Tom and Huck
By Alyssa Ellsworth,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Unexceptional adaptation, but entertaining movie.

A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
Where to Watch
Community Reviews
Based on 6 parent reviews
Common Sense media needs to update their info. about this movie
Report this review
More language than expected
Report this review
What's the Story?
A natural leader in his small Southern town, young Tom (Jonathan Taylor Thomas) attempts to run away on a homemade raft, he tricks other boys into doing his chores, and he idolizes older boy, the loner, Huck Finn (Brad Renfro). Tom and Huck witness the death of an unscrupulous man. The murderer, Injun Joe, accuses the town drunk, Potter, and then goes after the boys chase when he realizes they know the truth. As the town prepares to punish Potter, Tom knows it's up to him to save the innocent man and punish the murderer. Adventure ensues with Tom and Huck chasing the killer and his sidekick, hunting for the map then the treasure, and finally saving the day. Along the way, Tom has time to woo schoolmate, Becky, and to attend his own funeral.
Is It Any Good?
While Mark Twain's original book is a romp of a ride, rich with unforgettable characters, this Disney adaptation keeps the outline but loses some of the heart of the original. Both Thomas and Renfro do a good job of portraying boys who are learning to make grown-up decisions while embarking on a dangerous adventure.
While everything works out in the end, there are plenty of references to serious issues and several scenes full of peril. This movie earns its PG rating with scary fights, knife deaths (not explicit but very menacing), and kids endangered. Tom acts with conscience and stands up to his friend, Huck, as well as to his fear of Injun Joe, in a brave and forthright manner.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the themes of loyalty, friendship, and doing what is right, even if it means breaking an oath. How does Tom's relationship to Huck change from one of hero-worship to real friendship? Huck is clearly wary of the townspeople, and families might want to talk about how his character develops during this movie. Tom is portrayed as a daring and intelligent boy, yet there are also example of times he is headstrong and manipulative those around him. Families might discuss which characteristics of Tom, Huck, Aunt Polly, the Widow Douglas, and Becky they admire and which they see in themselves.
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 22, 1995
- On DVD or streaming: March 2, 2004
- Cast: Brad Renfro, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Rachael Leigh Cook
- Director: Peter Hewitt
- Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: Adventures, Book Characters, Friendship
- Run time: 97 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG
- MPAA explanation: some villainous acts and mild language
- Last updated: February 18, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate