Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Scooby's Japanese adventure is fun but a little violent.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Scooby-Doo and the Samurai Sword
What's the Story?
Scooby and the gang fly to Japan for Daphne's (voiced by Mindy Cohn) martial arts exhibition and land smack in the middle of a mystery. It appears that the Black Samurai has suddenly arisen from the dead; finding the Sword of Fate is the only way to fight his larger-than-life presence. Daphne's skills as a martial artist are put to the test, while her friends' loyalty is questioned. As the mystery intensifies, so do the challenges that face our unlikely heroes. Can they, like, master their own skills and save the day? Watch and see, young samurai.
Is It Any Good?
Definitely compelling -- but also focused on fighting -- SCOOBY-DOO AND THE SAMURAI SWORD attempts to bring a little bit of Japanese culture to the mystery at hand. With dragons and ghostly samurais, the feature succeeds in creating an entertaining addition to the Scooby-Doo empire. But the fighting and violence between opponents isn't always appropriate for the youngest viewers. The Black Samurai also cuts a pretty scary figure.
Still, there are jokes and antics and chase scenes galore, which will engage kids. Fans of Scooby and Shaggy will definitely get their fill of zany fun.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it means to be a true master. Is it someone who controls other people, or someone who teaches others? Do you have mastery in any particular field? How can you gain mastery? Does it take practice, or does it happen magically?
How does this movie compare to other Scooby-Doo movies or TV series you've seen?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : April 7, 2009
- Cast : Casey Kasem , Frank Welker , Mindy Cohn
- Director : Christopher Berkeley
- Inclusion Information : Middle Eastern/North African Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Home Video
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Run time : 75 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : June 24, 2023
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