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Parents' Guide to

The Little Ponderosa Zoo

By Grace Montgomery, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 5+

Clean and fun adventure teaches respect for animals.

Movie NR 2015 85 minutes
The Little Ponderosa Zoo Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

  • The Little Ponderosa Zoo Movie: Scene #1
  • The Little Ponderosa Zoo Movie: Scene #2

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What's the Story?

Every year Charlie (Kena Holmes), her parents, and the trusty zookeeper, Mr. Baker (Neil Friedman), hold their annual festival at the Little Ponderosa Zoo. This year, they especially need the money to keep the zoo from going bankrupt. Little do they know that the zoo is actually on top of a gold mine that could save the day. But when the scheming bank manager (James D. Owens), the mayor (Mike Stanley), and the mayor's bumbling nephew plot to steal the rights to the gold mine, Charlie must foil their plot and get over her fear of tigers to save the reputation of the Little Ponderosa Zoo and get their fortune.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Though there's nothing groundbreaking or particularly original in this animal-centric adventure, it has a wholesome sweetness that's rather endearing. Young kids will laugh at the scheming mayor and his nephew's ridiculous plans to find the gold (with plenty of llama-spit references to keep them chuckling), even if older kids and parents will be rolling their eyes at the over-the-top acting and cheesy dialogue. And animal lovers and parents alike will love seeing all the different zoo residents and the message that you should respect and protect animals.

Older kids may find the simple plot too obvious and clichéd, but parents will definitely appreciate the clean content, positive messages, and great role models.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about zoos. Have you been to a zoo? Do you think zoos are important? How do zoos protect animals?

  • Charlie's dad tells her that it's OK to be afraid and that everyone is afraid of something. Do you think that's true? Are you afraid of something? How can people get over their fears?

  • What's your favorite animal movie? Why is it your favorite?

Movie Details

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