Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mischievous tot's antics delight in Russian-inspired series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Masha and the Bear
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 82 parent reviews
Based on 29 kid reviews
Kids say the show features a mischievous girl and a patient bear, leading to mixed opinions about its suitability for young viewers. While some find it entertaining and humorous, others criticize it for promoting bad behavior and inappropriate content, suggesting that parental guidance is necessary for younger children.
- bad role model
- mixed opinions
- humorous content
- need for guidance
- not suitable for all
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
MASHA AND THE BEAR is an animated series based on Russian folklore about a precocious tot named Masha (voiced by Elsie Fisher) who befriends her forest neighbor, a retired circus performer called the Bear. In each episode, spirited Masha pulls the Bear into some wild adventure or another, often to the dismay of the other forest animals whose peace and quiet falls by the wayside whenever the little girl is around. But no matter the antics or their fallout, the Bear can't hide his soft spot for the impish Masha.
Is It Any Good?
This show's vivid animation and original music nicely complement a plot that's lacking in dialogue, thanks to the fact that the Bear doesn't speak. Often minutes go by without any words exchanged, but the characters manage to tell their stories through their motions and expressions. For viewers used to the chatter of most cartoons, Masha and the Bear can be a nice change of pace. Even so, parents might want to point out to their kids that as enticing and exciting as Masha's capers seem to be, they'd yield far different consequences in the real world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about rules and why we have them. How do rules help keep you safe? Who makes the rules in your family? In your school? Does Masha follow any rules? Does she ever learn from her mistakes?
What do you think about the fact that many of the characters don't talk? What are some other ways of communicating besides speaking?
Kids: Who are some of your favorite TV and movie characters? How does Masha rank among them? Can you learn anything from her in this show?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 25, 2014
- Cast : Elsie Fisher
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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