The Polar Express (2004)
Synopsis:
The Polar Express follows a young boy who embarks on an extraordinary train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. As the train makes its way through snowy landscapes, the boy meets other children, including a know-it-all kid and a shy girl, each with their own unique personalities. The conductor, a mysterious and authoritative figure, guides them on their adventure. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and magical experiences, such as a visit to the train's engine room and a thrilling ride on the train's roof. The journey culminates in a visit to Santa's workshop, where the children witness the preparations for Christmas. The boy's adventure on the Polar Express is filled with wonder and excitement, capturing the spirit of the holiday season.
Where To Watch: The Polar Express
Parental Feedback
The Polar Express, released in 2004, is an animated adventure film that falls under the genres of fantasy and family. As a movie rated G, it is designed for kids and is generally well-received by parents for its heartwarming story and impressive animation. The film's magical and festive tone, combined with its themes of belief and wonder, resonates with both children and adults, making it a beloved holiday classic.
Why Kids Should Watch The Polar Express
The Polar Express is celebrated for its enchanting storytelling and positive messages.
- Encourages belief in oneself and the magic of the holiday season
- Features a strong character arc where the protagonist learns the value of faith and friendship
- Visually captivating with its detailed animation and festive atmosphere
- Promotes themes of kindness and generosity
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch The Polar Express
Some parents express concerns about certain intense scenes that might be unsettling for younger viewers.
- Scenes involving peril or suspense may be emotionally challenging
- The animation style can be perceived as uncanny or unsettling to some children
- Complex themes of belief and doubt might 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 a magical holiday experience, positive messages about belief, and visually stunning animation.
What Parents Should Know About The Polar Express
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The protagonist learns to trust in himself and others, demonstrating the importance of belief and friendship. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The train's journey includes moments of danger and suspense that might require parental reassurance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who display doubt or negativity face challenges that encourage them to change their perspective. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The children on the train work together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the value of teamwork. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the power of belief and the magic of the holiday spirit, delivered through the protagonist's journey. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
The Polar Express is praised for its enchanting narrative and the way it captures the magic of Christmas. While some scenes may be intense for very young viewers, the film's positive messages and stunning visuals make it a worthwhile watch. Parents can enhance the experience by discussing the themes of belief and friendship with their children. For those seeking similar holiday magic, movies like "Elf" or "A Christmas Carol" are also recommended.
Official The Polar Express Trailer
The Core Values Learned From The Polar Express
The Polar Express's most common core values include Belief, Bravery, and Friendship. Throughout the movie, children are encouraged to believe in the Magic of the holiday season, even when faced with doubt. This is exemplified when the main character learns to Trust in the unseen and embrace the wonder around him. Bravery is showcased as the kids face various challenges during their journey, requiring them to step out of their comfort zones and confront their fears. An example of this is when they must navigate through unexpected obstacles, teaching them Courage and Resilience.
Friendship is highlighted as the children bond over shared experiences, learning to support and rely on each other. This camaraderie is evident when they work together to solve problems, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and mutual respect.
Other Core Values Explored: Curiosity | Determination | Imagination | Kindness | Perseverance | Self-discovery | Teamwork | Trust
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From The Polar Express
Believing in Yourself: Kids learn the importance of believing in themselves through the main character's journey. As he grapples with his doubts about Santa Claus, he discovers that faith and belief can lead to magical experiences and personal growth.
Facing Fears Head-On: The movie teaches children to confront their fears with courage. When the kids face unexpected challenges on their way to the North Pole, they learn that bravery can help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Supporting Your Friends: The story emphasizes the value of friendship and supporting one another. As the kids bond and help each other throughout their adventure, they demonstrate how teamwork and trust can make a difference in overcoming difficulties.
Valuing Imagination: Imagination plays a key role as the children explore the enchanting world around them. This encourages kids to embrace curiosity and wonder, showing them that imagination can lead to exciting discoveries and adventures.
Working as a Team: The movie highlights the importance of teamwork. As the children work together to solve problems and navigate their journey, they learn that collaboration and cooperation are essential for success.
Other Lessons Learned: Enjoying the Journey | Finding Courage | Holding Onto Hope | Keeping an Open Mind | Making a Difference | Practicing Empathy | Trusting Intuition
Why Kids Love The Polar Express
The Polar Express is a magical ride that sweeps kids into a snowy wonderland filled with enchanting surprises and thrilling adventures. The train itself is a marvel, with its mysterious conductor and the promise of reaching the North Pole. Kids will be captivated by the flying scenes and the bright, colorful worlds that unfold as the train races through the night. Along the way, they meet a cast of quirky characters, each bringing their own charm and humor to the journey.
The fast-paced action keeps the excitement high, as unexpected friendships form and teamwork becomes key to overcoming challenges. The epic quest to meet Santa Claus is filled with moments of wonder and awe, making every twist and turn an exhilarating experience. Kids will love the sense of being the hero, standing up for others, and proving themselves in this heartwarming adventure. With its mix of magic, friendship, and holiday spirit, The Polar Express is a delightful journey that captures the imagination and keeps kids on the edge of their seats.