Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Napoleon and Samantha

film

Napoleon and Samantha

1972

Two young children, who, rather than part with an old pet lion who was once a circus performer, go on a perilous mountain trek to stay with a recluse friend.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? The family-oriented film includes a child’s bereavement, running away, wilderness danger, animal fights, police pursuit, and a threatening criminal. The intensity is moderated by a reassuring resolution and G rating. 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

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Good role models3/5

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What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The children’s grandfather dies of old age, prompting grief and Napoleon’s fear of being sent to an orphanage.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

The animal fights are typical of 1970s family films, focusing on action rather than graphic detail.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

The G-rated family film is not reported to contain strong language; any language is likely limited to mild name-calling or exclamations.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Children are endangered by a bear, cougar, cliffs, wilderness travel, separation, police pursuit, and a dangerous adult.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Animal confrontations include a cougar attack and a hard lion-bear fight; children face physical danger, including a near-fall from a cliff.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The children face grief and wilderness dangers, while Major protects them; the story also distinguishes courage from unsafe runaway behavior.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages imagination regarding children's independence and their connection with the animal world.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The cast is limited to a few primary characters; diversity is minimal, typical of the era and setting.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers incidental lessons on nature, animal behavior, and the importance of seeking help when lost.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

The children care for the lion and each other, and adults try to protect them and arrange a safer future.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes responsibility, family care, trust, perseverance, accepting help, and finding a safe solution rather than running away.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters display bravery and loyalty; Danny acts as a protective mentor figure for the children.

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. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Napoleon and Samantha would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Napoleon and Samantha, and what caused that change?
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