Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Finding Dory is the long-awaited sequel to Pixar's 2003 classic Finding Nemo. This time, instead of a parent searching for a child, the story revolves around Dory looking for her family. Like most Pixar movies, there are some very emotional moments, including an early montage in which young Dory -- separated from her parents (a situation that may very well upset younger kids) -- searches the ocean for them ... until she forgets what she was looking for. There are other stressful separations between friends, too, as well as some peril and tense moments (like a predator giant squid the characters need to get away from and action-packed escape antics), as well as slapstick and near misses. But in the end, the "happily ever after" adventure is still appropriate for viewers of virtually all ages, and Dory's story is ultimately uplifting, as is the movie's treatment of her disability, which is never ignored. Finding Dory's themes of teamwork, perseverance, family, friendship, and unconditional love are relatable for even the littlest kids. (Tip: Be sure to watch through the end of the credits to see the extra scene featuring friends from the first film!)

Sexual Content

Violence

Some emotional, potentially disturbing scenes/sequences. Early in the movie, young Dory, separated from her parents, looks for them all over the ocean (until she forgets what she was looking for). Peril and danger: A giant squid grabs Nemo and tries to eat him; Marlin and Nemo must temporarily struggle, without water, to cross a courtyard; Dory's friends think she's been eaten, but she's just being hugged. The aquarium transport truck drives wildly and gets into an accident, but no one appears injured. Some slapstick moments and other near misses, as well as additional separations between friends, some of which are upsetting.

Language

No swearing, but some substitutes for curse words (i.e., instead of "crap," Hank uses "crap"). One "suck it."

Social Behavior

Parents never give up on their kids. Home is more than a place, it's wherever your family/loved ones are. Family and close friends don't let you just "go," and they love you unconditionally. The movie also makes it clear that disabilities don't define you, that you learn how to live with them (whether it's Dory's memory loss or Nemo's small fin). Teamwork and collaboration are also promoted, as it's the only way Dory and Marlin/Nemo accomplish their missions.

Consumerism

Although there are no real product placements in the movie, all Disney-Pixar titles have a ton of tie-in merchandise, from video games and apps to toys, clothes, accessories, and gifts.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable