Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Beautiful Japanese mythology series has suspense, fighting.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
ONI: Thunder God's Tale
What's the Story?
In ONI: THUNDER GOD'S TALE, there is an ongoing feud between main character Onari's village and the Oni. Onari (voiced by Momona Tamada) and her fellow villagers are awaiting the arrival of the Demon Moon, which is when the Oni attack their village every 100 years. Everyone in the eclectic village -- from fruits and vegetables to oddball objects -- prepares to fight by awakening powers within them that have been passed down by their parents. Onari is a bold young humanoid girl who's determined to defend her village, but because her mom has died and her dad is an outcast who doesn't communicate like everyone else, she doesn't know what her power is. Will she figure out what it is and how to use it before it's too late?
Is It Any Good?
A beautiful story and a stunning portrayal of classic myths set this limited series apart from the rest. ONI: Thunder God's Tale is captivating, not only with its hybrid use of stop-motion and computer generated graphics, but with its positive messages about courage and knowledge of self. The show's sophisticated plot may be too heavy for the youngest viewers, but kids who are into mythology, fairy tales, or adventure will be easily hooked. Grown-ups will be invested by the sweet portrayal of the father-daughter relationship. The notable use of suspense will have the entire family rooting for Onari and her village -- and internalizing some positive messages along the way.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about courage in ONI: Thunder God's Tale. Can you be afraid and show courage at the same time? In what ways does Onari have to be brave? How does she overcome her fears to achieve her goals?
Describe the relationship between Onari and Naridon. How do they communicate with each other? How can you tell they love each other?
What is your power? How can you use it in your day-to-day life?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 21, 2022
- Cast : Craig Robinson , Anna Akana , George Takei , Tantoo Cardinal
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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