Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)

Release Date:

1991

Movie Rating:

PG

Runtime:

1h 31m

Release Date:

1991

Movie Rating:

PG

Runtime:

1h 31m

Ernest Scared Stupid (1991) - Vertical Movie Poster

Synopsis:

In Ernest Scared Stupid, Ernest P. Worrell, a well-meaning but clumsy handyman, accidentally unleashes an ancient troll named Trantor in a small town. The troll has the power to turn children into wooden dolls, and it's up to Ernest to stop him before he captures all the kids. With the help of his dog Rimshot and a local librarian, Ernest embarks on a wild adventure to find a way to defeat the troll. As Halloween approaches, the town becomes a battleground between Ernest and the mischievous troll. The movie is filled with slapstick humor and spooky fun, making it a lighthearted watch for kids and families.

IMDb logo
5.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Logo
22%
Metacritic Logo
38/100
IMDb logo
5.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Logo
22%
Metacritic Logo
38/100

Rent
Buy

Ernest Scared Stupid, released in 1991, is a comedy horror film aimed at kids, blending elements of slapstick humor and spooky adventure. The movie is generally light-hearted, with a tone that is more silly than scary, making it suitable for younger audiences. Parents' reviews are mixed, with some appreciating its goofy charm and others concerned about its mild scares and crude humor.

Why Kids Should Watch Ernest Scared Stupid

The movie offers a fun and entertaining experience with a few positive takeaways.

  • Promotes the theme of courage and facing fears.
  • Features a memorable scene where Ernest's clumsy antics inadvertently save the day.
  • Kids enjoy the playful and exaggerated visual effects.
  • Includes a message about the importance of friendship and teamwork.

Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Ernest Scared Stupid

Some parents express concerns about the film's potential to frighten younger children.

  • Contains scenes that might be too intense for sensitive viewers.
  • Features crude humor that may not be suitable for all children.
  • The troll character's appearance can be visually unsettling.

Verdict: Mixed Messages

Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its mild scares and crude humor.

What Parents Should Know About Ernest Scared Stupid

Question Answer
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? Ernest shows bravery and determination in the face of fear, encouraging kids to be courageous.
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? The scenes involving the troll may require parental guidance to reassure children.
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? The troll's defeat demonstrates that harmful actions have consequences.
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? Ernest and the kids work together to solve problems, highlighting teamwork.
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? The movie delivers a message about the power of friendship and standing up to fears.

The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback

Ernest Scared Stupid is praised for its humor and light-hearted approach to a spooky story, making it a fun watch for kids who enjoy a bit of silliness. However, the mild scares and crude humor may not be suitable for all children, so parental guidance is recommended. Engaging with your child during the movie can help address any concerns and enhance the viewing experience. For those seeking similar films, consider other family-friendly comedies with a touch of adventure.

Rent
Buy

Official Ernest Scared Stupid Trailer

Ernest Scared Stupid, released in 1991, is a comedy horror film aimed at kids, blending elements of slapstick humor and spooky adventure. The movie is generally light-hearted, with a tone that is more silly than scary, making it suitable for younger audiences. Parents' reviews are mixed, with some appreciating its goofy charm and others concerned about its mild scares and crude humor.

Why Kids Should Watch Ernest Scared Stupid

The movie offers a fun and entertaining experience with a few positive takeaways.

  • Promotes the theme of courage and facing fears.
  • Features a memorable scene where Ernest's clumsy antics inadvertently save the day.
  • Kids enjoy the playful and exaggerated visual effects.
  • Includes a message about the importance of friendship and teamwork.

Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Ernest Scared Stupid

Some parents express concerns about the film's potential to frighten younger children.

  • Contains scenes that might be too intense for sensitive viewers.
  • Features crude humor that may not be suitable for all children.
  • The troll character's appearance can be visually unsettling.

Verdict: Mixed Messages

Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its mild scares and crude humor.

What Parents Should Know About Ernest Scared Stupid

Question Answer
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? Ernest shows bravery and determination in the face of fear, encouraging kids to be courageous.
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? The scenes involving the troll may require parental guidance to reassure children.
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? The troll's defeat demonstrates that harmful actions have consequences.
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? Ernest and the kids work together to solve problems, highlighting teamwork.
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? The movie delivers a message about the power of friendship and standing up to fears.

The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback

Ernest Scared Stupid is praised for its humor and light-hearted approach to a spooky story, making it a fun watch for kids who enjoy a bit of silliness. However, the mild scares and crude humor may not be suitable for all children, so parental guidance is recommended. Engaging with your child during the movie can help address any concerns and enhance the viewing experience. For those seeking similar films, consider other family-friendly comedies with a touch of adventure.

Official Ernest Scared Stupid Trailer


The Core Values Learned From Ernest Scared Stupid

Ernest Scared Stupid's most common core values include Bravery, Problem-solving, and Teamwork. Throughout the movie, kids witness Ernest's bravery as he faces his fears to protect the town from the mischievous troll. His Courage is evident when he stands up to the troll despite being scared, showing children that bravery means doing what's right even when you're afraid.

Problem-solving is another key value, as Ernest and his friends use creativity and resourcefulness to figure out how to stop the troll. This teaches kids the importance of thinking outside the box and working through challenges. Teamwork is highlighted as Ernest collaborates with his dog Rimshot and a local librarian, demonstrating to children that working together can lead to success, even in the most daunting situations.

Other Core Values Explored: Friendship | Dealing with fear | Standing up for what's right | Helping others | Creativity | Determination | Being brave | Protecting nature

The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Ernest Scared Stupid

Facing Fears Head-On: In Ernest Scared Stupid, kids learn the importance of confronting their fears. Ernest, despite his clumsiness, bravely faces the troll to protect the children in his town. This teaches kids that courage is about standing up to what scares you, even when it's difficult.

Believing in Yourself: Ernest's journey shows children the power of self-belief. Despite being underestimated, Ernest trusts his instincts and abilities, ultimately finding a way to defeat the troll. This encourages kids to have confidence in themselves, even when others doubt them.

Supporting Your Friends: The movie highlights the value of friendship as Ernest teams up with his loyal dog Rimshot and a local librarian. This teamwork demonstrates to kids the importance of supporting friends and working together to solve problems.

Solving Problems Creatively: Ernest and his friends use creative thinking to outsmart the troll. This teaches children that thinking outside the box can be a powerful tool in overcoming challenges and finding solutions.

Practicing Empathy: Throughout the movie, characters show empathy by understanding and helping each other. This encourages kids to be kind and considerate, recognizing the feelings and needs of others.

Other Lessons Learned: Overcoming Failure | Making a Difference | Protecting the Environment | Valuing Imagination | Working as a Team

Why Kids Love Ernest Scared Stupid

Ernest Scared Stupid is a whirlwind of spooky fun and laughter, where kids are drawn into a world of funny characters and silly jokes. Ernest, the clumsy yet lovable handyman, stumbles into hilarious slapstick comedy moments that keep kids giggling. The movie is filled with creepy creatures and monster encounters that are just the right amount of scary-but-fun, making it perfect for a thrilling watch. As Ernest and his loyal dog Rimshot team up with new friends, kids are captivated by the power of teamwork and the excitement of making new allies.

The adventure is packed with moments where Ernest outsmarts adults and fixes problems in the most unexpected ways, adding to the fun. Kids will love the action and the chance to see Ernest being the hero, as he faces challenges head-on. With its mix of humor, adventure, and a touch of spookiness, Ernest Scared Stupid is a delightful ride that keeps kids entertained and eager for more.