What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that pirates attack and threaten; the Robinsons fight back with a variety of homemade weapons. Although there's no bloodshed, the violence looks real. The pirates that attack the family are subject to some now-dated Asian stereotypes.

Families can talk about what it might really be like to be stranded somewhere far away from home. What should you do if you're ever in a tough situation like the Robinsons'? What are some basic ways to stay safe in nature? Families can also discuss the stereotypes featured in the movies. How has our culture changed since this movie was made? Why wouldn't the same characterizations be OK today?

Common Sense Media Review
THE SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON is a good introduction for kids reluctant to watch old movies. Shot on the island of Tobago, the scenery is gorgeous and the sets cleverly designed. The family creates inventive homemade gadgets, far outdoing the castaways on Gilligan's Island. Leave it to Disney to have the Robinsons turn the island into a makeshift amusement park. Your children will long to rush down the elaborate series of water slides, or ride on the raft pulled by giant sea turtles.

And if that doesn't sound enough like a trip to the Magic Kingdom, there's the added lure of a cast that includes a baby elephant, chattering monkeys, two enormous Great Danes, a madcap ostrich, and a zebra. All come together in a hilarious race in which the Robinsons ride on an assortment of extremely uncooperative animals.

Adults may occasionally wince at the stilted performances, but kids will be too wrapped up to care. One 7-year-old boy was enthralled by the animals, although he found the pirates scary. Parents should note that the violence, particularly in the battle scenes, could be a problem for younger viewers.

From Our Sponsors