Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this live-action Italian version of Pinocchio has many dark, confusing scenes; is (badly) dubbed into English; and, at nearly two hours, is very slow going. Characters are in jeopardy throughout: Some are injured, some appear dead for lengthy periods of time, and some actually are dead. Pinocchio has many narrow escapes -- from drowning, hanging, getting caught in an animal trap, being swallowed by a whale, and more. The movie's messages are heavy handed and repetitious, but eventually the naughty puppet does see the error of his ways.
Sexual
Content
Not applicable.
Violence
Many action sequences that could be frightening and confusing to kids. Characters die and/or get injured, and some then come back to life -- including Pinocchio (shown in shadows, hanging lifeless from a rope for several minutes), Gepetto (he disappears in the ocean after his boat capsizes and doesn't reappear until much later), and a young man who is turned into a donkey and ultimately dies. There are black-clothed, shadowy characters labeled "assassins" and "robbers" that threaten Pinocchio and laugh hideously. The traditional whale that swallows Pinocchio and his father is a scary creature with giant teeth. Also chases, falls, a runaway log wreaking havoc on a village, and fist fights.
Language
"Nitwit," "nincompoop," and other insults.
Social
Behavior
Very clear messages throughout: Get-rich schemes never work, telling a lie is always bad, success is based on hard work and honesty, never break your promises, and always listen to your parents.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Not applicable
