Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Star

film

The Star

2017

A small but brave donkey and his animal friends become the unsung heroes of the greatest story ever told: the first Christmas.

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? Generally gentle family animation, but the evil king, pursuit, danger to Mary and Joseph, and biblical peril may be unsettling for younger children. The story is simple but assumes some maturity for its religious themes. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes5/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Good role models4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

There may be ordinary licensed-film merchandising, but the story itself is not primarily a sustained product-promotion vehicle.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

The threat of death is present due to the biblical context, but it is handled appropriately for a family film.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language; typical of PG animation.

Religious themes5/5
Why this rating?

The film is centered on the biblical Nativity story.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Very minor, chaste depictions of a relationship.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Some tense moments involving the pursuit of characters, which may mildly frighten young children.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes cartoonish action, chase scenes, and threatening behavior by soldiers, but no graphic harm.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Small characters repeatedly face danger and uncertainty to protect others and help fulfill the journey to Bethlehem.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The imaginative animal-centered viewpoint, musical storytelling, comedy, and inventive adventure strongly encourage playful imagination.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Some cultural variety in character voice acting and representation.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

It offers accessible cultural and religious context about the Christmas story, though teaching is secondary to entertainment.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Animals cooperate, protect one another, and assist Mary and Joseph; empathy and helping the vulnerable are central positive values.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of faith, humility, bravery, and the importance of following one's destiny.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The animal heroes and central human characters generally model loyalty, bravery, self-sacrifice, and care for vulnerable companions.

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. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in The Star would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Star, 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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