Harry and the Hendersons (1987)
Release Date:
1987
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 50m
Synopsis:
In Harry and the Hendersons, the Henderson family is returning from a camping trip when they accidentally hit a large creature with their car. They soon discover it's a Bigfoot and decide to take it home, thinking it might be dead. To their surprise, the creature is very much alive and quickly becomes part of the family. As they try to keep their new friend hidden from the outside world, they face challenges from a determined hunter who is on the trail of Bigfoot. The family must navigate the chaos that ensues while trying to protect their unusual guest. The movie is filled with comedic moments as the Hendersons adjust to life with their unexpected housemate.
Harry and the Hendersons, released in 1987, is a family-friendly comedy that blends elements of adventure and fantasy. As a movie for kids, it offers a lighthearted and humorous take on the unexpected friendship between a family and a Bigfoot. Most parents appreciate its warm-hearted message and comedic moments, though some note that certain scenes might be a bit intense for very young viewers.
Why Kids Should Watch Harry and the Hendersons
The movie is celebrated for its heartwarming story and positive messages.
- Promotes themes of acceptance and understanding.
- The character of Harry, the Bigfoot, is endearing and teaches kindness.
- Visually engaging with its mix of humor and adventure.
- Encourages family bonding and teamwork.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Harry and the Hendersons
Some parents express concerns about a few intense scenes that might be unsettling for younger children.
- Themes of fear and misunderstanding may be challenging.
- Scenes involving hunting and capture could be distressing.
- Some visual effects might be intense for sensitive viewers.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers themes of acceptance, humor, and family values.
What Parents Should Know About Harry and the Hendersons
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the family learns to accept and protect Harry, showing kindness and empathy. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, scenes where Harry is in danger might require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, characters who initially fear Harry learn the importance of understanding and compassion. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the family works together to keep Harry safe, demonstrating teamwork. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The movie delivers a message of acceptance and the importance of looking beyond appearances. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Harry and the Hendersons is praised for its heartwarming story and positive messages about acceptance and family. While some scenes may be intense for very young children, the overall tone is comedic and lighthearted. Parents can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the themes of empathy and understanding with their children. For those seeking similar family-friendly films, movies like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial offer comparable themes and tones.
Official Harry and the Hendersons Trailer
Harry and the Hendersons, released in 1987, is a family-friendly comedy that blends elements of adventure and fantasy. As a movie for kids, it offers a lighthearted and humorous take on the unexpected friendship between a family and a Bigfoot. Most parents appreciate its warm-hearted message and comedic moments, though some note that certain scenes might be a bit intense for very young viewers.
Why Kids Should Watch Harry and the Hendersons
The movie is celebrated for its heartwarming story and positive messages.
- Promotes themes of acceptance and understanding.
- The character of Harry, the Bigfoot, is endearing and teaches kindness.
- Visually engaging with its mix of humor and adventure.
- Encourages family bonding and teamwork.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Harry and the Hendersons
Some parents express concerns about a few intense scenes that might be unsettling for younger children.
- Themes of fear and misunderstanding may be challenging.
- Scenes involving hunting and capture could be distressing.
- Some visual effects might be intense for sensitive viewers.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers themes of acceptance, humor, and family values.
What Parents Should Know About Harry and the Hendersons
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the family learns to accept and protect Harry, showing kindness and empathy. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, scenes where Harry is in danger might require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, characters who initially fear Harry learn the importance of understanding and compassion. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the family works together to keep Harry safe, demonstrating teamwork. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The movie delivers a message of acceptance and the importance of looking beyond appearances. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Harry and the Hendersons is praised for its heartwarming story and positive messages about acceptance and family. While some scenes may be intense for very young children, the overall tone is comedic and lighthearted. Parents can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the themes of empathy and understanding with their children. For those seeking similar family-friendly films, movies like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial offer comparable themes and tones.
Official Harry and the Hendersons Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Harry and the Hendersons
Harry and the Hendersons's most common core values include Family love, Acceptance, and Compassion. The movie showcases family Love as the Hendersons embrace an unexpected member into their home, teaching kids the importance of caring for one another, no matter how different they may seem. Acceptance is highlighted as the family learns to see beyond appearances and understand the gentle nature of their new friend, encouraging children to be open-minded and inclusive.
Compassion is evident when the family goes to great lengths to protect their unusual guest, demonstrating the importance of empathy and kindness towards others. These values are woven throughout the story, providing children with clear examples of how to treat others with love and understanding.
Other Core Values Explored: Adaptability | Being a good neighbor | Bravery | Courage | Dealing with fear | Doing the right thing | Empathy | Environmental awareness | Friendship | Helping others | Honesty | Inclusion | Kindness | Loyalty | Making good choices | Open-mindedness | Protecting nature | Respect | Responsibility. | Standing up for what's right | Trust | Valuing diversity
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Harry and the Hendersons
Accepting Differences: Kids learn the importance of accepting differences through the Henderson family's evolving relationship with Bigfoot. Initially, they are frightened by his appearance, but as they spend time with him, they come to appreciate his unique qualities and accept him as part of their family. This teaches children that differences can be embraced and celebrated.
Importance of Family: The movie highlights the importance of family as the Hendersons come together to protect Bigfoot. Their collective efforts to keep him safe demonstrate how family members can support each other in challenging situations, showing kids the strength and unity that comes from family bonds.
Practicing Empathy: Children see the value of empathy as the Hendersons learn to understand and care for Bigfoot despite his unusual appearance. By putting themselves in his shoes, they are able to see past their initial fears and treat him with kindness and compassion, teaching kids the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Choosing Right Over Easy: The Hendersons face a moral dilemma when deciding whether to protect Bigfoot or turn him over to authorities. By choosing to do what is right rather than what is easy, they show kids the importance of standing up for their beliefs and making ethical decisions, even when it's difficult.
Respecting Nature: The movie encourages kids to respect nature through the family's interactions with Bigfoot. By learning to coexist with him and appreciating his place in the natural world, children are taught to value and protect the environment and the creatures that inhabit it.
Other Lessons Learned: Being True to Yourself | Building Friendships | Embracing Unexpected Love | Keeping an Open Mind | Letting Go with Love | Supporting Your Friends | Valuing Deep Connection | Protecting the Environment
Why Kids Love Harry and the Hendersons
In the whimsical world of Harry and the Hendersons, kids are swept into a hilarious adventure filled with funny characters and unexpected friendships. The movie introduces a lovable Bigfoot who quickly becomes part of the Henderson family, bringing chaos and laughter with his silly antics and mishaps. Kids will be thrilled by the giant creature's playful interactions and the family's attempts to keep him hidden from the outside world. The film is a delightful mix of comedy and heart, as the Hendersons navigate the challenges of having a Bigfoot in their home.
With its blend of humor, family bonds, and the excitement of making new friends, Harry and the Hendersons offers a fun and engaging experience that keeps kids entertained. The movie's unique characters and the family's teamwork in protecting their new friend create a captivating story that sparks imagination and joy.