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Our take
The Grinch is a gentle Christmas cartoon about a lonely character who tries to spoil the Whos' celebrations. His schemes bring mild slapstick and a little night-time sneaking, but nothing truly frightening or graphic. Language and romance are absent. Kindness, forgiveness, and belonging give the story its warmth. Most young children should be fine with it.
Uplifting themes
A lovely message that Christmas is about kindness and togetherness, not presents. Cindy Lou's selfless wish for her mum and the Whos' forgiveness carry real warmth Cindy Lou Who is thoughtful and brave, her single mum juggles a lot with grace, and the Whos choose forgiveness over grudges. Strong, kind examples throughout
Story (may spoil tone)
The Grinch hatches a scheme to ruin Christmas when the residents of Whoville plan their annual holiday celebration. But a certain little who might change things.
Details
Violence Just gentle slapstick. The Grinch's contraptions misfire, his sleigh sk…
Just gentle slapstick. The Grinch's contraptions misfire, his sleigh skids about, and his put-upon dog Max takes a few comic tumbles. Nobody gets hurt
Frightening The Grinch looks grumpy and slightly spooky, and his night-time schemes…
The Grinch looks grumpy and slightly spooky, and his night-time schemes add a little tension. The scares are mild and pass quickly
Bullying / discrimination The Grinch is sour and unkind to the cheerful Whos, and he sets out to…
The Grinch is sour and unkind to the cheerful Whos, and he sets out to spoil their Christmas. His meanness comes from old loneliness, and the film gently steers him toward warmth
Grief / bereavement The Grinch grew up alone without family at Christmas. The film uses tha…
The Grinch grew up alone without family at Christmas. The film uses that loneliness to explain his bitterness and handles it gently
Flashing lights We have not confirmed whether this version contains flashing lights.
We have not confirmed whether this version contains flashing lights.
Family watch notes
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Talk after watching
- The Grinch acts mean because he feels lonely. How can noticing that change the way we treat someone?
- Cindy Lou wishes for something for her mum, not herself. What would your wish be?
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The Grinch
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