Dumbo (2019)
Synopsis:
When a young elephant with extraordinarily large ears discovers he can use them to fly, he becomes the unexpected hope for saving a struggling circus run by Max Medici. Holt Farrier, a former circus star, and his children Milly and Joe help care for the remarkable elephant they name Dumbo. The flying elephant's talents attract the attention of V. A. Vandevere, an entrepreneur who recruits Dumbo for his grand new entertainment venture. However, as Dumbo joins forces with aerialist Colette Marchant at this spectacular new attraction, the Farrier family and their circus friends begin to uncover troubling secrets hidden behind the venture's glamorous facade. Together, they must find a way to protect Dumbo while navigating the darker truths of the entertainment world.
Where To Watch: Dumbo
Parental Feedback
Dumbo offers a family-friendly fantasy adventure with a gentle, emotional tone that balances wonder with moments of sadness. Parents should expect a story that explores themes of family separation, exploitation, and finding one's place in the world, all wrapped in Tim Burton's distinctive visual style. The pacing is steady, with magical flying sequences and circus spectacle alongside quieter, more poignant moments that may resonate differently with younger versus older children.
Why Kids Should Watch Dumbo
This fantasy adventure offers several positive elements that make it appealing for family viewing.
The story celebrates the bond between siblings Milly and Joe Farrier as they work together to help Dumbo, demonstrating how children can show compassion and courage when protecting those who are vulnerable. Their determination to do what's right, even when facing powerful adults, provides a strong example of standing up for others.
The film's central message about embracing differences and turning perceived weaknesses into strengths resonates throughout, as Dumbo's oversized ears become the key to his extraordinary ability to fly. This theme encourages children to see their own unique qualities as potential gifts rather than limitations.
The visual spectacle of the circus setting and Dumbo's magical flying sequences create moments of genuine wonder and imagination that captivate young viewers. The fantasy elements are presented in a way that sparks creativity while remaining grounded in an emotional story about family and belonging.
Strong performances from the ensemble cast, including Colin Farrell as the caring father Holt Farrier and Danny DeVito as circus owner Max Medici, bring warmth and humanity to the story. These characters demonstrate perseverance through difficult circumstances and the importance of protecting loved ones.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Dumbo
Parents should consider several aspects that may be challenging for sensitive or younger children.
The film includes emotional scenes of separation between Dumbo and his mother, which may be distressing for young viewers who are sensitive to themes of family loss or animals in distress. These moments, while handled gently, form a significant part of the story's emotional core.
The character of V. A. Vandevere, portrayed by Michael Keaton, represents corporate greed and exploitation in ways that may be unsettling, as he seeks to profit from Dumbo regardless of the elephant's wellbeing. The darker secrets beneath the shiny veneer of his entertainment empire introduce themes of manipulation that might require parental explanation.
Some circus scenes and the overall atmosphere carry Tim Burton's signature slightly dark aesthetic, which may feel more intense or melancholic than typical bright, cheerful family fare. The film's emotional weight and bittersweet moments might be better suited for children who can process more complex feelings.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Dumbo earns approval as a heartfelt family adventure that teaches valuable lessons about compassion, acceptance, and standing up for what's right, though parents should be prepared to discuss its emotional themes with sensitive children.
What Parents Should Know About Dumbo
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the Farrier children demonstrate compassion, teamwork, and courage as they protect Dumbo and work to reunite him with his mother despite facing opposition from powerful adults. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, scenes of separation between Dumbo and his mother, along with themes of exploitation and loss, create emotional intensity that may be difficult for younger or more sensitive viewers. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, characters who exploit Dumbo and prioritize profit over wellbeing face consequences as their schemes unravel and the heroes work to expose the dark secrets beneath the surface. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the film emphasizes teamwork as the Farrier family and circus performers collaborate to help Dumbo, demonstrating how working together can overcome seemingly impossible challenges. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the film delivers clear messages about embracing differences, protecting the vulnerable, and recognizing that what makes us different can become our greatest strength. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate Dumbo as a visually stunning reimagining that successfully conveys positive messages about family, compassion, and acceptance. Many note that the film works well for family viewing, particularly for children who can handle emotional themes and bittersweet moments. Some parents caution that the scenes of separation and the darker undertones may be too intense for very young or sensitive children, recommending it more for school-age kids who can process complex emotions. The performances and production values receive consistent praise, with families valuing the film's emphasis on doing what's right even when it's difficult. Overall, parents view it as a worthwhile family experience that opens opportunities for meaningful conversations about kindness, exploitation, and the importance of protecting those who cannot protect themselves.
Official Dumbo Trailer
Why Kids Love Dumbo
Dumbo's gigantic ears aren't just for show—they let him soar through the air in spectacular flying sequences that defy gravity. Kids watch in amazement as the baby elephant launches himself skyward, swooping and gliding above circus tents and astonished crowds. His airborne acrobatics turn every performance into a breathtaking spectacle.
The Farrier kids, Milly and Joe, team up with Dumbo to outsmart the scheming adults around them. They sneak through Vandevere's glittering Dreamland attraction, dodging guards and uncovering hidden secrets beneath the shiny surface. Their clever plans and quick thinking keep the action moving as they work to protect their flying friend.
Max Medici's struggling circus transforms into a hub of excitement when Dumbo takes center stage. The colorful performers, from Colette Marchant's daring aerial acts to the ragtag troupe rallying together, create a lively backdrop for Dumbo's adventures. Every show becomes a chance for something unexpected and thrilling to happen.
The rescue mission to save Dumbo from Vandevere's control builds to an action-packed finale. Kids cheer as the entire circus family bands together, using teamwork and courage to pull off a daring escape. Dumbo's unique gift becomes the key to outsmarting the villains and soaring to freedom.