'DUMBO'
Rated PG for peril/action, some thematic elements, and brief mild language.
What it's about: A live-action remake of the beloved (and traumatizing) 1941 animated film about a big-eared baby circus elephant who can fly.
The kid attractor factor: The cute animals, the kid heroes, the well-known story, the circus setting.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Just because someone (or some animal) looks different doesn't justify their poor treatment or bullying. Show compassion and love. Animals should live freely and peacefully in the wild.
Violence: Some scary moments of free-fall and flying, some violent treatment of elephants, a harrowing chase and fire at the end of the film.
Language: None.
Sexuality: None.
Drugs: None.
Parents advisory: Appropriate for kids and families of all ages, but very small children and toddlers might get scared.
'THE HIGHWAYMEN'
Rated R for some strong violence and bloody images.
What it's about: The Texas Rangers who caught (and killed) Bonnie and Clyde.
The kid attractor factor: Not much kid attractor for this violent adult drama.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Police brutality is (or was) ... effective? (Bad lesson.)
Violence: Some extreme violence, including shooting. Some extreme bloody images.
Language: None.
Sexuality: None.
Drugs: None.
Parents advisory: Far too violent for kids _ teens only.
