Common Sense Media Review
By Grace Montgomery
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Modern follow-up to Christmas classic isn't as enjoyable.
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The Legend of Frosty the Snowman
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 13 parent reviews
Parents say this movie is not suitable for children, particularly due to its negative themes and unlikable characters, with a plot that diverges significantly from the original classic. Many reviewers express disappointment with the portrayal of bullying, punitive authority figures, and a confusing storyline that fails to deliver the uplifting message typically associated with holiday films.
- negative themes
- unlikable characters
- unsuitable for children
- confusing storyline
- lacks uplifting message
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 7 kid reviews
What's the Story?
Narrated by Burt Reynolds, this retro-style fable gives a sneak peek into the legend behind the beloved Frosty the Snowman (Bill Fagerbakke). The townspeople of Evergreen, led by their friendly but uptight mayor Mr. Tinkerton, is obsessed with following the rules. That is, until little Tommy Tinkerton (Kath Soucie) spots a magical top hat blowing into town. Knowing someone needs to remind the citizens of Evergreen that magic exists, Frosty and his trusty hat start leading kids into fun (but harmless) mischief. Meanwhile, the conniving principal Mr. Pankley schemes to get rid of Frosty and take over the town, unless Tommy (with a little help from his friends) can discover the real legend behind Frosty and how to save him.
Is It Any Good?
Fans of the beloved Frosty the Snowman Christmas special might be left a bit cold after watching this Frosty tale. The plot is pretty simplistic, and, at more than twice the length of the original Frosty movie, it feels stretched thin by about the halfway mark. There are a lot of nods to its predecessor, including stylized, retro animation, but it lacks its charm and fun. The adults (and even some of the kids) are unlikable and not very bright, and parents probably won't appreciate the message that it's OK to break the rules.
Even though this film is spun as a holiday movie and Frosty is supposed to bring about the magic and sparkle of the season, the film feels joyless. It's not a terrible movie, but it's not really that enjoyable.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about rules. Should you always follow the rules adults set? When is it OK to break them?
What is your favorite movie about Frosty the Snowman? Why is it your favorite?
Do you have holiday movies you watch every year? Which ones are they?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 1, 2012
- Cast : Burt Reynolds , Jeannie Elias , Bill Fagerbakke
- Director : Greg Sullivan
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Classic Media
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Run time : 75 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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