Tom Thumb
Parents say
Based on 1 review
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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 with the exception of Tom finding himself in some mildly perilous situations and some bumbling, farcical swindlers who are more humorous than threatening, Tom Thumb is an entirely kid and family-friendly musical movie more than 50 years old. The two thieves smoke in one scene and chug-a-lug a nameless but probably alcoholic beverage in another. The "special effects," which present a thumb-sized hero in a world of full-sized people, are charmingly primitive, offering a historic look at early effects-dependent filmmaking.
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Disappointing Degrading Chinese Character
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What's the Story?
The fairy tale about the boy no bigger than a thumb is brought to life with Russ Tamblyn as the title character. Fiendish villains Terry Thomas and Peter Sellers try to get the tiny boy to steal for them, but watching over tom is a good fairy. Watching over the good fairy is the handsome woodsman whose kiss can turn her into a mortal. Without giving anything away, it is fair to say they all live happily ever after, at least those who deserve to!
Is It Any Good?
Released in 1958, TOM THUMB is a fine film that the whole family can enjoy. Tom is as irresistibly charming as his "Very Own Song," one of many enchanting musical numbers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about other films about tiny characters. Why are they are so appealing?
Is it fun to watch a movie made so long ago?
How does singing and dancing enhance the storytelling?
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 22, 1958
- On DVD or streaming: October 3, 2000
- Cast: Alan Young, Peter Sellers, Russ Tamblyn
- Director: George Pal
- Studio: Warner Bros.
- Genre: Classic
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Princesses, Fairies, Mermaids, and More, Adventures, Book Characters, Fairy Tales, Great Boy Role Models
- Run time: 98 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: April 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Singin' in the Rain
Often considered the finest musical of all time.
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Oliver!
Glorious musical based on Dickens' Oliver Twist.
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Annie (1982)
Classic orphan tale has great songs, some iffy content.
For kids who love classics
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