What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that the line between fantasy and reality is often blurred here, so kids under 7 may be confused about what's imaginary and what isn't. There's some potty and gross-out humor involving 3-D vomiting and passing gas, and some mild action violence that's very cartoonish. One of the young characters was separated from his father. Another character appears to die, but turns out to be fine. Some of the creepy creatures (such as the Plug Hounds and the sharks) may frighten younger kids. Max is bullied by his classmates. Sensitive kids may be upset when Max's parents argue and appear to be on the brink of divorce.
- Families can talk about the fact that this movie was based on the dreams and fantasies of the director's 7-year-old son -- which of your dreams is worthy of a movie? They could also talk about the importance of imagination and turning dreams into reality. Some kids may be inspired to start keep their own dream journal, just like Max.