The Princess and the Frog

Positive—I’m a huge Disney buff, especially when it comes to their princess movies, that being said I rushed to see an advance screening of “The Princess and the Frog,” mostly it’s just what you’d expect from a movie of this genre, the music is awesome and I’d highly recommend this film to anyone. The overall theme is that all work and no play make you a very dull person, while at the same time all play and no work make you frivolous and silly. Both the main characters learn this as they fall in love and find out that the other is exactly what they needed. It’s a fairy tale of the best variety. However, the villain in the movie does use voodoo, and his methods are a little disturbing and haunting, his demise is a little disturbing too, you should be alright however seeing as it’s the bad guy who uses the voodoo, and you can explain to your kids that voodoo is not something godly. Otherwise, it’s a sweet enjoyable film.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—Way to go Disney! After so many shallow forays into the world of animation lately, they have delivered an AMAZING tale this time around. The visuals are beautiful and crisp, the music was on par with the best of Disney films, and the story is fantastic. Sure the voodoo and whatnot can be a bit scary, but isn’t that what Disney is all about? The power of dreams and magic? I think to take it beyond anything innocent like that is a little unfair. So many church-goers seem to think that anything fantastic or magical is a corruption of our youth or something,when in reality Disney magic is as wondrous and innocent as it comes. Take your kids to see it, take your friends, take your family. Disney is back in action and it looks, sounds, and feels better than ever!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—John Lasseter has said something to the effect that if “The Princess and the Frog” does well in the theaters, that Disney will continue to make at least five or six more animated features like this one. From what I have seen this evening, it is clear that they are laying the foundations for something wonderful with this retelling of a classic fairytale in a way that only Disney can do best!

It’s true that there is quite amount of voodoo used throughout the movie but I want to put this in perspective with how it is used. Dr. Facilier is using it for evil purposes while Mamma Odie uses it to counteract the malicious affects it has on Prince Naveen and Tiana during their journey to become a human as well as discovering what they truly need to be human. Dr. Facilier twists the voodoo he uses to benefit himself as well as in a way of manipulating people like Naveen or his manservant Lawerence if their motives are selfish or greedy while Mamma Odie’s magic is self-sacrificing and she sees exactly what people need in order to find out who they are and what they need most of all to become better people. Put it into perspective that this fairytale is based in the heart of New Orleans but magic has two clear places on what is dark and what is light between Mamma Odie and Dr. Facilier.

There are a number of great themes to be learned that spoke to me through this rich story that depicts personal sacrifice over superficial gain as is the case with Naveen. He wants a quick fix to riches through what Dr. Facilier offers him but receives the reward of transforming into a frog. Tiana is all about sacrifice as she learned from her father, something she has done in order to build the restaurant she and him always dreamed of doing together. Ray the firefly always considers others before him as he acts as Tiana and Naveen’s guide through the swamps, battling frog hunters and even the ShadowMan Facilier himself and his shadows during the climax of the film. Even Charlotte, the somewhat spoiled heiress of Big Daddy La Beoff, is willing to sacrifice the chance of marrying Prince Naveen when she realizes he loves Tiana, her best friend. I was very pleased with the development of the characters as they changed during the movie. Naveen, who begins conceited and self-centered on what only gratifies him, considers what he can do to help Tiana get the restaurant she wants and falls in love with who she is as a person. Tiana discovers that she needs more to her life than focusing on working day and night and to make time for the fun things in life. Louis the alligator learns that he doesn’t need to become human to be accepted as a great jazz musician and that people will like him if they give him the chance to play.

Charlotte, who seemed flakey and distant to what Tiana was feeling and thinking of her own feelings of fairytale romance, becomes supportive of Tiana and realizes that true love isn’t just a wish on a star but based on what happens in the hearts between two people and what they are willing to face together. The music is brillantly composed by Randy Newman and each song unique and wonderful to hear, whether it’s Dr. Facilier casting spells over Naveen or Ray leading the way to Mamma Odie or Tiana’s vision for the greatest restaurant New Orleans could ever dine in. The artwork is stunning and detailed and cleanly drawn.

I was fascinated from beginning to end by the paintwork, computer work, lighting, clothing, coloration, background, character design, and other such animation that is wonderful to see. As far as any objectionable content, the movie is clean of language. The shadows commanded by Dr. Facilier and the masks he works for are somewhat eerie, if not creepy. One character does get killed fighting to save Tiana but you have to remember that Disney has done this in the past with other films like “The Lion King”, “Hercules”, “Hunchback of Notre Dame”, “Atlantis”, etc. … This movie was refreshing from beginning to end. The people at Disney have put their hearts, souls, minds, and imaginations into this animated movie. There are a great many values and hidden gems to find in this movie that make you, as Mamma Odie says best, “dig a little deeper”.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—…the evil Facilier is thwarted by good and succumbs to the same evil he attempted to channel… The characters are not shown “praying to the north star”, but making a wish on the evening star (the planet Venus, not the goddess), just as you yourself as a child may have made a wish blowing out your birthday candles. Why do see false gods in anything secular?

