Song of the Sea (2014)
Synopsis:
Song of the Sea follows the journey of a young boy named Ben and his little sister Saoirse, who is a selkie—a mythical creature that can transform from human to seal. After the loss of their mother, the siblings live with their father in a lighthouse. When Saoirse discovers a magical shell flute, it sets off a series of events that lead them on an adventure to save the spirit world. Along the way, they encounter various creatures from Irish folklore, including fairies and an owl witch. As they navigate through these mystical lands, Ben and Saoirse must work together to uncover the secrets of their family and the magical world around them. Their quest is filled with challenges and discoveries, all while racing against time to restore balance to the world.
Where To Watch: Song of the Sea
Parental Feedback
Song of the Sea, released in 2014, is an enchanting animated fantasy film for kids that beautifully blends Irish folklore with a heartfelt family story. The movie is praised for its stunning hand-drawn animation and emotional depth, capturing the imagination of children and adults alike. Most parents appreciate its artistic storytelling and gentle exploration of themes like loss and healing, making it a beloved choice for family viewing.
Why Kids Should Watch Song of the Sea
Song of the Sea is celebrated for its captivating storytelling and positive messages.
- Promotes themes of family, love, and understanding.
- Features a strong sibling bond between the main characters, Ben and Saoirse.
- Offers visually stunning animation that captivates young audiences.
- Encourages appreciation for cultural folklore and mythology.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Song of the Sea
Some parents express concerns about the film's emotional intensity and complex themes.
- Explores themes of loss and grief that may be challenging for younger viewers.
- Contains scenes with mild peril that might be unsettling for sensitive children.
- The narrative's depth and symbolism could be confusing for very young kids.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers beautiful animation, a touching story, and valuable life lessons.
What Parents Should Know About Song of the Sea
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the film highlights the importance of family bonds and understanding others' feelings. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, themes of loss and the mother's absence may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, Ben learns from his initial resentment towards Saoirse and grows to protect her. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, Ben and Saoirse work together to overcome challenges, showcasing teamwork. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The film delivers a message about the healing power of love and understanding through its plot. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Song of the Sea is widely praised for its artistic beauty and emotional storytelling, making it a favorite among families. While some themes may require parental discussion, the film's positive messages and cultural richness offer a rewarding viewing experience. Parents can enhance the experience by discussing the folklore elements and emotional themes with their children. For those who enjoy this style, similar films like The Secret of Kells are also recommended.
Official Song of the Sea Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Song of the Sea
Song of the Sea's most common core values include Family love, Courage, and Empathy. The movie beautifully showcases family Love through the bond between Ben and his sister Saoirse, as they navigate their Magical journey together. Their relationship highlights the importance of Being a good sibling and Appreciating family, even when faced with challenges.
Courage is another key value, as Ben must overcome his fears to protect his sister and uncover the secrets of their family. This bravery is evident when he faces mystical creatures and daunting obstacles, teaching kids the importance of standing up for loved ones. Empathy is woven throughout the story, as characters learn to understand and care for one another, even those who seem different or misunderstood. This is shown when Ben and Saoirse encounter various magical beings, encouraging children to embrace compassion and kindness.
Other Core Values Explored: Appreciating family | Being a good sibling | Emotional growth | Self-discovery | Protecting nature | Respect | Resilience | Imagination | Love | Perseverance | Trust | Compassion | Dealing with loss | Environmental awareness | Helping others | Kindness | Loyalty | Self-expression | Standing up for others | Valuing diversity
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Song of the Sea
Accepting Your Identity: In Song of the Sea, children learn the importance of accepting who they are through Saoirse's journey as a selkie. Her discovery of her true nature teaches kids that embracing their unique qualities is essential for personal growth and happiness.
Embracing Differences: The movie highlights the beauty of diversity through the interactions between human and magical creatures. Kids see how understanding and appreciating differences can lead to meaningful friendships and a richer world.
Importance of Family: The bond between Ben and Saoirse underscores the significance of family. Their adventure shows children that family support and love are crucial, especially during challenging times.
Letting Go of the Past: Through the characters' experiences, kids learn that holding onto past grievances can hinder personal growth. The story encourages letting go of past hurts to move forward and find peace.
Valuing Deep Connection: The deep connection between the siblings and their magical friends teaches children the value of forming strong, meaningful relationships. These connections provide support and strength in times of need.
Other Lessons Learned: Protecting the Environment | Supporting Your Friends
Why Kids Love Song of the Sea
Song of the Sea invites kids into a magical world where mythical creatures and enchanting landscapes come to life. The adventure begins with Ben and his sister Saoirse, who discover a hidden realm filled with talking animals and vibrant, colorful worlds. Kids will be captivated by the epic quests and the mysterious hidden kingdoms they explore. The movie is a visual feast, with bright, colorful scenes that spark the imagination.
As Ben and Saoirse encounter magical mentors and make new friends, children will be drawn to the exciting journey and the unique characters they meet along the way. The bond between the siblings and their pet friendships add warmth and humor, making the story both thrilling and heartwarming. With its mix of magic, adventure, and the charm of Irish folklore, Song of the Sea is a mesmerizing experience that keeps kids engaged and entertained throughout their journey.