Strange World: A Christian Parents' Guide

2023-09-03

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Disney's new animated film, Strange World, is an exciting and visually stunning adventure film that takes viewers on a journey to a strange and wonderful world called Avalonia. It features a family of explorers who must band together to save their world and their family from an unknown danger.

Despite its fantastical setting, Strange World contains some elements that may be concerning to Christian parents. These include themes of family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles. The film also contains some mild violence and brief instances of crude humor that Christian parents may find inappropriate for younger children.

However, Strange World also contains many positive elements that Christian parents will appreciate. It emphasizes the importance of family, love, and forgiveness. It also contains some positive messages about the environment and the importance of respecting the Earth's diverse ecosystems.

strange world parents guide christian

Christian parents' guide to Strange World:

Family conflict and generational differences
Questioning of traditional gender roles
Mild violence and crude humor
Positive messages about family, love, and forgiveness
Environmental themes and respect for Earth's ecosystems
Suitable for older children and adults
Parental guidance recommended for younger children
Consider individual family values and sensitivities
Use the film as an opportunity for family discussion

Ultimately, whether or not Strange World is appropriate for your family will depend on your individual values and sensitivities. Consider these points and use the film as an opportunity for family discussion and reflection.

Family conflict and generational differences

Strange World explores the complexities of family relationships and the challenges that can arise between different generations. The film centers around the Clades, a family of explorers who have a long history of adventuring in the strange and wonderful world of Avalonia. However, the family is divided by a deep rift between Searcher Clade, the father, and Ethan Clade, the son.

Conflicting values and priorities: Searcher is a passionate explorer who values scientific discovery and progress, while Ethan is more cautious and values family and tradition. This difference in values leads to tension and conflict between the two.
Lack of communication and understanding: Searcher and Ethan struggle to communicate effectively with each other. They both have difficulty understanding each other's perspectives and motivations, which further exacerbates the conflict between them.
Generational differences: Searcher and Ethan represent two different generations with different values and expectations. Searcher is a product of the old world, where exploration and discovery were highly valued. Ethan, on the other hand, is a child of the new world, where family and personal fulfillment are seen as more important.
Unresolved past issues: The conflict between Searcher and Ethan is also rooted in unresolved issues from the past. Searcher feels that he was never able to live up to his father's expectations, and Ethan feels that his father never truly understood him.

Despite their differences, the Clades eventually learn to overcome their conflict and work together to save their family and their world. This journey of reconciliation and forgiveness is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the need to bridge the gaps between different generations.

Questioning of traditional gender roles

Strange World features a diverse cast of characters who challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes. This includes the character of Ethan Clade, the son of the protagonist, Searcher Clade. Ethan is a young man who is sensitive, artistic, and has a passion for botany. He is also attracted to another male character, Diazo, a member of the Avalonian royal family.

Ethan's character is significant because it presents a positive and nuanced portrayal of a gay character in a Disney animated film. Ethan is not defined by his sexuality, but rather by his complex personality and his relationships with his family and friends. His relationship with Diazo is treated with the same respect and sensitivity as any other romantic relationship in the film.

In addition to Ethan, Strange World also features a number of other characters who challenge traditional gender roles. For example, Meridian Clade, Searcher's wife and Ethan's mother, is a strong and capable leader who is not afraid to take charge. She is also a loving and supportive wife and mother.

Overall, Strange World's questioning of traditional gender roles is a positive and welcome step forward for Disney animation. The film presents a diverse and inclusive cast of characters who challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance and understanding.

Some Christian parents may be concerned about the film's portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters. However, it is important to note that the film does not promote or endorse any particular lifestyle or belief system. Rather, it simply presents a diverse and inclusive world where people of all backgrounds and identities are accepted and respected.

Mild violence and crude humor

Strange World contains some mild violence and crude humor that may be inappropriate for younger children. The violence is mostly cartoonish and does not dwell on gore or graphic details. However, there are some scenes that may be disturbing to sensitive viewers, such as a scene where a character is eaten by a giant plant.

Cartoonish violence: The violence in Strange World is mostly cartoonish and does not dwell on gore or graphic details. For example, when characters are injured, they are often shown with comical injuries, such as a character getting a pie in the face.
Mild peril: There are some scenes in Strange World where characters are in danger, such as when they are being chased by a giant monster or when they are trapped in a collapsing cave. However, these scenes are not overly intense and are resolved without any serious harm to the characters.
Crude humor: Strange World also contains some crude humor, such as jokes about bodily functions and sexual innuendo. This humor is mostly mild and is not likely to offend most viewers. However, some parents may find it inappropriate for younger children.
Scary creatures: Strange World features a variety of strange and fantastical creatures, some of which may be scary to younger children. For example, there is a scene where the characters encounter a giant, spider-like creature.

Overall, the violence and crude humor in Strange World is relatively mild and is unlikely to be too disturbing for most viewers. However, parents may want to preview the film before allowing younger children to watch it.

