The Secret of Moonacre

I think this is an enchanting fairytale that I watched at a young age and absolutely loved, I watched it recently with my daughter and enjoyed it too. For very young children there are a few scenes including a chase where the person being chased is screaming, this can be distressing for some sensitive children. During these scenes the main character is also dragged by her arm and forced onto her knees, this can be distressing if your child is scared by authoritative figures using excess force. Another point I would like to add is that Benjamin (the uncle, and father figure) is seen constantly drinking throughout the day to the point where he needs to take a hangover drink with an egg. Unless the child has come into contact with day drinking before it is not so noticeable. Another drink encounter is when a group of rowdy teenagers appear drunk although their behavior can be explained. Just something to be wary of. Consumerism is also present (although you'd be hard-pressed to find a movie without it) both families show express selfishness and willingness to do anything to get the 'moon pearls' which leads to a fight. However, this is amended as both characters make up and have a positive relationship out of it. I think the movie has a few good role models like the main character, some of the background characters are not so 'model' and can be thuggish in their behavior although none of this is capitalized on or encouraged. Overall I cannot recommend this movie enough for its pure escapism and fairytale-like quality but made real for children. Honestly, half the negative points I made earlier are present in almost every child's movie but I thought I had better include them in case the child is particularly sensitive to certain aspects of live-action movies. (My daughter was often scared of Stuart little almost drowning, so I want to be conscious of dangerous situations viewed in movies.)

Great fantasy film. Lead girl helps break a curse that’s on the country. At start father dies-but portrayed by funeral and talk. We watched together as family- few chase scenes my 5year old cuddled on for but still enjoyed. Spoiler- her dog is shot in final chase and looks like it has passed - this is upsetting but he doesn’t die. Spoiler 2- lead girl jumps off cliff and looks like she drowns, my children were concerned but also convinced her unicorn would save her in this magical land (correct)- so were not upset by this as waiting for the rescue- but other children might be upset. Adults are too proud and stuck in their ways - warring families. But younger generation manage to bring all together. Nice to show you can still be better- and every generation has chance to improve.