The BFG
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to 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.
Things to Consider
Violence
The 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.
Scary & Intense Content
The 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.
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect 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.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
No 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.
Romance and Sexual Content
Romantic 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.
Profanity
Profanity 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.
Witchcraft & Occult
The 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.
Substance Use
Substance use is shown in brief, non-graphic instances, including intoxicated adults and the consumption of a fantastical, non-alcoholic drink with amusing side effects.
Anti-Christian Themes
The 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.
Steven Spielberg's adaptation of "The BFG" presents a generally positive moral worldview that resonates well with many Christian values. Core themes such as the triumph of good over evil, the importance of kindness, friendship, and standing up for the vulnerable are prominent throughout the narrative. Sophie, an orphan, and the Big Friendly Giant, an outcast among his own kind, form an unlikely bond built on trust and mutual respect, demonstrating that true worth lies beyond superficial appearances. This emphasis on inner character over outward presentation aligns with biblical principles that value the heart. The film clearly rewards virtue, as Sophie and the BFG's courageous actions to protect children from the man-eating giants lead to their success and a peaceful, fulfilling life together. Conversely, the predatory giants are clearly depicted as morally corrupt and are held accountable for their vices through their ultimate defeat and imprisonment, showcasing a clear moral framework where evil actions have consequences. The movie's strong moral compass leans towards a transcendent view of life, affirming objective truths of right and wrong, rather than a relativistic or materialistic perspective. Elements of redemption are present through the BFG's choice to reject the violent ways of his kin and dedicate himself to collecting and delivering dreams, protecting humanity rather than consuming it. This act can be seen as a sacrificial turn from a path of potential evil, demonstrating a commitment to goodness. While explicit forgiveness is not offered to the unrepentant human-eating giants, the BFG's own journey reflects a personal redemption from a life of isolation and fear. Family values are portrayed beautifully through the "found family" dynamic between Sophie and the BFG; Sophie, without parents, finds a loving, paternal figure in the gentle giant, highlighting themes of belonging and unconditional affection. The BFG takes on a protective and nurturing role, exemplifying positive guardian attributes. Faith representation is subtle, with no overt Christian themes, but some reviewers have noted allegorical parallels. The BFG's ability to hear the "secret whispers" and "heart's desire" of people can be seen as echoing divine attributes, and Sophie's distant greetings to him have been described as akin to prayer, suggesting a respectful, albeit indirect, nod to a higher power or spiritual connection. Overall, "The BFG" offers a wealth of opportunities for Christian parents to discuss biblical values like courage, compassion, justice, and the power of love and friendship.
Additional Context
Best For Ages
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.
Good to Know
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.
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