You fear the horror of counter-Christian reincarnation belief when Raymond the firefly “becomes a star” after being squashed like the bug he is. Stop being so literal. This is merely the comforting affirmation that life continues after death in ways your mortal brain is not capable of understanding no matter how much you read your bible. Have some faith and do not be so afraid.

Exactly as you say, “occultic (sic) magic is… an abomination throughout Scripture.” And so it is very clearly an abomination also in “The Princess and the Frog.” This is about as far away from poor maligned Harry Potter as you could wish. The evil characters lose because evil turns on evil. I cannot see any kid running to join up with the Voodoo man after seeing this uplifting and positive film.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I loved this movie, it was much better then what I expected! I took my 2½ yr old daughter to it and we really enjoyed it! I would love to go see it again. There was the use of magic in the movie, but they showed that in a bad light, he (the prince) had bad things happen to him because he worked with the Shadow Man song “I got friends on the other side”—shows what can happen to you if you follow those kind of people. Really positive movie!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I am absolutely floored by these negative reviews, when “trendier” filth like “New Moon” had only received an “average” rating, and that movie is *far* too sensual than the mild rating it had received! I had taken my seven-year-old niece out to see this movie a few days after it came out, and I thought it was absolutely fabulous. In light of the issues concerning the voodoo practices and the wishing star, this is truly where we as parents and guardians can truly shine to our children; After the movie, I calmly explained that as Christians, God has no tolerance or love for the evils of voodoo or witchcraft, which is why the villain is punished for using it.

In regards to the wishing star, I do believe that this is an increasingly un-religious Hollywood’s way of alluding to having faith in the face of adversity, but I still told my niece that when she prays to God, she has something far more powerful and beautiful than merely wishing on a mere star, in which He had made an entire sky full of them! At the end of the night, she was absolutely delighted, and the imagery was not too graphic or scary. In addtion, as a black and chinese family, she was all the more thrilled to finally see a princess that showed that not only she, too, can be a beautiful and wonderful princess, but love between different races is absolutely one of God’s blessings!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I disagree with the objectionable voodoo content described in the main review. All of this is portrayed negatively in the movie, which I applaud. In other words, the message of the movie is, if there is one pertaining to magic is, “don’t mess with voodoo or you’ll end up like this guy.” The movie has excellent morals as it focuses on family and relationships over personal ambition, something missing from out culture.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4

Positive—Yes, there is voodoo… it’s a culturally rich movie… and if you are afraid of exposing your children to ideas like voodoo then don’t take them to see it. However if you feel confident that teaching your children about a culture, and feel confident that after a discussion they will understand that all voodoo, all idolatry is bad than take them to see it… because it is a typical disney movie… 100% in it’s entirety typical… think about it… Aladdin had genie-magic… little mermaid had the triton and a witch-magic… Snow white had the apple, lion king had the cloud mufasa vision… magic is EVERYWHERE in Disney… and to attack this film as if it’s unique in this is… I think somewhat unfair… and makes me wonder why this film is so heartily attacked with others are not…

The film is, however the first film with an African american princess and an experience like that could be enriching for children. Unlike all other princesses she is hard working, intelligent and forgiving… having a lot more moral strengths than any other princesses I can really think of…

The worship of the star is not new in Disney… however the northern star has cultural relevance-as do many constellations-because they were used by African Americans to navigate when fleeing slavery. So it makes sense in a way that it was included in this film… Also the star could be seen as a metaphor for God… and how the firefly was convinced he had a relationship with the star others saw it as foolish-and he proved them wrong by joining the star in the end… God is light…

I thought Voodoo was clearly stated as bad, and that the voodoo priestess was only good because she didn’t practice very much voodoo… where as the bad guy was deeply involved… this to me is something I think could be corrected easily by being honest with your children about what voodoo is and how it is bad. Also it could provide an opportunity to learn about cultures that exist within new orleans that are rich in history, and are unique to america. And lastly the movie puts an emphasis on hard work-which is a good habit to learn I think…
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Neutral—My children had seen the previews for this movie for some time, and were excited about it coming to the theater. Based on the previews, I thought that it looked like a very cute show to go and see. We don’t go to the movies very often, so it is a treat for us. Unfortunately, I have to say that I was very disappointed in this movie. Had I known that there was voodoo and demon spirits portrayed in it, I don’t believe I would have taken my children to see it. I took my 7½ year old and my 3½ year old and they both did not like certain parts in the movie where the voodoo man is calling on the evil spirits. My 3½ year old snuggled up to me and covered his eyes and didn’t want to watch it. I found the parts where the demon spirits go out as ghost-like appearances to try to capture the frog disturbing and do not understand why Disney would choose to put such evil into a children’s movie.

If they left out the dark magic, it would have been an enjoyable show. Aside from those parts being offensive to me as a Christian, I believe the show was rather clean as far as the burping and other body noises, etc. that are sometimes present in children’s films. I also do not recall any sexual-type jokes, etc. in the film. I would say that as a Christian interested in viewing this film, you may have to think twice.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Neutral—My younger sisters, my mom and I decided to see the Princess and the Frog movie because we had enjoyed previous 2D fairy tale disney movies and we were really glad that a new movie had hand drawn based animation.

