Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The One and Only Ivan

film

The One and Only Ivan

2020

A gorilla named Ivan who’s living in a suburban shopping mall tries to piece together his past, with the help of other animals, as they hatch a plan to escape from captivity.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? Generally suitable for children, but animal captivity, a character’s death, poaching, separation, and emotionally intense scenes may upset younger viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

The setting includes a shopping mall, arcade, circus performances, and merchandise-like attractions, but the film does not primarily promote products.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

The death of a beloved elephant mentor is a significant emotional plot point. References are made to poachers killing Ivan's father.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language consistent with a family-friendly film.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Captivity, escape attempts, poaching memories, animal separation, and a death may upset children, but danger is non-graphic and the story ends reassuringly.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Minor conflict and some shouting; no significant physical violence.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters face fear, grief, captivity, and public opposition while pursuing freedom and better treatment for the animals.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Ivan’s drawing and mural-making express memory and identity, while the animals use imaginative cooperation to seek freedom.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Diverse human cast; central characters are animals representing various species.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Introduces concepts of animal welfare and conservation.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and empathy are the core values driving the story.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, self-discovery, animal rights, and the importance of freedom.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Ivan, Ruby, Julia, and supportive adults show loyalty, empathy, persistence, and advocacy, though some adults initially enable captivity.

Family discussion

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

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The One and Only Ivan would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The One and Only Ivan, 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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