Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Captivating docuseries teaches art, heart, perseverance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Sketchbook
What's the Story?
In SKETCHBOOK, Disney artists from a variety of backgrounds sketch popular Disney characters as they tell their personal stories of pursuing art as a career. They talk about their favorite Disney movies, analyzing the characters and their motives, all of which they weave into the sketches. From Frozen's Olaf to The Lion King's Simba, artists teach viewers strategies for sketching and approaches to art, like the reminder that it's OK to make mistakes.
Is It Any Good?
Personal stories, positive messages, and a hands-on activity make this an endearing watch for the whole family. Sketchbook is more than just watching artists do their craft; it tugs at viewers' heartstrings with the artists' personal stories. The analysis of popular Disney movies and characters against the backdrop of sentimental instrumental music creates a sense of nostalgia. The positive messages are universal, but viewing Sketchbook will likely be most impactful for artists and budding artists.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about attitudes toward art in Sketchbook. What messages do the artists send about art? Do you agree?
Which artist's story do you connect with the most? Why?
How did you see the artists' perseverance in Sketchbook? Why is it important?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 27, 2022
- Cast : Gabby Capili , Eric Goldberg , Samantha Vilfort , Hyun-Min Lee
- Network : Disney+
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Adventures , Arts
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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
Suggest an Update
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