Parents' Guide to

Den Brother

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 6+

Fun family comedy has sweet messages for kids.

TV Disney Channel Comedy 2010
Den Brother Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 8+

Based on 2 parent reviews

rainbow P.
rainbow P. Parent of 13-year-old
June 13, 2017
age 8+
nobbsy
nobbsy Adult
July 14, 2013
age 7+

A Pleasant Surprise!

The slightly silly aspects of the story are greatly outweighed by its overall sweetness, especially the loving relationship between Alex and his little sister. Also the friendship between Alex and his hockey buddy is very nicely constructed as his developing friendship with the charming Mattise. No stereotypes here. The child actors who comprise Bumblebee Troop 57 are all convincing as independent minded tweens who help the main character find the right path in life. This movie was a most pleasant surprise, as it seems to be reviewed nowhere except on Common Sense Media. It is a heart warming story that--I think--will be most appreciated by girls ages 7-9 and their parents.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Life is sweet for teen hockey phenom Alex Pearson (Hutch Dano), whose team's success practically guarantees him a coveted spot on the All-Star team ... and possibly the sought-after attention of his pretty classmate, Matisse (Kelsey Chow). But his plans come to a screeching halt when his showboating ways land him on suspension, his dad assigns him an overdue list of household chores, and he inadvertantly takes over his little sister's Bumble Bee troop after their den mother moves away. None of this sits well with self-absorbed Alex, who sets to work scheming ways to get Emily (G Hannelius) and her friends to do his work, all under the guise of earning merit badges to qualify for an upcoming troop event. But when the truth about his intentions come out, Alex is forced to re-evaluate his priorities, even if it means setting aside his personal goals.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (8 ):

DEN BROTHER is a sweet tale of personal growth and accountability emphasized by the heartwarming relationship between a teen and his adoring little sister. In other words, it's a typical Disney-fied tale that will bombard young kids with sugary-sweet messages ... and be deemed corny by those only slightly older. Tweens will know that things don't always work out in real life like they do on Disney's screen, but littler kids won't be bothered (and might just be inspired) by the movie's idealized view of the world.

The movie does briefly touch on a few serious issues -- like the death of a parent and the impact of a father's heavy work load -- but overall its tone is light and comedic, and its pace will keep kids interested throughout. In true Disney fashion, it's devoid of any iffy content and an fun pick for family viewing time.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the show's themes of responsibility and integrity. What do these concepts mean to you? How did the characters display these traits?

  • Kids: What are some of your life goals? Do you want to be the best at something? What level of dedication would it take to do that? What might you have to give up?

  • Parents and kids can discuss their own family's rules about responsibility. Kids: What are some of your responsibilities at home? Which ones help your other family members? Why is it important to help each other?

TV Details

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