Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Animated jungle adventure has violence, peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Riki the Rhino
What's the Story?
In RIKI THE RHINO, a heroic rhinoceros named Riki (Jennifer Castle) is hunted in the middle of the night by a poacher trying to steal his horn. When the poacher is successful, Riki and his loyal friend Beni (Paul Reynolds) the duck set off on a journey to find a new horn. Along the way, they help other jungle animals in need of rescuing from traps and obstacles set by poachers camping in the rainforest. Each time Riki saves an animal, they gift him with a magical gem that gives him special abilities to use the strengths of each creature. Will those strengths be enough to take on a team of greedy poachers and recover Riki's horn? The story shows what happens when teamwork and courage come together in a battle to protect the animal kingdom.
Is It Any Good?
The animation in Riki the Rhino is basic and stiff, but the exciting story more than makes up for it. It's a familiar tale about deforestation and hunting from an animal's perspective, but the magical twist makes it feel new. Viewers have to be willing to embrace the cheesiness of the quirky duck tagging along with his best friend, a grumpy rhino who was actually in a bad mood even before he lost his horn. Of course, he had a good reason, given that he lost his mother to hunters when he was young. Still, kids are likely to be entertained, and parents will like the positive messages.
The message about humans' impact on the environment is prevalent but not overbearing, even showing images of the characters matched with photographs of their real animal counterparts and their endangered status. It's easy to root for the jungle creatures against a horde of greedy poachers, but along the way it can feel a little uncomfortably close to home as the audience gets to see more familiar hazards for animals, such as fishing nets and plastic water bottles. The movie could inspire families to discuss things they can do to help save animals.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's subtle message about animal conservation in Riki the Rhino. Do you think movies like this are effective in getting their point across? Do you think it will inspire anyone to change their behavior? Why, or why not?
How did Riki feel when he lost his horn, which seemed to be a major part of his identity? What did it take for him to realize there was more to him than his horn? What are some traits you feel are a big part of you?
Beni was willing to pluck his feathers so that his friend could have a horn again. What are some ways we can be good friends to others?
It wasn't just poachers hurting the animals in the movie. Plastic water bottles and fishing nets were also making an impact. What are some things people can do to help share our planet with animals?
How did the characters demonstrate teamwork and courage? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 26, 2022
- Director : Erwin Budiono
- Studio : Uncork'd Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 92 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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