The BFG
The BFG, a 2016 fantasy-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg, brings Roald Dahl's beloved children's book to life on screen. The story centers on Sophie, an orphan who is whisked away to Giant Country by a mysterious, enormous figure. She soon discovers that her captor is not a fearsome monster but a Big Friendly Giant (BFG) who collects and delivers dreams. Their unlikely friendship blossoms as they face the threat of the other, much larger, and human-eating giants. Together, Sophie and the BFG must devise a plan to stop the carnivorous giants from preying on children worldwide, eventually seeking the help of the Queen of England.
Concerns
Violence
MediumThe film contains moderate violence, primarily through implied threats, bullying, and perilous situations involving giants who wish to eat children. While graphic details are absent, the constant danger and physical altercations among giants contribute to the intensity.
The Fleshlumpeater and other giants frequently articulate their desire to eat "human beans," specifically children, creating a pervasive sense of threat for Sophie throughout the movie. The BFG himself is subjected to bullying and physical abuse by the larger giants, who throw him around and call him names like "runt."
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe film contains several scary and intense moments, primarily revolving around the threat of child-eating giants, the initial kidnapping, and unsettling nightmares experienced by characters. These elements can be frightening for younger audiences.
Sophie's initial kidnapping by the shadowy BFG figure from her orphanage window, and his initially imposing appearance, is a frightening scene for a young child. Sophie experiences a nightmare sequence where she is chased and nearly devoured by the fearsome Fleshlumpeater, designed to be disturbing and reinforce the giants' menace.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumDisrespect and rebellion are present through Sophie's initial attempts to escape her captor and the significant bullying the BFG endures from his giant brethren. These instances highlight themes of defiance against authority and mistreatment.
Upon being kidnapped, Sophie exhibits a feisty and rebellious spirit, actively attempting to escape her confinement in the BFG's cave. The larger giants frequently display severe disrespect and cruelty towards the BFG, physically throwing him and verbally demeaning him with insults.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
LowNo discernible LGBTQ+ or gender identity content, themes, or characters are present in "The BFG" movie. Extensive searches, including specific keywords and creator statements, yielded no relevant information on these topics.
No LGBTQ+ characters or relationships are depicted in the film. The narrative focuses strictly on the platonic friendship between Sophie and the BFG. There are no discussions or portrayals of sexual orientation or gender identity within the movie's plot or character development.
Romance and Sexual Content
LowRomantic and sexual content is minimal, limited to a fleeting visual gag rather than explicit or implied intimacy. The focus remains on the platonic bond between the main characters.
Three dream jars are briefly visible, labeled with phrases such as "Liz naked at work," "Liz naked at school," and "Liz naked at my wedding," with a quick pan across the latter. Otherwise, parental reviews consistently indicate an absence of explicit sexual references, kissing, or nudity.
Profanity
LowProfanity is very limited, primarily consisting of mild name-calling and one instance of British vulgarity. Rude humor, mainly involving flatulence, is present but not classified as profanity.
The larger, meaner giants repeatedly refer to the BFG as a "runt" as a form of derogatory name-calling. One parental guide specifically notes the inclusion of the British vulgarity "bloody."
Witchcraft & Occult
LowThe movie features fantastical elements such as dream-catching and a casual reference to a 'witching hour,' but these are presented as magical fantasy rather than depicting dark witchcraft, occult rituals, or demonic forces.
The BFG uses a sophisticated system of a net and a trumpet to capture and deliver dreams to children, storing them in countless jars, which is a central magical aspect of his character. Sophie mentions it being the "witching hour" when she first sees the BFG, a common colloquialism for late night rather than an active engagement with the occult.
Substance Use
LowSubstance use is shown in brief, non-graphic instances, including intoxicated adults and the consumption of a fantastical, non-alcoholic drink with amusing side effects.
At the beginning of the film, Sophie observes and scolds "four obviously inebriated men stumbling home loudly from the pub." The giants, and later the Queen and her staff, consume a green, fizzy beverage called Frobscottle, which is non-alcoholic but famously causes loud flatulence.
Anti-Christian Themes
LowThe movie does not contain overt anti-Christian themes. It presents a strong moral worldview with allegorical elements that could align with Christian values, though one scene could be interpreted as 'testing God' by some Christian parents.
The narrative promotes positive moral values such as friendship, bravery, kindness, and standing up for others, which can resonate with Christian teachings, offering a 'Christian allegorical parallel' of a benevolent, powerful being. However, a scene where Sophie deliberately jumps from a height to compel the BFG to catch her has been noted as a potential moment of 'magical thinking' or 'doing something dangerous to test God.'
Other Notes
Target Demographic
The BFG is rated PG and is most suitable for children aged 8 and over. Parental guidance is recommended for children aged 7-8 due to themes of peril, bullying, implied child-eating giants, and some frightening scenes, particularly for younger or more sensitive viewers. Children under 7 may find certain elements too intense or scary.
Additional Notes
The film focuses heavily on themes of friendship, acceptance, and overcoming fear. While generally heartwarming, parents should be aware of the underlying threat posed by the child-eating giants, which is a constant thematic element, and the emotional impact of Sophie being an orphan.
Related Reviews
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