Good content: Overall the movie was cute and the changes in character of Naveen and Tiana was very interesting. So many Americans today are very much about what they want not what they need and I think that this was a good message. Also many young people today are like Prince Naveen, lazy and looking for quick ways to get rich rather than actually working for a living. As the Bible says in Proverbs: Go to the ant you sluggard, consider it’s ways and be wise.

Objectionable content: The voodoo witch doctor was portrayed in the way that a voodoo witch doctor should be portrayed but sadly the voodoo priestess ruined this. Magic/voodoo should not be portrayed as good. The fact that she was put into a positive light is disturbing to me. My mom and I talked about it with my little sisters afterward. You can use this movie as an opportunity to explain to the younger children why this sort of portrayal is not something we as Christians agree with. I enjoyed the film overall and it even provided some good discussion in our family, but I felt I had to put a neutral rating on it because of the above mentioned.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4

Neutral—I just went to the movies this afternoon with my 5 year old daughter to watch this cartoon. I am a preacher’s kid and try and raise all 3 of my children in a godly home, just as my parents did with me. We monitor what they read, listen to and watch. I can honestly say that the cartoon was not horrible. The only major issue I have with the movie is the use of the “shadow people.” If I recall correctly they were shown 2 or 3 times for a brief moment, but they had horns on their heads and I thought it was a little over the line, especially for Disney. As far as the voodoo mama or shadow man—if you have allowed your child to watch Snow White, Cinderella, these movies have magic in them. Magic is Magic people! Whether it be an old lady in the swamp doing voodoo, fortune telling, or a fairy godmother turning a pumpkin into a carriage! Everyone has to make these types of decisions for their family. I understand some people are too relaxed in what they allow their families to be exposed to, but in my opinion some people take it overboard and find something wrong with everything. If you aren’t sure… GO… and if you feel uncomfortable… just get up and walk out! It’s that simple, but I strongly advise you to make your own conclusions! God Bless.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4

Neutral—Very simple I want to respond to everyone’s posts good and bad. It is a choice, you did not have to go see it or take your kids to go see it. The previews displayed some of the dark sides of this movie. As parents, we just need to be able to explain to our children the difference between what you believe and what they see.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Neutral—I had been long anticipating this movie, and was excited to see it in theaters. Overall, I thought the movie was cute. Disney did a great job with the animation and the music was on point. It deviated a little from the typical princess story in that Tiana’s “happily ever after” didn’t involve her living in a palace, being fabulously rich and “retiring” from hard work. But she is a strong character that works hard for what she wants, and ultimately achieves her dream--a good message. Although I loved the music and the characters, especially the alligator and the firefly, I can’t say my feelings about the movie were all positive.

The evil overtones were a much too strong for a G-rated cartoon. Most Disney movies have magic in them, but the magic usually takes on a much more fun and mild character such as the Genie character in Aladdin or the talking furniture in Beauty and the Beast. But in this movie, the magic is very demonic and drives the plot of the movie. I would have been wary of bringing any children with me to the movie, as the Shadow Man and his “friends on the other side” were pretty scary, especially in his death scene. It will spark a lot of questions about voodoo and the occult from children, so if you aren’t ready to answer them I suggest not taking them with you to this movie. Some have said that the magic is portrayed in a negative light and therefore it’s okay, but not all of the voodoo is portrayed negatively. It is not the triumph of God over evil that saves the protagonist, but the triumph of “good voodoo” over “bad voodoo”; Mama Odie, the woman who helps Tiana and Naveen reverse the curse, is a voodoo priestess. If it weren’t for the surprisingly heavy focus on evil, I would give this movie 2 thumbs up.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Neutral—I understand everyone’s convictions about watching this movie, and I found the voodoo themes offensive, too. However, it didn’t surprise me, since nearly every Disney movie uses some form of magic. Aladdin uses sorcery, Little Mermaid involves a sea witch, there are fairies in Cinderella, the Queen in Snow White is cruel beyond words and uses magic as well.

This movie would not be okay to show to a little child… I would say 9 and under… because there are so many frightening scenes. Or to a person who isn’t mature enough to discern between fantasy and reality.

I liked the movie. I LOVE Disney movies, and I really, really enjoyed seeing Disney make a comeback at the good, hand-drawn, musical animations. You can’t replace movies like Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast with computer animated movies. Hand drawn movies are classics, and should always be classics. I just found out that the Princess and the Frog came out on DVD, and I plan to go buy it. This movie’s main message screamed out what true love is about: making selfless sacrifices for each other. Not every movie teaches that, you know. This movie could be good to use as a “springboard” of discussion for the magic in the film. Definately use your own discernment, but I thought this movie was ok, just something you don’t want to take a little kid in to go see. Overall, good movie!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Negative—I am not opposed to magic in fictional movies. I believe the reason for the Bible’s prohibition of real world magic is that any supernatural acts not done by the power of God are done by the power of the devil. However, when dealing with fiction, I view humans, rather than God, to be the creators of fictional worlds, so characters’ powers (whether natural by their world’s order or supernatural) come from humans rather than from God or Satan.

