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That Darn Cat Review

For Families provided by Common Sense Media

OK for kids 7+

Amusing but long romp for both adults and kids.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that, although younger kids will enjoy the cute cat's antics, the movie is way too long to hold their complete attention. The kidnapping plot -- though treated humorously -- might frighten very young or sensitive kids. There is some scuffling and the appearance of guns, though no one is hurt. Otherwise, the movie is squeaky clean.

  • Families can talk about classic movies. Is this movie still funny, even though it was made in the 1960s?
  • Where did you find yourself laughing? Did anything seem outdated to you -- or not make sense?
  • Older kids may be interested in comparing and contrasting it with the remake.

The good stuff
  • educationalvalue true1

    Educational value: No real educational content, except the implication that kids should trust their instincts.

  • message true3

    Messages: The movie reinforces the idea that one should help out when others are in trouble, and that the police or other authority figures can be important allies. Also, it's important to trust your instincts -- even as a kid.

  • rolemodels true4

    Role models: Patti and Ingrid are independent, confident young women who are not influenced by what others think of them. Both women are strong-willed and do exactly what they stick their minds to. Patti proves that following your gut instinct can be helpful and accurate.

What to watch for
  • violence false2

    Violence and scariness: Kidnapping is part of the plot, although it's treated humorously. Voices are raised and younger viewers may find the abductors to be scary. In the final scene there is a scuffle between a detective and the kidnapper. Guns are used, but no one gets shot. 

  • sex false0

    Sexy stuff: Not an issue

  • language false1

    Language: The cat's name is D.C. for the phrase "Darn Cat," which is frequently yelled with frustration when he gets into mischief.

  • consumerism false0

    Consumerism: Not an issue

  • drugsalcoholtobacco false1

    Drinking, drugs and smoking: Canoe, a secondary character smokes a cigar. 

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© Common Sense Media Inc. 2010. All rights reserved.

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