The Jungle Book: Mowgli's Story
By Tracy Moore,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Clunky jungle sequel has loss of parent and some peril.
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What's the Story?
THE JUNGLE BOOK: MOWGLI'S STORY recounts Mowgli's separation from his family after a tiger attacks his tribe to his life in the jungle and eventual confrontation with the tiger, Shere Khan. But before that happens, Mowgli must learn to hunt and survive in the wild with the help of Baloo and Bagheera, and face questions about what loyalty means and where he truly belongs.
Is It Any Good?
This live-action sequel to The Jungle Book is a little clunky -- the jungle feels more backwoods than rainforest, and animals talk, but their mouths don't move. There's also some perilous threats that could frighten little ones and pack more punch than an animated version might.
Kids will likely not mind those deficits, and will enjoy "talking" animals and jungle adventures. Parents can appreciate some positive lessons here about family loyalty and independence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of facing your fears head on and solving problems. Have you ever been afraid to face a problem? What happened? How did you gain the courage to deal with it?
What is your definition of family? Consider that family does not always refer to blood relatives, but can also mean an adopted family, or a community of friends or acquaintances who care about you.
Mowgli had to learn what loyalty meant, and how to manage being pulled between two worlds. Have you ever been torn between two groups or activities you loved? How did you decide where to commit yourself?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 29, 1998
- Cast: Bhagavan Antle, Brandon Baker, Marty Ingels
- Director: Nick Marck
- Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Book Characters, Friendship, Wild Animals
- Run time: 77 minutes
- MPAA rating: G
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
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