Little Manhattan (2005)
Synopsis:
Little Manhattan is a charming tale set in New York City, where 10-year-old Gabe discovers the complexities of first love. Gabe lives with his parents, who are going through a separation, and spends his days exploring the city. His world takes a turn when he meets Rosemary, a classmate from karate class. As they spend more time together, Gabe finds himself navigating the ups and downs of his newfound feelings. The story follows Gabe's adventures and misadventures as he tries to understand his emotions and the world around him. With the backdrop of the bustling city, Gabe's journey is filled with humor and innocence, capturing the essence of young love.
Where To Watch: Little Manhattan
Parental Feedback
Little Manhattan, released in 2005, is a romantic comedy for kids that captures the innocence and excitement of first love. The film is generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its charming portrayal of young romance and the relatable experiences of childhood crushes. With a PG rating, it is considered suitable for children under 13, offering a light-hearted and heartwarming story that most families enjoy.
Why Kids Should Watch Little Manhattan
Little Manhattan is praised for its delightful depiction of young love and the positive messages it conveys.
- Encourages empathy and understanding in relationships.
- Features a strong, relatable protagonist who navigates the challenges of a first crush.
- Offers visually appealing scenes of New York City that captivate young viewers.
- Highlights the importance of friendship and family support.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Little Manhattan
Some parents express concerns about the emotional complexity of the film's themes.
- Explores themes of heartbreak that may be emotionally challenging for younger children.
- Includes scenes where the protagonist experiences frustration and disappointment.
- Some moments may be confusing for children who are not familiar with romantic relationships.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers relatable themes, positive character development, and a charming portrayal of first love.
What Parents Should Know About Little Manhattan
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The protagonist shows kindness and respect towards his crush, modeling positive relationship behavior. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film includes moments of heartbreak and disappointment that may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The protagonist learns from his mistakes and grows as a result, showing clear cause-and-effect. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of communication and understanding in friendships. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the value of empathy and the importance of being true to oneself. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Little Manhattan is celebrated for its heartwarming story and positive portrayal of young love. While some parents note the emotional depth may be challenging for very young viewers, the film's strengths in character development and relatable themes make it a worthwhile watch. Parental involvement can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the emotions and themes presented. For families seeking similar content, movies like "The Sandlot" or "Bridge to Terabithia" may also be enjoyable options.
Official Little Manhattan Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Little Manhattan
Little Manhattan's most common core values include Love, Self-discovery, and Emotional growth. The movie beautifully captures the innocence and excitement of first love as Gabe, a young boy, experiences his first crush on Rosemary. This budding romance allows children to see how love can be both thrilling and challenging. Through Gabe's journey, kids learn about self-discovery as he navigates his feelings and begins to understand more about himself and his emotions.
The film also emphasizes emotional growth, as Gabe learns to deal with the complexities of relationships and the changes in his family life. For example, Gabe's interactions with Rosemary and his parents help him mature and gain a deeper understanding of the world around him, showcasing how children can grow emotionally through personal experiences.
Other Core Values Explored: Friendship | Courage | Perseverance | Respect | Family love | Being yourself | Making friends
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Little Manhattan
Being True to Yourself: In Little Manhattan, Gabe learns the importance of being true to himself as he navigates his first crush. Despite the pressure to act a certain way to impress Rosemary, Gabe discovers that being genuine and honest about his feelings is the best approach. This lesson teaches kids that staying true to who they are is more important than trying to fit in or be someone they're not.
Building Friendships: The movie highlights the value of building friendships through Gabe's interactions with Rosemary and his other friends. As Gabe spends time with Rosemary, he learns that friendship is the foundation of any relationship. This lesson encourages children to appreciate and nurture their friendships, understanding that they are essential for emotional support and growth.
Coping with Change: Gabe's experience with his parents' separation teaches him how to cope with change. As he adjusts to the new dynamics at home, he learns to accept the situation and find comfort in the things that remain constant, like his love for exploring the city. This lesson helps kids understand that change is a part of life and that they can adapt and find stability even in uncertain times.
Embracing Unexpected Love: Gabe's unexpected feelings for Rosemary show children that love can come when you least expect it. As he navigates these new emotions, he learns to embrace them rather than shy away. This lesson encourages kids to be open to new experiences and emotions, understanding that they can lead to personal growth and happiness.
Learning from Mistakes: Throughout the movie, Gabe makes several mistakes as he tries to understand his feelings and relationships. Each mistake becomes a learning opportunity, teaching him valuable lessons about communication and empathy. This lesson shows children that making mistakes is a natural part of growing up and that they can learn and improve from these experiences.
Other Lessons Learned: Accepting Fear | Accepting Life’s Endings | Appreciating the Little Things | Being Honest | Choosing Forgiveness | Enjoying the Journey | Finding Courage | Growing Through Discomfort | Letting Go with Love | Practicing Empathy | Supporting Your Friends | Treasuring Time with Loved Ones
Why Kids Love Little Manhattan
Little Manhattan is a delightful journey through the bustling streets of New York City, where kids are drawn into the adventures of Gabe, a curious and mischievous 10-year-old. The movie is filled with relatable sibling dynamics and the excitement of making new friends, as Gabe navigates the ups and downs of his first crush on Rosemary. Kids will enjoy the humorous and awkward situations Gabe finds himself in, as he tries to stand out and be unique in a world that feels so big. The unexpected friendships and family bonds add warmth and charm, making every moment feel special.
As Gabe explores the city, the vibrant backdrop becomes a playground of discovery and fun, capturing the essence of growing up. With its mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, Little Manhattan is a captivating experience that keeps kids entertained and engaged, as they see themselves in Gabe's shoes, exploring the wonders of childhood and first love.