Parents' Guide to

The Legend of Johnny Lingo

By Renee Longstreet, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 7+

Earnest but amateurish tween fairy tale set in South Seas.

Movie G 2003 91 minutes
The Legend of Johnny Lingo Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

age 8+

Based on 2 parent reviews

age 8+

Johnny Lingo Revisited

I disagree with Ms. Schonfeld re: the appeal is this movie---it was appealing and well acted, moreso than many of the over-the-top children's films made today. As is often the case with biblical tales, fairy tales, and legends, this one will feel familiar, as we (people) have more in common than we think and our stories often reflect this truth. No movie is perfect--let's be realistic, but I could definitely present this movie to children without reservation. I could see this film as a springboard to many interesting conversations/discussions, for example stereotypes and gender roles in history, culture, religion, etc that led to stories like this one and others.

This title has:

Too much drinking/drugs/smoking
age 7+

Heartwarming and beautiful.

Very heart warming story.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2):
Kids say (1):

Whatever appeal there is in this well-meaning film comes from the extraordinary beauty of its setting; the filmmakers make the most of it. Otherwise, it's a sweet story, but it doesn't have any depth or originality that would really engage a family audience. The characters are one-dimensional, and with very few exceptions, the acting is unprofessional and clumsy. Positive messages aplenty are delivered, but without subtlety or grace, they simply sound trite and preachy.

Movie Details

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