Positive messages about family, love, and forgiveness

Despite its fantastical setting and adventurous plot, Strange World is ultimately a story about the importance of family, love, and forgiveness. The film centers around the Clades, a family of explorers who have a long history of adventuring in the strange and wonderful world of Avalonia. However, the family is divided by a deep rift between Searcher Clade, the father, and Ethan Clade, the son.

Over the course of the film, the Clades must learn to overcome their differences and work together to save their family and their world. This journey of reconciliation and forgiveness is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the need to bridge the gaps between different generations. The film also emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance, as the Clades learn to accept each other for who they are, even when they are different.

In addition to its messages about family and love, Strange World also promotes the importance of forgiveness. Searcher Clade has a strained relationship with his own father, Jaeger Clade, who abandoned the family when Searcher was a child. Over the course of the film, Searcher must learn to forgive his father and let go of the anger and resentment that he has held onto for so long. This journey of forgiveness is a powerful reminder of the importance of letting go of the past and moving on with our lives.

Overall, Strange World is a heartwarming and inspiring film that promotes positive messages about family, love, and forgiveness. These messages are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages and make Strange World a great choice for a family movie night.

Christian parents will appreciate the film's positive messages about family and forgiveness. The film's emphasis on the importance of love and acceptance is also consistent with Christian values. However, parents may want to discuss the film's themes of generational differences and the questioning of traditional gender roles with their children.

Environmental themes and respect for Earth's ecosystems

Strange World features a number of environmental themes and promotes the importance of respecting Earth's ecosystems. The film is set in a strange and wonderful world called Avalonia, which is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. The Clades, a family of explorers, are tasked with exploring Avalonia and learning more about its unique ecosystem.

Throughout their journey, the Clades encounter a variety of creatures and environments, each with its own unique challenges and wonders. They also learn about the importance of balance and harmony in the natural world. When the Clades disrupt the natural order of things, they unleash a series of events that threaten to destroy Avalonia.

The film also emphasizes the importance of respecting the interconnectedness of all living things. The Clades learn that their actions have consequences not only for themselves, but for the entire ecosystem. They also learn that they need to work together with the creatures of Avalonia in order to save their world.

Overall, Strange World is a powerful and inspiring film that promotes the importance of environmental stewardship and respect for Earth's ecosystems. The film's positive messages about the environment are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages and make Strange World a great choice for a family movie night.

Christian parents will appreciate the film's positive messages about the environment. The film's emphasis on the interconnectedness of all living things is consistent with Christian teachings about the stewardship of creation. Parents may also want to discuss the film's themes of balance and harmony in the natural world with their children.

Suitable for older children and adults

Strange World is rated PG for action/peril and some thematic elements. This means that the film may be inappropriate for younger children. The film contains some mild violence, crude humor, and scary creatures, which may be too intense for younger viewers. Additionally, the film's themes of family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles may be difficult for younger children to understand.

Mild violence and peril: Strange World contains some mild violence and peril, such as scenes where characters are chased by monsters or trapped in dangerous situations. However, the violence is not graphic or gory, and it is always resolved without any serious harm to the characters.
Crude humor: Strange World also contains some crude humor, such as jokes about bodily functions and sexual innuendo. This humor is mostly mild and is not likely to offend most viewers. However, some parents may find it inappropriate for younger children.
Scary creatures: Strange World features a variety of strange and fantastical creatures, some of which may be scary to younger children. For example, there is a scene where the characters encounter a giant, spider-like creature.
Complex themes: Strange World deals with some complex themes, such as family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles. These themes may be difficult for younger children to understand and may lead to questions that parents may not be prepared to answer.

Overall, Strange World is a film that is best suited for older children and adults. Parents should preview the film before allowing younger children to watch it.

Parental guidance recommended for younger children

While Strange World is rated PG, parental guidance is recommended for younger children. The film's mild violence, crude humor, scary creatures, and complex themes may be too intense or confusing for younger viewers. Parents should preview the film before allowing younger children to watch it and be prepared to answer any questions that they may have.

Preview the film: Before allowing your younger child to watch Strange World, it is important to preview the film yourself. This will help you to determine if the film is appropriate for your child and if there are any scenes that you may want to skip or discuss with your child beforehand.
Be prepared to answer questions: Strange World deals with some complex themes, such as family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles. Younger children may have questions about these themes, and it is important to be prepared to answer them in a way that they can understand.
Talk to your child about the film: After your child has watched Strange World, it is a good idea to talk to them about the film. Ask them what they liked about the film and what they didn't like. You can also use this opportunity to discuss the film's themes and answer any questions that your child may have.
Use the film as a teaching opportunity: Strange World can be a great opportunity to teach your child about important topics such as family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship. You can use the film to start conversations with your child about these topics and help them to develop their own values and beliefs.

By following these tips, you can help your younger child to have a positive and enjoyable experience watching Strange World.

