Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Heartwarming for all ages, some old-school content.
Parents say
Based on 40 reviews
Kids say
Based on 36 reviews
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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a holiday TV classic based on the popular Christmas song. While it initially treats physical differences as undesirable, it ultimately has a great message about nonconformity: Just be yourself, don't worry if you don't fit in, and there's strength in teamwork. Rudolph and friends show courage and perseverance to defeat the Abominable Snow Monster and save Christmas. Kids will likely get the message, and even for the youngest ones, the cute little reindeer and musical numbers -- as cheesy as they might seem now -- will hold their interest. Even the show's "scary" villain, the Abominable Snow Monster (or "Bumble") becomes a friend in the end. All of that said, the film has outdated gender and race representations and sexist comments that parents should point out to kids.
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I’m 14 not an adult just so you know
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What's the Story?
Burl Ives, in the guise of Sam the talking snowman, narrates the tale of a misfit named RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER (voiced by Billie Mae Richards). But, of course, you may already know the song: "All of the other reindeer, used to laugh and call him names." Rudolph finds his compatriot in an elf named Hermey (Paul Soles) who has become disillusioned with his job making toys and dreams of being a dentist. Hermey and Rudolph run away from the North Pole together and, with new friend Yukon Cornelius (Larry D. Mann), make it to the Island of Misfit Toys. Here they find company among others who stand out from the crowd. When Santa (Stan Francis) discovers the usefulness of Rudolph's light-bulb nose to guide the sleigh during a terrible snowstorm on Christmas Eve, Rudolph is finally appreciated by his peers and parents.
Is It Any Good?
This beloved holiday TV special seems almost inextricable from the idea of Christmas in the United States. Many parents will have memories of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, which first aired in 1964, from their own childhoods. And you can't watch it without appreciating the simplicity of a pre-computer-animation world. Just hearing Ives' voice and songs can transport you back to a time when Christmas didn't have as many viewing options or commercial tie-ins. That said, prejudices of this era appear as well: Casual sexism and stereotypical Indigenous characters can also transport a viewer, but without the rosy glow that comes with nostalgia.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer might have felt to not fit in with the crowd. Why did his physical difference make Rudolph a target for bullying? How would you feel if no one wanted to be your friend because you were different?
In what ways are different interests, appearances, and skills important in the story?
Families can also talk about the fact that Rudolph, who doesn't get much support from his father, decides to run away from home. Could Rudolph have found another way to express his feelings about not being accepted?
How do Rudolph and friends demonstrate perseverance, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 6, 1964
- On DVD or streaming: August 31, 1999
- Cast: Billie Mae Richards, Burl Ives, Paul Soles
- Director: Larry Roemer
- Studio: Sony Wonder
- Genre: Classic
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Holidays, Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Courage, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 53 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: December 29, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Frosty the Snowman
Classic Christmas TV special is sing-along fun.
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A Charlie Brown Christmas
The Peanuts gang in a classic Christmas special.
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Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Heartwarming TV special is true to Seuss' classic book.
For kids who love holidays
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