Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Cars 3

film

Cars 3

2017

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen finds himself pushed to the brink—and suddenly, the champion who once ruled the track is fighting just to stay in the race. With his career hanging in the balance, McQueen must turn to an ambitious young race technician with a plan of her own, draw strength from the legacy of the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet, and risk everything on one last shot at glory.

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? The film is generally suitable for young children, but intense racing crashes, peril, a threatening rival, and themes of aging, career loss, and remembering a deceased mentor may affect sensitive viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Products & advertising2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Good role models4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

Fictional sponsors, racing brands, merchandise-like logos, and business deals are central to the racing world, without a direct buying message to children.

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The film references the past death of a mentor character, which is handled with respectful, emotional weight.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

No offensive language.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

High-speed races, pile-ups, loss of control, and a threatening rival create moderate suspense, though the animated tone is reassuring.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes racing collisions, a high-speed rollover crash, and a demolition derby scene with cars bumping and flipping, but it is cartoonish and non-graphic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters face the fear of obsolescence and failure with bravery.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Inventive racing techniques, unusual training challenges, technical simulations, and creative problem-solving strongly encourage imagination and flexible thinking.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse vocal cast and focuses on overcoming gender-based barriers to entry in sports.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers incidental lessons on sports history and training discipline.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes empathy and supporting the dreams of others.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of perseverance, humility, sportsmanship, and the importance of mentorship.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate positive growth, learning to embrace change and support others.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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 Cars 3 would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Cars 3, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

Buy or rent on AmazonFind on JustWatch

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating