Slam Dunk Ernest (1995)
Release Date:
1995
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 33m
Synopsis:
In Slam Dunk Ernest, Ernest P. Worrell finds himself in the world of basketball when he joins a local team. Despite his lack of skills, Ernest's enthusiasm is unmatched. His luck changes when he receives a pair of magical sneakers that give him incredible basketball abilities. With his newfound talent, Ernest becomes the star player, leading his team to unexpected victories. However, the magic sneakers also bring challenges and unexpected situations. As Ernest navigates his new role, he encounters a series of comedic and adventurous events on and off the court. The movie follows Ernest's journey as he tries to balance his regular life with his sudden rise in the basketball world, all while keeping his friends and teammates close.
"Slam Dunk Ernest" is a family comedy released in 1995, featuring the beloved character Ernest P. Worrell. This movie is rated PG, making it suitable for kids, and it combines elements of sports and humor to deliver a lighthearted story. Parents generally have mixed feelings about the film, with some appreciating its comedic approach and others noting its simplistic plot. The movie's tone is playful and silly, appealing to children who enjoy slapstick humor and underdog stories.
Why Kids Should Watch Slam Dunk Ernest
The movie offers a fun and entertaining experience with positive messages about perseverance and believing in oneself.
- Promotes the value of teamwork and determination.
- Features a memorable scene where Ernest gains confidence through magical basketball shoes.
- Includes humorous and exaggerated physical comedy that kids find amusing.
- Highlights the importance of friendship and supporting one another.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Slam Dunk Ernest
Some parents express concerns about the film's reliance on slapstick humor and lack of depth.
- May present an oversimplified view of achieving success through magical means.
- Contains scenes where Ernest's clumsiness leads to chaotic situations that might be seen as promoting carelessness.
- The plot can be predictable and lacks complexity, which might not engage older children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its simplistic plot and reliance on slapstick humor.
What Parents Should Know About Slam Dunk Ernest
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Ernest learns the importance of teamwork and supporting his friends, which is a positive message for children. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film's magical elements and Ernest's initial failures might require some parental guidance to explain perseverance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Ernest's clumsiness often leads to humorous consequences, showing that actions have results, even if exaggerated. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The storyline emphasizes teamwork and the importance of supporting friends, especially in sports settings. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about believing in oneself and the power of teamwork, delivered through Ernest's journey. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
"Slam Dunk Ernest" is appreciated for its humor and positive messages about teamwork and self-belief. However, its reliance on slapstick comedy and a simplistic plot may not appeal to all parents. Engaging with children during the movie can help reinforce its positive themes and address any confusion about the magical elements. For families seeking similar content, other Ernest films or sports comedies like "Space Jam" might be enjoyable alternatives.
Official Slam Dunk Ernest Trailer
"Slam Dunk Ernest" is a family comedy released in 1995, featuring the beloved character Ernest P. Worrell. This movie is rated PG, making it suitable for kids, and it combines elements of sports and humor to deliver a lighthearted story. Parents generally have mixed feelings about the film, with some appreciating its comedic approach and others noting its simplistic plot. The movie's tone is playful and silly, appealing to children who enjoy slapstick humor and underdog stories.
Why Kids Should Watch Slam Dunk Ernest
The movie offers a fun and entertaining experience with positive messages about perseverance and believing in oneself.
- Promotes the value of teamwork and determination.
- Features a memorable scene where Ernest gains confidence through magical basketball shoes.
- Includes humorous and exaggerated physical comedy that kids find amusing.
- Highlights the importance of friendship and supporting one another.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Slam Dunk Ernest
Some parents express concerns about the film's reliance on slapstick humor and lack of depth.
- May present an oversimplified view of achieving success through magical means.
- Contains scenes where Ernest's clumsiness leads to chaotic situations that might be seen as promoting carelessness.
- The plot can be predictable and lacks complexity, which might not engage older children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its simplistic plot and reliance on slapstick humor.
