A Bug's Life Review

Educational value: A very elementary look at insects: each species has a purpose and a place in the circle of life. In this film, individual bugs are given personality, identity and purpose, which may help engender kids’ respect for nature.

Messages: Teamwork, resourcefulness, and courage can defeat a seemingly stronger enemy. Solutions to great problems can come from unlikely sources. It’s important to believe in yourself and have faith in your abilities. Nature has a certain order which is to be respected: "The sun grows the food; ants pick the food; grasshoppers eat the food; birds eat the grasshoppers."

Role models: Family relationships are important and special even in the insect world. Mothers provide for and protect their offspring. Flick, the hero ant, is smart, caring, loyal, and so brave that he’s willing to sacrifice all for the sake of his colony. At first he faces ridicule and self-doubt, but ultimately he saves the day, and everyone learns to value and respect him. Other species rise above their fear and join the team in order to survive.

Violence and scariness: In cartoon terms, there are scary, intimidating bugs and birds, as well as some jeopardy to the film’s heroes involving fire, rain, falls, and capture. A troop of grasshoppers led by the fierce Hopper threatens the ant queen’s life, bullies the ant colony, swarms menacingly several times, and captures key ant players. Birds, looking for food, are enemies to all the insect species and swoop down perilously close to those most vulnerable. Flick, the bravest ant of all, is set upon by lots of other characters. He’s hit, captured, and nearly killed. There are numerous clever, nail-biting rescues, and the chief baddie is the only fatality.

Sexy stuff: Not an issue

Language: A few instances of "poo-poo," "butt," and "damn."

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Not an issue