Common Sense Media Review
'90s animated tale has some cartoon violence, peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Rugrats Movie
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 9 parent reviews
Based on 12 kid reviews
Kids say the movie is a fun and entertaining continuation of the popular series, featuring positive themes about family, responsibility, and teamwork. However, some parents caution that certain scenes might be too scary or inappropriate for very young viewers, and while the humor is enjoyable, some elements may not appeal to all audiences.
- fun adventure
- positive themes
- age considerations
- varied humor
- family dynamics
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE RUGRATS MOVIE takes its toddler heroes through two adventures -- getting lost in the woods and having to share parents with a new baby. Frustrated that his new baby brother is getting all the attention, Tommy Pickles devises a scheme to return the infant to the hospital. But things go awry, and Tommy and the rest of the gang find themselves lost in the woods. Will they make it back to the safety of home?
Is It Any Good?
Fans of the television series will be happily at home with this movie. Kids will like the potty humor, although some may be concerned by the drooling wolf, mischievous monkeys, or the other perils the kids face as they try to find their way back home. Parents may appreciate the use of voice talents like David Spade, Busta Rhymes, and Whoopi Goldberg.
The Rugrats' trademark "kid-cam" use of floor- level perspective provides a few bright moments, and the kids' efforts to understand the world around them are occasionally fresh and funny. The movie is not much more than a long version of the television show, but for many in its targeted audience, that's just fine.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Tommy's concerns about his new baby brother, Dylan. How does a new baby change the family dynamic? What's positive about being an older sibling?
Did the violence and peril seem necessary to the movie, or did it seem like it was forced in to make the movie more exciting?
Does this '90s movie still seem relevant, or does it seem dated?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 20, 1998
- On DVD or streaming : March 30, 1999
- Cast : Christine Cavanaugh , David Spade , Whoopi Goldberg
- Director : Norton Virgein
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Book Characters
- Run time : 79 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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