Pom Poko (1994)
Release Date:
1994
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 59m
Synopsis:
In Pom Poko, a group of shape-shifting raccoons in Japan face a crisis as urban development threatens their forest home. These raccoons, known as tanuki, use their magical abilities to transform into humans and other objects to try and stop the construction. As the city expands, the tanuki struggle to adapt and find ways to coexist with humans. They engage in various tactics, from playful pranks to more serious efforts, to protect their habitat. The tanuki community is led by several wise elders who guide them in their quest. As the story unfolds, the tanuki must decide how far they are willing to go to save their home and what sacrifices they are prepared to make. The film blends humor and adventure, showcasing the tanuki's creativity and determination in the face of change.
Pom Poko, released in 1994, is an animated fantasy film that blends elements of comedy and drama, making it a unique choice for kids. The movie is generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its imaginative storytelling and environmental themes, though some are cautious about its more intense scenes. Overall, it offers a mix of humor and thought-provoking content that engages young audiences while sparking conversations about nature and community.
Why Kids Should Watch Pom Poko
Pom Poko is praised for its creative storytelling and meaningful messages.
- Promotes environmental awareness and the importance of preserving nature.
- Features a memorable scene where the tanuki work together to protect their home.
- Offers visually stunning animation that captivates young viewers.
- Encourages empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Pom Poko
Some parents express concerns about the film's intense and complex themes.
- Contains emotional moments that may be challenging for younger children.
- Includes scenes of conflict and transformation that might be unsettling.
- The narrative can be complex and may confuse younger audiences.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its intense themes and complex narrative.
What Parents Should Know About Pom Poko
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The tanuki demonstrate teamwork and perseverance in their efforts to save their habitat. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film explores themes of loss and change, which may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the film shows the consequences of environmental destruction and the impact on wildlife. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The tanuki work together and support each other, highlighting the value of community. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the importance of environmental conservation and respecting nature. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Pom Poko is celebrated for its imaginative animation and strong environmental message, making it a valuable watch for children interested in nature and community. While some parents appreciate its depth, others caution that its complex themes may require discussion. Engaging with your child during or after the movie can enhance understanding and enjoyment. For those seeking similar content, films like "My Neighbor Totoro" offer a gentler approach to environmental themes.
Official Pom Poko Trailer
Pom Poko, released in 1994, is an animated fantasy film that blends elements of comedy and drama, making it a unique choice for kids. The movie is generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its imaginative storytelling and environmental themes, though some are cautious about its more intense scenes. Overall, it offers a mix of humor and thought-provoking content that engages young audiences while sparking conversations about nature and community.
Why Kids Should Watch Pom Poko
Pom Poko is praised for its creative storytelling and meaningful messages.
- Promotes environmental awareness and the importance of preserving nature.
- Features a memorable scene where the tanuki work together to protect their home.
- Offers visually stunning animation that captivates young viewers.
- Encourages empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Pom Poko
Some parents express concerns about the film's intense and complex themes.
- Contains emotional moments that may be challenging for younger children.
- Includes scenes of conflict and transformation that might be unsettling.
- The narrative can be complex and may confuse younger audiences.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its intense themes and complex narrative.
What Parents Should Know About Pom Poko
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The tanuki demonstrate teamwork and perseverance in their efforts to save their habitat. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film explores themes of loss and change, which may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the film shows the consequences of environmental destruction and the impact on wildlife. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The tanuki work together and support each other, highlighting the value of community. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is the importance of environmental conservation and respecting nature. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Pom Poko is celebrated for its imaginative animation and strong environmental message, making it a valuable watch for children interested in nature and community. While some parents appreciate its depth, others caution that its complex themes may require discussion. Engaging with your child during or after the movie can enhance understanding and enjoyment. For those seeking similar content, films like "My Neighbor Totoro" offer a gentler approach to environmental themes.
Official Pom Poko Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Pom Poko
Pom Poko's most common core values include Environmental awareness, Teamwork, and Creativity. The movie showcases environmental awareness as the tanuki strive to protect their forest home from urban development, teaching kids the importance of preserving nature.
Teamwork is highlighted as the tanuki work together, combining their unique abilities to devise plans to save their habitat, showing children the power of collaboration. Creativity is evident in the tanuki's imaginative tactics, using their shape-shifting skills to adapt to challenges and find innovative solutions, encouraging kids to think outside the box when faced with obstacles.
Other Core Values Explored: Protecting nature | Resilience | Adaptability | Courage | Conflict resolution | Determination | Community | Respect | Standing up for what's right
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Pom Poko
Protecting the Environment: In Pom Poko, kids learn the importance of protecting the environment as the tanuki work tirelessly to save their forest home from urban development. Their creative efforts to halt construction highlight the need for environmental awareness and action.
Working as a Team: The tanuki demonstrate the power of teamwork as they come together to face the challenges posed by the expanding city. Children see how collaboration and unity can lead to effective solutions, even in difficult situations.
Respecting Nature: The film teaches kids to respect nature by showing the tanuki's deep connection to their forest. Their determination to preserve their habitat emphasizes the value of living in harmony with the natural world.
Facing Fears Head-On: The tanuki face numerous fears as they confront the threat to their home. Children learn the importance of courage and bravery when dealing with daunting challenges, encouraging them to tackle their own fears.
Valuing Deep Connection: The strong bonds among the tanuki highlight the importance of valuing deep connections with others. Kids see how these relationships provide strength and support in times of adversity.
Other Lessons Learned: Embracing Differences | Holding Onto Hope | Practicing Empathy | Bridging Divides
Why Kids Love Pom Poko
Pom Poko is a whimsical adventure where kids are transported to a magical forest filled with shape-shifting raccoons known as tanuki. These clever creatures use their enchanting abilities to transform into humans and other objects, creating a world of wonder and surprise. The movie is brimming with playful antics and imaginative transformations that captivate young audiences. As the tanuki embark on epic quests to protect their home, kids are drawn into their exciting escapades and the vibrant hidden kingdom they inhabit.
The film's colorful characters and their hilarious pranks add a layer of fun and excitement, while the tanuki's determination to save the day showcases the power of teamwork and friendship. With its mix of humor, adventure, and magical elements, Pom Poko offers a delightful experience that keeps kids entertained and eager to see what happens next.