Arlo the Alligator Boy Parents Guide + Movie Review

Arlo the Alligator Boy is an animated musical with catchy songs and an important message we will all appreciate. Is this Netflix original movie kid-friendly?  I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its TV-Y7 rating, in my Arlo the Alligator Boy Parents Guide and Movie Review. Here’s what parents need to know to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for kids. As always, no spoilers!

Arlo the Alligator Boy Parents Guide + Movie Review

Arlo the Alligator Boy premieres on Netflix April 16, 2021. The film is setup as an introduction of sorts for the upcoming series, I Heart Arlo. This reminded me of The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on The Run due to its similar setup. However, aside from the upcoming series similarity, these two movies are completely different. 

The story’s protagonist, Arlo (voiced by Michael J. Woodard), is (you guessed it), half human, half alligator. He was a little baby when he was found floating in a swamp by the hilarious woman who raised him, Edmée (Annie Potts). 

As Arlo gets older, he doesn’t feel like he really fits in anywhere. He wants to discover where he came from. While he loves living in the swamp, he is looking for a place of belonging. 

Arlo finds out his father lives in New York City and he immediately embarks on a journey to find his dad and discover his roots. 

Along his adventure, Arlo meets a group of eclectic characters, all looking for something more. They’re all unique individuals, which makes them have an understanding towards one another. They can truly relate to another and form a strong bond.

Is Arlo the Alligator Boy Kid-Friendly? Here’s Your Parents Guide:

A story about a boy who is half human and half alligator in search of his dad. Sure it sounds safe enough for kids, but is there any thematic elements parents will want to watch out for? 

Arlo the Alligator Boy has a Netflix rating of TV-Y7 for fear. It is recommended for kids ages 7 and up, and has a runtime of 1 hour 32 minutes. 

I would say this movie is absolutely made for children. It’s goofy and quirky, but has an engaging story for little ones. I don’t think older children would enjoy this film as much. For example, it wouldn’t hold my 11 year old’s interest. But the younger kiddos? Absolutely.

There is no language or overly violent themes in Arlo the Alligator Boy. It also has an admirable message for kids and adults to takeaway. 

While I wouldn’t say parents will necessarily enjoy this film, it is very family friendly and a great option to watch with your kids. Have fun with them and notice their reactions as they watch the movie. I can guarantee there will be lots of belly laughs, lots of dancing, and lots of good old fun.

Overall Thoughts

While I personally got a bit bored with this movie, it wasn’t made for me. It was made for children and that’s OKAY! I can absolutely support a film that is intended for kids. In fact, I feel there needs to be more of them out there. 

Arlo the Alligator Boy is about celebrating and embracing our differences. We’re all unique individuals and that is what makes us special.

While watching the movie, I kept thinking of the quote, “Don’t try to fit in when you were born to stand out.” There’s only one you, so own it! The message of individuality is commendable and something we should all stand behind. These are the things our children need to hear. They are beautiful just the way they are. 

Arlo The Alligator Boy Synopsis

Upon learning that he is from New York City, Arlo, a wide-eyed boy who is half human and half alligator, decides to leave his sheltered life in the swamp and search for his long lost father. The animated musical movie, Arlo the Alligator Boy, will launch Arlo’s journey as he meets a group of misfits who quickly become his new family. Once Arlo’s adventure lands him in New York City, the series, I ❤️️Arlo, will kick off as he and his newfound crew set up shop in an abandoned seaside neighborhood and help bring it back to life.