Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that there's lots of "good bug-bad bug" cartoon action and some images that could be scary to very young children who have not yet differentiated make believe violence from real violence, or to sensitive kids who are not comfortable with suspense or jeopardy. Scowling, threatening grasshoppers loom over and swarm toward a colony of vulnerable ants, the heroes of the story. The insects contend with fire, rain, predatory birds, as well as the power hungry grasshoppers. Older kids will enjoy the clever humor and the unique view of the insect world, as well as the interspecies conflicts.
Sexual
Content
Not applicable.
Violence
In cartoon terms, there are scary, intimidating bugs and birds, as well as some jeopardy to the film's heroes involving fire, rain, falls, and capture. A troop of grasshoppers led by the fierce Hopper threatens the ant queen's life, bullies the ant colony, swarms menacingly several times, and captures key ant players. Birds, looking for food, are enemies to all the insect species and swoop down perilously close to those most vulnerable. Flick, the bravest ant of all, is set upon by lots of other characters. He's hit, captured, and nearly killed. There are numerous clever, nail-biting rescues, and the chief baddie is the only fatality.
Language
A few instances of "poo-poo," "butt," and "damn."
Social
Behavior
Teamwork, resourcefulness, and courage can defeat a seemingly stronger enemy. Solutions to great problems can come from unlikely sources. It's important to believe in yourself and have faith in your abilities. Nature has a certain order which is to be respected: "The sun grows the food; ants pick the food; grasshoppers eat the food; birds eat the grasshoppers."
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Not applicable
