Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Whimsical books-based show celebrates adventure, friendship.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Hilda
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 60 parent reviews
Parents say the show is a delightful blend of adventure and whimsy, making it an enjoyable watch for families. However, some find that certain episodes contain themes and scenes that may be too intense for younger or sensitive children, suggesting that parental discretion is advised regarding viewing for those under 7.
- family-friendly
- magical creatures
- suitable age guidance
- sensitive themes
- parental discretion
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 47 kid reviews
Kids say the show is a delightful combination of adventure and whimsy, appreciated for its beautiful animation and strong themes of friendship and courage, although some content may be sensitive for younger viewers. Many reviewers noted that while the series is generally suitable for children ages 6-10, certain episodes include darker and creepy elements that could scare more sensitive kids, leading to mixed opinions on its overall suitability for a younger audience.
- adventurous storytelling
- beautiful animation
- mixed age suitability
- dark themes present
- positive messages
- sensitive content warnings
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In HILDA, the main character (voiced by Bella Ramsey) is a young girl who finds all kinds of adventures among the elves, trolls, and giants nearby the secluded woodland home she shares with her mom (Daisy Haggard). But when the two of them pull up stakes and relocate to the town of Trolberg, Hilda discovers that even bigger adventures -- and more surprising new friends -- await her there.
Is It Any Good?
The beloved graphic novel series adapts beautifully to the screen in this whimsical fantasy about a gregarious girl who thrives on experiencing new things. Hilda's is a world where mountains awaken from eons-long naps to become giants once again, and elven communities have strict rules about who can and cannot see them. Rotund furry creatures fly in the sky like birds, and sun-sensitive trolls are turned to stone. There are surprises around every corner in this surreal place.
What also abounds here are gentle storytelling and sweet themes of tolerance and friendship. Hilda is decidedly unrushed, with music filling pauses in dialogue and characters (especially Hilda) extending kindness to others at every opportunity. Its delightful animation draws heavily on the books for inspiration and matches well the story's roots in magic and fantasy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Hilda's fantasy world compares to the real one. Are there aspects of Hilda's experiences that are similar to your own? What place does fantasy have in entertainment? How does seeing a different perspective through the eyes of a TV character influence how you view the world?
Kids: What accounts for Hilda's eagerness to befriend the many creatures and people she meets? Is she ever hesitant because they look or act differently from her? How do stereotypes affect how we relate to new people? Are all stereotypes inherently bad, or are there instances in which they can be helpful?
Do this story and these characters transition well from book to screen? How might Hilda be received if it was live action instead of animated? What other book characters do you enjoy seeing in TV shows or movies? Which haven't made the jump but in your opinion should?
How does Hilda display curiosity? Why do you think this is an important character strength?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 21, 2018
- Cast : Bella Ramsey , Rasmus Hardiker , Daisy Haggard
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Book Characters
- Character Strengths : Curiosity
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : January 2, 2026
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