What Parents Should Know About Slam Dunk Ernest
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Ernest learns the importance of teamwork and supporting his friends, which is a positive message for children. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film's magical elements and Ernest's initial failures might require some parental guidance to explain perseverance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Ernest's clumsiness often leads to humorous consequences, showing that actions have results, even if exaggerated. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The storyline emphasizes teamwork and the importance of supporting friends, especially in sports settings. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about believing in oneself and the power of teamwork, delivered through Ernest's journey. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
"Slam Dunk Ernest" is appreciated for its humor and positive messages about teamwork and self-belief. However, its reliance on slapstick comedy and a simplistic plot may not appeal to all parents. Engaging with children during the movie can help reinforce its positive themes and address any confusion about the magical elements. For families seeking similar content, other Ernest films or sports comedies like "Space Jam" might be enjoyable alternatives.
Official Slam Dunk Ernest Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Slam Dunk Ernest
Slam Dunk Ernest's most common core values include Teamwork, Determination, and Friendship. Kids will see teamwork in action as Ernest joins a local basketball team and learns how important it is to work together with his teammates. Determination shines through when Ernest, despite his lack of initial skills, doesn't give up and keeps trying to improve his game. Friendship plays a big role as Ernest's pals stick by him, helping him navigate his sudden rise in the basketball world.
One of the standout moments in the movie shows teamwork when Ernest, with his magical sneakers, tries to win a big game. Instead of relying only on his new abilities, he learns to trust his teammates and passes the ball, leading to an important win. Determination is clear when Ernest practices tirelessly, pushing through his difficulties to better understand the game. Friendship is highlighted when his friends offer support and advice, showing that having a good group around you can make a big difference.
Other Core Values Explored: Self-confidence | Perseverance | Making good choices | Encouraging others | Building confidence.
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Slam Dunk Ernest
Believing in Yourself: Ernest's journey in basketball starts with his own belief in his potential, even when faced with challenges and a lack of initial skill.
Supporting Your Friends: Throughout the movie, Ernest's friends stand by him, offering support and advice, which helps him navigate both the game and life.
Working as a Team: Ernest learns that basketball is a team sport; once he starts to trust and cooperate with his teammates, they achieve greater victories together.
Earning Success through Hard Work: Despite the advantage of magical sneakers, Ernest invests time and effort into improving his basketball skills, demonstrating that success still requires dedication.
Never Giving Up: Ernest's determination never wavers, even when the challenges mount, proving that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Other Lessons Learned: Self-confidence | Perseverance | Making good choices | Encouraging others | Building confidence
Why Kids Love Slam Dunk Ernest
Slam Dunk Ernest is a comedic basketball adventure that has kids grinning from ear to ear. Ernest P. Worrell, a lovable goof, suddenly finds himself in the spotlight when he stumbles upon a pair of magical sneakers. These sneakers turn his ordinary dribbles into dazzling slam dunks, turning the basketball court into a stage for hilarious hijinks and gravity-defying stunts. Watching Ernest soar through the air, oblivious to his own clumsiness, keeps kids laughing out loud. From wild slam dunks to laugh-out-loud attempts at staying upright, the slapstick comedy and outrageous situations make every match a bouncing ball of fun. With every game, Ernest’s unpredictable antics become the talk of the town, and kids can't wait to see what he'll do next on the court.
But it's not just about the basketball action — Ernest’s life zips between the court and unpredictable off-the-court moments, where surprises pop up around every corner. Kids are thrilled by how Ernest, with his newfound abilities, encounters unexpected friendships and crazy scenarios that make everyday life a whirlwind of entertaining chaos. Whether he's trying to be the hero or navigating awkward situations, his quirky adventures inspire big laughs and unexpected teamwork. Kids love the zany stunts and the way Ernest manages to stand out in the most unique (and often embarrassing) ways. With each hilarious turnover and unbelievable feat, there's never a dull moment, captivating kids and keeping the giggles coming throughout the movie.