Mighty Joe Young MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +2 Content: +1

Joe, an abnormally huge gorilla, has lived with his only friend Jill (Charlize Theron) ever since poachers killed both their mothers 12 years ago. But after zoologist Greg O'Hara (Bill Paxton) discovers Joe, Greg and Jill rescue Joe from an evil poacher by taking him to the safety of a California animal conservancy. Feeling threatened and confused, Joe escapes into the city of Los Angeles. Pursued by the police and the evil poacher, Joe flees toward an amusement park in search for Jill. But the chase ends with Joes courageous rescue of a young boy trapped at the top of a ferris wheel. This adventure of an adorable menace to Los Angeles reeking havoc on the city resulting in the rescue a young boy from eminent danger may disappoint viewers seeking a clever plot. But the special effect wizardry that brings Joe to life and the special bond between Joe and Jill may be just enough to entertain limited audiences.

Although this story shows great devotion between Jill and Joe, there are several questionable elements that may frighten younger viewers. Cluttered with moderate violence this movie borders on the monster movie genre. Destruction of property by the mighty Joe is not overly graphic but does occur over and over again. Especially frightening are several sequences where poachers hunt and kill several gorillas. Fortunately, there is no sex or nudity in MIGHTY JOE YOUNG, although Jill is seen several times in tight fitting low-cut outfits. While the dialog contains no f or s words, it does, however, include several mild crudities and one regular profanity mumbled almost beyond recognition. While this is not enough to condemn MIGHT JOE YOUNG, we do strongly caution parents from taking young children due to its intense violence.

Preview Reviewer: Rik Wyrick
Distributor: Buena Vista, 350 s. Buena Visa St., Burbank, CA 91521-1293