OK for kids 5+
Silly animated/live-action holiday comedy is fun for kids.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this live-action/computer-animation hybrid Easter comedy has a positive message about reaching for your dreams. Characters occasionally use insults like "idiot," "stupid," and "freak," and there's some slapstick violence and one brief scene in which it looks like the Easter Bunny might be in trouble -- but even kids will be able to tell that everything will be OK. In one early scene, E.B. tries to get into the Playboy mansion because he thinks it's a haven for rabbits, but only adults will get the related jokes, and nothing risque is shown. Although the movie is Easter-themed, it doesn't include any references to the holiday's religious meaning (which could be a plus or a minus, depending on your family's own beliefs).
- Families can talk about the movie's messages. Why is it important to pursue your dreams? What if you don't succeed?
- What does the movie say about father-son relationships? Do you think parents should support their kids' job choices and dreams no matter what? Which father did a better job of understanding his son's goals, E.B.'s or Fred's?
- For viewers who celebrate Easter, how do the movie's themes compare with your family's ideas and traditions surrounding the holiday?
The good stuff
-
Educational value: The most important lesson is really for parents, not kids -- that they should be open-minded with their children and support their career choices. On a tiny note, little kids may be curious about Easter Island and whether it's a real place.
-
Messages: The movie has several positive messages revolving around family and personal aspirations. E.B. and Fred both prove that if you believe that you can accomplish "big things," with enough determination, you'll be able to achieve your dreams.
-
Role models: Sam is a good sister who tries to help her brother, even after their parents have given him an ultimatum. Fred is the typical "failure to launch" kind of guy who hasn't grown up yet, but he rises to the occasion to save Easter.
What to watch for
-
Violence and scariness: Fred thinks that he has nearly run over E.B. and says that he's going to "end his suffering" by taking him out of his misery, but then E.B. springs to life and starts talking. In a comedic sequence, Carlos the Chick rounds up the bunnies and tries to kill E.B. Ninja-like bunnies spit sedative darts that land in a couple of characters. A character is slapped on the cheek.
-
Sexy stuff: E.B. flirts with Fred's sister, Sam, and sniffs her hair when she hugs him. In one scene, he refers to himself as a "sexy bunny," and in another, Fred and E.B. have a conversation that seems to be about the idea of an open relationship (though only adults will get the joke).
-
Language: Insults like "stupid," "lazy," "idiot," and "freak."
-
Consumerism: Fred's Volvo station wagon is featured in several scenes. The Playboy mansion is mentioned in one scene, but nothing is shown except the gates and the bunny logo.
-
Drinking, drugs and smoking: There are a few family dinners at which everyone's got drinks in front of them, but it's unclear whether or not they're alcoholic.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Surprisingly Good! by 94volfan
I took my daughter to see HOP and was pleasantly surprised. It was a good movie. Sure, it was totally unrealistic, but it was very funny and entertaining. I didn't have high expectations, but it was surprisingly good. I think most kids under the age of 14 would enjoy it greatly. Take them to see it. You won't be disappointed.
5
Hop review by akjab1
Loved it, loved it, loved it - this show had our 4-year-old giggling and giggling! A highly rated family movie........make more just like this one!
3
This is a dvd movie, don't pay full price for this!!! by seanc2k
This movie is ok, and even though Russel Brand has had his funny moments in other movies, this is NOT one of them. Yeah, the bunny is cute, and they have a cameo with David david Hasselhoff, but even the expected humor from that failed to bring this movie up from So-so. The story was ok, and honestly, wait for it to hit tv.
4
Great Kid movie with some adult content by BigDogW
While Hop is a great movie to take your kids to there are also some jokes in it that only adults would get.
2
About the movie Hop by robinso
It was an ok movie.But i tell you that alvin and the chipmunks was more interesting because at the end there should have been a conclusion on his drumming dream that he was working on besides beiing the Easter bunny.So im my opinion i would not tell anyone to right away go out and see it.If they do not to go see it during the evening hours it's best if they go during the mantinee then you will get your money worth.
5
Great Family Fun!! by gercan21
i took my son and nieces to see HOP they LOVED IT!! non stop laughing, just a Great movie to see with your kids or for the kid in you.
4
Hop by ptatracy
This was a great movie for Easter weekend. My almost 9yr old felt a little too old for an egg hunt this year so this was a great thing to do with her. The movie was funny and the plot was perfect. Some acting moments were lacking, but it was an Easter Bunny movie so, all in all, we enjoyed it. The graphics of Easter Island were awesome. The factory looked right on. Russell Brand was the perfect choice for the E.B.
4
Funny by yak
And cute. My13year old enjoyed it a lot. Pleasant 1.5 hour.
3
HOP by tiwabutterfly
It was just OK...thats it!!
4
HOP by Pagrammie19
Loved it. Took my nieces (ages 12 and 4). 4 year-old had trouble sitting still. I believe it was a bit boring for her. 12 year-old loved it!! Kids really got into the songs.