However, I was uncomfortable with this movie and see it as an exception to my general view on magic. This movie repeatedly references voodoo, a specific type of demonic magic in the real world. Tarot cards, another real world occult practice, are also used. Thus, the references to “friends on the other side” clearly refer to demons. I do not think the magic in this movie is merely fantasy magic; it’s clearly allusions to the real world occult which is the reason for my negative review.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Negative—I left this movie feeling as if I had just watched a movie about voodoo with a princess sub-plot. I always check this site before going to a movie, but didn’t think it necessary with a G movie. I was wrong. This is one to miss. Be prepared to discuss voodoo, graveyards, demons, evil spirits, spells, the occult, “friends on the other side,” trading the souls of all the people in New Orleans for help from the dark side, tarot card readings and witch doctors to your child if you go. While all this is present, the only thing approaching “God” is wishing on a star. In my opinion, the multiple wishing on a star scenes were depicted as praying. And to top off what was offensive to me, the witch voodoo lady from the bayou was cast in a good light (opposed to the bad witch doctor) and married the couple at the end of the movie. Good is bad and bad is good, just like the Bible says. This movie was a witness to that truth of the downward spiral we are in. VERY sad in a G movie for children.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I took my 8 yr. old daughter to see this movie last night and was very disappointed. The movie is rated G, but due to the content it should have been rated PG. The general story line between the Princes and the Frog was cute, but it was completely over shadowed by the abundance of evil/ devilish representations. The main focus for the movie was not on the Princes and the Frog’s relationship instead they focused on the Evil Shadow Man and his voodoo curses and devil spirit shadow helpers. He even referred to them as “his help from the underworld.” It was so dark and scary, that halfway through the movie my daughter was in my lap afraid to sit by herself. She even had to sleep in my room that night because she was afraid that she would have nightmares. I am generally a huge fan of Disney movies, but this one was a HUGE let down.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 5

Negative—As a Christian, I’m sorry to say that there weren’t too many positives about this film. There was too much focus on the Voodoo, Darkside and Sorcery. The counter character to the “Shadowman,” a voodoo priestess (I believe she was called “Mamma D”) was portrayed as a good person, but there is nothing good that springs forth from evil! The two characters who actually had good character and morals were the princesses parents particularly the father but he died at the beginning of the movie.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—My daughters, ages 9 and 14, were very excited to go and see this movie based on viewing the trailers. I am somewhat disappointed that we went. I strongly feel this should have been rated PG rather than G. There are many scary images that are shown throughout the film, and the themes of voodoo, palm reading, etc. are not for any age! As a Christian, I felt uncomfortable with these themes and images. Even though they were performed by the “bad guy,” God’s word exhorts us to be innocent as doves when it comes to things of satan. Why expose our children to these things on the big screen? Also, the prince was not of noble character, leaving us wondering why Tiana fell in love with him. Although the animation was brilliant and entertaining, I do not recommend this movie.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—Our 5 year old daughter would have benefited from seeing a movie that shows that God created beauty in all colors, even our beautiful browns. However, God’s Word makes it very clear that we are not to “take pleasure” in demons and the occult. Entertainment is not worth compromising our faith. It is very important that we model for our children whatsoever things are true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable (Phil. 4:8). I noticed that there are occult influences in many Disney productions, on the big screen as well as their cable channel. As we search for wholesome children’s entertainment, it would be refreshing to find programs that reflect God’s morality as well as beautiful ethnic diversity!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Negative—What are we teaching our children? That it is okay to make deals with fortune tellers and witch doctors? Surely you will turn in to an adorable character and everything will work out in the end. I was a big Disney fan prior to this movie, but I will always research a movie at great length in the future before I take my child to see it. I have definitely lost all trust in Disney. The movie is extremely demonic, with no attempt to disguise that aspect. Previous reviews have already outlined the details so I will not be redundant but I do want to offer a thought to parents. Please do not open the door to spiritual warfare for your children!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3

Negative—I saw this movie today with my 6 yr. old. I was amazed at the darkness. The more time goes by, the more upset I am about it. Shame on Disney for making this movie. Parents beware, you better believe the Devil is out for our kids and this is a really clever way of doing it. So easy to say “It’s just a movie”. God has loaned us our children and HE expects us to guard them and to guide them, we better be careful. I personally feel ashamed for not previewing this beforehand and letting my little girl watch this. I have learned my lesson. If you read this, please think twice before taking your little princess to see this. She’s your princess and I’m sure you wouldn’t want her to be scared or to be introduced to this Satanic darkness in such a manner. In closing, I’m not one to be too strict or over the top about everything, but this was really over the line.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I couldn’t be more thrilled Disney decided to make a princess movie again!!! I’m a huge Disney fan and one who loves all of their classics! I was hoping to add Princess And The Frog to my list, but sadly I’m here to report I will not be adding it to my list, nor will I own it…EVER. I was seriously disturbed by the blatant demonic content with no regard to the fact this movie was for children. In all evidence Disney seemed to have forgotten who their target audience is, and how to cater to such an audience.

