The Littlest Angel
Heavy-handed Christian tale could provoke questions, fears.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Littlest Angel's premise is a 4-year-old boy's entrance into heaven, his struggle to fit in among adults who find his childish behavior annoying, and his sadness at being separated from parents, all told from an overtly Christian perspective that may be a bit heavy for young kids and heavy-handed for parents. This may provoke questions or confusion from young children about death or religion, or could trigger fears about abandonment without proper context.
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What's the Story?
A 4-year-old boy has just entered heaven, but he doesn't quite know the rules. As he struggles to fit in and misses his earthly possessions, he learns a bit about what it means to be good enough according to Christian ideals.
Is It Any Good?
This is not particularly well-animated or clever, but it has a nice message about valuing the pure of heart over the material gesture. And for those of Christian faith, it offers a simple message about what acceptance means in God's eyes. However, that message is delivered in an extremely heavy-handed way, in an environment where adults are not always a kind presence unless instructed otherwise.
Kids may simply enjoy this short tale about heaven from a boy's perspective -- he flies around, causes mischief, and misses his dog. From a parent's perspective, this tale of a child who has passed on, and is struggling to fit in, is a downer no matter your faith. And though the more complex issues raised here may not even register to kids, parents should be ready for potential questions about death or heaven, or fear about being separated from loved ones.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about faith. What does your family believe? How does this film differ from what you or your family believes?
Have you ever met someone who didn't know the rules where you live or play? Did you help him or her? What happened?
In the film, the boy is afraid his gift isn't good enough, but God tells him it is because it's from the heart. Have you ever felt something you did wasn't good enough? Why? What was the outcome?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 13, 2005
- Cast: Blu Mankuma, L. Harvey Gold, Maxine Miller
- Director: John Delaney
- Studio: Lionsgate
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Book Characters
- Run time: 24 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
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A Christmas Carol (1938)
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For kids who love the holidays
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