Monsters, Inc.
Recommended. Age: 5+. A Catholic review of this movie for parents.
Our review
Sulley and Mike are monsters who work at a factory that scares children to make power. One night a little girl named Boo follows Sulley into the monster world. Sulley learns she is not dangerous and risks his job to get her home safe. A few parts are scary, like when a mean monster straps Boo into a machine. Sulley's change of heart is the whole film. He sees a child's frightened face, knows he caused it, and gives up being the best at his job to protect her. The scream machine scene and the closet idea can unsettle little ones at bedtime.
For parents
G-rated and classified A-I by the USCCB. Common Sense Media says five and up and Greydanus says Kids & Up, so sit with the under-fives the first time. The hard scene is Randall strapping Boo into the scream machine. Some name-calling ('idiot,' 'jerk') and a few burp and toilet gags. If closets become a worry at bedtime, remind your child that the film's monsters are the ones who are afraid, and pray the Guardian Angel prayer together. Ask: when did Sulley first feel sorry for scaring Boo? What did he give up to keep her safe? Why was the boss wrong to kidnap children to save the company? Which turned out stronger, screams or laughter?