I’m also sad to say we were NOT impressed by this movie aside of the demonic content. I found it to be drawn out at the beginning and boring for a Disney movie who for all intents and purposes was suppose to bring back the 2 D Disney classic to the theater again. My daughter and I were so disturbed by the demonic that we ended up walking out half way through the movie and getting our money back, as my daughter said… “I don’t want to talk about the scary shadow’s, they made my stomach hurt.” I couldn’t have said it any better. I should have known that this wasn’t going to turn out well since I knew there was some voodoo involvement, but I had no idea it was going to be so saturated with it.

I wish I had taken better care of our minds and hearts by waiting to see reviews, I’ll know better next time. My hope is that Disney will get the message and do better by their audience next time.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I am quite disturbed that I went to see this movie, and as soon as it was over I felt the need to repent. I am an adult, and I found some parts to be scary, I can only imagine how young children would feel after seeing this. The whole movie has an evil tone to it. There are many references to “the other side” which screams Satan, to me. There are voodoo rituals that involve taking the Prince’s blood, which really doesn’t need to be in a children’s movie, and I am quite shocked that they went to that level of accuracy.

There is also the issue of the character in the movie who is presented as “good” even though she practices voodoo too. For the world this may be acceptable, but the Bible is very clear on these issues. Voodoo is not a joke. It’s not harmless, it’s not innocent. There is not good voodoo or bad voodoo—it all comes from Satan and I feel that allowing children to see this movie just leads to confusion and sort of indoctrinates them into accepting things from Satan because a common response is “it’s just a movie, relax”, when really it’s deeper than that. Protect your children and teach them the ways of the Lord, don’t let the occult into their lives under the premise of “it’s just a movie”.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I saw this movie with my 5 year old daughter and her Kindergarten class. I was shocked and appalled by the depth of voodoo and evil arts that permeated the movie. Although the main character is wonderful, and the values of hard-work and persistence are communicated clearly—I would have left if we hadn’t been with her class. Please do not go see this movie. Please communicate to Disney that Christian families want stories with a better moral standing.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—A friend and I took our 3 yr old daughters to this movie yesterday and ended up walking out. Both girls were afraid at different parts, and at one point I was even covering my daughter’s eyes. At bedtime she said something about monsters but fortunately didn’t wake up with any nightmares. I wish I’d read the review on this site before exposing my little girl child to this movie—why Disney couldn’t have just left out the dark, occultic themes is beyond me.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—I watched this movie with my 2, 6 and 9 year old. It was a cute movie, and I agree with some of the positive comments that it didn’t include any adult humor that is in way too many kids movies these days. It was, however, offensive to me. My children were not obviously disturbed by the black magic, voodoo, and satanic scenes during the movie. BUT when we talked about it afterward, my 9 year old picked up on the voodoo doll scene and his curiosity was raised by the “magic” that the bad guy practiced. That in itself was a strong warning bell to me that it was dangerous. Our enemy works through little curiosities into his world that can turn into satanic holds. The conversation that I had with my son was a positive one, in that I warned him about that type of magic and he now has clear boundary lines about magic. But I don’t like that my younger children were exposed to those disturbing images, and I wish that I had been forewarned.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I went to this movie because one of my friends, a new believer, was taking her son to see it. I had zero interest in viewing it, as I had seen previews and knew there was voodoo in it. I too, like one of the others reviewers, felt the need to repent after seeing it. I too, wanted to leave when the Shadow Man started singing about “Friends on the Other Side.” Music is a really subtle way that children can be indoctrinated into the lies of the enemy. If I had a child I would not want them humming that tune (which is very catchy, unfortunately).

And I heartily agree with the reviewer about themes of reincarnation, praying to a star, and worst of all, the depiction of the voodoo priestess. Maybe I am being a little “religious” here, but depicting her in a good light while there was a snake around her neck seemed like a mockery. What is perhaps most disturbing is that this is a marked departure from the previous films I grew up with like The Little Mermaid, where Ariel gets serious trouble for seeking the help of a witch. This movie purposely attempts to blur the lines of good and bad, calling evil good. Children who go to this movie can easily get come away from it thinking that bad will always be easily identified as someone like The Shadowman, who looks shady, while happy, smiling, and cheerfull characters like the voodoo priestess, clothed in white, are good.