Consider individual family values and sensitivities

Every family has its own unique values and sensitivities. What is appropriate for one family may not be appropriate for another. When deciding whether or not Strange World is appropriate for your family, it is important to consider your own values and sensitivities.

Think about your child's maturity level: Consider your child's maturity level and whether or not they are ready to handle the film's mild violence, crude humor, scary creatures, and complex themes.
Be aware of your own sensitivities: Be aware of your own sensitivities and whether or not you are comfortable with the film's themes of family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles.
Talk to your child about your values: Talk to your child about your family's values and beliefs. This will help them to understand why you have made the decision to allow or disallow them from watching Strange World.
Make a decision that is right for your family: Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch Strange World is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. Consider all of the factors involved and make a decision that you feel is right for your family.

By following these tips, you can make an informed decision about whether or not Strange World is appropriate for your family.

Use the film as an opportunity for family discussion

Strange World can be a great opportunity for family discussion. The film's themes of family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship can provide a starting point for meaningful conversations with your child.

Talk about family: Ask your child what they think makes a strong family. Talk about the different types of families that exist and the importance of love and support within the family.
Discuss love and forgiveness: Talk to your child about the importance of love and forgiveness. Ask them what they think it means to love someone unconditionally and how they can forgive someone who has wronged them.
Explore environmental themes: Talk to your child about the film's environmental themes. Ask them what they think they can do to help protect the environment and why it is important to respect the Earth's ecosystems.
Answer your child's questions: Be prepared to answer any questions that your child may have about the film. This is a great opportunity to teach your child about important topics and to help them to develop their own values and beliefs.

By using Strange World as an opportunity for family discussion, you can help your child to learn and grow from the film's positive messages.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions from parents about Strange World:

Question 1: Is Strange World appropriate for my child?

Question 2: What are some of the positive messages in Strange World?

Strange World promotes positive messages about family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship. The film emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance, as the Clades learn to accept each other for who they are, even when they are different. The film also promotes the importance of forgiveness, as Searcher Clade learns to forgive his father for abandoning the family.

Question 3: Are there any LGBTQ+ characters in Strange World?

Yes, Strange World features a gay character named Ethan Clade. Ethan is a young man who is attracted to another male character, Diazo, a member of the Avalonian royal family. Ethan's character is significant because it presents a positive and nuanced portrayal of a gay character in a Disney animated film.

Question 4: How can I talk to my child about the film's themes?

After your child has watched Strange World, it is a good idea to talk to them about the film. Ask them what they liked about the film and what they didn't like. You can also use this opportunity to discuss the film's themes and answer any questions that your child may have. Be prepared to talk about topics such as family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship.

Question 5: Can I use Strange World as an opportunity to teach my child about important topics?

Yes, Strange World can be a great opportunity to teach your child about important topics such as family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship. You can use the film to start conversations with your child about these topics and help them to develop their own values and beliefs.

Question 6: Where can I find more information about Strange World?

You can find more information about Strange World on the film's official website, as well as on websites such as IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes. You can also find reviews and articles about the film online.

We hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.

In addition to the information provided in the FAQ, here are some additional tips for parents:

Tips

Here are some practical tips for parents who are considering letting their children watch Strange World:

Tip 1: Preview the film yourself.

Before allowing your child to watch Strange World, it is important to preview the film yourself. This will help you to determine if the film is appropriate for your child and if there are any scenes that you may want to skip or discuss with your child beforehand.

Tip 2: Talk to your child about your values.

Talk to your child about your family's values and beliefs. This will help them to understand why you have made the decision to allow or disallow them from watching Strange World.

Tip 3: Be prepared to answer questions.

Strange World deals with some complex themes, such as family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles. Younger children may have questions about these themes, and it is important to be prepared to answer them in a way that they can understand.

Tip 4: Use the film as a teaching opportunity.

Strange World can be a great opportunity to teach your child about important topics such as family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship. You can use the film to start conversations with your child about these topics and help them to develop their own values and beliefs.

We hope these tips have been helpful. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch Strange World is a personal one. Consider all of the factors involved and make a decision that you feel is right for your family.

We hope this guide has been helpful for parents who are considering letting their children watch Strange World. Remember, the most important thing is to consider your own family's values and sensitivities and to make a decision that you feel is right for your family.

Conclusion

Strange World is a visually stunning and entertaining film that promotes positive messages about family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship. However, the film also contains some elements that may be concerning to Christian parents, such as themes of family conflict, generational differences, and the questioning of traditional gender roles. Additionally, the film contains some mild violence and crude humor that may be inappropriate for younger children.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch Strange World is a personal one. Parents should consider their own family's values and sensitivities and make a decision that they feel is right for their family.

If you do decide to allow your child to watch Strange World, we encourage you to preview the film yourself beforehand and to be prepared to answer any questions that your child may have. You can also use the film as an opportunity to teach your child about important topics such as family, love, forgiveness, and environmental stewardship.