Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Nut Job

film

The Nut Job

2014

Surly, a curmudgeon, independent squirrel is banished from his park and forced to survive in the city. Lucky for him, he stumbles on the one thing that may be able to save his life, and the rest of park community, as they gear up for winter - Maury's Nut Store.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Frequent cartoon action includes explosions, weapons, abduction, dangerous falls, flood peril, a threatened killing, and an apparent death later reversed. The heist plot and emotional stakes suit older children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

The film functions as intellectual property for merchandise, but there is no overt product placement.

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Surly appears to die and is mourned after a waterfall fall, but survives; other characters face lethal danger without permanent deaths described.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Contains mild insults like 'curmudgeon' or 'rat'. No strong profanity.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

A secondary adult relationship is present; Lana believes King has changed, then breaks up with him after learning the truth.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Criminal threats, attacking rats, explosions, a flood, a waterfall fall and circling sharks create sustained peril, though the animated tone softens the fear.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Frequent cartoon fights, attacks, chases, explosions, weapons and attempted killings occur, but injuries are not described graphically and the tone is comedic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Surly and others repeatedly confront criminals and physical danger; Surly ultimately risks himself to save Raccoon and Andie.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The imaginative animal community, nut-shop setting, elaborate heists and improvised rescues provide strong opportunities for creative play and storytelling.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Characters are diverse animal species but lack distinct human cultural representation.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Teaches social lessons about cooperation and the consequences of deception.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Characters rescue one another, share food, form partnerships, mourn friends, and recognize Surly's sacrifice and change of heart.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The film supports cooperation, selflessness, honesty, accountability, sharing resources, and earning trust rather than using power selfishly.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Surly grows from selfish thief to selfless protector; Andie shows persistence and care, while selfish and criminal behavior has consequences.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in The Nut Job would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Nut Job, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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