The scripture that kept floating in my head every time I saw was that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. And lastly I also agree that even if this movie had no demonic activity flaunted throughout, it actually was pretty boring and I wasn’t even rooting for the characters or really cared what happened.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3

Negative—We took our grandchildren to this movie (7 and 5 years old) and were very dissapointed and upset at it’s content. We usually check the reviews before we take them to a movie, but being in a hurry and my son said “It’s a Disney, how bad can it be?”. Well now we know how bad it can be. It is rated G for children, but in my opinion is not meant for children, christian or not. It is a very dark movie and the character with the most screen time seemed to be the Voodoo ones. We discussed the movie on the way home and the grandchildren understand that magic is not of God, and this was not a good movie. But, we are to guard our minds, and unfortunately we as grandparents did not do this with this movie. I think we were mislead by the trailers and the rating this movie was given as to what age this would be appropriate to be watching it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Negative—I took my 2 young daughters (and 1 other little girl) (ages 6, 7 & 10) to watch this movie as a “school holiday treat”. Whilst some of this movie was fun and the 3 little girls were laughing, it didn’t take very long for the girls to appear not to be enjoying it at all… and rightly so. This is the WORST Disney children’s movie EVER! No “G” rated animated movie should include voodoo, black magic, or evil spirits. Could it be possible that voodoo, black magic, and evil spirits “aren’t so bad” if they are portrayed in animated form? RUBBISH!!! If anything, these evil things will influence our young quicker and easier than ever! All 3 of the children (when asked separately) were “freaked out” by the bad shadows… and I fully believe that this movie oversteps the “acceptable standards” of a “G” rated movie. Villains in movies are suppose to be “bad”… but this villain is fully “evil”. Asking “friends on the other side” to help him with his plans is not what I want to expose my young children to—for “entertainments” sake. What would Jesus do? Would he sit through a movie filled with voodoo, black magic, calling upon evil spirits or tarot reading? No ! And I feel disgusted within myself because I didn’t walk out on this movie like I wanted to. Jesus would have walked out ! What would Jesus do? Would he want us to subject our young children with images of evil spirits carrying people away? Would he want us to subject our young children with such evilness? No!

After talking to my 6 year daughter about how she feels about this movie, she said “I am scared that the dark shadows will come chase me, catch me and drag me away”. Is this what we want our children to feel? The only way I could cheer her up is by telling that that that won’t happen because she is wrapped in Jesus loving arms, that she is Jesus' friend (and has asked Jesus into her heart to live in her), and that Jesus won’t allow this to happen. This made her smile, because she DOES know that Jesus loves her, that He died for her, and that He will protect her. But what about the children who DON’T have this reassurance ?! How confused, scared, insecure and downright frightened must they be feeling?

As a mother, my job is to protect my children from this kind of movie. Prior to me having children, I didn’t see the “problem” with movies like this (because I could understand the undertones… something that children don’t understand)—but now, I am responsible for what my children watch, and I have BANNED this movie from EVER entering my house. I pray that our Lord protects EVERYONE (that watches this movie) from the evil undertones, from the evil images, and from the blatant satanic magic that is portrayed. May He erase these evil images from the thoughts and minds of all who have seen and will see this movie, and may He replace those evil images with his love. Please, I believe that this is Satan’s way of attacking our young…and I pray against it. Disney, you have overstepped the boundaries. You should be ashamed of yourself.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—This film NEVER should have received a G-rating. The age group that would be interested in viewing a G-movie are WAY to young to be exposed to the Voodoo and scary DEMONIC figures that were woven THROUGHOUT the entire movie! Not just one scary part, but it went on and on! My 7-year old even made the comment that it should not have been rated G.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—I was appalled and incredibly disappointed in this movie. I love Disney and many animated films and was looking forward to another Princess movie with a classic tale behind it to introduce to my girls, ages 8 and 6. After seeing a few commercials, I decided to view the movie first before allowing my kids to see it. Boy, was I glad I did. The darkness of voodoo magic and the lurking of the shadow demons was just too much. I viewed the whole movie but had to fast forward some of the more devilish parts. I couldn’t even enjoy the ending because I was still plagued with the thoughts, feelings and sights of the “shadow man” repaying his debt to Satan (though not referred to as such, that is who it is, people) with his life.

The only positives besides the skills of the people who put the movie together, I liked that Tiana and the prince learned that they needed each other and that Charlotte wasn’t as selfish and superficial as she started out to be. Definitely not a movie I would recommend to anyone.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—I got my sister this movie as a gift, thinking it would be like watching an older “Disney Princess” movie. Unfortunately, it was not. Besides the fact that the movie quality really wasn’t as good as the hype made it out to be, we were all shocked at the level of darkness in this movie. The official trailers briefly mention voodoo, but it’s much more so in the movie.

It would have been bad enough as a single act, but the voodoo theme is present throughout the entire movie. I would consider this one to be worse than “Anastasia”, because at least there are only a few scenes in that one. The main villain here is frequently using it, sings a lengthy and creepy song about it, and frequently references getting help from his “friends on the other side”.

His eventual demise is downright chilling, as are several other scenes in the movie, such as the one where a character is almost killed when his “doll” is almost stabbed through the heart. Also, I was very offended at the “good voodoo priestess”. It was bad enough to portray the villain using it, but to essentially glorify its use through her was unacceptable. We were all disgusted by the time the movie ended. I was left somewhat embarrassed for buying it, and thankful that all of us in the room were adults.

