Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this Shakespeare-inspired animated comedy features some of the same overall themes as Romeo and Juliet, minus most of the bloodshed and the tragic ending. Although there's still serious enmity between the Montague and the Capulet gnomes, the violence isn't as prominent. A couple of gnomes do get smashed (or maimed), but most of the destruction is to the gardens themselves. Language is limited to insults and slang like "shut up," "codger," and "daft." Mature tweens who enjoy the story may be ready for the real play or more serious Shakespeare adaptations.
Sexual
Content
Gnomeo and Juliet flirt, hold hands, and kiss briefly.
Violence
The red and blue garden gnomes have an ongoing rivalry, as do the neighboring houseowners, who constantly bicker and insult each other. In one scene, a gnome purposely breaks off another gnome's hat. In retaliation, the wronged gnome's friends drive the offending gnome against a wall, and he shatters to pieces. A gnome looks like he's been crushed by a truck. A dog chases and tries to bury a gnome. The gnomes fight each other in a climactic battle involving lawn mowers and other garden-wielded weapons.
Language
Some mild insults and British slang like "shut up," "blasted," "daft," "codger," "old cabbage," and "loser." One use of "damn."
Social
Behavior
When the gnomes really start to think about it, they realize that there's no reason for them to hate each other simply because they're a different color and live in the next garden. Gnomeo and Juliet prove that love is "color blind." The ending celebrates peace and unity.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Not applicable
