Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that The Adventures of the Wilderness Family includes many scenes in which family members are threatened or attacked by wild animals and under siege from other natural events (a rockslide, a driving storm, a raging river). In contrast to the lovely, pastoral setting and images of some of nature's most beautiful and playful creatures, scenes of the family dog locked in ferocious battles with predators (wolves, a cougar, a grizzly), as well as moments during which the children run for their lives from those same predators, may be too disturbing and intense for younger or more sensitive kids. Still, the messages -- about teamwork, respect for nature, and a satisfying life without the trappings of the modern city -- are positive; and the portrayal of an interdependent family who love each other and mature together is admirable.
Sexual
Content
A husband and wife kiss and embrace warmly several times, and are shown sleeping side by side.
Violence
Multiple scenes of children and animals in jeopardy from wild animals. Trying to protect his loved ones, the family dog is attacked by a cougar, wolves, and a grizzly bear. He is never seriously injured but the often lengthy battle scenes are ferocious struggles. Bears and wolves chase the children in several scenes; the children run for their lives. Dad is bloodied from a fight with an angry mother cougar. In addition, the family is endangered by a rock landslide, raging river rapids, an intense grizzly bear attack on their home, and a windstorm which threatens to destroy that home.
Language
Not applicable
Social
Behavior
Promotes respect for the power and beauty of nature and animals. Stresses self-reliance, common sense, caution, teamwork, and empathy as primary values. At its core, the film sees life in the wilderness as preferable to life in a modern city.
Consumerism
Quaker Oats.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Not applicable