I really cannot recommend this. “Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” -Philippians 4:8
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Negative—I went to this movie today with my mom, my sister and my brother. I say that it is not a good movie because it has a lot of voodoo and does not have any Christian stuff at all. Parts of it are good and some are just yuck! I think that it is a good old fashioned 2D Disney movie, but it has a lot and lot of stuff that is going to put bad stuff in your young child’s mind. I say that it should be PG and that if a boy or girl under the age of 6 would be freaking out if they saw this. I say that it is a good example of what kinds of stuff may seem good in commercials, but is not good in the movie.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—I went to see this movie with my family today, and I loved it! It was so funny, I was cracking up practically during the whole thing. The Prince was, in my opinion, the funniest character (especially when he was a frog). And I was ecstatic that Disney finally created an African-American princess. It was very charming. Granted, it does have voodoo in it, but, overall, it was a fantastic movie, and if someone asked me if I wanted to see it again, I would definitely say yes!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—This movie is great! Me and my sisters (18 and 14) went to watch this movie and now its all of our favourite movie! But, there’s some things in this movie that isn’t that great. There’s a lot of VooDoo in it. And The Shadowman might be scary for some smaller children. There’s a great moral in this movie. Follow your dreams! Tiana follows her dream her entire life. Overall, I think its a great movie!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5

Positive—Yes, the movie definitely deserved a PG rating. However, “The Princess and the Frog” is set in New Orleans and is also a Disney movie. What is a fairytale without the magic? Voodoo is popular in the city of New Orleans, and Disney used that tastefully. The Good wins, and the Bad = bad and loses always. There was a scene when the Shadowman uses his wicked magic to transform the environment into something that Tiana wants so badly and then tells her that if she gives him what he wants, he will give it all to her. It reminded me of how Jesus was tempted by Satan in the desert that if He would worship Satan, He would receive all of the kingdoms in the world. Jesus refused, and so did Tiana! As in all Disney movies, there are always happy endings and a moral is sure to be found. I recommend the movie to all families.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4

Neutral—Ok, first of all this film was ok, but as usual, almost every fairytale has some magic or spells. This movie had that, but they focus to much on it. I liked this movie and the plot. But I just didn’t like that it had to much focus on spells and magic. After all it was a cute movie apart from what is negative. I would just say maybe take kids who are a little older like if they’re 9 or something. This movie was funny also, but at one time Tianas spoiled friend (Charlotte) swears at one time and says “I feel like a sinner sweating at a church.” I didn’t like that, for a rated G movie.

Apart from that this movie was cute. So just be warned on what it does have, and maybe you can consider it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 3½

Positive—Okay, this movie WAS a bit darker than typical Disney movies. I wouldn’t let my little six year old sibling watch it. My eight year old sibling, on the other hand, ADORED the movie. Although she was creeped out by the shadows. Yes, there IS voodoo. But the EVIL GUY uses it!!! He is EVIL people! There’s this one character who is like a fairy godmother. She’s supposed to be a “voodoo queen,” but all she does is stir a pot of gumbo. Scary much? I do think this ought to have been rated PG, though. On a brighter side: I went in expecting another totally boring, dumb “damsel in distress” story. But it wasn’t! I actually didn’t fall asleep! Not bad for a Disney Princess movie.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—“The Princess and the Frog” was a wonderful movie, and while I will admit that the voodoo sequences were frightening, I do believe that Disney handled the Magic in it very well, and that the movie carries a very strong Christian message, in part because of that.

First off, I believe the claims other reviewers have been making about how the characters worship the north star instead of God are totally unfounded. The characters in the movie refer to the star by the name of Evangeline, a name that means Gospel. Thus, Ray’s death, and the appearance as a star is not representative of reincarnation, but rather of living with God in heaven after we die. I also think that his relationship with Evangeline is portrayed in a beautiful, romantic light, highlighting that God is a loving God, and totally counteracting the image of an impersonal, austere God that many unbelievers, and even some believers, hold.

Also, the Shadowman is clearly portrayed as evil, and the consequences of his choice to pursue voodoo and in debt himself to the other side clearly shown. voodoo is not portrayed as a means of gaining control over ones life, but as a dark, evil practice with inevitable and enormous consequences. I, also, think that it is important to remember that we remember that there is an enemy out there, that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).

So, I am of the opinion that this movie is not the morally offensive movie the previous reviewers have made it to be, but rather perhaps one of the strongest movies morally that Disney has ever made.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5

Negative—I watched the first half of this film at a church youth club, and I had brought along a non-christian friend, as well. I was not prepared for how dark and demonic it was. My youth club stopped watching the film, once we realised how bad it was. I was shocked that Disney put in things linked with the occult, for example Tarot cards and things to do with voodoo. Because these things are very dangerous and ungodly. In the Bible it says “Let no-one be found among you who… practices… sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist” Deuteronomy 18:10-11.

