Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Witty, winsome fairy tale has violence, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
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The Princess Bride
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 131 parent reviews
Parents say the film offers a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and romance, making it suitable for family viewing, but some caution is advised regarding its intense scenes, including moments of mild violence and themes that may confuse younger children. While many appreciate its iconic characters and witty dialogue, reviews indicate that parents should be prepared to discuss certain content, such as mild cursing and darker themes, and recommend pre-watching for sensitive viewers.
- humor and adventure
- mild violence
- adult themes
- iconic characters
- family favorite
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 205 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a timeless classic that combines adventure, romance, and humor, making it enjoyable for various ages, though younger viewers might find some themes challenging to understand. Many reviews highlight its clever writing, memorable quotes, and the balance of excitement with lightheartedness, despite noting instances of violence and suggestive language that may be unsuitable for very young children.
- classic adventure
- humor and heart
- some violence
- memorable quotes
- suitable for ages 9+
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE PRINCESS BRIDE, the most beautiful woman in the world, Buttercup (Robin Wright), gets engaged to the cruel Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon) after she hears that her true love, Westley (Cary Elwes), was killed by the Dread Pirate Roberts. But before the wedding, Buttercup is kidnapped by a huge man with enormous strength (André René Roussimoff), a master swordsman (Mandy Patinkin), and an evil genius (Wallace Shawn). A mysterious masked man must defeat them all and then escape with Buttercup through the treacherous Fire Swamp. When they're both captured by the prince and his six-fingered henchman, Count Rugen (Christopher Guest), they discover that not even death can get in the way of true love.
Is It Any Good?
This witty fairy tale by William Goldman (screenwriter of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President's Men) is resoundingly satisfying. As directed for the screen by Rob Reiner (Stand by Me, When Harry Met Sally), The Princess Bride was nominated for an Oscar on its original release and has gone on to become a lasting family favorite. The motley cast of storybook characters is consistently hilarious, right down to the supporting parts featuring the likes of Carol Kane and Billy Crystal as a bickering witch and wizard and Peter Cook as the Impressive Clergyman.
Simply put, The Princess Bride is stuffed full of every thrilling element of a classic romantic adventure—princes, villains and evil geniuses, giant creatures, sword fights, revenge, kidnapping, and a rescue on white horses—and it treats them all with delicious humor.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what makes for a really good adventure/love story like The Princess Bride. Is it sword fights? Scary creatures? Romantic leading men and ladies? What are the most important elements for you?
How does this movie poke fun at some of the standard fairy tale elements?
How are women portrayed in the film? Is Buttercup a role model? What else could she have done other than wait for Westley to rescue her? How is their relationship portrayed? Do you think it's healthy/realistic?
How do the characters in The Princess Bride demonstrate courage and perseverance? What about integrity and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 25, 1987
- On DVD or streaming : September 4, 2001
- Cast : Cary Elwes , Mandy Patinkin , Robin Wright
- Director : Rob Reiner
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : MGM/UA
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic , Fairy Tales ) , Adventures , Book Characters , Pirates
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Academy Award
- Last updated : November 6, 2025
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