Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Singers celebrate diversity and independence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a fun, wholesome classic that resonates well with younger audiences, thanks to its upbeat songs and themes of friendship and dreams. However, some concerns about sassy dialogue, unrealistic portrayals of teenage life, and intense emotional scenes involving pets have been noted, suggesting it may not be suitable for very sensitive children.
- fun movie
- wholesome themes
- unrealistic portrayals
- emotional scenes
- sassy dialogue
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
With their high school's talent show on the horizon, the hip-hopping Cheetah Girls are busy rehearsing songs, finalizing dance moves, and dreaming of their big break -- the recording session they'd earn by winning the contest. As the competition nears, the Cheetahs are discovered by local music producer Jackal Johnson (Vince Corazza), but their spirits are dampened when he plans to overhaul the diverse, girl-power image they're so proud of. Big problems arise among the foursome as Galleria becomes a dictator, making decisions for the group without consulting anyone. Eventually each Cheetah must decide whether to chase fame at all costs or to put the group's priorities first.
Is It Any Good?
THE CHEETAH GIRLS mixes harmonious vocals, energetic dance moves, and endearing characters, and tops it off with a hefty dose of values. All of it works to create this highly rated, fan-favorite original Disney movie. While the characters' sassy attitudes and uppity body language might have parents rolling their eyes, the overall package offers wholesome entertainment for tweens. The New York group consists of four precocious freshmen: extroverted drama queen Galleria (Raven-Symone) Latina diva Chanel (Adrienne Bailon), self-assured Texan transplant Aquanetta ("Aqua") (Kiely Williams), and level-headed dancing sensation Dorinda ("Do") (Sabrina Bryan) round out the group.
The Cheetah Girls hit a high note with songs that celebrate racial diversity ("we make up one big family though we don't look the same") and self-reliance ("I'd rather rescue myself"), and with group values of friendship, creativity, and education (when one member is struggling in school, they call a study session to help out). Family plays an important role in the movie as well. Galleria often turns to her parents for guidance, and they respond with compassionate lessons about respecting others' feelings and taking responsibility for your actions.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the drawbacks of achieving fame. What would the Cheetah Girls have to sacrifice to become famous singers? What if you were faced with a similar choice?
Why is being famous a goal for so many people? Does notoriety change people? How does it change the Cheetahs?
Do you consider the Cheetah Girls role models?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 15, 2003
- On DVD or streaming : June 29, 2004
- Cast : Adrienne Bailon , Raven Symone , Sabrina Bryan
- Director : Oz Scott
- Studio : Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Run time : 93 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- 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
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