It says it very clear that we should not have anything to do with the occult and that including doing or watching it. I am upset that my non-christian friend saw this film, because she did not understand how dangerous voodoo and things like are. If anyone is thinking of watching this film, then don’t. The morals are very bad, and I would not want to finish this film.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½

Positive—Tiana is one of the most role-model worthy Disney princesses. She is hardworking and positive, and I enjoyed seeing that in the film, but not the voodoo. The first time I watched it when I was younger it scared the heck out of me! Be warned that it’s portrayed as morally neutral in the film, able to be used in good or bad ways.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4

Negative—Froggy fairy tale is more slimy then you may think.

This movie had lots of potential to be a cute princess film like the other Disney movies, but the voodoo ruined it. It started out good, and was funny and engaging but then they introduced the “shadow man” and it went down-hill from there. Tiana’s working hard to get her restaurant, her friend’s acting hilariously spoiled, and the useless prince Naveen is getting his tarot cards read. The witch doctor is way too scary for kids. I remember being terrified of him and the shadows the first time I watched the movie. And it’s not just the tarot cards. Oh no. This guy’s got the whole outfit, voodoo dolls, creepy masks, talismans, curses, skulls, shadow people. He literally puts Naveen’s blood in a talisman to create a curse, and wears it on a necklace. The “friends on the other side” the witch doctor talks about seem uncannily like demons, and deals he makes with them just seem way too much like deals with the devil. (Probably because they are.) At the end of the movie, all his voodoo stuff and shadow people turn on him and they drag him down a glowing green hole, presumably to hell. Just goes to show you what you get if you mess with the occult. The villain isn’t the only example of voodoo, however. Tiana and Naveen find a witch to help them with the curse, and she’s got the voodoo too. Only this voodoo’s supposed to be benevolent, which is an even worse message to present to children because they might think voodoo’s ok. Granted, other then seeing the past in a pot of gumbo the witch doesn’t really do anything, but it is still an extremely bad message. There was no need what-so-ever to have voodoo in this movie at all. In the original tale, the prince is cursed by a grumpy fairy, so what the writers should have done was have Naveen carelessly bump into an old woman and not apologize. The old woman turns out to be a fairy and transforms him into a frog out of spite, and the story can go basically the same from there, but being a race against the clock instead of a race against voodoo. The movie could have been a decent Disney film, enjoyable and with no witchcraft. Other then the shadows, there is mild violence. Characters are chased, threatened and have things thrown at them. The firefly is stepped on and dies, which I think was unnecessary. The characters are pretty good, but Naveen is a useless fop for 90% of the movie. The songs were tolerable, except for the voodoo ones. It’s aggravating to see the wasted potential in this movie. Even though other elements of the movie were cute, the voodoo over shadowed it. I don’t think that ANY kind of witchcraft should be in a movie marketed for children. (Yes Harry Potter, I’m looking at you.) Children don’t need to be exposed to voodoo or even know it exists at the age when they’re watching Disney movies. I’d recommend skipping this Disney movie, because it’s just not worth it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3

I was extremely offended by the moral content of the movie that my family and I did not view the entire movie. After I determined that the negative messages in this movie were strongly building and continuing to what seemed like the point of no return, I could not with a good conscience exposed my young children to this movie so we left the theater. The movie began with some wholesome moral values (such as the value of having a strong work ethic and having a loving a supportive family) but seemed to take a nose dive to the “dark side” (references to occult practices such as tarot card reading and voodoo were made as well as messages of murder and early introduction to hints of sexual acts) as the movie progressed. These messages were completely inappropriate for very young viewers who are less discerning of acts that do not please God. I have always admired the quality of filmmaking Disney has made. Although many Disney films have some content that is contrary to wholesome morals that my family believes in and strive to live out, we view and discuss the films and counsel our children through the films' content. The Princess and the Frog is the first Disney film that my family has not viewed to its entirety due to strong negative messages. This film should have been rated, at least, PG. I was very disappointed and would not recommend viewing this movie to anyone.

Negative—We went to this movie excited to finally see an African American princess. It started out great, until the villain came along and the black magic got worse and worse, until my two year old was crying scared and my older kids were offended by the demonic spirits the villain was calling to. I really wanted to stay to the end to see what happened, but I couldn’t have stayed there without feeling like I was a bad parent for exposing my kids to that. It should have been rated PG.

Negative—We went to see this movie as a treat and left when the voodoo guy was singing about “his friends from the other side” (although I started getting restless way before, due to the already-strong voodoo content). I sat there in the movie theater, sick to my stomach, and just took in the packed house of kids and families. All I could think was that for the first time in my life I was seeing how Satan goes about worming his way into our families, not only one at a time but en masse!

I remember thinking, Am I too sensitive? Am I too sheltering and protective of my 3 and 6 year old girls? So this is how he does it. Takes something that is “entertaining”, “good”, “depicts strong work ethics”, “going for one’s dreams”, and not only effectively twists it to his purposes, but makes me doubt and question my reaction to what I am seeing. I thank God for the spiritual discernment to recognize evil, however it is packaged.

In addition, it was my husband, who isn’t even a Christian, that looked over at me and asked “Do you want to go?”. Even he could see the evil in the movie.

Parents, please do not expose your kids to this movie regardless of their age.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½