Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Holiday action-comedy is fun, but more salty than sweet.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Red One
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 65 parent reviews
Parents say the movie has sparked a divide in opinions, with some enjoying its action and humor while others criticize its dark themes, inappropriate content, and demonic elements that are not suitable for children. Many reviews highlight the overwhelming presence of profanity, scantily clad characters, and messages that may be confusing or concerning for families, leading to a mixed reception overall.
- dark themes
- inappropriate content
- profanity concerns
- family divide
- negative messaging
- action humor
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 34 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is entertaining, particularly for older teens, with a mix of humor and action, but it has received criticism for language and some disturbing elements like violence and suggestive content. While many find it fun and engaging, others caution that it's not suitable for younger children due to its themes and scenes that could be scary or inappropriate.
- entertaining for teens
- language issues
- contains violence
- not for young kids
- humor and action
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In RED ONE, Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), the head of North Pole security, teams up with cynical mercenary data hunter Jack O'Malley (Chris Evans) to track down and rescue a kidnapped Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons). As they try to find Santa in time for him to make his annual gift-giving ride, Jack—who, as a child, exposed the "evidence" that Santa isn't real to a group of children and questioned the practicality of Santa's work—realizes the magic of Christmas and the power of being good.
Is It Any Good?
There's not much that's holly or jolly about this salty Christmas monster mash, but tweens and teens may be just fine with an entertaining action movie about Santa. Starring two of younger moviegoers' faves—Johnson and Evans (whose Jack O'Malley is about as far from Captain America as you can get)—and a super-fit Saint Nick (Simmons), it speaks their language. But parents hoping for a Christmas cuddle with the kiddos while watching a festive flick may find Red One to be an unexpectedly scalding cup of hot cocoa. Still, if your teen is watching a movie with you, that might be enough—since, for many of us, time spent together is better than any gift someone might find under a Christmas tree.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the strong language in Red One. Did it surprise you? Why do you think it was included? Is that typical for holiday movies targeted at younger viewers?
How does Red One compare to other movies you've seen about Santa Claus and the North Pole? What do you like in a holiday movie?
Why do you think some adults lose the kindness and wonder they had more of as kids? What can kids do to help keep it alive?
Which characters do you consider role models, and why? What character strengths do they demonstrate?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 15, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : December 12, 2024
- Cast : Dwayne The Rock Johnson , Chris Evans , Lucy Liu , J.K. Simmons
- Director : Jake Kasdan
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Amazon MGM Studios
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Holidays
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Teamwork
- Run time : 122 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action, some violence, and language
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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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
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