Finding Dory, the highly anticipated Disney Pixar sequel to Finding Nemo, takes audiences back under the sea for a heartfelt, humorous, and action-packed adventure. Directed by Andrew Stanton and released 13 years after its predecessor, this animated family movie explores themes of family, perseverance, and self-discovery. But the big question for parents is: Is Finding Dory safe for kids?
In this detailed review, we’ll dive into every aspect of the movie—from its stunning visuals to its emotional moments—and provide a comprehensive Finding Dory parents guide. Let’s find out if this movie is the right pick for your next family movie night.
Visuals and Animation
Pixar has always set the bar for animation, and Finding Dory is no exception. The movie delivers breathtaking underwater landscapes, lifelike marine life, and vibrant colors that captivate viewers of all ages.
Animation Quality
The advancements in animation over the 13 years since Finding Nemo are evident. Pixar’s animators have mastered the art of creating realistic water movements and textures. You can almost feel the sunlight filtering through the waves.
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Key highlights include:
- Dory’s flashback scenes, which feature dreamy, pastel-toned visuals.
- The Marine Life Institute, designed with intricate details that make it feel like a real-world aquarium.
- Realistic character movements, from Hank the septopus’s fluid slithering to the playful antics of sea lions Fluke and Rudder.
Memorable Visual Moments
Some scenes stand out not just for their beauty but also for how they contribute to the story. For instance:
- The kelp forest sequences provide a sense of mystery and adventure.
- The bustling Marine Life Institute introduces kids to the concept of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.
Compared to Finding Nemo, this film takes visual storytelling to new heights, blending realism with Pixar’s trademark whimsy.
The Story
At its heart, Finding Dory is about family and belonging. The story centers on Dory, who embarks on a journey to find her long-lost parents. Along the way, she reconnects with Marlin and Nemo and meets new friends, including the grumpy but lovable Hank.
Key Themes
- Family and perseverance: Dory’s unwavering determination to find her parents is both inspiring and relatable.
- Friendship: The bond between Dory, Marlin, and Nemo adds depth and humor.
- Overcoming adversity: Despite her short-term memory loss, Dory proves that challenges can be overcome with creativity and support.
Emotional Moments
Parents should be prepared for a few tear-jerking scenes. Dory’s flashbacks to her childhood, featuring her loving parents teaching her to “just keep swimming,” are especially poignant.
This balance of humor and emotion makes Finding Dory not just a movie for kids but also a meaningful experience for adults.
The Piper Short
Before Finding Dory begins, audiences are treated to Piper, a delightful Pixar short about a baby sandpiper learning to find food.
Why Piper Is a Hit
- Educational value: Kids learn about sandpipers and tidal waves in an engaging way.
- Visual effects: The hyper-realistic depiction of the bird and beach environment is breathtaking.
- Themes of perseverance: Just like Dory, Piper learns to face challenges head-on.
This short film sets the tone for the main feature, offering both heart and humor.
Understanding the PG Rating
One of the most common questions parents have is about the Finding Dory PG rating. What does it mean, and is this movie truly kid-friendly?
PG Rating Explained
The PG rating suggests some mild thematic elements and moments of peril, but nothing too intense. Here’s a breakdown:
- Mild suspense scenes: Moments like Dory being trapped in a tank may briefly alarm sensitive viewers.
- Emotional weight: Dory’s flashbacks and fears of abandonment might resonate more with older kids and adults.
- Kid-friendly humor: Characters like Becky the loon and Gerald the sea lion bring plenty of laughs to balance the serious moments.
What Age Is Finding Dory Recommended For?
While Finding Dory is designed for children, its emotional depth and occasional suspense make it best suited for kids aged 5 and up.
| Age Group | Suitability |
| Under 5 | May find some scenes scary or confusing. |
| 5–10 | Ideal age range; kids can appreciate the humor, adventure, and life lessons. |
| 11+ | Still enjoyable, especially for fans of Finding Nemo and Pixar animation. |
Parents of younger or sensitive children should be ready to offer reassurance during emotional scenes.
Why Finding Dory Is a Must-Watch Family Movie
This isn’t just a movie for kids; it’s a celebration of family, friendship, and resilience.
Educational Elements
- Marine life facts: The Marine Life Institute introduces viewers to sea creatures like beluga whales and octopuses.
- Inclusion and empathy: Dory’s short-term memory loss teaches kids to be understanding of others’ differences.
Family-Friendly Content
The humor, colorful visuals, and positive messages ensure that Finding Dory appeals to all ages.
The Overall Verdict
With its stunning visuals, heartfelt story, and teachable themes, Finding Dory is a triumph of animation and storytelling. It’s a safe and engaging movie for kids that also resonates deeply with adults.
If you’re a fan of the original Finding Nemo, this sequel is a must-watch. Will you join Dory on her journey to find her family?
Related Family Movie Reviews
Looking for more kid-friendly Pixar movies? Check out:
- Inside Out: A colorful exploration of emotions.
- Toy Story 4: A tale of friendship and self-discovery.
- The Good Dinosaur: A visually stunning adventure.
Finding Dory is not just a movie; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re revisiting the underwater world or introducing it to your kids for the first time, it’s a film worth diving into.
Tina Grey is an experienced blogger with a passion for uncovering the best in film. With years of writing and a keen eye for detail, Tina brings insightful reviews and engaging content to Parentzia. Her deep love for movies, combined with her expertise, helps readers discover must-watch films across genres. When she’s not reviewing, Tina enjoys exploring new cinematic trends and sharing her love of film with her audience.
