The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Synopsis:
In The Great Mouse Detective, the clever mouse detective Basil of Baker Street is on a thrilling mission to solve a mystery in Victorian London. When a toymaker named Hiram Flaversham is kidnapped, his daughter Olivia seeks Basil's help. Basil, along with his loyal companion Dr. Dawson, discovers that the evil Professor Ratigan is behind the abduction. Ratigan has a sinister plan to take over the mouse world, and it's up to Basil to stop him. The adventure takes them through the bustling streets of London, into the depths of the sewers, and even to the iconic Big Ben. With clever disguises, daring escapes, and a race against time, Basil must use all his detective skills to thwart Ratigan's plot and save the day.
Where To Watch: The Great Mouse Detective
Parental Feedback
The Great Mouse Detective, released in 1986, is an animated adventure film that falls under the mystery and family genres. As a movie rated G, it is designed for kids and generally receives positive feedback from parents for its engaging storyline and charming characters. The film is often praised for its clever plot and the way it introduces young audiences to the world of detective work, with most parents appreciating its balance of excitement and humor.
Why Kids Should Watch The Great Mouse Detective
The Great Mouse Detective is celebrated for its engaging mystery and positive messages.
- Promotes problem-solving and critical thinking
- Features a clever and resourceful protagonist, Basil of Baker Street
- Offers visually appealing animation and a thrilling adventure
- Includes a strong message about friendship and teamwork
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch The Great Mouse Detective
Some parents express concerns about the film's darker themes and intense moments.
- Contains scenes that may be frightening for very young children
- Includes a villain, Ratigan, who might be intimidating
- Features suspenseful sequences that could be confusing
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers engaging storytelling, positive role models, and a fun introduction to mystery-solving.
What Parents Should Know About The Great Mouse Detective
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Basil demonstrates intelligence and perseverance in solving the mystery, encouraging kids to think critically. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The confrontation with Ratigan and the climactic scenes may require parental guidance for younger viewers. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Ratigan's villainous actions ultimately lead to his downfall, illustrating the consequences of evil deeds. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The characters work together to solve the mystery, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The film emphasizes the value of friendship and the importance of using one's intellect to overcome challenges. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
The Great Mouse Detective is widely appreciated for its clever plot and positive messages, making it a favorite among family-friendly films. While some scenes may be intense for very young children, the movie's strengths in storytelling and character development are undeniable. Parents can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the film's themes and encouraging critical thinking. For those seeking similar adventures, movies like "The Rescuers" or "Oliver & Company" might also be enjoyable options.
Official The Great Mouse Detective Trailer
The Core Values Learned From The Great Mouse Detective
The Great Mouse Detective's most common core values include Bravery, Problem-solving, and Teamwork. Kids can see bravery in action as Basil and his friends face dangerous challenges to rescue Olivia’s father and stop the evil Professor Ratigan. Problem-solving is key because Basil uses his sharp detective skills to follow clues, crack codes, and find hidden answers. The importance of teamwork is shown through Basil's collaboration with Dr. Dawson and Olivia, proving that working together helps them tackle tough obstacles.
Bravery and problem-solving shine when Basil disguises himself to infiltrate Ratigan's hideout, risking his safety to gather crucial information. His clever thinking gets the group out of tight spots, like when they make a daring escape from a deadly trap set by Ratigan. Teamwork is highlighted in the final scene at Big Ben, where each character plays a crucial role in confronting Ratigan. Their combined efforts help overcome challenges, showing children that solving big problems is easier when you work together.
Other Core Values Explored: Courage | Determination | Friendship | Loyalty | Perseverance | Trust | Self-confidence
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From The Great Mouse Detective
Solving Problems Creatively: Basil demonstrates the power of creative problem-solving by using his detective skills and keen observation to connect seemingly unrelated clues. Whether it's disguising himself to gather intelligence or crafting solutions under pressure, he shows that thinking outside the box can lead to success.
Being True to Yourself: Basil’s confidence in his unique abilities, even when others doubt him, highlights the importance of staying true to oneself. His self-assured demeanor and sharp mind help him tackle challenges and maintain his integrity throughout the investigation.
Facing Fears Head-On: As Basil navigates dangerous situations, from facing Ratigan's traps to escaping from high-stakes confrontations, he shows the value of confronting fears with courage and determination. This fearless approach inspires others to follow his lead when things get tough.
Working as a Team: The collaboration between Basil, Dr. Dawson, and Olivia illustrates how teamwork amplifies their strengths and helps them overcome obstacles. Each character's contribution plays a vital role in thwarting Ratigan's plans, proving that collective efforts lead to greater achievements.
Believing in Yourself: Throughout the adventure, Basil's unwavering belief in his abilities serves as a driving force that pushes him to keep going, no matter how daunting the circumstances. His confidence encourages others, including Dr. Dawson and Olivia, to trust in their abilities as well.
Other Lessons Learned: Supporting Your Friends
Why Kids Love The Great Mouse Detective
The Great Mouse Detective takes kids on a bustling adventure through the streets of Victorian London, where they'll meet Basil, a clever and daring mouse detective. With his trusty sidekick Dr. Dawson, Basil dives into an intriguing world of secret missions, cloaked in mystery and suspense. Children are captivated by Basil's ability to outsmart adults, as he sets off on a thrilling quest to solve baffling mysteries. The movie showcases Basil's impressive detective skills in action, like when he uses clever disguises and outmatched wit to sneak right into the middle of Ratigan's secretive lair. Kids are immediately drawn to the unpredictable twists and turns, eagerly rooting for Basil as he risks it all to uncover hidden secrets.
Exploring the city's enthralling maze of alleyways and sewers, Basil and his friends are constantly testing the limits of their resourcefulness. The threat of Professor Ratigan looms large, creating high-stakes situations that young audiences find exhilarating. It's this continuous game of cat-and-mouse that keeps kids guessing and glued to the screen, eager to see how the daring detective escapes each clever trap. The iconic final showdown atop Big Ben is a heart-pounding spectacle where teamwork shines, showing kids how each character brings something vital to the table. With such unexpected encounters and strategic maneuvers, The Great Mouse Detective offers youthful viewers an enticing blend of humor, ingenuity, and daring escapades.