Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Animated alien adventure has learning, empathy, teamwork.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Terra Willy
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 20 parent reviews
Parents say the movie offers a wholesome adventure experience for families, featuring colorful graphics and engaging characters without any crude language or bullying. While most children enjoyed it, some scenes may be too emotional or slightly scary for sensitive viewers, but the overall message of hope and friendship shines through.
- family friendly
- colorful graphics
- emotional depth
- adventure themes
- positive messages
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 3 kid reviews
What's the Story?
In TERRA WILLY, 10-year-old Willy (voiced by Landen Beattie) crash lands and must learn to live off the land on an uncharted alien planet while he waits to be rescued.
Is It Any Good?
There's something about the reassuring tone that makes this movie a real joy to watch with children of all ages. There are big themes in Terra Willy (also known as Astro Kid), such as Willy being separated from his parents and forced to fend for himself. But these are emotionally eased through thanks to the smart script that ensures everything has a sense of wonder and adventure rather than peril and panic.
Naturally, Willy gets upset on a couple of occasions but his robot companion, Buck (Jason Anthony), is on hand to reassure him and help. The charming Buck learns more about compassion with each situation, including learning the value of pets when they meet the equally sweet Flash, an alien with dog-like tendencies. While it might sound saccharine sweet, there's no try-hard or forced feeling to the warm spirit of Terra Willy. It's just innate in the movie's DNA, baked in by the thoughtful direction of Eric Tosti (The Jungle Bunch). Tosti has created a fun adventure playground full of learning, teamwork, and empathy, on a gorgeous planet full of fascinating landscapes, plants, and animals.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Willy and Buck demonstrate great teamwork, curiosity, and empathy in Terra Willy. Why are these such good character strengths to have? Can you think of any examples in real life when you've shown these traits?
What does the movie teach us about science and nature? How does Willy adapt to his new surroundings? Why should we care about nature?
Talk about the differences between Willy's funny-automated life on the ship and the back-to-nature life he leads on the planet. Do you think you would adapt well to living in the wilderness?
Do you think aliens exist? What do you think they would make of our planet? What would you say to an alien if you met one?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 3, 2019
- On DVD or streaming : October 27, 2020
- Cast : Landen Beattie , Jason Anthony , Keith Silverstein
- Director : Eric Tosti
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Viva Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , STEM ( AI , Science ) , Animals ( Wild Animals ) , Family Stories , Fantasy , Friendship , Space , Travel
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time : 89 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some mild peril
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate