The BFG (2016)
Synopsis:
A young orphan girl named Sophie encounters a benevolent giant who whisks her away to Giant Country, a mysterious realm inhabited by enormous beings. Unlike his fellow giants who terrorize and consume humans, the Big Friendly Giant is kind-hearted and gentle. Together, Sophie and the BFG form an unlikely friendship as they face a dangerous threat: man-eating giants who are invading the human world. To stop these menacing creatures, the pair must devise a plan that leads them to seek help from the Queen herself. This fantastical adventure takes viewers through a world far more giant than they could imagine, blending wonder and peril as Sophie and her towering friend work to protect humanity from the fearsome giants threatening to wreak havoc across both their worlds.
Where To Watch: The BFG
Parental Feedback
The BFG offers a gentle, whimsical adventure that balances moments of wonder with occasional tension as friendly and menacing giants share the screen. Parents should expect a slower, more contemplative pace typical of fantasy storytelling, with humor rooted in wordplay and imaginative visuals rather than rapid-fire jokes. The story explores themes of friendship, bravery, and standing up to bullies, with some scenes involving man-eating giants that may feel intense for very young or sensitive viewers.
Why Kids Should Watch The BFG
This fantasy adventure provides several enriching experiences that can spark imagination and meaningful conversations.
The story celebrates the power of unlikely friendships, showing how an orphan girl and a gentle giant form a bond built on kindness and mutual respect. Their relationship demonstrates that true friendship transcends differences in size, background, and circumstance.
The imaginative world-building encourages creativity, from the BFG's dream-catching activities to his playful invented language. Children are invited into a realm where dreams are tangible and magic feels both wondrous and purposeful.
The narrative reinforces courage and problem-solving, as the young protagonist takes initiative to protect both her new friend and the human world. Her resourcefulness and determination provide a positive example of how even small individuals can make a significant difference.
The production values bring Roald Dahl's beloved story to life with stunning visuals and thoughtful performances. The combination of fantasy elements and heartfelt moments creates an engaging experience that families can enjoy together.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch The BFG
Despite its family-friendly rating, certain elements may warrant consideration before viewing with younger children.
The presence of man-eating giants who invade the human world introduces threatening characters and concepts that could frighten sensitive viewers. While not graphically depicted, the idea of giants consuming humans is central to the conflict and discussed throughout.
The pacing may challenge children accustomed to faster-moving entertainment, as the story takes time to develop its world and relationships. Some younger viewers might find their attention wandering during quieter, more contemplative sequences.
Certain scenes involve peril and suspense as characters face danger from the larger, hostile giants. The size difference and power imbalance between the friendly BFG and his aggressive counterparts creates tension that could be unsettling for very young audiences.
Verdict: Parent Approved
The BFG earns approval as a thoughtful fantasy adventure that offers imagination and heart alongside its PG-rated challenges, making it suitable for most families with children ready for mild fantasy peril.
What Parents Should Know About The BFG
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the story models courage, loyalty, kindness to those who are different, and standing up against bullying behavior. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, themes of loneliness, being an orphan, and facing threatening giants may resonate emotionally with some children. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the man-eating giants face consequences for their harmful actions when the protagonists devise a plan to stop them. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the story emphasizes teamwork and collaboration as the main characters work together to solve problems and protect others. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, children will understand messages about accepting those who are different, the importance of bravery, and how friendship can overcome fear. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate The BFG as a visually stunning adaptation that stays true to the spirit of Roald Dahl's beloved book while offering quality family entertainment. Many note that the film works best for children aged seven and up who can handle mild fantasy peril and appreciate slower-paced storytelling. The whimsical language and dream sequences delight some families, though others mention that younger children may need reassurance during scenes involving the threatening giants. Overall, parents value the positive messages about friendship and courage, finding it a worthwhile choice for families seeking imaginative adventures with heart and substance that can prompt meaningful post-viewing discussions.
Official The BFG Trailer
Why Kids Love The BFG
The BFG whisks Sophie away to Giant Country, a bright and colorful world filled with towering landscapes and magical surprises. Kids love watching this gentle giant navigate his enormous home while dodging the much scarier man-eating giants like Fleshlumpeater and Bloodbottler, creating plenty of fast-paced chases and narrow escapes.
Sophie proves she's a brave hero and smart problem-solver when she teams up with the BFG to stop the dangerous giants from invading the human world. Their unexpected friendship leads to silly jokes and funny moments as the tiny orphan and the enormous giant work together, showing that teamwork wins even against the biggest threats.
The adventure kicks into high gear when Sophie and the BFG bring their problem straight to The Queen herself. Kids get a kick out of watching this unlikely duo stand up for others and help save the day, proving that being unique and different can be your greatest strength when you're trying to be the hero.
From the BFG's funny way of speaking to the chaotic encounters with the other giants, every scene delivers action-packed excitement. Sophie's courage in Giant Country shows kids that even the smallest person can make the biggest difference when helping someone in need.