Common Sense Media Review
By Mary Aviles
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Family-friendly mystery has some peril and mild scares.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Tad the Lost Explorer and the Emerald Tablet
What's the Story?
TAD THE LOST EXPLORER AND THE EMERALD TABLET finds Tad (voiced by Oscar Barberan in Spanish and Trevor White in the English dubbed version) on an archaeological expedition in Mexico. There he discovers a rare Egyptian sarcophagus inside a Mayan pyramid and accidentally unleashes an ancient spell endangering the lives of his friends and colleagues. In his attempt to make amends, he sets off on an adventure that will take him to the far corners of the world.
Is It Any Good?
As in previous adventures from the series, this animated tale takes elements from action classics, such as Indiana Jones, The Mummy, and even The Angry Birds Movie. However, while Tad the Lost Explorer and the Emerald Tablet could have been an interesting adventure framed within archaeology, it ends up being reduced to a rather predictable action story, with the usual suspects: a curse, a chase, and danger. Kids with an interest in history may be confused to find the film mixes ancient Egypt with the Mayans and even Napoleon Bonaparte. However, in the midst of this jumble of references to other times and characters, there are positive messages, such as the importance of friendship. Further positives come with Tad refusing to give up and seeking to prove that he is a good archaeologist, gaining the recognition and credit he deserves.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the moments of peril in Tad the Lost Explorer and the Emerald Tablet. Did you find any scenes scary? Did you feel scared after the movie had finished? How much scary stuff can kids handle?
What characters displayed curiosity and teamwork? Why are these such good character strengths to have? Can you think of a time when you've shown these traits?
The movie is influenced by the Indiana Jones series and The Mummy. Which scenes borrow elements from those movies? How are they similar?
Did the film inspire you to learn more about the Maya and Egyptian civilizations? What are the main differences between these cultures?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 4, 2022
- On DVD or streaming : November 4, 2022
- Cast : Oscar Barberan , Cecilia Suárez , Michelle Jenner
- Director : Enrique Gato
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action/peril, rude humor and language
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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