Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this family-friendly fantasy is based on author Cornelia Funke's best-selling young adult novel. As in the book, there's a dark tone to the story, and the threat of violence seems real (especially the death threats). The "inked" villains may disturb younger kids, although some of the fantastical elements are funny. Henchmen hold people hostage, threaten to kill people, and burn property, and characters are in serious danger through most of the film. There's mild flirting between two younger characters and a quick kiss and embrace between married couples.

Sexual Content

Two young characters flirt; married couples embrace and kiss (briefly).

Violence

The henchmen are brutal: They kidnap and take several characters hostage at knife point, and they burn an entire rare library's worth of books. Several characters are told they'll be killed. A villain commands an even scarier villain to "feast" on innocent characters. Characters fight and are obliterated. Some animals from books -- a Minotaur, flying monkeys, dragons, etc. -- might scare younger kids.

Language

Mild -- "damn," "for God's sake."

Social Behavior

Teamwork and family bonds strengthen this magical story.

Consumerism

None, unless you count references to fictional literary characters.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable