Hoot (2006)
Synopsis:
Hoot follows a young boy named Roy Eberhardt who moves to Florida and discovers a group of endangered burrowing owls on a construction site. Roy teams up with two local kids, Beatrice and her stepbrother Mullet Fingers, to protect the owls from the developers who want to build a pancake house on the land. As they work together, the trio devises clever plans to disrupt the construction and draw attention to the owls' plight. Along the way, they face challenges from the construction foreman and a bumbling police officer. The kids' determination and resourcefulness lead to a series of adventures as they try to save the owls and their habitat.
Where To Watch: Hoot
Parental Feedback
Hoot, released in 2006, is a family-friendly adventure and comedy film rated PG, making it suitable for kids. The movie is generally well-received by parents for its environmental message and light-hearted tone, though some feel it could have been more engaging. It offers a mix of humor and heart, appealing to children and families who enjoy stories about friendship and standing up for a cause.
Why Kids Should Watch Hoot
Hoot is praised for its positive messages and engaging storyline.
- Promotes environmental awareness and activism
- Features a strong, relatable protagonist who stands up for what is right
- Offers colorful and engaging visuals that capture the beauty of nature
- Encourages teamwork and friendship
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Hoot
Some parents express concerns about certain elements that may not resonate well with all children.
- May present complex environmental issues that require further explanation
- Includes scenes of mild conflict that could be unsettling for sensitive viewers
- Some plot points might be confusing for younger audiences
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its pacing and depth of engagement.
What Parents Should Know About Hoot
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The main characters work together to protect a group of endangered owls, demonstrating teamwork and advocacy. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The theme of environmental destruction may require parental guidance to explain its real-world implications. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who engage in harmful actions face consequences, reinforcing the importance of doing the right thing. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of teamwork and standing up for friends and causes. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the importance of protecting the environment and standing up for what is right. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Hoot is appreciated for its environmental message and the way it encourages kids to think about their impact on the world. While some parents feel the movie could be more engaging, its strengths lie in its positive themes and the portrayal of young characters taking action. Parental involvement can enhance understanding, especially regarding the environmental issues presented. For families seeking similar themes, movies like "Free Willy" or "The Lorax" might also be enjoyable.
Official Hoot Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Hoot
Hoot's most common core values include Environmental awareness, Protecting nature, and Friendship. The movie showcases environmental awareness by highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats, as the young characters work tirelessly to save a group of endangered owls. Protecting nature is a central theme, demonstrated through the kids' creative efforts to halt construction that threatens the owls' home.
Friendship is also a key value, as the bond between the main characters grows stronger through their shared mission. Their teamwork and mutual support illustrate how friendships can be a powerful force for change. For example, the kids' collaboration in devising plans to protect the owls shows how working together can achieve great things.
Other Core Values Explored: Courage | Standing up for what's right | Teamwork | Determination | Empathy | Problem-solving | Responsibility. | Respect | Bravery
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Hoot
Protecting the Environment: Kids learn the importance of protecting the environment as they see the characters work tirelessly to save the burrowing owls' habitat. The movie shows how even small actions can make a big difference in preserving nature.
Standing Up for Others: Children witness the power of standing up for others when the main characters defend the owls against the developers. This teaches kids the value of courage and advocacy for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Building Friendships: The story highlights the development of strong friendships as the characters come together with a common goal. Kids see how teamwork and trust can lead to meaningful connections and successful outcomes.
Doing What’s Right: The characters consistently choose to do what’s right, even when it’s difficult. This lesson encourages children to follow their conscience and make ethical decisions, regardless of the challenges they face.
Solving Problems Creatively: Kids are inspired by the creative problem-solving skills displayed by the characters. The movie demonstrates how thinking outside the box can lead to innovative solutions and positive change.
Other Lessons Learned: Embracing Differences | Practicing Empathy | Supporting Your Friends | Valuing Deep Connection
Why Kids Love Hoot
Hoot is an exciting adventure that takes kids into the wild world of Florida, where they join Roy, Beatrice, and Mullet Fingers on a mission to save adorable burrowing owls. The movie is filled with clever tricks and daring escapades as the kids outsmart adults and tackle challenges head-on. With a mix of mischievous antics and smart problem-solving, they create a whirlwind of fun and excitement. The trio's bond grows stronger as they explore nature and uncover secrets, making new friends along the way. Animal lovers will be thrilled by the cute and quirky owls, while the teamwork and unexpected friendships keep the story lively and engaging.
The kids' determination to stand up for the owls adds a layer of excitement, as they prove themselves to be true heroes. With its blend of humor, adventure, and heart, Hoot is a captivating journey that keeps kids entertained and rooting for the underdogs.