Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a 1996 Disney animated feature based on the Victor Hugo novel. There is regular cartoon violence and pratfalls: Characters fight with swords and knives, and one character is injured after getting hit in the shoulder by an arrow. There is some demonic imagery: orange-flamed backgrounds and fire-eyed panther statues. Frollo is a threatening bad guy who fights with swords and ogles over the suggestively dressed Gypsy Esmeralda; he sings a song of desire about her and asks for her destruction -- or possession. There are some moments of humor that may be inappropriate: The gargoyles, who provide comic relief, make reference to "cut[ting] the cheese" while making flatulent noises with their armpits, and a goat belches after eating. Natural deformities are addressed because the main character has a hunchback. Also, since this story does take place in Notre Dame Cathedral, religious symbols, icons, and religious themes abound. Esmeralda fights for justice for her people. She stands up to tyranny and defends outcasts such as Quasimodo and her family of Gypsies. Quasimodo shows kindness and loyalty and is willing to do what it takes to help his friends.
Sexual
Content
Esmeralda is dressed in a revealing manner, and she's punished by a man who desires her.
Violence
Cartoon violence and pratfalls. Prolonged battle scene features broken teeth and swordplay. Battles with swords, knives, and long candle holders. One of the lead characters is hit in the shoulder with an arrow. Some demonic imagery, flames, and fire-eyed statues. Some peril: Characters nearly burned at the stake. Physical bullying: Quasimodo gets tomatoes thrown at him by jeering guards and then jeering peasants. A house is set on fire, and the people inside must be rescued.
Language
Frollo uses threats. Quasimodo is bullied because of his looks, called "hideous" and "ugly."
Social
Behavior
The idea that it's OK to be different and to stand out from the crowd is discussed.
Consumerism
Disney spin-off items for sale in stores.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Some swilling of grog during Festival of Fools scene. Frollo drinks what appears to be wine. Gargoyles open a bottle of champagne. Phoebus says that he "could use a drink" and mentions specific types of wine.
