilous and unsettling scenes for younger viewers. Those familiar with the original story won't be surprised by the plot. But this version is far more quirky and darker than previous versions, including Disney's 1940 animated offering. The values and morals of Pinocchio (Federico Ielapi) are explored as he initially refuses to go to school or respect his maker, Geppetto (Roberto Benigni). But eventually as the story progresses he understands the strength in family and respect, as well as, famously, the importance of telling the truth. Pinocchio does encounter many villainous characters along the way who attempt to manipulate and steal from him. But it's so surreal and characters often do not even resemble people, which makes it seem more fantastical and less real. There is brief violence when Pinocchio throws a hammer in the face of the talking cricket. There is also much peril throughout the tale. Pinocchio struggles to swim in the sea, is kidnapped by a traveling circus, and of course is swallowed by a whale. There is also brief alcohol consumption, but it's subtle enough that children may not even realize.