Ferngully II: The Magical Rescue

MPAA Rating: G

Entertainment: +3

Content: -1/2

The original Fern Gully film was released in 1992 to the theaters. This sequel is available only on video, and, like the original, is a very colorful, action packed animated fantasy for younger children. This video sequel also takes place in a magical rain forest inhabited by fairies and cute little animals. But again, some evil humans invade the forest and this time carry off some of the animals presumably to be sold for their skins, as food or put on display in zoos or museums. So, two of the fairies, Crysta (voice of Laura Erlich) and Pips (voice of Dicory Oaks), and a group of comical, likeable animals and flying insects go to town to try to rescue their friends. They have some very daring and threatening experiences, but also some rousing fun at a carnival. The film's animation is superb and some catchy, appealing musical numbers are included. Children are likely find FERNGULLY II lots of fun.

We gave the original Fern Gully a negative rating because of its new age and other misleading messages, as well as some dark frightening violence. However, FERNGULLY II is more light hearted and the magical powers of the fairies appear to be pure fantasy and not occultic. However, it does have some intense scenes in which animals are chased by men and ferocious dogs and are eventually captured. And there's the usual slapstick hitting, rough treatment and accidents. None of these appear excessive or likely to unduly frighten young children. The animals and fairies do take risks to help each other and are encouraged to make their own fun using their imagination. However, this sequel contains the implication that animals should never be used as food or their skins for clothing or accessories. And they should never be on display in zoos or museums. Although we should certainly show respect for animal life, these messages go to an unrealistic extreme. So this prevents us from wholeheartedly endorsing this colorful fantasy.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: CBS Fox Video

Summary
The following categories contain objective listings of film content which contribute to the subjective numeric Content ratings posted to the left and on the Home page.

Crude Language: None

Obscene Language: None

Profanity: None

Violence: Many times - Moderate (Animals chased and captured, animals and people hit, shocked and roughed up comically, dog caught in trap, bat comically smashes into walls and windows, chase threats, dogs chase and attack men, animal almost drowns)

Sex: None

Nudity: None

Sexual Dialogue/Gesture: None

Drugs: None

Other: Fairies and fantasy magic portrayed throughout film; message that animals should never be used for food or clothing, or displayed in zoos and museums; humans mostly portrayed as evil, but some as caring and compassionate; devotion to others portrayed favorably; people encouraged to make their own fun.

Running Time: 75 minutes
Intended Audience: Children ages 4 to 7

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