Preview Movie Review

Princess and the Frog, The
G
Entertainment: +4
Acceptability: +3

Disney animated musical adventure with the voices of Ankia Noni Rose, Terrence Howard, Oprah Winfrey, Bruno Campos, Jennifer Lewis, Keith David, John Goodman, Jennifer Cody. Written & directed by Ron Clements and John Musker.

FILM SYNOPSIS: Walt Disney Animation Studios presents the musical The Princess and the Frog, an animated comedy set in the great city of New Orleans. From the creators of The Little Mermaid and Aladdin comes a modern twist on a classic tale, featuring a beautiful girl named Tiana (Ankia Noni Rose), a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, and a fateful kiss that leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana.

PREVIEW REVIEW: Set in New Orleans, the film does contain some supernatural elements that center on voodoo spells, but it also has a black central character and it does a credible job interweaving black culture into the princess genre. Going back to hand-drawn animation, the film has a reminiscent feel, conjuring up warm images of Disney classics such as Sleeping Beauty and 101 Dalmatians. Great music features jazz, swing and even gospel. Funny, touching (bring Kleenex – I’m serious) and extremely entertaining, it gives UP competition as best cartoon of the year. I still go with UP, but this is awfully good.

Again, allow me to caution: Voodoo is kin to the Occult and prominently featured in the storyline. I mention this so you can decide if it is suitable for your children’s viewing.

Preview Reviewer: Phil Boatwright
Distributor: Disney

Summary
Crude Language: Some cultural slang and a few crude comments such as “Don’t make me light my butt!”
Obscene Language: None
Profanity: None
Violence: Cartoonish, but it does contain a few violent acts, mostly slapstick and fairly tame; there are some scary demonic-looking creatures that play into a voodoo theme; there is a death of a loved one, but it is touchingly handled; there are a few scenes that may disturb little ones – parents should be there to reassure.
Sexual Intercourse: None
Nudity: None
Homosexual Conduct: None
Sexually Suggestive Action/Dialog: None
Drug Abuse: Wine is featured in a few scenes dealing with fine dining.
Other: Voodoo spells.
Running Time: 95 minutes
Intended Audience: Family