Once Upon a Forest (1993)
Release Date:
1993
Movie Rating:
G
Runtime:
1h 11m

Synopsis:
Once Upon a Forest follows the adventure of three young animals: Abigail, a wood mouse; Edgar, a mole; and Russell, a hedgehog. They live in the peaceful Dapplewood forest, guided by their wise teacher, Cornelius, a badger. When a toxic spill threatens their home and the life of their friend Michelle, a badger, the trio embarks on a journey to find a rare herb that can save her. Along the way, they face various challenges and meet different creatures, all while racing against time to return to Dapplewood with the cure. The movie is a tale of friendship and determination as the young animals navigate the dangers of the forest to help their friend.






Once Upon a Forest, released in 1993, is an animated adventure film aimed at kids, with a G rating. The movie is generally well-received by parents for its charming animation and gentle storytelling, though some feel it lacks the depth of other children's films. It is appreciated for its environmental message and the positive portrayal of friendship and teamwork, making it a pleasant viewing experience for young audiences.
Why Kids Should Watch Once Upon a Forest
The movie is praised for its heartwarming themes and engaging story.
- Promotes environmental awareness and the importance of protecting nature.
- Features a strong friendship between the main characters, showcasing teamwork.
- Colorful animation and cute animal characters appeal to young viewers.
- Offers a gentle adventure that is easy for kids to follow.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Once Upon a Forest
Some parents express concerns about certain intense moments that might be unsettling for very young children.
- Includes scenes of environmental destruction that may be emotionally challenging.
- Some perilous situations might be frightening for sensitive viewers.
- The pacing may be slow for children used to more fast-paced films.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers environmental awareness, strong friendships, and engaging animation.
What Parents Should Know About Once Upon a Forest
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The characters work together to solve problems, demonstrating teamwork and cooperation. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The scenes depicting environmental harm may require parental guidance to explain. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The film clearly shows the negative impact of environmental neglect and pollution. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The characters frequently collaborate and support each other, modeling positive social interactions. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the importance of caring for the environment and working together to overcome challenges. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Once Upon a Forest is celebrated for its positive environmental message and the depiction of friendship and teamwork. While some scenes may be intense for very young viewers, the film's gentle tone and charming animation make it a delightful choice for children. Parents can enhance the experience by discussing the environmental themes and encouraging conversations about nature conservation. For those seeking similar films, titles like "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" may also be enjoyable.
Official Once Upon a Forest Trailer
Once Upon a Forest, released in 1993, is an animated adventure film aimed at kids, with a G rating. The movie is generally well-received by parents for its charming animation and gentle storytelling, though some feel it lacks the depth of other children's films. It is appreciated for its environmental message and the positive portrayal of friendship and teamwork, making it a pleasant viewing experience for young audiences.
Why Kids Should Watch Once Upon a Forest
The movie is praised for its heartwarming themes and engaging story.
- Promotes environmental awareness and the importance of protecting nature.
- Features a strong friendship between the main characters, showcasing teamwork.
- Colorful animation and cute animal characters appeal to young viewers.
- Offers a gentle adventure that is easy for kids to follow.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Once Upon a Forest
Some parents express concerns about certain intense moments that might be unsettling for very young children.
- Includes scenes of environmental destruction that may be emotionally challenging.
- Some perilous situations might be frightening for sensitive viewers.
- The pacing may be slow for children used to more fast-paced films.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers environmental awareness, strong friendships, and engaging animation.
What Parents Should Know About Once Upon a Forest
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The characters work together to solve problems, demonstrating teamwork and cooperation. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The scenes depicting environmental harm may require parental guidance to explain. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The film clearly shows the negative impact of environmental neglect and pollution. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The characters frequently collaborate and support each other, modeling positive social interactions. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the importance of caring for the environment and working together to overcome challenges. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Once Upon a Forest is celebrated for its positive environmental message and the depiction of friendship and teamwork. While some scenes may be intense for very young viewers, the film's gentle tone and charming animation make it a delightful choice for children. Parents can enhance the experience by discussing the environmental themes and encouraging conversations about nature conservation. For those seeking similar films, titles like "FernGully: The Last Rainforest" may also be enjoyable.
Official Once Upon a Forest Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Once Upon a Forest
Once Upon a Forest's most common core values include Environmental awareness, Friendship, and Courage. The movie teaches kids about environmental awareness by showing the impact of pollution on the forest and its inhabitants, encouraging children to care for nature. Friendship is highlighted through the bond between the main characters as they work together to help a friend in need, demonstrating the importance of supporting one another.
Courage is showcased as the young animals face various dangers on their journey, teaching kids the value of bravery in overcoming challenges. For example, the characters must bravely navigate through unfamiliar and sometimes frightening environments to find a solution to their problem, illustrating how courage can lead to positive outcomes.
Other Core Values Explored: Teamwork | Problem-solving | Protecting nature | Compassion | Determination | Helping others | Resilience | Bravery | Caring for others
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Once Upon a Forest
Protecting the Environment: Kids learn the importance of protecting nature as the young animals work together to save their forest home from a toxic spill. The movie shows how their actions can make a difference in preserving the environment for themselves and future generations.
Facing Fears Head-On: Children see how courage and determination are essential when the characters bravely navigate dangers to help their friend. The story encourages kids to face their fears and challenges with bravery and resilience.
Supporting Your Friends: The movie highlights the value of friendship as the animals put their friend's needs above their own. Kids understand the importance of being there for their friends in times of need and offering support and care.
Practicing Empathy: Through their journey, the characters demonstrate compassion and empathy by understanding and responding to the needs of others. This teaches children the significance of being kind and considerate to those around them.
Working as a Team: The story showcases teamwork and problem-solving when the characters face challenges on their journey. Kids learn that working together and combining their strengths can help overcome obstacles and achieve common goals.
Other Lessons Learned: Valuing Deep Connection
Why Kids Love Once Upon a Forest
Once Upon a Forest is a captivating journey where kids are transported to the enchanting world of Dapplewood, filled with adorable animal friends and exciting adventures. The trio of young animals—Abigail, Edgar, and Russell—embark on a thrilling quest to save their home, showcasing bravery and clever problem-solving. Along the way, they encounter fascinating creatures and explore the wonders of nature, sparking curiosity and excitement. The movie is a whirlwind of action as the animals race against time, using teamwork and courage to overcome obstacles.
Kids will be drawn to the heartwarming friendships and the fun of making new allies in unexpected places. The vibrant forest setting and the lovable characters create a magical atmosphere that keeps young viewers engaged. With its mix of adventure, humor, and charming animal antics, Once Upon a Forest is an exciting experience that captures the imagination and keeps kids entertained throughout the journey.