Zog
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Zog
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
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Zog is fun family-friendly adaptation from a popular children's book by the same author of The Gruffalo. The story centers around a young dragon called Zog (voiced by Hugh Skinner) and Princess Pearl (Patsy Ferran), who strike up an unlikely friendship when they set out to achieve their goals. There is some mild cartoon violence involving fire-breathing dragons and knights. But it's all very slapstick and issues are quickly resolved with positive outcomes. Zog shows great perseverance in trying to become the best dragon in his class. He keeps practicing what his teacher, Madam Dragon (Tracey Ullman), tells him. He does get frustrated at times, which occasionally results in him becoming upset and losing his temper. But he never gives up. Pearl also refuses to give up on her dreams of becoming a doctor. She refuses to act in accordance to how others say a princess should behave and rejects the idea that she needs a prince to save her. All of which contributes to an array of positive messages and themes for kids of all ages.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
ZOG (voiced by Hugh Skinner) is determined to become the best dragon in his class. But when he meets a young princess called Pearl (Patsy Ferran), both her and Zog's lives take an unexpected direction.
Is It Any Good?
This adaptation of a book by Julia Donaldson (The Gruffalo) is a fun bite-sized adventure for all the family. Zog boasts an array of voice talent -- including Tracey Ullman, Kit Harington, and Lenny Henry who narrates proceedings -- colorful, slick animation, and a great story to boot. The fact that it's packed full of positive messages about choosing your own path, never giving up, friendship, and teamwork are the icing on the cake.
The hostile relationship between dragons and humans is turned on its head in this story. Our two leads, Zog, a boisterous young almost fire-breathing dragon and Pearl, a princess who would rather swap her crown for a doctor's stethoscope, soon realize that they share far more in common as they join forces. Pearl's rejection of what others expect from her and defying gender stereotypes so often found in traditional fairytales is especially refreshing. With a runtime of just 26 minutes, this is a great way for all the family to sit down together and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the positive messages in Zog. In what ways did Zog and Pearl show perseverance and teamwork. Why are these such important character strengths? Can you give any real life examples when you've demonstrated any of these?
How did Pearl compare to other portrayals of princesses you've seen? How did she defy what was expected of her? How do stereotypes in movies and on TV impact kids' development?
Have you read the original book the film was based on? How did it compare? Did you like the animation style? Were the characters like you imagined them? What other books would you like to see made into TV shows or movies?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 16, 2019
- Cast: Lenny Henry, Tracey Ullman, Rocco Wright
- Directors: Max Lang, Daniel Snaddon
- Studio: Magic Light Pictures
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Princesses, Fairies, Mermaids, and More, Book Characters
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 26 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: October 19, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
The Gruffalo
Favorite book adaptation promotes brains over brawn.
-
The Gruffalo's Child
Some peril in sweet storybook sequel.
-
Room on the Broom
Short and sweet adventure about a generous witch.
For kids who love animated adventures
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