Based on the award winning book, Flora and Ulysses is a family adventure comedy premiering on Disney+ February 19th. Filled with heartfelt moments, a stellar cast, and an adorable CGI squirrel, is this movie kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its PG rating, in my Flora and Ulysses 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!
Flora and Ulysses Parents Guide + Movie Review
From the moment I first saw the trailer for Flora and Ulysses, I was immediately drawn in. I mean, a story about a 10 year old girl who loves comic books, AND a superhero squirrel? How fun does that sound?! I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to screen this new Disney Plus original film early.
The Story
Flora (Matilda Lawler) is a spunky 10 year old girl who loves comic books and superheroes. She is a self-proclaimed cynic and relies on observations — she needs to see it to believe it. Flora’s mom, Phyllis (Alyson Hannigan), is a romance novelist who is battling writers block. She’s been in this rut since her separation from Flora’s dad, George (Ben Schwartz), a struggling illustrator with a dead end job. The family’s lives are suddenly changed when Flora saves a squirrel after being sucked up in a vacuum. The next morning a message is waiting for her on mother’s typewriter from the squirrel. He says his name is Ulysses, and she soon discovers this squirrel has superpowers!
You will fall in love with Ulysses
I’m not kidding when I say Ulysses is the most adorable CGI squirrel! While he cannot talk, he can absolutely understand and communicate. Ulysses is clumsy by nature, which makes him even more lovable. He’s not your “perfect” superhero and that’s OKAY!
I found the CGI to be done brilliantly and made to look very real. From Ulysses fluffy ears to his love for Flora, this squirrel will steal your heart.
Matilda Lawler and Ben Schwartz are the Perfect Pair
The father/daughter chemistry between Flora and her dad is absolutely endearing. I love how they share the same expressions — “Holy Bagumba!” They also speak in this superhero/comic book type of language that only the two of them seem to understand. When their both on the screen, there’s this vibrant energy that you can’t help but notice.
Is Flora and Ulysses Kid-Friendly? Here’s your Parents Guide:
A story about a cute superhero squirrel and a little girl, but with a PG rating. Just how safe is Flora and Ulysses for kids? Here’s what parents need to know before watching this new Disney Plus movie.
Flora and Ulysses is rated PG for some action and mild thematic elements. It has a runtime of 95 minutes, which is really the sweet spot for kids. Filled with adventure, comedy, and great takeaways, this movie doesn’t drag on. Definitely something to appreciate in a family film.
While yes, there is action in this movie, I wouldn’t say it’s too scary for little ones. As far as violence, there is the use of tranquilizer guns, and there is mention of euthanizing animals.
Other sensitive topics for kids include Flora’s parents being separated and divorce is mentioned. There is also a child who’s father has died — it’s a Disney film, remember. Did you expect anything less?
I didn’t catch any profanity or poor use of language, which is always appreciated in a kids movie.
I would recommend Flora and Ulysses for ages 6 and up. It might hold the attention of younger kids because of the super cute squirrel and fun antics, but I think they’d get lost in the storyline. It’s a live-action film, not animated. I think ages 6-10 will enjoy this movie the most.
Overall Thoughts
Disney+’s Flora and Ulysses is a heartfelt family adventure comedy filled with lots of laughs and an adorable CGI superhero squirrel. There are so many great messages tucked within this film. Overall it’s a movie about friendship and family. It might sound crazy, but who would ever think a squirrel could show us the world is filled with wonder and magic? Flora and Ulysses will encourage you to “flare up like a flame and find your purpose.”
Side note: Be on the lookout for some super fun Easter Eggs — Marvel fans, I’m talking to YOU! Also, there is an end scene credit not to miss!
DISNEY+ FLORA & ULYSSES SYNOPSIS
Flora & Ulysses is based on the Newbery Award-winning book about 10-year-old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, whose parents have recently separated. After rescuing a squirrel she names Ulysses, Flora is amazed to discover he possesses unique superhero powers, which take them on an adventure of humorous complications that ultimately change Flora’s life–and her outlook–forever.
I HOPE YOU FOUND THIS DISNEY+ FLORA AND ULYSSES PARENTS GUIDE AND MOVIE REVIEW HELPFUL FOR YOUR FAMILY. STREAM FLORA AND ULYSSES FEBRUARY 19TH EXCLUSIVELY ON DISNEY PLUS.
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